italy tours puglia

2024 SPECIAL: Book with no deposit and cancellation free of charge for small group tours 2024

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Discover the puglian side of Italy and enjoy UNESCO TRULLI !

PUGLIA TOURS 2024 - SOUTHERN ITALY

As a licensed tour company, we are proud to advise you on the different activities, locations and tours you can enjoy in Puglia, Italy. We know that an unforgettable trip doesn't depend only on a good selection of places to see. A memorable tour is created out of the perfect harmony between you as travellers and us as hosts. Whether you are travelling alone, with your family or with friends, feel free to contact us! After talking with you, we'll be able to offer you a personalised tour that allows you to discover Puglia in an authentic way.

Ciao, I'm Pietro!

I’m a travel designer and tour guide. I was born and raised in Puglia, but I spent many years studying and working abroad. During my years outside of Italy, I enjoyed showing my international friends the hidden places of my homeland while on vacation in Southern Italy.

I was always very proud and happy to arrange holidays for me and my friends and experience together undiscovered places of Puglia. One day, six years ago, I realized this must be my job! So I moved back to the south of Italy and started working as a tour guide with big groups in Puglia.

This was such a joy for me, but I felt I was still missing something. I didn't appreciate guiding a lot of people in overcrowded places! But most of all I was missing the human contact with my guests. One year later, I decided to focus on small and individual guided tours of Puglia.

Ciao, piacere di conoscerti!

I’m Pietro, tour designer and guide. I was born and raised in Puglia, but have spent many years studying and working abroad. During my university years outside of Italy, I enjoyed showing my international friends all the hidden places of my region while on vacation in southern Italy. I was always very proud and happy to arrange holidays for me and my friends and experience the undiscovered places of Puglia together. Then one day, seven years ago, I came to the realisation that I should make this my job! So I moved back to the south of Italy and started working as a tour guide, taking big groups around Puglia. This was such a joy for me, but I felt that I was still missing something. I didn’t appreciate guiding a lot of people in overcrowded places, moving quickly from place to place without having the time to really make the most of it. But, most of all, I was missing the personal contact with my guests. One year later, I decided to focus on small and individual guided tours of Puglia. And so Puglialy was born.

WHAT OUR GUESTS ARE SAYING...

TRAVEL TIPS - TOURS TO PUGLIA

Are you looking for a different kind of trip off the beaten path, but don’t know exactly where? Are you passionate about Italian food and culture but have never discovered Puglia? Puglia might lack the reputation and popularity of other corners of Italy such as Tuscany, Venice, and Rome, and is not as visited by tourists as often as the northern Italian cultural sites, but it is exactly this – together with the age-old cultural and gastronomic traditions, the beauty of its undiscovered landscape, and the fascinating history and architecture – that make this less touristy region of Italy even more charming and authentic.

If you’re still in two minds if Puglia is the right place for your next holiday, I’m here to provide you with all the information you need to decide whether you should visit Puglia or not. And, let’s face it, who is better placed to advise you than a passionate native? Feel free to contact me for any general information – I’m happy to get back to you as quickly as possible with recommendations on where to visit, when to visit, how to get here, and anything else related to my homeland.

SOUTHERN ITALY: PUGLIA MAP & POINTS OF INTEREST - GET INSPIRED!

Cultural visits   nature walkings   wine&food tastings  .

Click on the markers or click on the city name of the map to get more information about Puglia destinations, places to see, and Puglia tourist attractions:

TRAVEL PLANNING - PLACES TO VISIT FOR PERFECT TOURS OF PUGLIA

Planning a trip can be hard work and it’s easy to get overwhelmed by all the information you might find on the internet.

I remember when I planned my first trip to Ireland and found so many blogs, websites and guides that it really confused me. It made me think: “if only I had an Irish friend, willing to help me decide where to stay, what to see, and what to do when visiting his homeland?” That could have spared me all my efforts. I would have saved a lot of time and I would have been sure I wouldn’t miss anything.

Now imagine you had an Italian friend by the name of Pietro, a native Pugliese who was very passionate about his roots and culture, knew your language and culture, and even worked as a tour guide in Puglia? Wouldn’t it be the perfect solution to all of your questions?

Guess what? Here I am! And I’m ready and happy to help you plan your tour of Puglia! All you need to do is write me a few lines to let me know all the relevant information about your planned trip, such as dates, preferences, number of guests, etc, and I’ll quickly design and send to you a personalised day-by-day itinerary for a southern Italy tour to Puglia that suits you perfectly.

PUGLIA - WHY TRAVEL HERE?

You might be wondering if Italy has places like Rome, Naples, Venice, and Florence to offer, why you would want to travel to Puglia in the first place. However, a better question might be why don’t you want to travel to Puglia? As a fairly undiscovered part of Italy, our Puglia tours will take you to some of the best places the country has to offer, but without the tourist crowds. In Puglia you can marvel at wonderful examples of architecture from different eras of history, taste delicious Puglian cuisine, and visit the corners of the area that would be impossible if you were travelling by yourself.

The region is home to a number of beautiful places which you’ll have the chance to explore on one of our tours of Puglia, Italy. Some offer great examples of Baroque and Romanesque architecture, such as Bari and Lecce. Some architectural styles go even further back in time, like the sassi in Matera, one of the oldest cities in the world, or are simply completely unique, such as the traditional trulli houses in Alberobello and the surrounding area. Puglia also has many picturesque coastal towns and villages for you to wander around and enjoy the sparkling waters of the Adriatic, like Polignano a Mare and Trani.

But it’s not just cities and towns that you can visit. On our Puglia guided tours, we offer a whole host of traditional Puglian experiences for you to enjoy, such as cheese tasting, wine tasting, olive oil tasting, and a visit to a street food market.

Puglia has some of the best natural areas in the whole of Italy and for the active among you, we can arrange tours of Puglia which will introduce you to spectacular scenery. One day you could be hiking through the Parco della Murgia Materana, where you can discover many examples of humankind’s history from Prehistoric times while admiring the abundance of flora and fauna here. The next day you could find yourself biking through Parco delle Dune Costiere, taking you past ancient olive groves and arable land.

Best of all, you can discover all these places with a native Pugliese who will not just take you around these wonderful places, but will also give you an insider’s view and lots of information about the history and culture of everywhere you go. Because we run small group and individual tours, you get a much more personalised experience as we have the time to get to know you, regale you with our stories and share our love of Puglia with you. On our Puglia Italy tours you’ll not just go home at the end of your trip feeling relaxed and fulfilled, but also feeling that you have learned something about our wonderful region.

PUGLIA TOURS WITH PUGLIALY

Food & wine tour

Cultural tour

Countryside

Must-see of Puglia : if you want a tour which takes you around the main points of interest and UNESCO sites, then this tour is a perfect way to spend four days in Puglia, taking you to delightful towns such as Lecce, Matera and Ostuni.

Food and wine tour of Puglia : this tour takes you on a delicious adventure into the fantastic cuisine Puglia has to offer. You’ll get the chance to visit olive farms, street food markets and cheese farms, sample exquisite wines and some of the best seafood the country has to offer, and even take part in a cookery class – a wonderful way to spend a week in Puglia.

Cultural tour of Puglia : ideal for those interested in the more cultural side of Puglia, this tour takes you around the most important UNESCO world heritage sites, the must-see museums and archaeological sites and the best examples of Romanesque and Baroque architecture the region has to offer.

Countryside of Puglia : Puglia is a fantastic area for hiking and biking, so for those of you who love getting out in nature, this Puglia Italy itinerary is a great option. You’ll walk and cycle through the areas most stunning natural landscapes, from rolling fields to undulating sand dunes.

Arte Wine Travel di Pietro Calabrese

Via Abate Angelo Tamborrino 28

72017 Ostuni (BR)

P.I. IT 02577710748

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A Week In... Puglia

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• 2024 Small Group
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Uniquely Tauck

EXPERIENCE WITH TAUCK

ALL SMALL GROUP DEPARTURES averaging 24 Tauck guests – A small group size means a more personal travel experience highlighted by stays at chic smaller hotels in fabulous locations

A two-night stay in Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Basilicata, with sightseeing by tuk-tuk and guided exploration of the Sassi cave-dwelling settlement

TAUCK VALUE INCLUDES

Two nights in the Baroque city of Lecce, known as the "Florence of the South"

Lunch at a winery known for Puglian Primitivo wine A visit to Alberobello's famous limestone  trulli  houses

SEE WHAT YOUR JOURNEY INCLUDES

Active components such as hiking, bicycling and walking longer distances may be included, and hills and/or uneven terrain may be encountered on several days. Guests should be able to walk two to three miles and stand for long periods of time with no difficulty.

Often robust – may include long days, active sightseeing, early starts, evening activities, significant travel times.

Along Europe's Scenic "Yellow Roads"

Explore the long heel of Italy's boot to discover sights, tastes, and gorgeous seascapes you'll find nowhere else... like Matera, where the Sassi houses are caverns and the streets are sometimes the roofs of other houses... Trulli houses, tiny fairy castles made of limestone slabs, built without mortar...

Baccanti ristorani, matera, explore polignano a mare, discover the cliffside grottoes and seaside charms of polignano a mare on the adriatic.

If you're of "a certain age," you might remember an Italian pop song from the late 1950s that crossed the Atlantic and became an international hit. Its actual title is "Nel blu dipinto di blu", but it's better known around the world as "Volare" ("To Fly"). It was co-written and performed by Italian singer, songwriter, actor (and, later in life, politician) Domenico Modugno, and is closely identified with his hometown, Polignano a Mare, perched on the Adriatic Sea near Bari in Puglia. Spend some time exploring this seaside town known for its cliff diving and the deep blue grottoes that inspired the song.

The "Sassi" cave dwellings of Matera

Ride a tuk-tuk amidst the "sassi" cave dwellings of matera, a unesco world heritage site.

Hop aboard a tuk-tuk for a ride through the winding streets of Matera in Basilicata, where you'll see a series of rock or cave dwellings that date back to Paleolithic times. Known as Sassi (for "stone"), these dwellings, piled atop one another across a steep ravine, were once natural caves and grottoes that over the centuries were adapted by human settlers as homes. Devoid of residents since the 1960s, the Sassi of Matera are now preserved as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which you'll explore with a local guide who will share insights on the site, which served as a location in the Mel Gibson film "The Passion of the Christ."

The trulli houses of Alberobello

What are trulli.

On visits to Alberobello in Italy's Puglia region, you'll notice these peculiar cone-roofed homes lining its streets. Known as trulli, these buildings are a remarkable example of mortarless construction, a technique by which carefully selected interlocking stones are used to bind a structure, and one that dates back to prehistoric times! Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1996, today trulli stand as a symbol of human ingenuity.

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Where you stay is an important part of your journey – with Tauck, accommodations have been handpicked and carefully selected for their location and ambiance, enhancing the destinations you explore. Download accommodation details and your travel plans begin!

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Overnight Accommodations

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Palazzo gattini.

Matera, Italy

Risorgimento Resort

Lecce, Italy

Masseria Il Melograno

Monopoli, Italy

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About Booking This Tour

Travel Documents

If you are a U.S. citizen traveling internationally, you will need a passport valid for six months beyond the completion of your Tauck journey for entry into Italy; however, you do not need a visa for the short duration of this tour.

If you are a citizen of another country traveling internationally, you should contact an embassy or consulate of Italy to determine what travel documentation is required.

Please note that longer stays abroad for any purpose may require additional travel documentation.

We recommend that you make at least two photocopies of all the travel documents that you bring with you. Include copies of the photo page of your passport that contains the date of issuance, the date of expiration and your citizenship. Secure one set of copies in the safe in your room while traveling and leave one set behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your documents are misplaced, lost or stolen.

To facilitate Travel Requirements, destinations are increasingly utilizing online forms that require digital proof that you've successfully completed your submission (via an email, QR code, etc.) To ensure smooth travels and peace of mind, we strongly recommend all guests carry a personal smart phone and sign up for international data plans before traveling overseas.

TRAVELING WITH CHILDREN AS A GUARDIAN: If you are traveling as the guardian of a child/children, we strongly suggest that you carry a letter from both parents of the child authorizing emergency treatment in the event of illness or accident. For travel abroad, many foreign countries have specific entry requirements for children under 21 who are traveling internationally without BOTH parents. (These requirements are in response to the increased incidence of children being abducted and taken abroad.) PLEASE NOTE THAT TAUCK IS NOT RESPONSIBLE for the disruption of travel caused by improper documentation for children traveling without both parents.

How to Book a Tour

See your travel advisor, or call Tauck at 800-468-2825 to make a reservation.

