Classic Puglia

Welcome to the region of Puglia! After arrival in Bari, check into your hotel.

After enjoying breakfast, join your tour guide at the hotel for a journey to uncover the wonders of Bari. Begin by exploring "Bari Vecchia," the city's historic center, where you'll delve into the rich history and notable landmarks of Bari.

Wander through quaint alleys and picturesque squares within the ancient city walls, and visit significant sites such as the Pontifical Basilica of Saint Nicholas, which houses the relics of Saint Nicholas, and the 12th-century Castello Svevo, built by Norman King Roger II and later refurbished by Frederick II of the Holy Roman Empire.

Your tour will also take you to Piazza Mercantile, Piazza Ferrarese, Piazza del Sedile, and the Basilica di San Sabino. The afternoon is free for you to enjoy at your leisure.

Bari - Trani - Andria - Bari. After breakfast at your hotel, you might want to visit Trani, a significant medieval centre in Imperial Apulia. Be sure to explore the Jewish ghetto (Guidecca) and the magnificent Romanesque cathedral by the sea.

After your free time in Trani, you'll head to Andria for lunch and a wine tasting at a typical masseria, or large farm. On your way back to Bari, you'll stop at Castel del Monte, an extraordinary castle built by Frederick II and protected as a World Heritage Site. Its geometric design is unique, featuring an octagonal prism with an octagonal tower at each corner, and many mysteries about its true purpose remain unsolved. You'll then return to Bari.

Bari - Monopoli - Poligano - Bari. After breakfast, you'll set off to explore two of the most prominent coastal destinations in Puglia: Monopoli and Polignano a Mare. Your journey begins in Monopoli, a fortified citadel overlooking the sea. Wandering through the intricate little streets of Monopoli is an almost mystical experience. Historically, crusaders departed from its port, along with other Apulian ports, in the Middle Ages to reach the Holy Land.

After enjoying lunch in Selva di Fasano at a typical masseria, you'll head to Polignano a Mare, the hometown of Domenico Modugno, the Italian singer-songwriter famous for co-writing the iconic song "Volare (Nel blu, dipinto di blu)." Built on the edge of a cliff, Polignano's coastline is renowned for its coves, small bays, and inlets. You'll then return to Bari.

Bari - Alberobello - Locorotondo - Ostuni - Bari. After breakfast, you'll head to Alberobello, the "city of Trulli," a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Trulli are unique dry stone huts with conical roofs originally built for storage and later used as dwellings, known locally as casedde (little houses). Alberobello is a gem, a true fairy tale place in the heart of Puglia. Afterward, near Locorotondo, you'll enjoy lunch at a traditional masseria.

Post-lunch, you'll explore Locorotondo, a picturesque town recognized as one of Italy's most beautiful hamlets. The town's name, derived from the Latin "locus-rotundus" (circular place), reflects its round shape. Next, you'll visit Ostuni, the "white city," situated 74 kilometres (46 miles) south of Bari on a hilltop. Built by the Normans, Ostuni features city walls with four gates, remnants of which are still visible. The region is renowned for its high-quality olive oil and wine.

You'll have time to explore the historical centre, sample local delicacies, shop for food or souvenirs, or simply wander through the medieval streets. You'll then return to Bari for an overnight stay.

Bari - Matera - Bari. After breakfast, you'll journey to the border region of Basilicata. Welcome to Matera, the capital, famously known as "la città dei sassi" (the city of stones), often compared to Cappadocia in Italy's south. Recognized as the European Capital of Culture in 2019 and a UNESCO World Heritage site, Matera offers a remarkable experience.

Spend time exploring the sassi, ancient cave dwellings that have been inhabited since the Paleolithic period. These structures form a breath-taking historical centre, connected by a labyrinth of charming alleys that evoke the feeling of a real-life nativity scene. You'll tour the historical centre and enjoy panoramic views from various viewpoints. Afterward, enjoy lunch and some leisure time before returning to Bari for the night.

Today marks the end of the tour. After the final breakfast, its time to head to the Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport.