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Explore Puglia in 10 Days

Highlights

  • Enjoy the local cuisine with a private cooking class
  • Admire the gorgeous coast and hidden caves on a private boat trip
  • Visit the mesmerising historical sites whilst immersing yourself in the dense culture

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What you'll do

Overview

This 10 day whirlwind trip in gorgeous Puglia allows you to enjoy extremely authentic experiences, leaving with a far deeper appreciation for Puglia, its beautiful scenery and interesting history.

From the vibrant green landscape, to the crystal blue waters along the coast, you will be enjoying the highlights of Puglia on this 10 day whirlwind trip.

Enjoying the regional cuisine through the private cooking classes by local chefs, as well as visiting the many amazing restaurants along your trip. The cuisine is a true highlight of your trip!

Learn about the interesting history of Puglia and Italy as a whole, visiting the beautiful ancient sites, many of which are declared World Heritage sites by UNESCO, holding deep importance across Italy. The culture is present across all of Puglia, you will never get bored.

You will also be able to explore the gorgeous coast of Salento on a private boat trip. The crystal waters and stunning caves will mesmerise you.

The winding alleys and hills will prove to be an extremely picturesque sight to see. Enjoy the local farms and olive gardens, strolling through the delightful landscape you will never get bored.

This luxurious trip in Puglia provides both guided tours and excursions as well as free time, allowing you to explore Puglia in a variety of manners. This spectacular holiday will leave you wanting to go back.

*Price is based on 2 people travelling, for a larger groups reductions may apply

Arrival Day

Begin your trip by landing in Bari Airport where you will be picked up and driven to your hotel in the city centre. You will have time to unwind in your stunning hotel before beginning your journey in Puglia.

That afternoon, you will meet your local guide and discover Bari. Bari will immediately fascinate you with its breathtaking seaside promenade, the ancient Old Town centre, and the historic Teatro Petruzzelli.

In Bari you will also see the Basilica of St Nicholas, the saint who is believed to be the model for Santa Claus, making this an exciting afternoon for both children and adults!

A private guided visit of the city will let you discover the main historical buildings and the famous Via delle Orecchiette (Orecciette Street). Here, many women are experts at preparing handmade pasta and do so everyday, making it quite the scene to admire. You can also get the chance to buy some which could be the best pasta you will ever try.

To draw your day to a close, you will enjoy street food dinner with the locals. Through this, you are able to talk to locals about their everyday lives, as well as learn about Bari’s interesting history all while trying their delicious food.

Accommodation

The iH Hotel Bari Oriente, in Bari.

The iH Hotels Bari Oriente is a 4-star hotel located in the heart of Bari, at the Murat district, a few steps from the historical Petruzzelli Theater. An elegant Liberty-style hotel a few steps from the city centre, it is housed in a majestic building from 1900.

The Palazzo Marroccoli’s Art Nouveau style is found in every detail both inside the hall and in the rooms. The roof garden on the sixth floor of the hotel, in the warm season from May to September, offers an enchanting view of the city and the dome of the famous Theater.

A stone’s throw from the sea and the main monuments, it is perfect for families, for leisure and business travelers. The iH Hotels Bari Oriente is an excellent building with design furniture, perfect for a stay in Bari to discover its extraordinary cultural and gastronomic beauties that make it one of the most interesting cities of the whole south Italy.

Exploring Bari

This morning you will spend as you wish. Whether this is exploring Bari alone, having breakfast at one of the delicious cafes, or admiring the stunning architeture and historical buildings around you. You could even go for swim in the beautiful ocean.

In the afternoon, you will take a leisurely walk through the streets of Polignano a Mare, a shining gem on the coast of the Valle d’Itria. This is perched atop a 20m high limestone cliff, overlooking the crystal clear waters of the Adriatic.

Here you may decide to enjoy dinner at the unique Grotte Palazzese Restaurant, a magical and enchanted place with a terrace created inside a natural cave. This restaurant is truly one of a kind and you should definitely visit if you can!

You will spend your evening back at your hotel, relaxing before another day of exploring Puglia.

