Italian Coastal Treasures and Ancient Wonders - 5 Days

Today, we embark on our journey towards the Adriatic Sea, traversing the breathtaking landscapes of the Apennine Mountains. Our first destination is the San Giovanni in Venere Abbey, where you can explore this splendid 11th-century structure, built upon the remnants of an ancient Roman temple. After this, we'll head to Termoli, a charming coastal town, where you can enjoy a leisurely lunch and take a stroll along the beach set against the backdrop of the historic walled town. Here, the 13th-century castle and Romanesque cathedral serve as the main attractions. Our journey then continues to Bari, a historic port city that dates back to pre-Roman times. In Bari, you'll have the chance to wander through the old town, where the narrow streets and beautiful churches create a vibrant atmosphere, full of southern Italian charm. Please note: This tour may have travellers joining or departing at various points along the route, meaning group composition can change during the tour. Please also be aware that depending on group composition, guiding may be in additional languages as well as English.

Today, our journey takes us along the picturesque coastline to Brindisi, a historically fortified port city. Here, you can enjoy a leisurely stroll by the sea, admire the imposing Roman column, and explore the intriguing old quarter. Our adventure then leads us to Lecce, often referred to as the "Florence of the South" due to its breathtaking baroque architecture. The city’s historic centre is adorned with beautifully ornate buildings and churches, providing a delightful atmosphere for a wander and lunch. In the afternoon, we head to Gallipoli, a coastal gem on the Ionian Sea. Founded by the Greeks—who aptly named it "beautiful town"—Gallipoli has been shaped by various cultures, including Arab, Norman, and Aragonese influences. The old town, connected to the mainland by a 17th-century bridge, offers a fascinating maze of narrow streets and historic landmarks such as the cathedral, castle, and ancient city walls. We conclude the day by returning to Brindisi for our accommodation.

Today, we will explore two truly remarkable towns. Our first destination is Alberobello, celebrated for its unique trulli houses. These distinctive conical-shaped dwellings, with their dry stone construction, are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and showcase a fascinating example of rural Italian architecture. Following this, we'll head to Matera in the Basilicata region. Matera is renowned for its ancient historic centre and the Sassi di Matera – a complex of cave dwellings and structures carved into the rock, with some dating back thousands of years. It's not only a World Heritage Site but also one of the world's oldest inhabited settlements. We will have lunch together in Matera before continuing our journey through the picturesque landscapes of Basilicata and Campania. By evening, we will arrive in Naples, where you'll have some free time to discover the city's vibrant atmosphere at your own pace.

Today, we embark on a ferry journey to the enchanting island of Capri, renowned for its stunning natural landscapes and glamorous atmosphere. Upon arrival, you have the option to explore further; perhaps choose a boat excursion to the Grotta Bianca or ascend via cable car to Capri town, where the Gardens of Augustus offer breathtaking panoramic views. Once we've soaked in the island's charm, we'll return to Naples for lunch and a relaxed stroll through this historic city. In the afternoon, we're off to Pompeii for an insightful guided tour (admission included). This fascinating archaeological site presents a glimpse into daily life before the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. As the day winds down, we make our way back to Rome, concluding our adventures with an evening arrival.

On the fifth day, after enjoying a leisurely breakfast, our tour concludes in the magnificent city of Rome. As our journey ends, you are left with a collection of vivid, lasting memories from your travels.