Discover Puglia

Day 1 – London to Bari

Fly from London to Bari and transfer to our hotel for a 4-night stay.

Day 2 – Explore Bari

A day based in Bari, including a half-day guided tour of the city. Bari is a port city on the Adriatic coast and the capital of the Puglia region. Step back in time and wander through one of Italy’s most atmospheric old towns – Bari Vecchia. This walled part of the city is a labyrinth of twisting alleys, cobbled streets and small piazzas. Within the thick stone walls you will find 40 churches and the 11th Century Basilica St Nicholas. This evening we have a welcome dinner in a local restaurant (included).

Day 3 – Castellana Caves & Alberobello

No trip to Puglia would be complete without a visit to these two sites. We visit the spectacular limestone caves and experience a guided tour of the UNESCO World Heritage town of Alberobello, which is home to the white-washed beehive-shaped stone dwellings known as “trulli”.

Day 4 – Matera – “Basilicata’s Jewel”

Depart by road to visit another of Southern Italy’s UNESCO World Heritage towns, Matera in the Basilicata region. Once again we have a local guide who will provide a tour around the city which is famous for its cave dwellings. Lunch is included in one of Matera’s cave restaurants.

Day 5 – By Rail to Lecce

Travel by rail southwards along the coast to Lecce, in the heart of the Salento Peninsula and often called the “Florence of the South” for a 2-night stay. This afternoon we will have a guided tour exploring baroque palaces, artisan workshops, Renaissance gardens and 19th Century villas.

Day 6 – Otranto & Gallipoli

A full day excursion by coach to the towns of Otranto and Gallipoli. First, we head to Otranto, a charming coastal town rich in history and culture, where we visit its Cathedral, dating back to 1088. We continue our journey to Gallipoli and have lunch (included) before taking a guided tour of the old town with its 14th Century walls and the stunning Cathedral of St. Agatha. Return by coach to Lecce in time for our farewell dinner (included).

Day 7 – Homeward Bound

Morning coach transfer to Bari Airport for our flight to London, arriving early afternoon.