Accommodation

The iH Hotel Bari Oriente, in Bari.

Visiting Castel del Monte

Today, you will be visiting the Alta Murgia National Park. This is a limestone plateau scored by deep ravines and sudden sinkholes. This natural phenomenon is a true wonder that is widely loved.

Remote and aloof, Alta Murgia is the perfect setting for Castel del Monte, an awe-inspiring octagonal construction declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1996. This stunning structure is truly breath taking.

The medieval castle, commissioned by Frederick II in the 13th century, is located on a hilltop at above 540m above sea level. Here you will be able to enjoy an amazing view of the National Park.

After having lunch at a local agriturismo, which is sure to be a delicious meal, you will begin your drive to Matera. Matera was the European Captial of Culture in 2019, highlighting the interesting traditions and customs present here.

You will then check in to your hotel in Sassi. In Sassi you will be surrounded by houses stacked on top of each other and linked by tiny, narrow streets with wide stairways. This beautiful town has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1993.

To end the day, you will meet your local guide and embark on a private guided walking tour of Sassi, where you will be immersed in the strong culture around you. This off the beaten track experience is second to none, and truly sensational!

Accommodation

La Corte Vetere in Matera.

Close to some of Matera’s most popular landmarks, such as Cattedrale di Matera and Chiesa rupestre di San Pietro Barisano, La Corte Vetere is a great destination for tourists.

Best of all, La Corte Vetere makes it easy to experience many great Matera attractions like Parco delle Chiese Rupestri di Matera, Cripta del Peccato Originale, and Antica Matera Casa Grotta, which are some popular historic sites. This B&B puts the best of Matera at your fingertips, making your stay both relaxing and enjoyable.

Visiting the Lucan Dolomites

Today you will be visiting the imposing Lucan Dolomites. These stand out as giants from the seas, and reach the striking small village of Castelmezzano. This has been listed among Italy’s “most beautiful villages” due to its charm and typically medieval urban structure, making this stunning village a true highlight.

From Castelmezzano, you will have the chance to visit the village Pietrapertosa. In order to reach this village, you will have to take the flight of an angel. If weather and season permitting, the flight of an angel requires boarding a steel cable suspended at an altitude of 800m high between the peaks of the two villages.

This ‘flight’ allows you to experience a unique method of transport that is completely safe. Whilst in the air, you can admire the stunning view from above, and begin getting excited for your lunch in Pietrapertosa.

Once you have reached Pietrapertosa, you will be able to enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant. You will be eating whilst suspended over a breath taking valley and landscape, allowing you to have a lunch experience like no other.

To end the day, you will take a private transfer back to your accommodation in Matera.

Accommodation

La Corte Vetere in Matera.

Experience the best of Cisternino

Today, you will be visiting Cisternino. This authentic family run farm produces the typical Capocollo of Martine Franca, a traditional pork cold cut. Your off the beaten experience will include a guided tour with the local producer as well as your tour guide, allowing you to learn about all of the production processes that are extremely specific to this beloved food. The experience will of course end with a delicious Capocollo tasting!

In the afternoon, you will be visiting Alberobello. This is the house of the worldwide famous trulli, which has been declared a World Heritage site since 1996. Trulli are typical white dry-stone constructions with a conical roof which were historically used as field shelters and storehouses. These are still in use today!

Whilst walking through the stunning winding alleys to reach the Trullo Sovrano, you will be exposed to a truly Italian sight. The Trullo Sovrano is the largest trulli, which has been built on two floors. This unique sight is sure not to disappoint, allowing you to appreciate the hidden authentic beauty within Italy.

After these visits, you will be heading to your beautiful Masseria in the heart of Valle d’Itria. A Masseria is widely known as a fortified farmhouse on an estate. This local experience is native to Puglia, where you can admire the gorgeous surroundings whilst staying in unique accommodation.

Accommodation

The Masseria Montenapoleone in Valle d’Itria.

