Classic Puglia - 9 Days

Welcome to the region of Puglia! After arrival in Bari, make your way to the hotel for check in. You will have the remainder of the day to relax or explore Bari at your leisure.

After enjoying breakfast, join your tour guide at the hotel for a journey to uncover the wonders of Bari. Begin by exploring "Bari Vecchia," the city's historic center, where you'll delve into the rich history and notable landmarks of Bari.

Wander through quaint alleys and picturesque squares within the ancient city walls, and visit significant sites such as the Pontifical Basilica of Saint Nicholas, which houses the relics of Saint Nicholas, and the 12th-century Castello Svevo, built by Norman King Roger II and later refurbished by Frederick II of the Holy Roman Empire.

Your tour will also take you to Piazza Mercantile, Piazza Ferrarese, Piazza del Sedile, and the Basilica di San Sabino. The afternoon is free for you to enjoy at your leisure.

Bari - Trani - Andria - Bari. After breakfast at your hotel, you might want to visit Trani, a significant medieval centre in Imperial Apulia. Be sure to explore the Jewish ghetto (Guidecca) and the magnificent Romanesque cathedral by the sea.

After your free time in Trani, you'll head to Andria for lunch and a wine tasting at a typical masseria, or large farm. On your way back to Bari, you'll stop at Castel del Monte, an extraordinary castle built by Frederick II and protected as a World Heritage Site. Its geometric design is unique, featuring an octagonal prism with an octagonal tower at each corner, and many mysteries about its true purpose remain unsolved. You'll then return to Bari.

Bari - Alberobello - Matera - Bari. After breakfast, you'll head to Alberobello, the "city of Trulli," a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Trulli are unique dry stone huts with conical roofs originally built for storage and later used as dwellings, known locally as casedde (little houses). Alberobello is a gem, a true fairy tale place in the heart of Puglia.

Next, you'll journey to the border region of Basilicata. Welcome to Matera, the capital, famously known as "la città dei sassi" (the city of stones), often compared to Cappadocia in Italy's south. Recognized as the European Capital of Culture in 2019 and a UNESCO World Heritage site, Matera offers a remarkable experience.

Spend time exploring the sassi, ancient cave dwellings that have been inhabited since the Paleolithic period. These structures form a breath-taking historical centre, connected by a labyrinth of charming alleys that evoke the feeling of a real-life nativity scene. You'll tour the historical centre and enjoy panoramic views from various viewpoints. Afterward, enjoy lunch and some leisure time before returning to Bari for the night.

Bari - Poligano a Mare - Ostuni - Lecce. Today, after breakfast, you'll head to Polignano a Mare, the charming hometown of Domenico Modugno, the legendary Italian singer-songwriter behind the iconic song "Volare (Nel blu, dipinto di blu)." Perched on the edge of a cliff, Polignano's coastline is famous for its stunning coves, small bays, and hidden inlets.

Next, you'll make your way to Ostuni, known as the "White City." Situated 74 kilometers (46 miles) south of Bari on a hilltop, this picturesque town was built by the Normans and is still home to remnants of its city walls, including four gates. The region surrounding Ostuni is famous for its high-quality olive oil and wine, making it a perfect stop for those seeking a taste of local culture.

This morning, we will embark on a 3-hour walking tour to explore the beauty of Lecce, often called "southern Florence" for its vibrant artistic and cultural scene. You will witness the city’s stunning baroque architecture, with highlights such as the Maria Santissima Assunta cathedral, the ornate Basilica di Santa Croce, and the elegant Palazzo dei Celestini. You’ll also visit Piazza Sant’Oronzo, home to a well-preserved Roman amphitheatre, and the serene Church of Santa Chiara.

After the tour, you’ll have free time in the afternoon to enjoy Lecce at your own pace—whether it's relaxing with a coffee or exploring the charming streets and shops.

Lecce - Otranto - Santa Cesarea Terme - Santa Maria di Leuca - Lecce. After breakfast, meet your driver and depart for Otranto, just a 30-minute drive from Lecce. Over the centuries, the town has been influenced by the Greeks, Romans, and Turks, and remnants of these cultures are still visible today. After lunch (not included), take a moment to visit Santa Cesarea Terme and Castro Marina, both known for their scenic beauty and historical sites.

In the afternoon, enjoy some free time in Santa Maria di Leuca, a popular summer retreat famed for its charming liberty-style villas and its iconic lighthouse. Close by is the Sanctuary de Finibus Terrae (1720-1755), built to commemorate St. Peter’s journey to Italy. After exploring, you’ll return to Lecce.

Lecce - Galatina - Gallipoli - Lecce. After breakfast, you'll explore Galatina, an intriguing inland town with pagan origins. The Basilica di Santa Caterina d'Alessandria showcases impressive paintings and mosaics, while the Baroque church of San Pietro and the small Church of San Paolo are also worth visiting. You’ll also discover the story of tarantismo and experience the traditional folk dances of pizzica and taranta.

Lunch will be at L’Uliveto, a charming "masseria", a traditional farmhouse (drinks not included). Afterward, you'll head to Gallipoli, a Greek-founded town. Its historic centre, encircled by medieval walls, is linked to the mainland by a bridge. Gallipoli is especially popular in the summer for its vibrant nightlife. Later, we will make our way back to Lecce for our final overnight stay.

Today marks the end of the tour. After the final breakfast transfer to Brindisi airport or port where you tour ends.