At the time of booking, please have the following information ready for all members of your party:

• Tour Name and Departure Date
• Traveler's Name: First and last names as they appear on your passport or driver's license
• Traveler's Address(es)
• Email Address*
• Traveler's Phone Number(s)*
• Emergency Contact Information: Please provide the name and phone number  of a relative or friend (not travelling with you) whom we could contact during the tour in the unlikely event of an emergency
• Interest in purchasing a travel protection plan (US and Canada)
• Interest in extending your trip by staying in a Tauck recommended hotel before your trip begins or after it ends
• Interest in our specially negotiated airfares

* Required Fields

Deposits & Final Payment

Deposits and fees for the optional Protection Plan or Cancel Fee Waiver [CFW] coverage are due at time of booking.

The deposit amount is $600 per person

Final Payments:

Final Payment is due to Tauck  90  days before departure for lands trips, and  120  days before departure for cruises and rail journeys. If your deposit was made by credit card, final payment will be automatic unless you opted out at time of booking. Bookings without full payment at this time may be subject to cancellation without notice. Failure to make payment will be a considered a cancellation by the guest and all applicable cancellation fees will apply.

Travel Protection Plan

Effective for plans purchased as of July 1, 2021:

Tauck's Guest Protection

Tauck's Guest Protection provides you with cancellation protection before your journey begins as well as insurance benefits while you are traveling. Guest Protection includes the following:

Cancellation Waiver – Provided by Tauck:

Under Tauck's Cancellation Fee Waiver you can cancel your tour for ANY REASON up to the day before departure and receive a money-back refund (except in Extreme Circumstances*) on the land tour cost, based on your original method of payment.

*Extreme Circumstances:  In the event of an act of God, war (whether declared or undeclared), terrorism, accident, natural disaster, outbreak of disease, or other event or circumstance beyond our control that contributes to or results in cancellation rates above our historical cancellation rates in the absence of such event or occurrence, Tauck reserves the right to issue a credit to you in lieu of a money-back refund, applicable to a future Tauck journey.

Travel Insurance Benefits – Underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company.

• Trip Cancellation –  If you must cancel your tour due to a covered reason, the plan provides coverage for the amount you paid for your travel arrangements. Since the non-insurance cancellation waiver takes care of the land package cancellation fees already, this benefit reimburses the airfare cancellation charges up to the value of your original airfare purchase.
• Trip Interruption –  If you have to interrupt your tour for covered reasons, the plan provides reimbursement to catch up to your tour or return home.
• Travel Delay –  Provides reimbursement for missed, prepaid travel arrangements if you are delayed by a common carrier, natural disaster, unannounced strike, or other reasons as cited in the plan.
• Medical Expense –  Reimburses covered medical expenses incurred in the event you become injured or sick during your trip. 
• Baggage / Personal Effects Protection –  Provides reimbursement in the event your luggage or personal effects are, lost, stolen, damaged or delayed during your trip.
• Worldwide Emergency Assistance Services –  Provided by Carefree Travel Assistance; 24-hour emergency telephone assistance hotline for medical and travel related problems.

The cost of Tauck's Guest Protection is: $449  per person

This protection provides insurance coverage that applies only during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home and automobile policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer, insurance agent or broker.

This optional Guest Protection must be requested at time of booking and fee must be included with initial payment. Fees are based on costs as of July 1, 2021, and are subject to change. Details will be provided with written confirmation of your tour reservation. Guest Protection does not protect travel agent commissions. Reimbursements will be made according to original method of payment. The amount of any refund shall be reduced by any recoveries obtained by you from any third parties.

The Guest Protection plan waives cancellation fees outlined below, provided we are notified of cancellation before your tour departs. Tour cancellation fees are waived regardless of reason, without written notice, and Tauck will refund land tour cost.

To obtain your state-specific Certificate of Insurance that contains the complete terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the certificate, visit  affinitytravelcert.com/docs/TACGPPINTL .

If You Have To Cancel

If you cancel within 10 days of initial deposit Within the first 10 days after you place your initial deposit, you may cancel your reservation for any reason with no cancellation fees. If you cancel more than 10 days after initial deposit Regardless of reason, cancellations result in costly charges from our travel and hotel providers covering penalties and fees incurred by canceling confirmed bookings. These fees vary from tour to tour. Therefore, the following fees apply.

Cancellation Fees with Tauck's Guest Protection Plan:

Loss of Guest Protection fee, per person 

Cancellation Fees without Tauck's Guest Protection Plan :

90 days or more before departure = $600 per person

89-8 days before departure = $900 per person

7-1 days before departure = $1500 per person

Time of cancellation will be when notice is received in our Wilton Woods, CT office.

In the event of an unforeseen circumstance beyond our control, Tauck reserves the right to amend the cancellation terms outlined herein.

Note:  All Guests, regardless of residency, who book a Tauck journey have the option of purchasing the Cancellation Waiver provided by Tauck in the event they need to cancel their trip after making their reservations. Tauck's Guest Protection, which includes both the Cancellation Fee Waiver and the Travel Insurance Benefits and Assistance Services described above, is not available to residents of Puerto Rico.

Travel Terms and Conditions

Click here  to find Tauck's Travel Terms & Conditions.

Travel Requirements For This Tour

Air Information and Luggage Restrictions

AIRFARE: Airfare to and from this destination is not included in the journey cost. If purchasing your air elsewhere, it is very important to provide us with your confirmed arriving and departing flight information no later than 3 weeks before your arrival date. Flight information can be submitted to Tauck (or verified, if you've already provided it) in the My Account section of Tauck.com.

TAUCK AIRPORT TRANSFERS are included at the start and end of the journey between the airport and the Tauck hotel. Airport transfers are available for any pre tour or post tour hotel stays immediately consecutive to the tour, providing flight information is received in the Tauck office no later than three weeks in advance. Details on locating your transfer upon arrival to the tour start city will be included in your final documents.

AIRLINES and CHECKED LUGGAGE: Due to space limitations during your Tauck journey, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one average-size suitcase per person. Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and are free to revise luggage policies without notice. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies. PLEASE NOTE that if you are booked on a tour that includes on-tour flights, the checked luggage weight restrictions for these flights may be lower than the weight restrictions for your international flights.

Checked Luggage – General

While it is common for airlines to allow passengers to check more than one piece of luggage per person, space constraints during your Tauck journey make it difficult to accommodate extra luggage. We ask that you limit your checked luggage to one average size suitcase per person.

Recently, airlines have adopted policies enforcing strict number, size and weight limits. Luggage exceeding maximum restrictions may require expensive overage fees, frustrating and hurried re-packing at the ticket counter, or even risk being left behind.

Many carriers require that checked luggage not exceed a weight of 50 lbs (22.7 kg) per piece. Airlines revise luggage policies frequently and often without notice; therefore, we cannot be held liable for the accuracy of the weight limit listed above. We urge you to check with your airline before traveling to determine current number, weight and size restrictions. It is also important to note that restrictions for luggage number, weight and size may vary with the same airline based on the class of service you select. First and Business Class ticket holders may have different restrictions than Coach Class travelers. You may wish to consult the website, luggagelimits.com , by clicking here .

We cannot be held liable for additional fees or inconveniences imposed by the airline due to luggage number, weight and size policies.

Tauck luggage tags will be provided by your Tauck Director on Day 1 of your itinerary. Please do not attach a Tauck luggage tag to any carry-on items, as the Tauck tags designate luggage that is to be handled and transferred by ground operators and hotel staff during your journey.

Although oversize bags and wheeled, carry-on luggage are popular for airline travel, they are often not convenient or appropriate for motor coach travel or for many on-tour flights. Most modern sightseeing motor coaches offer limited space for numerous or larger items. Space under seats or in the overhead rack is typically small, and designed to accommodate items like coats, hats, purses, and small camera bags, etc.

For your day-to-day travel while on tour, we recommend that you limit your hand luggage to a small, soft-sided carry-on piece, and that you bring only those items you need handy during the day such as make-up, medications, cameras, film, etc. Items too large to fit under the motor coach seat or on the overhead rack must be stored in the luggage bays beneath the motor coach, and may be inaccessible during daytime travel.

Health, Safety and Mobility

HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS

Please check with your health insurance provider to determine whether you are covered while traveling. If you will not be covered under your current policy, we strongly suggest that you arrange for adequate coverage while on tour.

If you have a medical condition which might limit your participation in activities, please consult your physician for pre-departure health advice and notify us as soon as possible, if you have not already done so. We will advise your Tauck Director accordingly. 

VACCINATIONS  

If you are a resident of the U.S. traveling internationally, no vaccinations are currently required for travel to Italy. For complete vaccination and inoculation information, contact your physician, the public health service in your area, or the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Atlanta, Georgia, U.S.A. The Travelers' Health Section of the CDC operates a 24-hour "Travelers' Health Hotline" at 800-232-4636 (toll-free in the U.S.). You may also log on to the CDC website by clicking here .

If you are a resident of another country traveling internationally, please contact an embassy or consulate of Italy to determine what vaccination(s) may be required for your travel.

SPECIAL DIETARY REQUESTS

The restaurants, hotels, caterers and numerous other partners we work with all do their best to accommodate special dietary requests from Tauck guests. However, given the diverse nature of those food providers (from small wineries to grand hotels to world-famous restaurants in more than 70 countries worldwide), some of our partners are better able than others to accommodate such requests. We therefore cannot guarantee that all dietary requests can be accommodated at every meal. Also, please note that where dietary requests can be accommodated, choices will frequently be limited.

To enjoy this tour, you should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances, often over unpaved and uneven surfaces. Some of the most memorable sightseeing can only be accomplished on foot. Italy is home to innumerable historic buildings and sites, some dating from antiquity. Therefore, roads, walkways and architecture will present difficulties for some guests with physical disabilities. You will encounter cobblestone streets, narrow passageways, and some steep and winding staircases. For the most part, however, the amount of walking you do at the various sites and towns is at your discretion.

In addition, coach travel along the many "Yellow Roads" on this tour are very windy and may cause you some discomfort if you are prone to motion sickness. If you are, we advise bringing motion sickness remedies or medication with you.

PLEASE NOTE: We regret that this Tauck itinerary cannot accommodate wheelchairs or motorized scooters.  Likewise, we regret that we're unable to provide individual assistance to guests with walking difficulties or other personal needs.  The responsibility of the Tauck Director who accompanies your trip is to ensure that the larger group enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing individual assistance to any one guest.  Guests requiring such individualized assistance must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion who can provide it.While drinking water is generally safe at all our hotels, bottled water will be available wherever the local water is not fit to drink. We also provide bottled water on the motor coaches.

Reading List

We have compiled a reading list of recommended books to give you more information about the destinations you will be traveling to on your upcoming journey!

You can view the reading list  here.

Puglia enjoys a comfortable Mediterranean climate with hot sunny summers and mild winters. Summer lasts from June until September, and is hot and sunny with rainfall increasing after July, to a peak in September and October. The average summer temperature is not too hot and ranges between 26°C (79°F) and 30°C (85°F), and remains warm through September with an average of 26°C (79°F). The beaches along the Adriatic coast benefit from being sheltered and the average water temperature of between 20°C (68°F) and 26°C (79°F) makes it comfortable for bathers for the whole summer season. Because of Puglia's southern position on the Italian peninsula, it has long summer days with as many as 14 hours of sunshine per day at the height of summer.

To read about current weather conditions, we suggest you log on to the Internet website by clicking here.

What To Pack

Bringing the right clothing for your trip is important – we've partnered with Necessary Gear who provide an "easy-to-use, one-stop shop" for your Tauck travel needs, specifically selected for this trip. Click here to visit their site .

When packing for your trip to Italy, it is important to keep in mind the time of year you are traveling and the current weather conditions for that time. The weather in Italy is temperate and unpredictable. Your journey is designed with leisure in mind. Dress for comfort and convenience with a wardrobe that is adaptable and allows for layering. Generally, during the day, casual, comfortable, cotton clothing is recommended. Cool weather at higher elevations or at night will require warmer, layered clothing.

In Europe, especially in finer restaurants, it is customary to dress somewhat formally. Slacks or a dress for women and a jacket for men are acceptable dining attire. It is advisable to avoid wearing jeans, sneakers or shorts for dinner. You may also wish to dress up a bit for the welcome reception and the farewell dinner, but certainly be comfortable.

Most Catholic churches in Italy require that your knees and shoulders be covered when you enter, even during the hot days of summer. This is particularly important when you visit St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican, where shorts and tank tops are not allowed.

You will find a hair dryer located in your hotel guest room. By law in Italy, irons and ironing boards are not made available to guests at the hotels. Valet laundry and dry cleaning services are available for a fee.