Masseria Montenapoleone is built on a natural legacy, sitting atop an ancient cave settlement, ensconced in the heart of centuries of olive plains, (the “Ulivi Secolari”). It is an ideal haven from which to admire the sea stretching across the horizon, and the green hills that frame this perfect picture.

Exploring Valle d'Itria

Today you have to make sure to put on your apron and get ready to becone a chef for the day, as you will have the chance to enjoy a private cooking class! You will be cooking “la cucina povera” which translates to “the food of the poor”, an Italian term widely used to indicate Apulian cooking.

This authentic local experience is brought to you by local chefs, who have mastered the art of Apulian cooking. This off the beaten track experience will not only allow you to understand Italian culture and cuisine far better, but also provide you with a unique experience like no other.

To reward yourself for your hard work, you will then feast on your delicious creations!

The afternoon will be spent in the comfort of your gorgeous Masseria. You will have the chance to appreciate the natural beauty around you, admiring the vibrant green scenery and olive gardens around you before retreating into the comfort of your luxurious room.

Accommodation

The Masseria Montenapoleone in Valle d’Itria.

Enjoy Ostuni and Lecce

Today you will be transferring to Ostuni. Here, you will be enjoying a leisurely stroll at your own pace around the ‘White Town’, a dearly beloved area of Puglia.

The town centre is characterised by tiny alleyways, with winding hilltops leading towards one of the most enchanting spots in Italy, the Romanesque Cathedral.

While here, you will have the chance to admire the beautiful balconies and terraces bordering the old town walls, facing the sea on a magnificient panorama. This stunning view is a true highlight of Puglia.

After lunch at your leisure, you will begin your drive to Lecce. Here, a professional guide will show you the main historical buildings of Lecce. These include the Roman Amphitheater, the Duomo, Charles V Castle, and particularly the typical Barocco leccese. These stunning sights are true beauties of Puglia’s history.

You will be fascinated walking through the winding alleys surrounded by some of the best Moorish-Italian Baroque buildings in the world. These have fruit baskets, flower compositions and little dancing angels, making this unique sight one not to be missed.

During this tour, you will have the chance to meet a local artisan that makes handmade papier-mache creations. Here, you will learn about the art and the tools used since historic times. This fine art will surprise you with its intricacy and fine details, making this off the beaten track experience a true sensation.

You will then be transferred to your new accommodation in Lecce, where you will have the evening to relax and enjoy Lecce as you desire.

Accommodation

The Palazzo Belsanti in Lecce.

The Palazzo Belsanti is housed in a late 19th century building, located on one of the main avenues of the city, close to the historical centre. The rooms and suites are equipped with every comfort, from the local handmade linen to the organic cosmetic products made in Salento.

Everything is based on genuine hospitality, strongly linked to the territory. A rich, traditional breakfast is served every morning on our rooftop terrace where the Cathedral bell tower stands out. Palazzo Belsanti is run by Alessandra and Andrea, a married couple from Lecce.

Private Boat Trip along the Coast

Today you will be meeting a professional skipper at the port of Castro Marina before taking a private boat to enjoy the gorgeous coast of Salento.

The coast of Salento will enchant you, with its insane morphological characteristics. The coast has a large number of ravines, niches, fjords holes and caves. Many of these are of great biological and historical importance. Get lost in the fascinating coast, admiring all of its beauty.

You will have the chance to cling the coast to Santa Cesarea, allowing you to admire the spectacular caves. A key sight you will visit here is the Romanelli cave, a prehistoric site of great interest and importance for the Palaeolithic discoveries found inside.

These stunning scenes will not only teach you more about Puglia’s immense history, but also provide you with a unique way of enjoying this landscape.

For lunch, you will be able to enjoy at you leisure. Whether this is eating lunch along the coast or at a highly respected restaurant, you will not be disappointed.

In the afternoon, you will be heading to Otranto to discover the picturesque town. With Greek origins, you will be amazed at all this stunning town has to offer. You will be accompanied by a professional local guide, providing you with an authentic experience.

Dinner will be spent in this beautiful town, before returning to your accommodation in Lecce.

