Puglia's Grand Tapestry: A Journey Through Time And TasteUnveiling Southern Italy's Secrets: From Cliff-Edged Polignano to Matera's Ancient Caverns
Active Vacation | Culture Immersion | Small Group Journey
Embark on an enchanting 7-day journey through the sun-kissed landscapes of Puglia, where history, gastronomy, and architectural wonders entwine. From your first steps in the lively Bari Vecchia to the mesmerizing beauty of Polignano perched over the Adriatic, every moment promises to captivate. Wander through Lecce's Baroque elegance, relish the rich heritage of Ostuni, and dive deep into the stories whispered by Matera's ancient stones. Alongside these experiences, immerse yourself in the culinary heart of the region: savor the creamy magic of Burrata, and taste wines that echo the very soul of the land. Concluding in Montescaglioso's serenity, this tour invites you to witness the magic of Southern Italy.
Itinerary
Day 1 - Arrival
Upon arriving at Bari Airport, your host will greet you in the arrival hall and arrange for your transfer to your hotel in Bari. In the late afternoon, embark on a walking tour through the charming Bari Vecchia, followed by a delightful welcome dinner.
Overnight in Bari.
Overnight in Bari.
Meals : Dinner
Day 2 - Bari to Lecce with en-route stops in Polignano and Monopoli
Meet your driver-guide in the lobby of your hotel and head to Lecce. On the way to Lecce, you’ll en-route stop in two of the most iconic coastal towns of the region: Polignano and Monopoli. Polignano is a stunning coastal town that is perched on the edge of a cliff overlooking the Adriatic Sea. The town is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque historic center. Monopoli is a picturesque seaside town surrounded by a wall that dates back to the 16th century.
Overnight in Lecce.
Overnight in Lecce.
Meals : Breakfast
Day 3 - Lecce To Otranto And Cutrufiano Day Tour: A Symphony Of History And Gastronomy
Embark on a day-trip starting in Lecce's Baroque splendor, passing through coastal Otranto, and ending in Cutrufiano's countryside charm. Beyond scenic views, delve into the history, culinary delights, and the aromatic universe of wines and olives at Masseria Astore. First stop: Otranto, where the Adriatic's beauty and the Aragonese castle highlight its historic significance. We'll then venture to Cutrufiano. Amidst its hills lies Masseria Astore, where you'll explore Apulian olives' unique essence. Savor traditional Apulian dishes and indulge in a wine tasting session, echoing the region's rich heritage.
Overnight in Lecce.
Overnight in Lecce.
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch
Day 4 - Morning Lecce Walks & Afternoon in Ostuni
Tour the Gem of the south, Lecce, renowned for its Baroque churches and quaint streets. Often dubbed "the Florence of the South," its main attractions include the Cathedral and the ornate Basilica of Santa Croce. As you move from Lecce, the scene shifts from urban grandeur to Puglia’s vast countryside, leading to Ostuni, "The White City". Perched on a hill, Ostuni's whitewashed structures offer a mix of Gothic, Byzantine, and Norman styles with stunning coastal views. Conclude in Martina Franca, your base for the next three nights.
Enjoy dinner in the evening.
Overnight in Martina Franca.
Enjoy dinner in the evening.
Overnight in Martina Franca.
Meals : Breakfast, Dinner
Day 5 - Burrata Making Experience, Locortondo And Alberobello
After breakfast, head to Masseria Cappella to explore the history of Burrata, an iconic Apulian cheese. Next, visit Locorotondo, known as "the balcony on the Itria Valley" for its panoramic valley views. Wander its stone streets and admire "Cummerse", unique gable-roofed houses. The town, circular in shape, stands atop a hill. You'll then proceed to Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996, famous for its Trulli structures. Notable areas are "Rione Monti" for crafts and "Aia Piccola" with ancient Trulli and museums. Finally, head to Martina Franca.
Overnight in Martina Franca.
Overnight in Martina Franca.
Meals : Breakfast
Day 6 - Matera's Ancient Wonder & Montescaglioso's Tranquility
The horizon brightens over Martina Franca's streets as a new adventure begins. Your guide will take you to Matera and Montescaglioso, where the changing landscape foreshadows our first destination: Matera. More than a town, it's a timeline. Our guide highlights the "Sassi di Matera" caverns, echoing with tales from prehistoric times to the present. Matera, with its carved churches and alleys, narrates a rich history. Once weighed down by poverty, today it stands as a UNESCO World Heritage site and a European Capital of Culture. Lunch is enjoyed with a view, and then we head towards Montescaglioso. Overlooking the Bradano Valley, it's a town rich in history. The Abbey of San Michele Arcangelo speaks of faith and epochs past, while its maze-like streets echo with Byzantine and Norman stories. Stay overnight in Martina Franca.
Meals : Breakfast
Day 7 - Departure
In alignment with your flight or train schedule, your chauffeur will ensure a timely transfer to the airport or station.
Meals : Breakfast
Photo Gallery
Other Information
- Tour Code : SMT012.24
- Duration : 6 Nights/7 Days
- Departure City : Bari, Italy
- Ending City : Martina Franca, Italy
- Type : Private Tour
- Departure : Guaranteed Departure
- Grade/Difficulity : Moderate
- Transport Mode : Car/Minivan
- Children Allowed : No
- Max Group Size : 6
- Language Offered : English
Departure Dates
May 2024 - 3, 17
June 2024 - 7, 21
July 2024 - 5, 26
September 2024 - 6, 20
October 2024 - 4, 18
Tour Includes
- 1 night in Bari
- 2 nights in Lecce
- 3 nights in Itria Valley
- Daily breakfast
- Individual Transfer from Bari Airport to Bari hotel
- Welcome dinner in Bari
- Service of a driver escort for the entire tour
- Transfer from Bari to Lecce with en-route stops in Polignano and Monopoli
- Full-day Otranto and Cutrofiano
- Private transfer from Lecce to Martina Franca with en-route stop in Ostuni
- Full-day Visit of the Itria Valley
- Full-day Visit of Matera and Montescaglioso
- 2-hour guide service in Otranto
- Wine tasting and Cooking class in a local Masseria in Cutrofiano followed by lunch
- 2-hour guide service in Lecce
- Stroll in Ostuni
- Dinner in Martina Franca
- Burrata making class and tasting
- 2-hour guide service in Matera
- Entrance fees for cave church in Matera
- Entrance fees for the Abbey of Montescaglioso
- Farewell Dinner
- Transfer from Martina Franca to Bari Airport
- Digital Remote Briefing 7 days before arrival
- 24/7 Emergency Phone to assist you during your stay
Tour Excludes
- Everything that is not mentioned in “Inclusions”
- Wines during meals, unless differently indicated
- Tips and gratuities
- Luggage porterage
- City taxes are not included and must be paid directly in the hotel upon arrival in Euro
- Flights are not included
- Personal Insurance
Notes
- Bari - Hotel delle Nazioni*****
- Lecce - Hotel Risorgimento*****
- Martina Franca - Hotel Villa San Martino*****
Puglia's Grand Tapestry tour package exceeded expectations! Seamless transportation, top-notch guides, and punctuality made the journey a breeze. Hotels were great, enhancing the picturesque experience. Highly recommended!