We recommend that you pack an adequate supply of your prescription medication in its original container to last through your entire journey, together with a copy of your doctor's prescription or a letter from your health-care provider on office stationery explaining that the medication has been prescribed for you, a list of the generic names of your medication, your travel documents and a change of clothing in your carry-on bag to avoid any inconvenience in the event that your flight or luggage is delayed.

Following is a list of recommended items to pack for your trip to Italy:

• Casual daytime wear – shorts, slacks, long and short-sleeved shirts
• An optional jacket and tie for men
• Casually elegant evening wear for ladies
• Sunglasses, sunscreen, hat
• A light sweater or jacket for higher elevations or a breezy night
• Binoculars (7x50 preferably)
• Insect repellent
• Camera, lenses, batteries, memory cards and chargers
• Lightweight, comfortable, sturdy walking shoes that have already been broken-in
• Travel alarm clock/cell phone with alarm function (many hotels do not have clocks in the rooms)
• Rain poncho and collapsible umbrella
• Reusable zipper-lock bags or other waterproof bags
• Daypack for camera equipment
• Sundries and toiletries that may be difficult to find en route
• Copies of your travel documents that should be secured in the safe in your hotel room while traveling

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Best of Puglia

Southern italy tour | small group tour.

Puglia is a region in Southern Italy with so much to offer even seasoned travellers. Puglia offers unique sights, such as the trulli conical stone houses, and the nearby cave town of Matera. Stunning landscapes, such as the very photogenic town of Polignano A Mare which is poised on the rocks high above the turquoise sea. Amazing food – the creamy burrata cheese, the ripe figs. Each day includes organised activities, visits to all the key sights and a progressive discovery of the local Puglia cuisine. We enjoy long lunches, taking time over the multiple courses to enjoy the atmosphere and to relax.   Check out our Southern Italy Tour reviews on Tripadvisor.

• Accommodation
• Dates/Price

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

• The UNESCO World Heritage sites of Alberobello (with its conical trulli houses) and Matera (with its cave houses)
• Key locations such as Ostuni, Polignano A Mare, Lecce, Trani, Monopoli, Egnazia and Locorotondo
• Discover how the range of civilisations that have settled in Puglia have all left their mark. For example, within walking distance you can find a Spanish palazzo, a Byzantine church and a Roman amphitheatre
• A culinary focus - we try recipes handed down through the generations and allow you to connect with this ancient wisdom. Match this with Puglia’s wonderful burrata cheese, and with wines found only in this part of Italy – this is a food-lovers’ dream. Later in a masseria (a 16th century farmhouse), a chef helps us cook a fantastic final meal together
• Experience ‘living traditions’, such as visiting a 4th generation olive oil producer, and a convent where the nuns make biscotti in a centuries' old manner (which we sample of course)

BEST OF PUGLIA TOUR

• Our tours are a balance between being informative (historical details, examples of the culture and lifestyle) as well as having everything that makes for an enjoyable trip (long lunches in good restaurants, a relaxed pace, free time in places we visit)
• We stay for the week in one place, the town of Polignano A Mare. Here people have the time to share a smile or a chat in the piazza – and by the end of the week you’ll be greeting the locals too!
• Our Small Group Tour has a maximum of 14 people
• You have our tour manager with you throughout the week, available to provide support and assistance when you need it. Many people appreciate having someone to turn to who is familiar with the local area, whether it be for help getting something from a pharmacy / drugstore, or simply where to find the best gelato!
• This is the trip that you’d design for yourself. We are Italy... with pleasure
• Our 7-day tour starts and finishes in Bari

What our customers say about Italy With Pleasure

Distinctive character, unique locations

In Puglia we stay in either the town of Ostuni or Polignano A Mare.

Ostuni is a hilltop town, with evocative lanes amongst the whitewashed buildings, and piazzas with the traditional ‘passeggiata’ in full swing each evening. Here we stay at the Hotel Monte Sarago.

Polignano A Mare has a charming historic centre is lined with elegant old buildings, and plenty of opportunities for a coffee or a meal close to the hotel. Here we stay at the hotel Giovi Relais. Both hotels are 4 star.

We find that people very much appreciate that the tour is based in one place for the week, meaning that there is no need to pack/unpack, and you really get to know the town where you are staying.

Some reviews of our tours:

“The best of Puglia tour exceeded all expectations. Small groups lend themselves to a more meaningful and personal experience. Our tour guide was excellent as were the local guides. The accommodation was great and the meals provided were delicious. The highlights were the Trulli houses and the caves in Matera. We really did see the best of Puglia and would thoroughly recommend Italy with Pleasure. We also completed the Sicily tour, and again had a wonderful time and had many interesting experiences. The cooking schools on both trips were great fun.”

“I’ve been to Italy many times..never to Puglia…thanks to Italy With pleasure it is my new favorite place!!! loved the history, food and amazing wine...small groups, one wonderful hotel, great day trips and the best guide (Mark) I have ever had”

“You must use these guys if you are doing tours in the regions of Italy they operate in. We toured with them in Puglia, they do small group tours and are simply the best we have experienced throughout Europe.”

“Malcolm and Antonella from Italy with Pleasure organised and hosted an amazing tour of Puglia. The locations they brought us too were fantastic and our meals were superb. Both of their knowledge with regard to this region is incredible. I cannot recommend this tour and them highly enough. Riccardo who they brought on the trip to help host us was very helpful too. My wife and I will be availing of their other tours in Italy in the coming years.”

“I can't thank the small tour group, Italy With Pleasure, enough for a fantastic trip to Puglia. The group size was perfect and our guide, Anita, was amazing, knowledgeable and so caring of everyone. This area of Italy for non-Italian speaking guests was the absolute best way to visit. I was amazed at the beautiful cultural sites in all the towns AND the fabulous late luncheons featuring the local specialties. Spectacular! I have never had such great food on a tour or anywhere. Thanks again and I have already shared our great experience with a number of my friends and family.”

See these and other reviews on Google Reviews, TripAdvisor and other review sites.

Day 1 - BUONGIORNO PUGLIA!

We meet in Bari, the main city of Puglia, and from here we start our discovery of the region. Our first stop is Monopoli, a vibrant town on the coast. Here we get our first chance to experience the lifestyle of small town Puglia. Monopoli is centred around a fishing port, with small wooden fishing boats heading out each day, and then selling their catch on the pier.

Towards evening we reach the town of Polignano A Mare, where we stay in for the next six nights. We stay in the historic centre of town, where the piazzas have the traditional ‘passeggiata’ in full swing each evening. Over the next few days you'll have plenty of time to explore the town at your own pace.

Polignano a Mare is situated on the coast, an impressive town clinging to a promontory suspended above the Adriatic’s turquoise waters. With a history spanning back to the 4th century BC as a Greek settlement, Polignano a Mare is a charming town centred around the Piazza Vittorio Emanuele. The town was on the ancient Roman Trajan’s Way, and you can still see the remains of this route. Polignano a Mare encircles a pebble beach, nestled in a cove between rocky cliffs. The beach is suitable for swimming.

Tonight we dine together, having our first introduction to the cuisine of Puglia. Throughout the week meals are in restaurants designed to showcase the region’s cuisine, with the specific venues all carefully selected by us. This is in order to provide a variety of food styles over the duration of the tour.

Meals: Dinner (4 courses including wine)

Day 2 - INTO THE FAIRYTALE

We depart for our first stop, Alberobello.

The picturesque Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a unique town with streets lined with 'trulli'. In fact it is known in Italy as the “Capital of trulli”.

Trulli are small stone houses with a distinctive conical roof, built 300-400 years ago.

By walking along its narrow streets, you will be fascinated by the magical and fairytale atmosphere of this place. We explore this town together, and learn about why and how these dwellings were built, and about the cryptic symbols painted on the roof-cones.

Before lunch you have some free time to browse the shops of Alberobello and to wander around.

We then move on to the town of Ostuni, known as “la città bianca” (the white town). Ostuni is a cluster of whitewashed buildings perched on a hilltop overlooking the coast. Walking through the narrow streets of Ostuni is like being in a forgotten time, evocative and ancient, looking out over an expanse of olive trees. We advise keeping your camera at the ready!

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch (3 courses including wine)

Day 3 - THE MARVELS OF ELEGANT BAROQUE

Today we travel to Lecce, a city that flourished in the 17th century when extravagant and elegant baroque buildings were built by the ruling classes. The baroque style features ornate decorations covering the facades of churches and palaces.

We take a private tour around Lecce with a local expert guide to have the key sights explained to us. The baroque style here is distinct from that in other parts of Italy, both stylistically and in the use of the beige coloured local stone. As well as the architectural and historical features, we make a point of interacting with locals - artisans in their studio creating the local papier mache figures, nuns baking in their convent in the way they have since medieval times. Lecce is an elegant town in which to indulge in more modern pleasures. There are many interesting boutiques and cafes, and the piazzas are full of life in this important southern Italian centre. After some free time in central Lecce we have lunch in a local restaurant, where we dine on the food specific to this part of Puglia, called 'the Salento'.

Day 4 - A STEP BACK IN TIME

This morning we travel to the town of Matera in the neighbouring Basilicata region. Visiting Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is like a step back in time. In fact this is one of the oldest continually inhabited settlements in the world. The oldest cave dwellings go back to the Bronze Age. The town consists of houses carved out of the rock face along the side of a steep ravine. We meet with a local guide here who gives us an interesting insight into life in Matera, both now and in the past. In fact his grandparents lived in these caves. We visit the 'sassi' cave area, and enter one of the typical houses built into the rock, showing the difficult existence in these conditions. We also visit a cave church hewn out of the rock, featuring Byzantine frescoes and with interesting histories as their usage has evolved and adapted to the conditions over the years. Matera was used for the filming of Mel Gibson's “The Passion of the Christ” - you'll see why it is so easy to imagine Matera as being completely removed from the modern age. Since we are in the Basilicata region, our lunch here focuses on the specialties from this inland region.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch (4 courses including wine)

Day 5 - Egnazia - Trani

Today we have a day of two parts - history in the morning, followed by relaxing in a lovely coastal town in the afternoon.

Our first visit is to the ancient Roman site of Egnazia. This was a key stop on the Roman road Trajan's Way, well used in ancient times as a route to the Near East. Egnazia was a significant town, and today we can see many reminders of its past importance - wandering through the town we see where bakeries, gymnasiums and temples were located. The Roman road runs through the town, the rut marks left by the carriage wheels provide a direct connection to the past. Looking out to the coast we see where the local boats docked, having loaded up with olive oil and grain.

Continuing on we reach the town of Trani, a key summer destination for Italians and it is invariably one of the most loved visits for people on our tour. We start outside the stunning Romanesque cathedral perched right on the waterfront, and go on firstly to one of the key locations for the Knights Templar. We see the site where this fascinating order based themselves, originally the final point for their missions to leave these shores to head to the near east. Moving through the old Jewish quarter of town reveals much about how the way life in Trani was conducted, in particular seeing how the synagogues have evolved through the eras.

Today the harbour in Trani is a fishing port ringed by waterfront restaurants. Each morning the fishermen sell their fresh fish from the pier where they dock. Lunch is in a seaside restaurant making the most of this fresh catch.

Day 6 - MARKETS - LOCOROTONDO - WINERY - COOKING

This morning is the weekly market day in Locorotondo, we get to see how the locals do their shopping – rows and rows of stalls with cheese, seasonal fruit, vegetables, and other fresh produce. We take the time to look around Locorotondo, an absolutely gorgeous town, in fact voted as one of the most beautiful villages in Italy ("Borghi piu belli d'Italia").

After browsing the market we depart to visit a family run winery, focussed on making quality wines from the traditional varieties that are grown in this area such as fiano minutolo and susumaniello. The winemaker takes us through the vineyard, and we taste a range of wines. Some of these wine varieties were so rare that they were not made commercially up until a few years ago.

Today we take the opportunity to show you a local folk dance called the ‘pizzica’. This is a fascinating experience, as it reveals much about the culture and traditions of Puglia. The pizzica dance is specific to this area, and many people who visit Puglia do not get the chance to see it. You’ll love this private performance, while relaxing with a glass of prosecco.

In the evening we have a special touch for our final evening, taking a cooking lesson from a local chef. Since you’ve been with us for a week now you will all be Puglia food experts. The focus will be on cooking typical Puglia dishes, first taking you through the types of ingredients used and their provenance. The cuisine of Puglia is based on the produce at a very local level, so is different to the food from other Italian regions.

Seasonal vegetables, as well as focaccia and other breads, dominate this cuisine. All these are based on the abundant fresh ingredients as well as the ever-present extra virgin olive oil - a simple and effective cuisine. Recipes have been handed down through the generations and are truly expressive of the Mediterranean diet. The session is hands on and we are all involved in making a series of dishes, and we finish off the session by dining on the meal we’ve prepared.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner (4 courses including wine)

Note: pizzica dance performance is based on availability/group size.