Accommodation

The Palazzo Belsanti in Lecce.

Exploring Galatina's beauty

This morning, head to Galatina to discover the amazing Basilica of Santa Caterina d’Alessandria, a treasure chest that houses magnificent frescoes. This stunning sight is sure to amaze all who visit, providing a unique experience within Lecce.

When in Galatina, you must taste the pasticciotto, a typical cake made with pastry and custard. This local delicacy is one not to be missed as it is truly delicious. Nowhere else does it quite like Galatina!

Lunch will be spent in the beautiful Galatina, allowing you to explore the local cuisine at your leisure. The wide array of authentic restaurants and cafes are sure not to disappoint.

After lunch, you will be taken back to your accommodation in Lecce to spend your afternoon as you wish. Whether you choose to explore more of the town, learn more about its history, or simply admire the stunning landscape, you are sure to enjoy yourself.

You will be staying in your accommodation in Lecce for the evening, before your depature in the morning.

Accommodation

The Palazzo Belsanti in Lecce.

Departure Day

Today, you will be taken from your accommodation in Lecce to Brindisi Airport for your return flight home.

What's included

Included

  • 9 nights accommodation including porterage and all city taxes
  • 9 buffet breakfasts in the hotels indicated
  • 1 street food dinner in Bari
  • 1 lunch (3 courses) at a local agriturismo near Castel del Monte
  • 1 lunch (3 courses) at a local restaurant in Pietrapertosa
  • 1 light lunch at a farm producing "Capocollo di Martina Franca"
  • 1 lunch (3 courses) after the cooking class in the Valle d'Itria
  • 1 pasticciotto tasting in Galatina
  • 1 private cooking class with a local chef in the Valle d'Itria
  • Private luxury transport for all journeys as per program with English speaking driver
  • Professional English speaking local guides as per program
  • All entrance fees
  • 1 visit at a local artisan papier-mache creator in Lecce
  • 1 private boat excursion from Casto to Santa Cesarea
  • 24 hour emergency line
Your local host

Vincenzo and team

Our itineraries reveal the unexpected and often hard to find Italy that travellers have always dreamed of discovering - the legendary Italy you can get under the skin of to personally encounter the real country you often miss.

Every detail that makes your time spent travelling unforgettable will be taken care of: comfort, quality, exclusive visits, local voices and encounters. Our aim is to become a go-to group for those who seek the ultimate Italian experience by ensuring our visitors leave inspired and personally enriched after their time with us.

Our itineraries reveal the unexpected and often hard to find Italy that travellers have always dreamed of discovering - the legendary Italy you can get under the skin of to personally encounter the real country you often miss.

Every detail that makes your time spent travelling unforgettable will be taken care of: comfort, quality, exclusive visits, local voices and encounters. Our aim is to become a go-to group for those who seek the ultimate Italian experience by ensuring our visitors leave inspired and personally enriched after their time with us.

Vincenzo and team image

Location

Beginning in the stunning Bari, your guide will pick you up from the airport. From here, you will experience all Bari has to offer. Whether its enjoying local cuisines, visiting the magical historical sites or even eating in the cave above the crystal waters, you will be amazed at its beauty.

Next, you will be staying in Matera. Whilst here, you will be World Heritage sites that hold great importance, as well as enjoying the enchanting landscape present throughout Matera.

Valle d’Itria is a true wonder, with its wonderful historical buildings and gorgeous landscape. Alongside sightseeing and a private cooking class, you will have time to explore this stunning location by yourself.

Your last destination is Lecce. Here you will be enjoying a private boat trip along the mesmerising coast. This stunning town is sure to shock you, with its hidden beauty and strong sense of culture.

FAQs

What drinks are included in the meals?

At all meals included in the trip, you can enjoy: water, soft drinks, house wine or beer. These are included at no extra cost. If you choose something outside of these options, it can be added at your bill.

Can we stay at the same accommodation for both nights in each city?

Yes! If you would rather spend both nights in each city at the same hotel, that can be arranged. Simply tell us and we can arrange this for you with no hassle.

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