Day 1

Arrival in Bari & Transfer to Matera

Upon arrival in Bari train station/airport, meet your private driver for a transfer to Matera. The cave city of Matera is located in the Basilicata region, but because it is so close to Puglia, it is definitely a must see destination when in Puglia. Approximate travel time is just 1 hour. Your hotel is right in the heart of the city, which makes it easy to explore! You'll have time on your own in Matera – extra activities on request.

Day 2

Discover the Cave World of Matera

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site with its unique ancient urban structure still intact. Matera has gained international fame for its ancient town, the Sassi di Matera where Mel Gibson filmed The Passion of the Christ. The Sassi originated in a prehistoric settlement, and these dwellings are among the first human set. On a privately guided walk explore the intricate labyrinth of alleys and stairways, of caves and small elegant buildings, arches, galleries, and terraces that make up this remarkable city of stone. The rest of the day is at leisure – extra activities on request.

Day 3

Travel South to Lecce via Alberobello, Locorotondo & Ostuni

Meet your private driver for a transfer to Lecce, visiting Alberobello, Locorotondo and Ostuni en route. The picturesque towns in the Itria Valley will crown your day with their timeless, fairy-tale beauty. In Alberobello, see the charming and unique trulli, the cone-shaped stone houses distinctive to Apulia. Explore the white and circular village of Locorotondo. Finally, the gleaming town of Ostuni will fascinate you with its old alleys lined with whitewashed buildings. Conclude your day on arrival in Lecce a city cultured enough to be nicknamed the “Florence of the South.

Day 4

Discover the Splendors of Lecce

With a private guide, embark on a leisurely walking tour of Lecce. A city of art that preserves the historical and artistic heritage of different ages and cultures. Its historic center is filled with ornate Baroque monuments and even has a few remnants of its Roman days. Visit its lovely historic center surrounded by imposing Baroque palaces and ancient Roman ruins. The remainder of the day is at leisure – extra activities on request.

Day 5

Travel on to the Heart of the Salento Region

Today’s excursion takes you to the beautiful walled town of Otranto, overlooking the Adriatic coast. On a private guide walking tour, visit the imposing 15th-century Aragonese castle with its traditional moat, and the famous cathedral whose impressive wall-to-wall mosaic floor was created in 1166. Later return to Lecce. The remainder of the day is at leisure – extra activities on request.

Day 6

Transfer to Bari from Lecce via Polignano a Mare

After breakfast at your hotel, your private driver will pick you up and you will make your way toward the Puglia capital, Bari. Along the coast in between you will stop in the beautiful seaside town of Polignano a Mare. Then, it’s off to your centrally located hotel in Bari where you will be staying for 2 nights. The ancient town has a compact and very interesting historic center with narrow, winding streets and a castle on one side. Enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure.

Day 7

Taste the Beauties & Flavors of Bari

Bari is the capital of Puglia with an enchanting old town. Take a private guided walking tour along the pristine narrow lanes full of ancient traditions. During the walk, you will be delighted by the fragrant smell of the region delicacies that leads you towards an historic bakery. Here you will see how the typical focaccia of Bari is made. You'll also taste its fresh-baked goodness, followed by another specialty, onion calzone. Along the way, you will even see nonne (grandmas) who still make homemade orecchiette pasta outside their homes.

Day 8

Goodbye Puglia

Arrivederci! After this incredible week, today it is time to say goodbye to beautiful Puglia. Transfer privately to Bari airport, railway station or port. Buon viaggio! If you are not yet ready to go home, we can help adding extra nights in Puglia or even spending some time on the Amalfi Coast. The choice is yours and we would be happy to design your trip as you wish.