Day 7 - ARRIVEDERCI PUGLIA!

By now you know the local barista by name and he knows which coffee you order - but we must say 'arrivederci'.

We organise transport for you to your departure point in Bari and bid you “buon viaggio”.

The tour finishes in Bari at 11 a.m.

Meals: Breakfast

Best of Puglia Tour Dates 2024:

5 - 11 May 12 - 18 May 19 - 25 May 26 - May - 1 June 2 - 8 June 9 - 15 June 16 - 22 June 14 - 20 July 1 - 7 September 8 - 14 September 15 - 21 September 22 - 28 September 29 Sep - 5 October 6 - 12 October 13 - 19 October

Tour Price: €2500

* Price listed is based on twin share * Single supplement of €300 for solo travellers

Tour Price Includes:

• All Accommodation is included
• Meals as listed in the itinerary: breakfast every morning, plus a main meal each day of 3-4 courses including wine
• All costs/entry fees for activities listed in the itinerary are included
• All transport during the tour is included. Travel is in our van/minibus with a professional driver
• 'Italy With Pleasure' provides a tour manager for the duration of the trip on hand to provide any support that you need

“The tour was first class, excellent in every way. An amazing way to see & learn about Puglia. The accommodation, sightseeing, superb food & mini van with great driver and Anita leading the group was sensational. We highly recommend this is the best way to see and learn about Puglia”

“We travelled to Puglia with friends in 2019 and loved the experiences arranged for us by Italy With Pleasure. The tour group was only 7 people, so the spectacular tour manager could easily cater to each of our needs and wants. The visits to the various towns and monuments coincided with some of the best and most regional meals we have ever had. Food and wine were plentiful and the selected venue's proprietors were very committed to ensuring that we all enjoyed our multi course meals and learned as much as we wanted about the unique cuisines that changed from town to town. Italy With Pleasure selected wisely on all counts and we thoroughly enjoyed our travels with them.”

“The Puglia tour, September 2022, exceeded our expectations. We have travelled a bit but have never participated in an organized tour group. Our tour participants were inclusive and a joy to get to know. Andy was an excellent guide/facilitator. He is so knowledgeable and filled with interesting factoids. He guided our group of 16 with humor and patience. He even made sure the restaurants we were scheduled to eat at knew our dietary restrictions. (Italians are so very accommodating) Each restaurant was carefully chosen, the food/wine excellent and we were treated as honored guests.”

“Our hotel in Polignano a Mare was very comfortable and the breakfast had a wide selection of lovely food. I cannot choose a single place I "loved the most". Each town was unique and the history varied and rich. A highlight was our "cooking class" and "learning" a folk dance on Friday evening. The whole experience was such fun.”

“Italy's history is vast and ancient. Malcolm and Antonella selected outstanding "subject matter experts" to guide us in the World Heritage Sites we visited. My favorite subject matter expert was Tiziana. She possesses a depth of knowledge and is able to tie the vast, varied history of this region together in a clear, concise way. The pandemic delayed our trip by 2.5 years. During that time, Malcolm and Antonella were readily available for all of our questions. This is the first time were we not ready to come home. A truly lovely adventure.”

Tours of Puglia - Welcome to the Heel of the Italian Boot: Guided Tours and Shore Excursions of Puglia and the Mediterranean

• Puglia & Basilicata
• Alberobello Trulli
• Castel del Monte
• Brindisi Express
• Matera & Sassi
• Otranto & Salento
• Customize It
• Mediterranean
• Best of Puglia
• Southern Italy
• Italy in One Week
• Venice to Athens
• Puglia in 4 Days
• Best of Sicily
• Italy & Swiss Alps
• Shore Excursions
• Reviews/Photos

TOURS OF PUGLIA - WELCOME TO ITALY'S HEEL: whitewashed buildings, secret castles, genuine food, baroque architecture, crystalline Mediterranean sea...

Whether you want to enjoy a several days trip or just be guided for a few hours to get the best of Puglia and Basilicata regions, you have just chosen the right website. With our experienced and licensed English, German, Spanish and French speaking Local Guides and Tour Managers, you will receive superior personalized service. Let us show you the seldom traveled sites of our area in the comfort and privacy of a luxury vehicle, with a driver and a guide at your service. Let us tell you authentic, yet almost forgotten, stories of the heel of Italy's boot. Let us lead you through the whole Italian peninsula and the most popular European regions, such as Greece, France, Spain and so on. Never have these Mediterranean areas been so close! Our expert team works individually with each guest to provide informed, personalised recommendations and ensure that every experience is personal, authentic, and extraordinary from start to finish.

...create your own shore excursion experience...

We regularly offer personalized shore excursions to accommodate cruise passengers and private yacht travellers who are visiting the ports of Bari, Brindisi, Gallipoli, Monopoli, Otranto and others Apulian harbors for only a few hours and want to maximize their time to take back home the best memories from Puglia. In cooperation with our partners we are able to offer shore excursions from the major ports of Italy and the Mediterranean. Your experience will be personal and interactive, you won't sit on a bus filled with strangers and listen to annoying announcements. NEW!!! We can tailor combined tours, your cruise company can't! See more in less time! Choose 2 Shore Excursions from Our Tours

"and you will decide When, Where and How"

Our services are suitable for families with children of every age, small and big groups, couples and solo travellers... We will focus all our attention, effort, and passion to provide you the best experience of touring historical sites, hearing local legends, tasting food and wine, enjoying countryside adventures... Stop being a tourist and become our guest. That's our philosophy! We are your friends in Europe to take you under our wing and show you what only the insiders know. We will unlock the secrets of our history and culture.

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• ALBEROBELLO TRULLI
• BRINDISI EXPRESS
• OTRANTO & SALENTO
• BEST OF PUGLIA
• SOUTHERN ITALY
• BEST OF SICILY
• VENICE TO ATHENS
• PUGLIA IN 4 DAYS

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"Why should I take a tour and not exploring on my own?" - You don't waste your time at each site standing in line to enter a monument or museum. - You don't wait for ages the public transport or get lost following road signs or your GPS. - You get the insider tips from our up-to-date knowledgeable local guides. - You receive personalised service - means "only you". Our tours are not open to strangers!!! - You are inspired the way we love our regions & cultures and want to share this love with you. - You maximize your experience, see more in less time. - No more queues! Skip the line! Not enough? Read the reviews provided by our previous guests.

Come and experience our personalized service for the best possible vacation! Contact us and tell us about your travel wishes, we will do our best to please you.

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Small group and private guided tours in Puglia

Discover puglia with us...the heel of italy.

We are specialized in customized and guided tours in Puglia for individuals, families and small groups. We will personally accompany you in discovering the Puglia region, not only its artistic treasures, natural beauties and culinary delights, but also the experience of its everyday lifestyle. Away from the mass tourism, we can show you sites and other hidden treasures of Puglia only a local knows!

This tour is ideal for those who want to make an unforgettable vacation living the Italian lifestyle!

Discover the best places of Puglia in a five-day experience!  This trip is ideal if you want to combine a holiday in Puglia with other Italy's top destinations.

The best way to discover the soul of Puglia is on a guided wine tour.

9 days self-drive tour designed for travelers who want to experience Puglia region with freedom and flexibility, following a detailed itinerary created by a local expert.

Private guided tours and luxury experiences in Puglia.

Travel with us 

EXPERIENCE ITALY LIKE A LOCAL Our tours are designed by local people for travellers who desire to enjoy Puglia with authentic local flavour, away from the tourist crowds!  

SMALL GROUPS   BIG EXPERIENCES Our small group tours are perfectly sized to offer you a more intimate and comfortable travel experience.  It's the best way to enjoy the Italian lifestyle " la dolce vita "!  

TRAVEL WITH FLEXIBILITY AND PEACE OF MIND Plan your holiday with Peace of Mind. Book your trip with flexible and secure payment. In case you need to change your travel plans, you can modify your reservation with no fees.  

ESCORTED TOURS WITH HANDPICKED TRAVEL SERVICES Amazing itineraries, authentic food&wine experiences, knowledgeable local guides, hand-selected hotels, comfortable transportation are some of our travel services that offer you the best experience in Puglia!

Why choose us?

• Small group tours designed for people who want to experience Italy as a local.
• Away from the mass tourism, we will show you sites and other hidden treasures of Puglia that only locals know
• Flexibility and customization.
• Sample authentic Apulian and Italian dishes during select meals at featured local restaurants.
• Carefully selected accommodation.

Arrivederci Puglia Travel was born from our love for our Region, a land rich in family values and traditions. We want to put our passion and experience at the service of our guests, to offer them an unforgettable vacation in Italy, while experiencing the fantastic Italian Mediterranean lifestyle.

For us, our clients are not simply customers. We like to consider them special friends or a part of our family. We are pleased to facilitate your experience living as a true Italian! Take advantage of our knowledge of Puglia, the land where we live, to gain preferred entrance to most famous sites.

Puglia, the heel of Italy…is located in the Southern Italy and it is fast becoming Italy’s new hot destination. Nature, art, history, ancient traditions, beautiful beaches, excellent food and wine, as well as the proverbial hospitality of its people, are the qualities of Puglia!

Best Experience! We wanted to see the Puglia region and booked this 8 day, seven night tour at the recommendation of one of our friends. We usually travel on our own and book private tours of certain cities that interest us. This tour was just outstanding and we are glad that we used them to visit Puglia. They are very easy to work with and can and will customize your experience. They are very knowledgeable of the area and gave us some very unique experiences that we just wouldn't have been able to do without them. They handled all of the transportation, accomodations and actually location tours. All 1st class!

Beautiful Puglia....an Italian treasure! We are leaving Puglia with an understanding of the history and an appreciation for the beauty and culture of this part of Italy. Our trip was busy but with a pace so we never felt rushed. The care taken to be sure each lunch experience was true to the region visiting was appreciated by the 5 of us. We loved this trip and encourage anyone visiting Puglia to use Arrivederci Puglia Travel. They are a joy to spend time with and become family. Our enthusiasm for this part of Italy was so strong, we returned for a second visit with Arrivederci Puglia.

DIANNE & LOU Boston, USA

We spent a wonderful week with Antonella and Sandro, exploring their delightful home province.  They shared with us their in depth knowledge and love of Puglia, they were always professional, thoughtful and courteous. Can’t recommend Arrivederci Puglia highly enough. It’s a wonderful part of Italy, previously unknown to us, we are so happy to have visited!

FEDERICO & KAY Sydney, AUS

Nothing but the BEST!! We had an absolutely wonderful time in the Puglia region with our wonderful tour guides Sandro and Antonella. They have put together a great balance of places to see and learn about. Sandro and Antonella are highly educated and knowledgeable about their country. The professionalism and attention to detail was fantastic. We would highly recommend them to anyone who wants to learn, taste and explore the Puglia region!

SUZY Oregon, USA

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HIGHLIGHTS OF PUGLIA (WITH MATERA) TOUR

exclusive tour

maximum 10 guests

Highlights of Puglia Tour Overview

Travel with us to Italy’s deep south – Italy’s up and coming Puglia region. Found on the heel of Italy’s boot, Puglia is an ancient region hugging the Adriatic coast with friendly people, mouthwatering dishes and some of the most unique architecture you’ll find anywhere in the world.

You’ll discover the fairy-like white trulli houses of the Itria Valley and charming fishing villages where local pasta dishes are topped with catch of the day fresh seafood. Baroque beauty Lecce is an elegant city with intriguing laneways and elaborate churches while the capital Bari hums with activity you’d expect at a bustling port.

Food and wine are always on our minds and it’s a pleasure to explore Pugliese cuisine inspired by the freshest local produce – oozy burrata cheese, hand rolled orecchiette pasta with broccoli and delicious pastries filled with tomato sauce. And while the local wine is not well known outside Italy, you’ll quickly discover that a glass of Primitivo is the perfect match to your meal.

Puglia’s close neighbor Basilicata is home to one of the oldest cities in the world – Matera. We take a short detour here on our tours to enjoy one of the world’s most unique experiences – wandering among the sassi dwellings, admiring and even staying in a cave hotel.

Upcoming Puglia Tours

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Tour of Puglia Highlights

Delicious Pugliese food and wine • Baroque beauty Lecce • Trulli houses of the Valle d’Itria • Coastal towns on the Adriatic Sea • Magical Matera • Local artisan makers

Magical! Beautiful! I’m a bit of a dreamer and I just got lost there last night. Lost in this beauty.. Magnificent! I just loved it –  view video

We have been to Italy several times, but never like this. It has been a wonderful experience  – view video

Aside from every little surprise around every corner, I’ll remember Cosimo and the genuine excitement and pride that come out of him and his storytelling – view video

Best of Puglia Itinerary

Arrive in Valle D’itria

Welcome to the fairytale countryside of Puglia’s Valle d’Itria!

