Magical Rome & Puglia

Welcome to Rome! Upon your arrival at the airport, our driver will meet you and transfer you to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure. Have a pleasant overnight stay.

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel in Rome before departing for Bari. Transfer to the train station for your journey to Bari. Upon your arrival in Bari, find your own way to the hotel. In Bari, the main city of Puglia, you’ll meet our Tour Leader, and your exploration of this wonderful region will begin. In the afternoon, take a guided walking tour to delve into the city’s history and visit its prominent landmarks. Stroll through the charming narrow alleys of the old city center, visit the Basilica of San Nicola, which houses the remains of Saint Nicholas of Myra, and explore the Norman-Swabian Castle, a 12th-century fortress originally built by Roger the Norman and later rebuilt by Frederick II of Swabia. Don’t miss the breathtaking view from the fortress (admission fee for the Castle is not included). After your visit, head to Piazza Mercantile, where you’ll encounter the ancient Column of Justice. Conclude your day with a dinner and a comfortable overnight stay.

Begin your day with a hotel breakfast in Bari before embarking on a coach journey to Trani. Trani, often hailed as the “Pearl of Puglia,” stands out as a medieval gem in Southern Italy. Explore its artistic treasures, including the captivating white stone Cathedral and the historic Jewish quarter. In the afternoon, venture to Castel Del Monte, a renowned 13th-century masterpiece and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This architectural wonder, constructed during the reign of Roger the Norman, remains shrouded in mystery, with its harmonious octagonal design. Your journey then takes you to Alberobello, famous for its UNESCO World Heritage-listed “Trulli” – cone-shaped, drystone houses that date back to the 14th century. This village exudes a fairy-tale ambiance and derives its name from the ancient oak forest of “Arboris Belli” that once graced the area. The iconic Trulli can be found throughout the picturesque Itria Valley. Spend the night in a real “Trullo” in a scattered hotel, complete with dinner.

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before boarding a bus conveniently located just 200 meters from the Trulli. Your destination: Basilicata, a border region. Welcome to Matera, the capital and “city of stones,” often likened to Italy’s version of Cappadocia in the south. As the European Capital of Culture in 2019 and a UNESCO Heritage site, Matera boasts a captivating landscape of cave dwellings, inhabited since the Paleolithic era. The historical center is a monumental wonder, connected by a labyrinth of charming alleys that transport you into a living nativity scene. The sassi, these stone dwellings, evoke imagery of ancient sites near Jerusalem and have served as the backdrop for numerous Christian-themed films. Don’t miss the Matera Cathedral during your visit. In the evening, return to Alberobello for dinner and another night in the Trullo.

Begin your day with breakfast in the “square” of the scattered hotel. Depart from Alberobello by coach conveniently located just 200 meters from the Trulli, arriving in Locorotondo. Here, you’ll have some free time to explore this charming town, known for its inclusion in the “white towns” of Puglia. Afterward, reboard the coach and head to Ostuni, nestled between the Trulli region and Salento, offering breathtaking views of the coastal plain dotted with ancient olive trees. You’ll have free time to wander, shop, and savor local delights, including the renowned Ostuni olive oil (all at your own expenses). Later in the afternoon, rejoin the coach and journey to Lecce, situated in the heart of the Salento region, for dinner and your overnight stay.

Following breakfast at your hotel, embark on a 3 hour guided tour of Lecce. Explore the city’s history, visit the 12th-century Cathedral, the Basilica of Santa Croce, and Piazza del Duomo in the old town center. After the tour, hop back on the coach and depart Lecce for Otranto, where you’ll have leisure time for lunch. Spend your afternoon at your own pace exploring the captivating city of Otranto, which bears traces of Greek, Roman, and Turkish influences due to its rich history of invasions. Stroll through the historic quarters to witness the harmonious blend of these cultures. Don’t miss the iconic Cathedral, housing the bones of 813 martyrs displayed in a glass case behind the altar. Admire its exquisite mosaic floor, rivaling the famous mosaics of Ravenna in intricacy and significance. In the early evening, arrive in Supersano for a memorable dinner at “Masseria le Stanzìe,” an ancient farm where you’ll delve into the culture and history of Puglia. Witness the art of crafting homemade pasta and explore the medieval tombs on the farm. Enjoy a dinner featuring authentic regional cuisine and products. Later, return to Lecce for your overnight stay.

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. When it’s time, we’ll arrange your transfer to the train station for your journey to Rome. Upon arrival in Rome, we’ll also ensure a transfer to your hotel.

Enjoy a free day to explore the city of Rome at your own pace. Alternatively, you can choose to enhance your experience with an optional visit to the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Square (not included).

Enjoy your final breakfast at the hotel, marking the conclusion of our services. If you’d like to extend your stay, you have the option to book extra nights. Farewell, and we look forward to welcoming you again on your next visit. Arrivederci!