Explore Puglia – 7 Days / 6 Nights – From $7000
EXPERIENCE PUGLIA!
Your journey through the captivating region of Puglia begins with a warm welcome in the Valle d’Itria, setting the stage for a week of rich history, striking architecture, and breathtaking scenery. Over the course of seven days, you will explore three distinct UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the fairytale-like cone-shaped trulli of Alberobello, the mysterious octagonal fortress of Castel del Monte, and the ancient, canyon-carved cave dwellings of Matera. From the coastal beauty and Romanesque cathedral of Trani to the grand Baroque architecture of Lecce—affectionately known as the "Florence of the South"—this itinerary offers a comprehensive immersion into the unique cultural treasures of Southern Italy.
Beyond the sights, this trip is a deep dive into the soul of Apulian gastronomy. You will indulge in authentic culinary experiences, from hands-on cooking classes where you'll master the art of rolling orecchiette pasta, to behind-the-scenes tours of a local caseificio for fresh mozzarella tastings. Wine enthusiasts will delight in curated tastings of local vintages, including a sommelier-led session highlighting the region's famous Primitivo di Manduria. Complete with fresh seaside dinners, traditional Pane di Altamura bread, and sweet pasticciotto pastries, this itinerary ensures you will experience the very best of Italy's flavors before bidding a fond arrivederci.
Itinerary
DAY 1: Benvenuti a Bari
Meet your driver at the Bari Airport and transfer to the Masseria, or hotel, located in Valle d’Itria, where you’ll be welcomed with a drink and tour. That evening, enjoy dinner in a local restaurant.
DAY 2: The Trulli of Alberobello
Today, it’s off to the fairytale town of Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its unique cone-shaped buildings called “trulli.” The best way to experience the town is to get lost in its cluster of white, dry stone huts. Next, visit the beautifully Baroque town of Martina Franca and tour a local winery, sampling some vintages while you’re at it.
DAY 3: Castel del Monte and Trani
Castel del Monte, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known for its octagonal shape perched atop the highest hill of the Murgia region. Explore the town with a local guide before stopping in the slow food city of Trani for a delicious meal at an excellent seafood restaurant overlooking the sea. Be sure to also check out the magnificent Swabian fortress and the wonderful Romanesque cathedral.
Itinerary
DAY 1: Benvenuti a Bari
Meet your driver at the Bari Airport and transfer to the Masseria, or hotel, located in Valle d’Itria, where you’ll be welcomed with a drink and tour. That evening, enjoy dinner in a local restaurant.
DAY 2: The Trulli of Alberobello
Today, it’s off to the fairytale town of Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its unique cone-shaped buildings called “trulli.” The best way to experience the town is to get lost in its cluster of white, dry stone huts. Next, visit the beautifully Baroque town of Martina Franca and tour a local winery, sampling some vintages while you’re at it.
DAY 3: Castel del Monte and Trani
Castel del Monte, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known for its octagonal shape perched atop the highest hill of the Murgia region. Explore the town with a local guide before stopping in the slow food city of Trani for a delicious meal at an excellent seafood restaurant overlooking the sea. Be sure to also check out the magnificent Swabian fortress and the wonderful Romanesque cathedral.
DAY 4: Apulia Culinary Experience
Learn about and prepare some of Puglia’s main dishes in a cooking class run by locals in a casual and friendly environment. From the typical Apulian pasta “orecchiette” (little ears) to local oils and wines, your taste buds and mind will be happy by the end of the day.
DAY 5: Cheese, Wine, and Lecce
Start the day at a caseficio, where local mozzarella is made. Taste a variety of special cheeses, along with homemade breads, jams, and salads. Next, head to a museum about the Primitivo wine of Manduria, which showcases the antique methods and equipment used to make wine years ago. Join a Sommelier to taste four wines along with a light lunch. Finally, arrive in Lecce, dubbed the “Florence of the South,” for a guided walking tour of its Baroque churches, noble palaces, and the Roman amphitheater, as well as a tasting of the typical little cake called “Pasticciotto.”
DAY 6: The Caves of Matera
One of the most unique towns in all of Italy, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Matera is built into the sides of a canyon. Chosen as the shooting location of Mel Gibson’s “The Passion of the Christ,” the homes and businesses here are caves that wind their way up the hill. Enjoy lunch in a bakery in Altamura to taste the specialty bread called Pane di Altamura, along with a glass of fantastic red wine.
DAY 7: Arrivederci Italia!
Bid farewell to your group as you transfer to the local airport or train station.
Inclusions
Included:
- 6 nights hotel accommodation with daily breakfast at Masseria
- Montenapoleone or similar based on availability
- Private luxury car/van at your disposal for entire tour
- Tour guide at your disposal for entire tour
- 5 dinners (all except Day 5) in local restaurants, including drinks
- 2 wine tastings (Days 2 and 5)
Mozzarella tasting (Day 5), Cooking Class (Day 4), Seafood Lunch (Day 3) - Guided tours and visits as per itinerary
Additional Information
Departing Location: Bari
Tour Type: Independent Tours
Tour Days: 7 Days