This area of Puglia starts from Putignano in the north to Ostuni in the south, and encompasses vineyards, never-ending olive groves, and of course the iconic coned roofs of Trulli , traditional stone huts that locals once lived in. 

We meet in the region’s vibrant capital Bari and whisk you away to a ‘locals only’ countryside restaurant nestled between the olive groves. Prepare yourselves for an unforgettable long lunch Pugliese style!

Dish upon glorious dish arrives as we sit back and get to know the group over crisp white Verdecca wine. Explore the charming property in between courses – there are beautiful flowers in bloom all through the garden and locals in the know enjoying quality time together. 

Refortified and inspired after our first taste of Pugliese cuisine, we travel onwards to our gorgeous countryside masseria . Here you have time to unpack and relax. 

This luxurious country farm house hotel will be our home for the next few days and the perfect base to explore the wonders of land and sea close by.

Once you are settled in, we enjoy our first evening relaxing with a spritz or glass of local wine and our welcome aperitivo as you soak up the beautiful location.

• MEALS: Lunch with wine, Evening welcome aperitivo
• ACCOMMODATION: Luxury 4 Star masseria country style hotel in the Valle d’Itria

MONOPOLI and Alberobello

This morning we hit the road for a seaside adventure in pretty Monopoli, where colorful fishing boats bob up and down in the turquoise Adriatic waters. Here we enjoy a short guided tour before you have time to wander on your own, popping into one of the many beautiful boutiques in town with gelato in hand.

With the sea breeze in our hair and bellies beginning to rumble, we visit a local caseificio (dairy). Here we taste the traditional cheeses of Puglia (including creamy burrata, caciocavallo, and stracchino). Relax on the outdoor terrace as we enjoy a delicious lunch together.

This evening, we hit the road to visit one of the borghi più belli d’Italia (most beautiful villages of Italy) – Alberobello.

This town is most famed for its trulli houses and was listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 1996. The trulli are constructed using a prehistoric building technique and are made of roughly worked limestone boulders with signature pyramidal, domed or conical roofs.

We will meet our guide and enjoy a guided walking tour through this fairytale town that will enchant and delight us all. Mesmerized by the sheer beauty of the trulli, we follow our noses down the little lanes and go underground into one of the best restaurants in town.

• ACTIVITIES: Guided walking tours of Monopoli and Alberobello, and cheese farm visit
• MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch with wine, Dinner with matching wines

POLIGNANO A MARE AND LIQUID GOLD

Did you know Puglia is famous for their olive oil? This morning, we head to an olive grove for a tour before sitting back to enjoy an extra virgin olive oil tasting. 

Then we are off to explore one of the most picturesque towns in all of Puglia – Polignano a Mare. Renowned for its characteristic beach nestled between the cliffs, we will have plenty of time for photos, exploring and watching daring locals leap from the cliffs into the sea. Our guide shares stories as we stroll through this pretty town. 

We sit down for a seafood lunch at a casual local eatery. Try the local crudo (raw fish) or enjoy a seafood panino. Don’t leave town without a fortifying glass of ‘ caffe speciale ’ either – it’s a hyper local drink from Polignano itself. 

This evening, we venture to a nearby white washed hilltop town with a stunning view over the Itria Valley. The locals come out to play when the sun starts to set and it’s beautiful getting lost in the cobblestoned streets. We meet at a gorgeous local spot with an incredible panoramic view. Dinner is full of vegetables, and fresh flavors to break up all our feasting. Of course, it’s not complete without a cocktail and glass of wine or beer. Salute.

• ACTIVITIES: Olive oil farm visit, and guided walking tour of Polignano
• MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner with a cocktail, wine or beer

LECCE, WINE TASTING & OSTUNI

Sometimes called – the ‘Florence of the South’, today we visit the truly beautiful Lecce. This baroque town is famous for its many churches, but perhaps above all else its stunning golden sandstone buildings. We meet our local guide for a walk through the historical centre of Lecce which includes a stop at the Roman amphitheater and hidden sights down the city’s many picturesque laneways.

Afterwards, enjoy some free time wandering the Baroque streets and shopping in the many excellent artisan workshops. Don’t miss a ‘rustico’ and caffe leccese. This local pastry is filled with piping hot passata (tomato sauce) and oozing mozzarella, and is even more delicious than it sounds. The famed caffe’ lecesse – a cold coffee drink with almond flavouring that is very refreshing on a warm day is sure to be a hit too.

This afternoon, we head inland towards a beautiful winery in the Salento area. This family-run winery produce wines from ancient native vines including Verdeca, Susumaniello and Primitivo.

Our next stop is Ostuni – an incredibly beautiful whitewashed jewel of a town in Puglia. Enjoy some free time to explore its nooks and crannies or indulge in an aperitivo. We meet again a little later to enjoy a delicious dinner together at a special location. 

• ACTIVITIES: Wine tasting, Guided tour of Lecce
• MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner with wine

ceramics and a cooking class

Pugliese ceramics are famous throughout Italy and we’re about to find out why. This morning, we visit a ‘secret garden’ – our lips are sealed as to what makes this just so special…Afterwards, we continue onto our guide’s workshop and watch artisans at work before having some time to wander through the array of fantastic ceramic shops in Grottaglie.

Stop for a caffe ’ where you will drink out of quite possibly the country’s most beautiful tazze (cups) and observe even the local dogs drinking out of beautifully crafted water bowls.

After a truly off the beaten track experience, we’re off to visit another gem in the Valle d’Itria. We sit down to a wonderful lunch together paired with local wine as we reflect upon our secret garden (and more) experience. 

In the afternoon, we return to our masseria where you have time to freshen up, go for a swim, or relax. Tonight, we will be rolling up our sleeves and learning how to make the traditional pasta of Puglia (orecchiette), as well as some other local dishes. Relax with a delicious dinner and local wine – we’ve earned it.

• ACTIVITIES: Ceramics workshop visit and secret garden, Cooking class

THE HEART OF BARI & a cave hotel

We say farewell to our beautiful masseria today, and travel outside of Puglia to the region of Basilicata. On our way, we make a stop to get to know the capital of Puglia a little better.

A lively and exhilarating port city, Bari has fascinating sights, sounds and food waiting for us to discover. We spend our time in Bari enjoying an historic walking tour with a focus on local food traditions including a wander around the fish market, and watching local women roll orecchiette (local pasta) in the street.

Barese focaccia is made with semolina flour and potato and is studded with tomatoes and olives. It’s delicious and the perfect snack to munch on as we stroll along the beautiful lungomare (promenade) soaking up the atmosphere.

This afternoon we are off to the truly unique city of Matera. Famous for its sassi or cave dwellings, built into the cliff face, many date back to the Palaeolithic era, meaning the city is one of the oldest inhabited places in the world.

We check in at our luxury cave hotel for a truly once in a lifetime stay. This afternoon, you have free time to explore or indulge in our unique dwelling for the night before our evening ‘rooftop’ aperitivo with an incredible view.

Matera is ethereally beautiful at nighttime, so make sure to take it all in as the sun sinks below the horizon. Afterwards, we wander over to a local restaurant. It’s our final dinner together tonight and we try some local specialities of the Basilicata region (including fantastic local bread).

• ACTIVITIES: Bari food and walking tour
• ACCOMMODATION: Luxury 4 Star cave hotel in Matera

MAGICAL MATERA

After enjoying perhaps the most unique breakfast spot you’re ever likely to experience, we get to know a little more about fascinating Matera. This morning, we meet our local guide in the city of the sassi for a guided walking tour where we hear about the city’s incredible history and stories over many hundreds of years of inhabitation.

Blown away by incredible Matera, we begin making our way back to Bari. But not before one final lunch together. We make a stop in bread nirvana Altamura for a wander through the Cathedral and lunch in a historic bakery from 1391. Say cheers to your new friends and our incredible adventure through Puglia together. 

Alas, it’s onwards and back to Bari. We say farewell in the afternoon after an incredible week of exploring and tasting some of the best that Puglia has to offer – bellies and hearts full to the brim.

• ACTIVITIES: Matera walking tour
• MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch
• TRANSFERS: Back to Bari

Puglia Tour Inclusions

We have strived to make our Puglia tour as all inclusive as possible with no hidden surprises. Included in your tour are:

• 6 nights in charming luxury 4 star accommodation – 5 nights at luxury masseria in Puglia and 1 night in stunning cave hotel in Matera
• 5 guided orientation walking tours with expert local guides
• Unique experiences: Olive oil tasting, cheese tasting, cooking class, food tour, ceramics workshop and secret garden visit, winery visit, Pugliese music and dance class
• Meals: 6 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 2 aperitivo and 5 dinners as specified in the itinerary, wine and bottled water is included with meals other than breakfast
• Luxury air-conditioned mini-bus
• Tips and gratuities for drivers and guides
• Group arrival and departure transfers

Highlights of Puglia Tour FAQ

Accommodation on tour, meet your host.

Olivia is an Australian woman living in Rome, with a passion for the land of la dolce vita, cooking and wine. Her super powers include finding the most charming villages and delectable cheeses.

Olivia is your local host that ensures your trip is memorable for all the right reasons.

Arrivals and Departures

Upcoming tour dates.

• 2024 – ALL TOURS SOLD OUT
• EARLY SUMMER 2025 – May 11 – 17 and May 25 – 31
• Exclusive tours available on request for groups of 6-10 – inquire

Booking Information

• Price from $US 5,390 per person based on twin share accommodation
• A supplement applies for solo travelers wanting a private room
• 30% deposit required to reserve your spot
• Cancel for a full refund up to 120 days before departure
• Read complete terms and conditions

Discover the Puglia region

Fast becoming one of the most popular places to visit in southern Italy, Puglia retains a rustic local charm found in its charming seaside towns and elegant cities. From gorgeous Baroque architecture in Lecce to the white washed trulli towns of the Valle d’Itria, there’s also a commitment to delicious local produce, dishes, olive oil and wine.

Puglia Travel Guide

Uncover the highlights of the region

Picturesque Puglia Towns

Which will be your favorite?

• Why Tour With Us
• Our partners
• Terms and Conditions

Espressino Travel stands in solidarity with the Black Lives Matter Movement and against racism. Read our full statement here.

Discover this spectacular corner of Italy on our award-winning culinary tours

Based in the beautiful baroque town of Lecce, our Puglia tours explore the places, people and flavours of this wonderful Southern Italian region.

After the sun sets in Lecce, the city comes alive. Join us as we discover Lecce by Night, encountering local culture and street food in the Florence of the South.

espressino travel puglia tours

Unique, boutique culinary holidays in italy.

Join us for incredible, unforgettable tours in Puglia, the fascinating heel of the Italian boot. Espressino Travel will be your personal guides on weeklong Puglia culinary tours and day tours from our home in the stunning city of Lecce.

As we travel the region, you will partake in hands-on cooking classes, interact with locals, dine at amazing restaurants and explore the cuisine and culture of Southern Italy's last great undiscovered destination. With our team's insider local knowledge of Puglia, we provide authentic, exciting and engaging vacations that independent travellers simply can't find on their own. Visit for a week; be changed for life. Andiamo in Italia!

Featured in:

Awards and Accolades:

Our award-winning Puglia tours visit the region's best sights while immersing you in the incredible local cuisine, wine and culture. Everything is included in the cost of our weeklong Puglia tour: luxury accommodation, all meals including wine, cooking lessons, excursions, guided tours, transfers, culinary experiences and entry fees. All you need to do is book your travel to Puglia; we will do the rest for you.

Espressino Travel was founded on a passion for Puglia. After countless vacations, and an unforgettable summer in Lecce, we became part of an amazing community of friends, teachers, chefs and hosts. Inspired by our experiences, we realized that the region, its people and its culture were too good not to share with the world. Join us on our Puglia tour and we believe you'll fall in love just like we did!

our inspiration

Guidebooks call Lecce the Florence of the South. The reality is even better. A city of baroque treasures and culinary delights, Lecce has somehow remained unspoilt by tourism. Lecce may be the jewel in Puglia's crown, but the region is bursting with undiscovered gems full of amazing food and wine. But above all, it is the warmth and kindness of the locals that makes the region the perfect place for our Puglia tours.

Benvenuti Tutti : Everyone is Welcome

Inclusion and diversity are fundamental to our core values at Espressino Travel. We believe that no one should be discriminated against because of their differences: whether it’s age, ethnicity, gender identity and expression, religion or sexual orientation. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all our guests; where everyone can comfortably be themselves and experience the beauty of Italy.  

