Best of Apulia region – Small Group

Welcome to Bari, the pulsing capital of Puglia! Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by your tour guide who will take you on a thrilling adventure to uncover the city’s hidden gems. Get ready to be mesmerized by the charming streets of Bari Vecchia, the old town, and learn the fascinating history behind its iconic monuments. Stroll through the narrow alleys, bask in the picturesque squares, and find yourself transported back in time.
Visit the awe-inspiring Pontifical Basilica of Saint Nicholas, which houses the relics of Saint Nicholas. Marvel at the grandeur of the Castello Svevo (or Swabian Castle, a 12th-century castle built by Norman King Roger II and later restored by Frederick II of the Holy Roman Empire. From inside the castle’s, bask in the breath-taking views (entrances not included). After a day of exploration, make your way to Piazza Mercantile and take in the majestic sight of the Colonna della giustizia, a symbol of justice and a vivid reminder of the city’s rich history.
Savor a delicious dinner at the hotel before retiring for the night, ready for another exciting day ahead. Overnight in Bari, the heart of Puglia.

Rise and shine, adventure awaits! Today, you’ll be transported to the stunning medieval town of Trani, known as the “Pearl of Puglia.” Get ready to be enchanted by the Jewish district and the magnificent Cathedral, built with a local stone known for its light pink hue.
In the afternoon, brace yourself for a visit to Castel Del Monte. Built by Frederick II, this octagonal wonder is protected as a World Heritage Site and continues to baffle historians with its unresolved mysteries.
Next stop, enter a fairytale world in the heart of Puglia – Alberobello, the “City of Trulli.” Discover the unique dry stone huts with conical roofs, originally used for storage, but now serving as charming dwellings. Alberobello is a true gem and a must-visit destination.
Make a memorable experience by staying in an “albergo diffuso” – a dream hotel in the network of scattered hotels, and bask in the opportunity to sleep in a cosy trullo. Indulge in a delicious dinner, included in your itinerary, before retiring for the night in the heart of Alberobello.

Enjoy breakfast, a bus will be waiting in a parking lot adjacent to the hotel (200 meters from the Trulli). Step into a world of history and culture as you embark on a journey to Matera, the capital of Basilicata and a border region of Italy. Dubbed as “The City of Stones,” Matera is a UNESCO Heritage Site and was named the European Capital of Culture in 2019.
Get ready to be transported back in time as you admire the sassi, cave dwellings inhabited since the Paleolithic period. These structures, connected by a maze of charming alleys, make for the city’s monumental historical center and offer breath-taking views of the surrounding landscape. It’s visually reminiscent of ancient Jerusalem and the setting for many Christian-themed films, including The Gospel According to St. Matthew, The Passion of the Christ, Ben-Hur, and more. Don’t forget to visit the Matera Cathedral, a must-see attraction, before heading back to Alberobello in the evening.
End the day by indulging in a delicious dinner, and retire for the night in the cosy comfort of your trullo in Alberobello.

Wake up and get ready for a journey to Locorotondo, one of the most breath-taking hamlets in all of Italy. Explore the circular streets of this town and soak in the charm of this peaceful oasis.
Next up, you’ll head to Ostuni, the shining gem of the Puglia region. Nicknamed the “White City,” this hilltop town boasts beautiful city walls and gates from its Norman past. Ostuni is a foodie’s paradise. Stroll through the old medieval streets, taste the delicious local delicacies, and find the perfect souvenir to remember this trip by.
Your day will end in the heart of the Salento area, the beautiful city of Lecce. Enjoy a delicious dinner and rest up in your hotel, ready for more adventures tomorrow.

Embark on a journey to uncover the baroque beauty and rich history of two magnificent cities in southern Italy, Lecce and Otranto. Start your day with a guided tour of Lecce, known as the “southern Florence” for its artistic and cultural buzz. Admire the stunning baroque architecture and monuments that dot the city at your leisure.
For lunch, move to Otranto, just a 30 minute drive from Lecce, where you can discover the ancient roots of this melting pot of cultures, once dominated by the Greeks, Romans, and Turks. Marvel at the stunning mosaics at the Cathedral, which houses the bones of 813 martyrs in a shrine behind the main altar.
End your day in the best way possible by indulging in some of Puglia’s rich gastronomy history at Masseria le Stanzie in Supersano. You will visit the hacienda (some medieval graves belong to the property)
learn how traditional home-made pasta is prepared from scratch, and taste some delicious local products while you enjoy dinner. Overnight stay in Lecce.

Embark on a journey to one of the most sought-after destinations in the Salento region, Gallipoli. This charming town, steeped in Greek history, is a summer hotspot for both its stunning wild beaches and lively nightlife. You will have free time stroll along the picturesque port and admire the breath-taking yachts as you soak in the Mediterranean charm. Explore the town’s ancient walls and the charming center, before returning to Lecce for a relaxing evening. Overnight in Lecce.

Embark on a scenic journey through the stunning “Murge plateau” as you make your way back to Bari. Admire the elegance of Martina Franca, a Baroque village bursting with magnificent churches, noble buildings and picture-perfect squares. Immerse yourself in the charming atmosphere of Piazza Plebiscito, the Cathedral, the Ducal Palace and the Torre dell’Orologio. Free time here.
Venture into the picturesque Valle d’Itria, a rural area full with olive trees and vineyards. Savour the taste of authentic, organic local cuisine during a lunch in a traditional masseria and indulge in a tantalizing tasting of their top-quality olive oil.
Enjoy some leisure time in the afternoon before making your way back to Bari. Unwind and relive the memories of your amazing journey through Puglia. Overnight in Puglia.

Begin your day with a sumptuous breakfast before setting off on a thrilling adventure to explore two of Puglia’s most enchanting coastal places – Monopoli and Polignano a Mare. Uncover the secrets of Monopoli, a fortified citadel perched atop the sea with a rich history of commerce and a touch of the exotic. Delve into the mystical maze of its narrow streets, imagining the crusaders who left from its port on their journey to the Holy Land. Next, head to the breath-taking town of Polignano a Mare, birthplace of the legendary Italian singer-songwriter Domenico Modugno. Soak in the stunning views of its coastline dotted with coves, small bays, and inlets, including the famous Lama Monachile known for its crystal-clear waters and rugged cliffs. Take some time for some shopping or to enjoy an aperitivo in the main square before returning to Bari. Spend the night in the charming city of Bari, resting up for another day of adventure.

Today marks the end of our journey as we savour a farewell breakfast at the hotel. As we bid goodbye to this stunning land, take a moment to reflect on the memories made and the experiences gained. Extra nights and Airport transfers can be arranged at an extra charge.