ITINERARY DETAILS
DAY 1
Monopoli or Savelletri di Fasano
Welcome to Puglia! Your driver will meet you at the arrival gate of Bari Airport and take you to your accommodation of choice in Savelletri di Fasano or Monopoli. Use this first day to relax and enjoy the charming Masseria you chose as your base in this tranquil countryside area.
DAY 2
Bari Walk and Taste Tour
Meet your guide in the hotel for a drive to the center of Bari Vecchia - the old town. Your tour will take you through the labyrinth of cobblestone alleys. Discover Bari through the sights, aromas, and tastes including the famous focaccia and panzerotti. See the St. Nicola’s Basilica from the 12th century and the ramparts of a Norman Castle and immerse yourself in the culture as you say hi to the nonnas sitting on the threshold of their doorways rolling out trays of orecchiette and discussing daily events.
DAY 3
Tour of Alberobello Trulli Town
A UNESCO World Heritage site, the famous trulli houses date back to the 15th century. Wander the streets to admire these fairytale-like conical-roofed structures while learning more about their history from your guide and how the local landowners, the Acquaviva family ordered the local peasants to build dwellings without using mortar to avoid paying property taxes to the King.
DAY 4
Tour to Martina Franca, Cisternino and Locorotondo
After breakfast, your driver will meet you at the hotel for your immersive full-day tour. This picturesque journey will take you to Martina Franca, a Baroque-era pearl with Instagram-worthy churches and palazzi. Continue to Cisternino, a quaint village with whitewashed houses before you relax over a traditional lunch at one of the many butchers that specialize in grilling the local meat delicacies. After lunch continue to the ancient village of Locorotondo and put the perfect finishing touch on your day with a visit to a wine estate where you will have the opportunity to taste delectable local wines.
DAY 5
Transfer to Lecce
After breakfast, your driver will meet you for your private transfer to Lecce where you will check in at your hotel of choice. Afternoon at leisure, take your first glimpse of the baroque town of Lecce, “Florence of the South”.
DAY 6
Market Tour and Cooking Experience
Experience the true flavors and vibes of the region. Start with a guided visit to the local market where you will learn how to choose fresh seasonal ingredients. On your way to the cooking class venue, stop at a local cafeteria for a taste of “Leccese Coffee”. Then proceed with the creation of four traditional recipes under the watchful eye of your local chef and savor the fruits of your labor paired with selected local wines.
DAY 7
Heel of the Italy Tour
Your full-day journey to Italy’s Heel will pass through Gallipoli and Santa Maria di Leuca accompanied by the views of the azure Adriatic Sea. The rocky coastline, tiny quaint fishing villages, natural caves, and wonderful sea views will lead you to your next destination - Otranto, and its historic center which is a mesmerizing labyrinth of narrow streets and charming piazzas. The town is steeped in history, evident in its well-preserved architecture, which includes the 15th-century Aragonese Castle and the stunning Otranto Cathedral with its famous mosaic floor, a masterpiece of medieval art.
DAY 8
Transfer to Matera
After breakfast, your driver will meet you for your private transfer to Matera where you will check in at your hotel of choice. Afternoon at leisure, explore this fascinating city with cave dwellings.
DAY 9
Matera Tour
After breakfast meet your local guide for a walking tour of this unique city filled with cave dwellings and nestled in the heart of Basilicata. Matera is the 3rd oldest city in the world, its historic center, including the Sassi, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The recognition is well-deserved, as the city's unique architecture and cultural significance make it a captivating destination for history and culture enthusiasts.
DAY 10
Departure day
After breakfast, your driver will meet you at the hotel to transfer you to Bari or Brindisi Airport for your departure flight.