To give thanks to our wonderful host country and the communities in which we work, we support worthy local causes including post-Earthquake rehabilitation work in Central Italy and life-saving support work for immigrant families and refugees in Southern Italy. For more information please contact us. 

©Matt Munro/Lonely Planet

In Puglia, everything the Italophile craves is here in abundance: ancient towns, extravagant churches, seas of olives, olive-green seas and food to equal of anywhere else in Italy.

Best Time to Visit

Best places to visit, attractions, must-see attractions.

Castel del Monte

You'll see Castel del Monte, an inhumanly exact geometric shape on a hilltop, from miles away. Mysterious and perfectly octagonal, it's one of southern…

Mosaics, skulls, crypts and biblical-meets-tropical imagery: Otranto's cathedral is like no other in Italy. It was built by the Normans in the 11th…

Grotte di Castellana

Valle d’Itria

These spectacular limestone caves, 40km southeast of Bari, are Italy's longest natural subterranean network. The interlinked galleries, first discovered…

Basilica di San Nicola

Bari's signature basilica was one of the first Norman churches to be built in southern Italy, and is a splendid (if square and solid) example of Pugliese…

Basilica di Santa Croce

It seems that hallucinating stonemasons have been at work on the basilica. Sheep, dodos, cherubs and beasties writhe across the facade, a swirling…

Museo Faggiano

Descend through Lecce's rich historical strata in this fascinating home-turned-museum, where sewerage excavations led to the chance discovery of an…

Museo Archeologico di Santa Scolastica

Housed in a well-preserved 16th-century defensive bastion, this excellent museum reopened in late 2018 and features a superbly curated overview of the…

Museo Nazionale Archeologico di Taranto

Sitting unassumingly in a side street in Taranto's new town is one of Italy's most important archaeological museums, chiefly dedicated to the archaeology…

Top picks from our travel experts

8 of the best things to do in puglia, italy.

Head to San Domino for walks, grottoes and coves. It has a pristine, marvellous coastline and the islands' only sandy beach, Cala delle Arene. Alongside…

Giuseppe Zimbalo's 1659 reconstruction of Lecce's original 12th-century cathedral is recognised as being among his finest work. Zimbalo, Lecce's famous…

Piazza del Duomo

Piazza del Duomo is a baroque feast, the city's focal point and a sudden open space amid the surrounding enclosed lanes. During times of invasion the…

The third of the Isole Tremiti, Capraia (named after the wild caper plant) is uninhabited. Birdlife is plentiful, with impressive flocks of seagulls…

Parco Nazionale del Gargano

Promontorio del Gargano

One of Italy's largest national parks, a place of sweeping coast and deep, ancient forests, sits on the spur of southern Italy in Puglia, jutting out into…

Medieval buildings thrust out of San Nicola's rocky shores, the same pale-sand colour as the barren cliffs. In 1010, Benedictine monks founded the Abbazia…

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip.

Best Things to Do

From hiking in Gargano National Park to tasting local pastries in Lecce, experience the best of Puglia with these top things to do.

Things to Know

These top tips on safety and etiquette can help you plan your visit to Puglia in the south of Italy.

Transportation

What’s the best way to get around Italy’s “boot heel”? Read our guide to find out.

Money and Costs

While on the rise in recent years, Puglia is still a relatively undiscovered destination for foreign visitors. Italians, though, have known for a very long…

Traveling with Kids

Puglia is an Italian vacation destination that can satisfy the whole family. Here are the region's best things to do with kids.

Best Road Trips

The best way to get around Puglia is definitely by renting your own set of wheels – here are five of the best drives in Italy's boot heel.

Plan with a local

Experience the real Italy

Let a local expert craft your dream trip.

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Puglia and beyond

WELCOME TO  EXPERIENCE PUGLIA TOURS

Small group and private guided tours in puglia in southern italy.

Come and visit Puglia in a private o small group tour. Our unique itineraries will transport you through this charming corner of Southern Italy. Moreover we customize our puglia tours to enable travelers to enjoy and appreciate the history of the towns, their traditions, food and wine. With us you’ll experience what real life in Puglia is like.

A perfect balance of sights, tastes and learning about an area as you walk its streets with a passionate and  professional guide . In addition each tour includes food tastings directly from the producers, relaxing walks around the most popular cities of Puglia and  “off-the-beaten-path”  itineraries.

No need for you to hire a car in fact we can pick up you from the airport or train station, allowing you to relax and safely enjoy the whole tour. We take you to each location, guide you through each town and take care of your accommodation. In conclusion we’ll be more than pleased to lead you through a fantastic discovery of the beautiful places, landscapes and extraordinary gourmet  food of Puglia .

Please contact us and we’ll be happy to answer any questions:  [email protected] We offer a guided tour  giving the possibility to unite culture, art, history, good wine and delicious food in an intact and still unexplored corner of Italy.

In other words this trip will allow you to get to know the very authentic essence of Puglia and Italy: the Mediterranean’s sparkle, charming romantic villages  far from the touristy roots , a savory bite of true pasta with a glass of good wine.

Take a look to  all our offers  to have a complete idea of all our services. We look forward to welcoming you to  Experience Puglia .

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Luxury Italy Tours

Highlights of Italy (10 Days) Venice, Florence & Tuscany, Rome

Classic Italy (12 Days) Venice, Florence, Tuscany, Rome

Italy in a Week (7 Days) Venice, Florence & Tuscany, Rome

Essence of Italy (13 Days) Venice, Florence & Tuscany, Rome, Amalfi Coast & Capri

Romantic Italy (12 Days) Amalfi Coast & Capri, Florence, Tuscany, Rome

Italy in Style (14 Days) Lake Como & Milan, Florence, Tuscany, Rome, Amalfi Coast & Capri

Exclusive Italy (15 Days) Rome, Tuscany, Florence, Venice, Lake Como

Best of the Amalfi Coast & Capri (9 Days) Positano, Capri, Ravello

Family Tour of Italy (13 Days) Rome, Florence & Tuscany, Venice, Lake Como

Luxuries of Northern Italy (11 Days) Venice, Bologna, Milan, Lake Como

Rome in Depth (6 Days)

Venice & Beyond (9 Days) Venice, Milan, Lake Como

Indulgent Tuscany (9 Days) Florence, Tuscan hills, Tuscan coast

Luxuries of Southern Italy (8 Days) Rome, Amalfi Coast with Pompeii, Naples & Capri

Lake Como & Portofino (7 Days) Lake Como & Bellagio, Portofino & Cinque Terre

Food & Wine Tour of Italy (11 Days) Piedmont, Bologna & Emilia-Romagna, Tuscany & Florence

Highlights of Puglia (6 Days) Savelletri di Fasano, Alberobello, Cisternino, Locorotondo, Lecce, Ostuni, Polignano a Mare

Best of Puglia & Amalfi Coast (9 Days) Savelletri di Fasano, Alberobello, Cisternino, Locorotondo, Lecce, Ostuni, Matera, Ravello, Amalfi, Positano, Capri

Puglia in Depth (7 Days) Lecce & Otranto, Savelletri di Fasano with Polignano a Mare, Alberobello, Cisternino and Locorotondo

Jewish Heritage: Italy (12 Days) Venice, Florence, Tuscany, Rome

Garden Tour of Italy (10 Days) Lake Como, Florence & Tuscany, Rome & Tivoli

Italy for Art Lovers (13 Days) Rome, Florence & Assisi, Bologna & Ravenna, Venice & Padua, Milan

Best of Southern Italy & Sicily (17 Days) Rome, Capri, Amalfi Coast, Naples & Pompeii, Palermo with Monreale, Segesta & Erice, Sciacca & Agrigento, Taormina with Syracuse & Mount Etna

Journey Through Italy (20 Days) Lake Como, Florence, Tuscany, Rome, Amalfi Coast, Puglia

Best of Piedmont (5 Days)

Introduction to the Dolomites (4 Days) San Cassiano, Val Badia, Val Gardena, Bolzano

Best of the Dolomites (6 Days) Cortina d’Ampezzo, Tre Cime, Lago di Braies, San Cassiano, Val Badia, Val Gardena, Bolzano

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Introduction to Sicily (6 Days) Palermo & Monreale, Agrigento, Taormina & Mount Etna

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Essence of Sicily (8 Days) Palermo with Monreale, Segesta & Erice, Sciacca & Agrigento, Noto with Ragusa, Modica & Syracuse, Taormina & Mount Etna

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Journey Through Sicily (12 Days) Palermo with Monreale, Segesta & Erice, Sciacca, Agrigento, Noto with Ragusa, Modica & Syracuse, Taormina & Mount Etna

Design & Gardens Tour of Sicily (8 Days) Palermo & Monreale, Taormina with Noto, Syracuse & Villa Romana del Casale

Culinary Tour of Sicily (9 Days) Palermo with Monreale, Trapani & Marsala, Sciacca & Agrigento, Noto & Modica, Taormina & Mount Etna

Jewish Tour of Sicily (9 Days) Palermo & Monreale, Agrigento & Agira, Noto with Syracuse, Ragusa, Catania & Mount Etna, Taormina & Messina

Active Family Tour of Sicily (11 Days) Palermo with Monreale, Segesta & Erice, Sciacca & Agrigento, Noto with Modica, Ragusa & Syracuse, Taormina & Mount Etna

Multi-Country Tours

Highlights of Italy & Greece (14 Days) Venice, Florence & Tuscany, Rome, Athens, Mykonos, Santorini

Family Tour of London, Paris & Rome (10 Days) London, Paris, Rome

Luxuries of Switzerland & Italy (11 Days) Lausanne, Interlaken, Lucerne, Lake Como

France & Italy: Best of the Riviera (7 Days) Cote d'Azur, Portofino & Cinque Terre

Introduction to Switzerland & Italy (9 Days) Lausanne, Zermatt or Gstaad, Lake Como

Highlights of Sicily & Malta (12 days) Palermo with Monreale & Segesta, Sciacca & Agrigento, Noto & Syracuse, Taormina & Mount Etna, Valletta with Mdina, Rabat & Gozo

Best of Montenegro, Croatia, Slovenia & Venice (17 days) Montenegro, Dubrovnik & Peljesac Peninsula, Split with Hvar, Pakleni Islands & Plitvice Lakes National Park, Ljubljana with Lake Bled & the Julian Alps, Venice

Puglia in Depth

Puglia—the heel of Italy—is one of the country's best-kept travel secrets. On this in-depth tour, stay at stylish resorts and experience Puglia's rich cultural heritage, undiscovered towns, white sand beaches and rustic yet sophisticated food and wine.

Begin in  Lecce , Puglia's cultural capital and one of Italy's most beautiful towns. With your expert private guide, tour Lecce's atmospheric backstreets and visit famous landmarks such as Basilica di Santa Croce, the Roman amphitheater, and Baroque churches and palaces built of ornately carved limestone. Also visit Museo Faggiano, a unique archaeological museum featuring unearthed antiquities found under a private home. Artisans of Leisure will arrange for you to visit the studio of a renowned  papier-mache  artisan. One morning, take a private cooking class in a former palace and learn to make typical Puglian specialties. Another day, enjoy a private excursion to the southern part of Puglia. Tour the highlights of  Otranto , an ancient port, former Greek colony and Italy's easternmost town, including the old town, the Byzantine church, the 11th-century cathedral and 15th-century castle. Perhaps also see the Grotta Zinzulusa caves or visit other picturesque towns such as Castro, Santa Maria di Leuca or Gallipoli.

Continue to  Savelletri di Fasano  and stay at a luxury resort set among ancient olive groves by the Adriatic Sea. En route, visit the "White City" of  Ostuni , a tumble of whitewashed buildings, and the beautiful seaside town of  Polignano a Mare . Also stop at a leading organic olive oil producer for a private tour of the farm and a private olive oil tasting. During private day tours from your resort, explore favorite towns in this fascinating region. In  Alberobello , tour backstreets lined with conical roofs crowning hundreds of limestone  trulli —the traditional stone dwellings for which the town is known. Visit  Locorotondo  and  Cisternino , two of Puglia's most historic and picturesque hilltop towns. Also visit a local winery to taste celebrated Puglian wines such as full-bodied, inky Primitivo and robust Negroamaro.  There will also be time to enjoy your luxury resort and its extensive facilities including a beach club, pool, spa and many fine dining options.

Booking Information >

All Artisans of Leisure tours are private and depart daily.

Please Contact Us for more information regarding the above tour, or to begin customizing your own itinerary.

