Trip Overview
A magical journey awaits at Puglia, a rustic corner in southern Italy where the locals go and enjoy a simpler life. During this eight-day program, we will embrace the slow Apulian lifestyle – get lost in whitewashed buildings that jumbled up like stacked sugar cubes, try the region’s most famous cuisine, hit the turquoise water, and explore the incredible baroque architecture. We will also spend two nights in Matera to explore the UNESCO-listed Sassi houses and discover some of the pretty villages in Lucanian Dolomites.
Trip Itinerary
Day 1 - 6
FasanoPrivate transfer to Fasano's accommodations
On arrival at Bari International Airport, meet our private driver who will escort you to your hotel
Accommodations around Fasano
Street food tasting in Bari
Asides from the sandy beaches and fairytale cottages, Puglia’s food scene is slowly becoming one of the latest attractions of this charming region. On a beautiful morning, we will join an expert guide for a unique street food experience in the capital Bari – to be precise, the famous old town area (Bari Vecchia). Here, we will get a true insight into the Apulian typical lifestyle and taste some of the region’s tastiest dishes, from the famous Focaccia Barese to the delicious pan brioche and panzerotti
Visit Castel Del Monte
We will take a trip to UNESCO-listed Castel Del Monte with a private guide to witness one of the genius examples of medieval architecture. Commissioned by Frederick II, this fortress has an octagonal plan with precise mathematical and astronomical precision, representing a search for perfection and the broad education vision of its founder. While many fortresses around Puglia were built to defend the region from enemies, Castel Del Monte’s lack of proper defending features made many believe that this magnificent structure was more of a place of residency or for relaxation.
Discover the Trulli houses
One of the more touristic yet must-visit destinations in Puglia, Alberobello dazzles with its large concentration of white-washed conical-roofed houses known as the Trulli. As you stroll down the charming streets, your guide will share some of the fascinating theories that float around the origin and usage of this unique, drywalled construction. For a less crowded and more relaxing option, we can also visit neighboring lovely towns, such as Locorotondo and Martina Franca, which are equally mesmerizing despite the fewer numbers of Trulli.
Get lost in Ostuni
Rising high above the ocean of olive trees, Ostuni is another lovely town in Puglia to get lost. We will spend an afternoon navigating through the whitewashed streets, soaking in the Mediterranean vibes, enjoying lunch in a Pugliese restaurant, and securing a perfect spot to enjoy the sunset with a glass of local wines
Guided tour of Lecce and Otranto
Enjoy a day out to explore the southern Salento Peninsula, one of Italy’s few remaining untrammeled gems. The capital Lecce, also nicknamed the Florence of the south, is where rich Baroque heritage flourishes, characterized by its marvelous palaces, churches, arches, and unique carvings. The region also has some precious red and rose wines, and we will visit one of the most prestigious vineyards around the area for tasting and lunch. Finish your day with a visit to Otranto, a beautiful town by the Adriatic sea with an intricate web of alleyways and white-washed homes. If you prefer, you can also spend a lively afternoon in one of the stylish lido (beach clubs) around the town.
Enjoy the Coastal Vibes
Dreamy whitewashed houses, sparkling turquoise water, and the laid-back seaside vibes are things that attract most travelers to Puglia, and you can’t leave the area without exploring two of the region’s most iconic towns by the ocean. We will start with Polignano A Mare, home to Italy’s most photographed beach. While you are here, feel free to hit the sand and wander aimlessly around the old town center or sit back in one of the terraces to enjoy Italian gelato with jaw-dropping ocean views. Only fifteen minutes drive away, Monopoli is another coastal town where you can find more sandy beaches and an equally attractive old center with more commercial activity.
Olive oil tasting experience
Known for not only great quantity but also its high quality, olive oil production in Puglia has a centuries-old history with techniques that have been passed down for generations. While in the region, you will visit one of the local Masseria (farmhouse) for an insightful olive oil journey. With your host, take a walk around the groves and enjoy a delightful tasting experience to uncover every secret behind the famous extra virgin olive oil.
Land transfer to Matera
Day 6 - 8
MateraAccommodations around Matera
Guided tour of Matera
Spend a day with an expert guide for an opportunity to incredible cave-dwelling of Matera. Listed as one of the UNESCO-protected sites, Matera is perhaps the most intact example of a troglodyte settlement in the Mediterranean region dating back to 7,000 years ago. By winding down the narrow streets, exploring the cave churches, and stepping into the cave house (Sassi), we can truly feel the ancient and mystical energy of this city. From here, we will also visit the nearby Metaponto to discover ancient relics left by the 7th-century Greek colonist.
Trekking in Lucanian Dolomites
Grab your trekking shoes as we set out to discover two charming villages in Lucanian Dolomites: Castelmezzano and Pietrapertosa. Both are considered Italy’s prettiest villages and linked by a two-kilometers ancient path known as the seven stone paths. Scenic mountain views aside, this thematic trail also features mysterious art installations depicting a local tale. After exploring Pietrapertosa, we will put on our safety gear and take the Angel’s flight, one of the world’s longest and highest ziplines, back to Castelmezzano.
Private transfer to Bari's International Airport
More Destinations
Tailor your Holidays
Combine this itinerary with other wonderful destinations in Italy
Driving the Amalfi Coast
Consider extending for a few nights in the Amalfi Coast, one of the most dramatic and glamorous spots in Italy that will give a perfect ending to any trip
Wild Sicilian Escape
Take an even wilder escape south to the Sicilian Islands and discover layers of extremes from legendary volcano to crumbling treasures of the ancient world
Our Partners
Ready to travel with us?
Talk to one of our designers and let us plan your journey of a lifetime
OR