If dreamy spots are your raison d’être, Puglia is the ultimate place for hedonists and nature lovers. Dramatic views over the deep-blue sea, eye-catching green and golden meadows, fairy trulli set in rural landscapes make it the idyllic destination for a memorable journey. Delve into Italy’s heel as an impressionist painter: stroll through slow-paced villages, listen to the locals’ genuine stories from the past and savour the tastes of the produce of the land. Puglia is the region which will rejuvenate your mind, body and soul.
This journey outline is by no means fixed. As the traveller takes centre stage in our planning – from the type of lodging to daily activities – your journey will be crafted to suit you.
Day by Day Highlights
Day 1 Arrival in Puglia
Arrive at Rome Airport, where our driver will meet you and transfer you to your stunning accommodation in the heart of the Sassi of Matera, Sextantio.
Day 2 Matera, The Sassi Town and Journey to Baroque Lecce
In the morning, you will meet our guide and visit the famed UNESCO World Heritage Site of Matera for a 2-hour walking tour. The unique and ancient city perched high on a beautiful hillside has only recently been seen by foreign eyes.
Go on a walking tour of the ‘sassi', ancient cave dwellings restored for current use as homes, shops and restaurants. After lunch, transfer to the Baroque Town of Lecce.
Day 3 Exploring the Gems of the Salento Province: Lecce, Galatina & Otranto
This morning you are headed to stunning Galatina to explore the Basilica di Santa Caterina d'Alessandria, where you'll see astonishing frescoes depicting biblical stories. Galatina is also home to the famous "pasticiotto" pasty. You'll learn more about the legend of the tarantella dance, renowned throughout the Salento province. Make your way to Otranto, known as the jewel of Salento. This fortified city, perched on the edge of the clear, blue Adriatic sea is a must-see town. Go on a walking tour of the labyrinthine streets of the historical center before you make your way to the sea wall for panoramic views out to the horizon.
Upon return to Lecce, our guide will take you on a fascinating and detailed walking tour of this city rich in history, architecture and culture, with sites such as the Roman amphitheater and the noble palazzi.
Day 4 Salento Vineyards and The White Town
After check-out, we will drive to one of Puglia's most renowned wineries. The engaging and passionate oenologist will take us on a beautiful walk thought the estate and the vineyards, after which we will be treated to a private wine tasting in the dining room overlooking the oak barrels. Along your tasting we will pair a range wines with delicious local dishes for lunch. Each vintage is the result of years of care and dedication and the resulting tasting is a sensory journey of wonder for your palate.
You will then visit the enchanting city of Ostuni, known as the White City - an imposing citadel overlooking the olive plains all the way to the Adriatic. The tiny winding streets of the oldest quarter are known by the Arabic term the "Casbah" and certainly look more Greek or eastern than the stereotypical piazzas of northern Italy.
Day 5 Burrata & Itria Valley
Start the discovery of Itria Valley today. You'll start with the Baroque city of Martina Franca where you can taste the renowned Capocollo, and visit the artisan workshops and local boutiques. Stop in the hilltop town of Locorotondo.
Next you are off to discover the secrets of cheese-making in the ancient traditions of Puglia. You will meet local cheese artisan Giorgio at his farm, where he will demonstrate the art of making fresh burrata and let you try twisting a knot of mozzarella or two! Enjoy a light tasting at the farm. We will then visit the famous Trulli of Alberobello, with its cone-shaped dwellings unique to the region.
Day 6 Departure & Farewell
After check-out, our driver will transfer you to Bari or Brindisi airport for your onward journey or flight back home.
Matera, Lecce, Salento, Galatina, Otranto, Ostuni, Itria, Locorotondo, Martina Franca, Alberobello, Bari
Recommended months to travel
March – Mid November
Level of difficulty
Easy
Indicative price
From US$5,000/person based on double-sharing, on a private basis. Excludes international flights.
This journey outline is by no means conclusive. It is just a guideline and can be tailored according to your comfort level, interests and preferences for every detail from accommodation to activities.