The Artisans of Leisure Style of Travel:

Testimonials

This Italy trip was the trip of a lifetime. The accommodations were wonderful. Your restaurant recommendations were always excellent. We cannot think of anyone but Artisans of Leisure who could have made this trip so marvelous.  ~ D.S., Fort Washington, PA

We had experiences and opportunities throughout Italy that we never would have had if we were traveling independently. Our trip was spectacular. Thank you for your excellent planning and insight, and for selecting such lovely, memorable rooms in each hotel. ~ S.G., New York, NY

Thank you for organizing such a wonderful trip to Italy for our family! The knowledgeable guides saved us from standing in lines and expertly maneuvered us through the cities and museums.   ~ P.R., Laguna Niguel, CA

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• Luxury Tours

AuthenticPugliaTours

Planning an unforgettable trip to puglia has never been easier, puglia tailor-made, we hand-pick only the best accommodations and experiences to create exceptional vacations., bespoke luxury tours, self-drive tours, incentives & team building, active holidays & outdoor activities, unique experiences, why book with us.

• Meet Cindy and Vincenzo , the husband and wife behind AuthenticPugliaTours
• Everyone on our staff grew up and lives here, so we know our Puglia inside out .
• Each accommodation, restaurant and partner has been thoroughly vetted .
• Our itineraries include no tourist traps, just places we locals would visit ourselves .
• We take care of every detail and practical aspect, from start to end .

Your unforgettable holidays with us

Hidden gems, off-the-beaten track excursions, top-rated accommodations and exclusive experiences: all of these and more await when you book a trip to Puglia with us . Entirely hassle-free, so everyone can enjoy themselves and make memories that will last a lifetime .

A great option for anyone wishing to channel their inner Kerouac and explore our region by car , following fantastic itineraries that pack Puglia’s top highlights .

Outdoor & Active Tours

Puglia’s spectacular beaches need no introduction, but other natural riches can be found here. From caves to forests , boredom won’t even be an option: bike tours, hikes, kayaking and more activities to pick from can be enjoyed here.

Reward top employees with awesome holidays, or bring the whole team together in Puglia for enriching adventures you simply won’t experience anywhere else.

Daily Activities

Apart from our all-inclusive packages, we also offer day tours that can be booked separately . Each one is more special than the other and includes guided visits, tastings, interactive experiences and cooking classes .

Testimonials

We recommend AuthenticPugliaTours. They took care of us, curated and made the arrangements for our trip so we didn’t have to worry about the quality of our concentrated time in the region. Utilizing their expertise saved us a lot of research time and directed us to experiences we never would have found otherwise. High quality all the time!

The team you have put together for our weekend was really wonderful and I will be sure to let our Travel Agent know. We will be back for sure and I will make sure personally I recommend all my friends and people I know to you guys . The experiences were absolutely the best we have ever had in Europe!

Extremely enjoyable holiday. I would recommend AuthenticPugliaTours and the variety of experiences that suited our families well.

My client and the participants were very happy and pleased! Compliments to you and your brilliant guides. Everything went according to schedule, so perfect.

Great company with very professional tour guides!

I am pleased to have worked through AuthenticPugliaTours for my customers, I look forward to the next time, it was a pleasure!

We are back to work and have wonderful memories of a remarkable trip to Puglia. We loved every day and everything was perfect with AuthenticPugliaTours. Thanks!

It was the best wine tour that we have experienced. We really enjoyed it, thank you!

We had a perfect experience with AuthenticPugliaTours. They are very professional, thoughtful, friendly and we strongly recommend this travel agency! You will have an unforgettable trip!

We had a great time in Puglia. Despite it was super hot we liked the mix between beaches and little towns. The food was amazing and we really liked the bike tours you provided to us. The Wine Tasting & the Sassi Tour were also very interesting. Great accommodations as well!

The best choice to discover the highlights and hidden gems of the wonderful Puglia!! Highly recommended!

The villa and hosts were absolutely incredible. They exceeded our expectations. We will recommend AuthenticPugliaTours to our friends and hope to stay in Puglia again in the future.

You are really great at offering authentic experiences. And you understand the need for finding accommodation with great price-quality and a nice location!

The balance achieved between visiting some amazing places and discovering delicious genuine food, was just excellent.

Great way to explore Puglia off the beaten path...recommended!

We have chosen AuthenticPugliaTours as a partner in Puglia to arrange a road trip for our customers. Very satisfied with their service and selection of tours.

Great experiences with the kids and very interesting comments by the guides and very nice persons. The accommodation where we stayed was gorgeous!

Communication was excellent from the start and when needed on our tour. The digital map was a blessing and the rustic accommodation was perfect!

My husband, three year old son and I just returned home from an amazing week in Puglia. Authentic Puglia Tours was incredibly helpful with all of our planning, from the car rental to perfect activities that were good for our toddler and us (definitely not an easy task!)

AuthenticPugliaTours was highly responsive and helped us before, during and after the holiday with all those small issues that could easily have reduced our enjoyment. The digital map was new to us. We found it very helpful indeed and liked the additional information it carried. Thank you AuthenticPugliaTours, our holiday experience was definitely enhanced by your seemingly 24/7 personal support.

AuthenticPugliaTours took all the hard work out of organising our road trip in Puglia. The digital map was really useful and it was nice to have a curated list on hand.

Just returned home from a fantastic couple of days in Puglia. AuthenticPugliaTours was able to plan the perfect combination of activities and to show us hidden gems that we never would have discovered on our oww. They truly created a unique experience for us.

It was a beautiful trip. Highly recommended, as very varied activities and places to visit.

I know how much work goes into planning these types of activities and AuthenticPugliaTours made it look effortless. There was a great balance in terms of sites and experiences. We learned so much about the local culture through food, art, nature and the people. It was an amazing experience and I would recommend it to anyone seeking a trip of a lifetime.

This really showed the culture and how they live which is so different from us. ... [We visited a] farm where we made cheese. It was incredible to really see how it was made and learn how nothing is wasted and how everything is made/used daily. I also really enjoyed interacting with the animals. ...[I really appreciated] being given the opportunity to take some photographs. Vincenzo just pulled over to a group of trullis to let me take pictures, I did not even have to ask. I was very grateful and appreciative that he did this just because he already knew it was important to me...I really enjoyed everything.

Travel ideas & tips

Driving in puglia: tips for your road trip.

When in Puglia, it’s easy to find inspiration right outside your car window, as your day unfolds in a thousand shades of white, blue, green.

Fiat 500 hire in Italy!

Cute as a button, tiny but comfortable, easy to maneuver, Instagram-worthy: these are only a couple of reasons why we chose this car for all the Puglia road trips we offer.

Best Beaches in Puglia!

If you take a selfie at some of the most iconic beaches in Puglia and don’t tag your location, people may ask you if you’re at the Maldives or Seychelles, such is the beauty of this part of Italy.

Tomorrow is the last day to save $500 on any 2024 Boundless Journey

Explore the lesser-known Coast and Villages of the Italian Heel

We love Italy — its scents, flavors, scenery, and people. The landscapes stir the soul, with sweeping vistas of vineyard-cloaked hills, stately cypress trees, and gnarled olive groves grounded in red earth.

The Puglia region, located in the heel of Italy’s “boot,” is known for the unique whitewashed architecture in its seaside towns, lack of tourists, and farmland that cascades into coastlines. That alone makes it a wonderful Italy vacation destination, but what truly sets it apart is its spirit. Puglia is a place where the union of art, food, and nature has been celebrated for thousands of years. It is a region that has endured numerous wars and invasions and has been inhabited by dozens of civilizations, all of which have left their mark on the land and culture. On this unique small group guided tour, we venture to this western “gateway to the East” to explore a lesser-known side of Italy the crowds have yet to find.

Dreaming of your next journey? Discover more adventure abroad in our European guided tours .

Italy: Discovering Puglia Highlights

• Expand Discover the unique architecture and villages of the Italian heel.
• Expand Visit the UNESCO World Heritage towns of Alberobello and Matera.
• Expand Explore the region on foot, including walks along the Adriatic coast, through vineyards and olive groves, and on the cobbled streets of historic towns.
• Expand Savor delicious cuisine and delve into local gastronomy with a cooking class, olive oil tasting, and a cheese tour at a typical masseria —a farmhouse that was traditionally used for agriculture.
• Expand Enjoy a guided tour through an otherworld cave complex that is millions of years old

What Our Guests Have To Say About This Tour

Small groups only for me, outstanding, memorable trip, authentic italy, write a review, itinerary & accommodations.

Arrival and Transfer to Lecce

• Activity Overview: Driving
• Activity Length: 2 hours

Welcome to Puglia! We meet our guide at 2 p.m. in the lobby of the Hotel Oriente, centrally located in downtown Bari. We then drive approximately two hours, south along the Mediterranean coast, toward the tip of Italy's "heel" and the city of Lecce. Upon arrival, we check-in to our hotel and have a brief orientation meeting with our guide followed by dinner together this evening, where we toast to our adventures to come!

Accommodations

Risorgimento Resort Lecce, Italy

This 5-star luxury hotel in the historical center of Lecce is located in former residence dating to the 1400s. Finely furnished with details inspired by the style of the Baroque of Lecce, are characterized by warm and soothing colors that recall the landscape of the area. Guests enjoy the fusion of historical and modern decor, gourmet food & wine, and an intimate spa.

• Activity Overview: Walking on city streets
• Activity Level: Easy
• Activity Length: 2-4 hours, about 3 miles

Today, we head into town to pick up local ingredients at an open air market for our cooking class. Puglia's cuisine is deeply steeped in the region's agricultural tradition and an instinct for self-sufficiency. Many of the most representative dishes have their origins in "cucina povera" (peasant cooking), based on natural, genuine ingredients, like vegetables, legumes, seafood, olive oil, homemade pasta and bread. We reap the benefits of our efforts and enjoy lunch made from the bountiful feast we have created.

Later today, we meet our specialist guide for a walking tour of Lecce. Known for its dazzling array of Baroque architecture, Lecce also has deep roots in Ancient Greece, a long history of papier-mache craft, and the lively ambience that accompanies a university town. We learn about the history and culture of this "Florence of the South" as we stroll through piazzas, admire ornate stonework full of allegorical meaning, and visit a local papier-mache workshop. Dinner in town completes our day.

Otranto and the Adriatic Sea

• Activity Overview: Walking on country roads, trails, and along the coast
• Activity Level: Easy to moderate
• Activity Length: 3 hours, about 4 miles

Today begins with a guided exploration of another iconic town in Puglia — Otranto. Teeming with history, Otranto lies at the easternmost point of Italy on the Adriatic Sea — historically, a prime location for a port during the expansion of global trade, but which also left it susceptible to attack by foreign seafarers. We hear tales of conquest as we walk through the streets of this medieval old town, tour the Spanish castle, and visit the Otranto Cathedral — known for its enormous 12th-century "Tree of Life" floor mosaic.

From here, we head to the coast for an easy walk along the coves and creeks for which Salento is famous, and perhaps take a dip in the Adriatic Sea if the weather is warm. En route back to Lecce, we stop for a short walk to see the hidden Palascia lighthouse, high on a cliff with views of the sea all around.

Arriving back in Lecce, the evening is yours to relax, explore, and dine at your leisure.

• Activity Length: 3 hours

Our destination this morning is Ostuni, often called la Città Bianca, or "the White City," for bright, whitewashed walls. Originally painted with lime to brighten the dark medieval alleys, the white walls also kept the interior temperature of buildings cool. In later centuries, the practice continued during epidemics to quell the spread of disease.

Our first visit is a typical masseria , a farmhouse located on an expanse of land that was traditionally used for agriculture. These were often owned by wealthy barons and showcase an architectural style that is a hybrid of rustic country living and the elegance demanded by the noblemen who built them. We tour their ancient underground olive oil mill and taste the farm's current products.

This afternoon, we have time to settle in to our accommodations and independently explore the crooked streets of Ostuni. The uniform white color catches the colorful light of dawn and dusk, and it is a delight to get lost in the labyrinth of narrow passages. From the pinnacle above town, take in sweeping views of the surrounding landscape and Adriatic coast. Perhaps enjoy an aperitivo before wending back through the maze to rejoin the group for dinner this evening.

Masseria Valente Ostuni, Italy

This 18th-century typical farmhouse is set in a large garden and is located mid-way between Ostuni and the coast. Relax and enjoy quintessential Italian countryside, the onsite pool and veranda, and well-appointed rooms.

Torre Guaceto Natural Reserve

• Activity Overview: Walking on sandy paths and trails
• Activity Length: 2-3 hours, about 3 miles

We begin today with a short drive to the Torre Guaceto Natural Reserve, a stunning natural haven nestled along the lower Adriatic Sea. As we hike through the reserve, encountering wetlands, marshlands and dunes, our exclusive naturalist guide will enlighten us about the diverse flora and fauna gracing our path. En route, we visit a 16th-century tower, lending its name to the park, affording us a panoramic view of the horizon. Following our hike, there will be time for an optional dip in the sea.

Lunch will be enjoyed at a charming seaside restaurant before making our way back to Ostuni.

Alberobello

• Activity Overview: Walking on paths
• Activity Length: 2-3 hours, about 2 miles

This morning, we transfer to the Archeological Park of Egnazia, located in the midst of farms and olive groves on the edge of the Adriatic. Here we discover extraordinary artifacts and ruins from this once active commercial center of the ancient world.

Next, we head deeper into the beautiful Itria Valley to Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its trulli. A trullo house is a dry stone dwelling with a conical roof - a style of architecture completely unique to towns in this valley, with some structures dating back to the 14th century. We explore the old districts of Rione Monti and Rione Aja Piccola, with over 1,600 trulli, and are invited into one of these buildings to learn more about this ancient construction technique.

Later today, we visit a family-owned winery to learn about the local viticulture and wine production of this region. Of course, we have the opportunity to taste a selection of their wines!

At day's end, our immersion in Pugliese gastromy and culture continues at a local home where the homeowner prepares dinner for us.

Corte dell'Astore Alberobello, Italy

La Corte Dell’Astore, a luxury resort where sophistication and tradition fuse with style and splendor. Everything is designed to inspire calm and tranquillity—from the beautifully designed suites set in trullo houses built out of ancient stone, to the on-site farm where time can be spent in the company of friendly horses.

• Activity Overview: Walking on cobblestone streets
• Activity Length: 2-3 hours

We drive inland about an hour this morning to Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage town located in the Basilicata region. Set on the edge of a ravine, Matera claims to be the oldest city in Italy and has been inhabited continuously since the Paleolithic Era.

Upon our arrival, we have a guided walk of the Sassi district, known for its homes carved out of the limestone caves and cliffs. Formerly, the area was one of Italy's poorest, with entire families living alongside their livestock in cave dwellings that lacked running water or power. This led to a near-constant outbreak of malaria and other diseases, and the area was often referred to as "Italy's shame." The city began to modernize in the mid-20th century when the government demanded inhabitants move out of the grottoes and into newer buildings. Today, the revitalized Sassi district showcases a well-preserved living history, with some former cave dwellings now operating as restaurants and inns.

We have the afternoon free to explore independently before returning to Alberobello, where we gather for a farewell dinner to celebrate our successful journey!

Today we say arrivederci to Puglia! A group transfer to Bari Airport will be provided after breakfast.

Please note that this is a typical itinerary, and actual activities may vary due to weather conditions, local events, and to allow serendipity to play a hand in your experience. Accommodations are as outlined in the itinerary, although we reserve the right to change these or the order visited should the need arise.

Dates And Prices

Trip length.

Sep 14-21, 2024

Take over a date for your group! See "Make It Private" on Dates & Prices tab.

2024 Land Cost

From $ 4,995 Per Person

Single Supplement

First one reserved: $ 295

Additional: $ 795

See single supplement policy below .

Pricing Notes

MAKE IT PRIVATE

9+ Guests: $4,995 per person

5 to 8 Guests: $5,495 per person

Make it Private price is based on Land Cost only, and a guarantee of the specified number of guests in double occupancy. For groups smaller than the numbers shown, or those requiring single occupancy, we reserve the right to adjust the per person price. Additionally, some trips have minimum group sizes. Please call 1-800-941-8010 for details.

What's Included

• Expert leadership
• All accommodations
• All meals, except dinner on Day 3
• Local wine and beer with included dinners
• Entrance fees and local guide fees
• Activities as noted in the itinerary
• All on-tour transportation
• One roundtrip group airport transfer
• Explorers Club savings on your next scheduled, small-group trip (conditions apply)

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT:  Accommodations are based on double occupancy. A single supplement is paid by participants who specifically request single accommodations, subject to availability.

Single Supplement for Scheduled Group Departures. If you reserve at least 120 days prior to departure, you may be eligible for a reduced or free single supplement. This is generally limited to the first one or two solo travelers to reserve, and the reduction is outlined in the pricing for each trip. Free or reduced single supplements are not combinable with other offers or promotions.

If you are traveling alone and wish to share accommodations, we will try to match you with a roommate of the same gender. If you reserve at least 120 days ahead and request a roommate but one is not available, you will receive a $500 reduction from the standard single supplement (unless otherwise noted in the detailed itinerary for your specific trip).

Single Supplement for Custom Tours . Custom Tour prices are generally based on two or more participants; therefore, single supplements for “solo” Custom Tours will vary and are available upon request.

What To Expect

Physical activity.

Boundless Journeys' trips are designed for energetic and flexible individuals who like to be active and have a spirit of adventure and a positive attitude. Italy: Discovering Puglia is rated 2, easy, on a scale of 1-5 (with 5 being the most strenuous). It features walks of varying lengths and easy -to-moderate difficulty that average 3-6 hours per day. Walks on this tour will be on varying terrain, including cobblestone streets in and around villages and some dirt roads and trails. Walks are broken up by rest, cultural activities, and meals. Please refer to the detailed itinerary for descriptions of the activities on each day of the trip.

Meeting Point

At the Dillman Luxury Stay in Bari, Italy at 2 p.m.

Departure Point

The tour ends after breakfast on Day 8. A group transfer is provided to the Bari airport.

Traveling To and From

Most Convenient Airport Bari Airport in Bari, Italy (Airport code BRI)

Arrival Recommendation We recommend arriving in Italy at least one day before your tour begins. This will give you time to rest after your travels and recover from any effects of jet lag. It may be most convenient to spend a pre-trip night at the Dillman Luxury Stay in Bari, as this is our meeting place on Day 1.

Meeting Time and Place In the lobby of the Dillman Luxury Stay in Bari at 2 p.m. for a group transfer to Lecce. For those arriving in Bari on Day 1, a pickup will depart from the airport at 1:30 p.m.

Departure Time and Place There will be a group transfer to Bari Airport (about 1 hour driving time) after breakfast on Day 8. We recommend scheduling your departing flight no earlier than 11 a.m.

The weather in late spring and early fall is usually very pleasant, with daytime temperatures ranging from the low 60s to the upper 80s, dropping to the 50s and 60s at night. While these months are not in Italy's "rainy season," there can be cool breezes or showers at any time.

High: 72 Low: 55

High: 78 Low: 62

High: 68 Low: 55

High: 75 Low: 64

The shoulder seasons of late spring and early fall take advantage of warm weather while avoiding the crowds of (often Italian!) tourists who flock to Puglia in July and August. Day time temperatures during May and September are usually warm enough to swim, but still cool enough for comfortable walking. Springtime sees colorful wildflowers in bloom, cascading over stone garden walls. In the fall, vineyards burst with purple grapes as the harvest begins.

Italy is famous for its cuisine, and with good reason. Located in the heel of Italy's "boot," Puglia is a traditional agricultural region, known for homestyle, country-inspired cuisine. Local wheat, tomatoes, artichokes, beans, fennel, peppers, onions, beef, and lamb are commonly found in many dishes. Puglians pride themselves on their pasta, orecchiette, shaped like little shells and usually served with meat and vegetable-based sauces. Puglian pasta is traditionally made only from durum wheat flour, water, and salt, because eggs were historically considered a luxury. In addition, fresh burrata, an abundance of seafood on the coast, and desserts made from regional almonds, honey, and sweetened ricotta cheese ensure a complete experience of local flavors. One dinner (on Day 3) is not included in your trip cost as we believe that venturing out on your own is an important part of discovering a new culture. Vegetarians can be accommodated.

Featured Guides

Giuseppe La Stella

Giorgia Carraffa

About our guides.

With a Boundless Journeys guide, your experience is that of friend and local adventurer. We believe strongly in working with local guides, experts in the areas to which we travel, and they hold the keys to unlocking the hidden delights of your chosen destination. Although you will never know they are at work—the mark of a truly great leader—our guides make magical things happen and add a dimension to your trip that you could not experience on your own. Over the years we have forged bonds with some of the best guides in the world, and we typically work with a small team of guides in each region. You will be informed of the guide for your trip one month prior to your departure.

• Departure Dates: Sep 14-21, 2024

Italy: Discovering Puglia

We love Italy — its scents, flavors, scenery, and people. The landscapes stir the soul, with sweeping vistas of vineyard-cloaked hills, stately cypress trees, and gnarled olive groves grounded in red earth. The Puglia region, located in the heel of Italy’s...

Easy to moderate walking, 3-6 hours per day on varying terrain, including cobblestone streets, city streets, and some dirt roads and trails.

• Group Size: 4-10 Guests

Make it Your Own!

This trip can be your own adventure by taking over one of our scheduled dates, or we can request a fresh one.

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Puglia Cultural Walking Tour

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When we ask our Italian guides where they'd most like to take our friends who think they know Italy on a walking tour we get one response: Puglia. And then they use their hands. To paint a vista of gnarled olive trees silhouetted against a lapis lazuli sea. To express the amazing sunlight. To sketch the saw-toothed skyline of a village comprised entirely of "trulli"—the conical stone roofs unique to the region. You should see a good Italian describe the food you'll find—pasta from the locally grown wheat, sea-fresh fish, peppery olive oil. The Italians love the heel of their boot and it's easy to see why. Especially since it's also a land where you're as likely to find a Baroque city as a family of shepherds tending 500 sheep. Best of all, Puglia passes the most important Classic Journeys test—it offers fine leisurely walking…elegant accommodations …and a glimpse into a region and culture that's not quite like any you've encountered before.

•  Gather at your hotel situated among olive groves, then enjoy a scenic stroll through the nearby ancient Roman ruins and prehistoric cave dwellings.

•  From cliff-side lodgings in Matera, explore nearby Alberobello — a local landmark and the largest collection of conically roofed trulli — a must-see.

•  Walk through cinematic countryside to spend time with owners of a 17th century working farm.

•  Visit a family of shepherds near Altamura where our hosts invite us into their kitchen to prepare and eat a typical local lunch of homemade orecchiette pasta, stuffed peppers and pecorino cheese.

•  Amble in countryside known for its shimmering silver-leaf olive trees.

•  Explore Lecce, the "Florence of the South," from our home, a 16th-century palace.

•  Marvel at one of the world's largest mosaic floors, not far away in Otranto's cathedral.

•  Journey on foot to visit architect friends and see their stunning renovation of an ancient farmhouse.

Starting Point:

Ending point:.

Click map to enlarge

Dates & Prices

The earlier you book, the more choice you’ll have and the lower your price. And you can always change your mind — you won’t be charged to transfer to a different trip before your final payment is due. Talk with one of our travel experts at 800-200-3887 .

Select our “Family Departure” to travel with other families.

Why Choose Classic Journeys

• Experience Puglia on foot and at eye level. Each day, join your guide on the most cinematic footpaths in the region, including along scenic canyons to iconic perched villages like Matera, through shimmery green olive groves and on working estates.
• Exceptional full-time local guides who become your well-connected friend. Our amazing guides are with you throughout each day of the tour, sharing their lifelong connections as well as engaging anecdotes about the history and culture of Puglia.
• Small groups that provide you unrivaled access. An average of 10 guests per departure means we can offer you special ‘only with Classic Journeys’ access to villages like Alberobello with its fairytale stone-roofed houses, a cooking instruction with a family on their farm that other companies cannot arrange because of larger group sizes, and walks with a olive oil maker on his estate.
• Award-winning hotels are waiting for you at the end of every day. Luxuriate in the finest and most distinctive accommodations in Puglia, including a private estate that has been in the same family for generations, and award-winning properties that show up on World’s Best and Gold lists.
• Eat like (and with) the locals. Food is a foolproof way into the hearts, homes and history of Puglia. From lunches with families on their farms and estates to coveted Michelin-starred restaurants, our meals offer you opportunities to explore native food traditions and fine dining.
• Handcrafted itineraries with all activities included. With our long-term friendships, we know Puglia more personally than anyone else. So you get thoughtfully curated itineraries that combine explorations of the villages, organic farms, archeological sites, and the people who know them best.
• Regenerative Travel that supports the history, culture, people and places you’re visiting with us in Puglia. We put our local currency into the pockets of the people who live where we travel. It’s your guarantee that you’ll have authentic, up-close experiences on your trip. Best of all, our person-to-person approach helps sustain their ways of life.

Accommodations

We spend years cultivating personal relationships with our hoteliers to provide you thoughtfully selected accommodations that reveal the true character of the region. Here is a sampling of our favorite hotels on this tour. 

Patria Palace Hotel

Originally a princely palace built in the 17th century, this prestigious 5-star hotel has been restored, preserving its original beauty while adding every modern comfort. Each of the hotel rooms is personalized with original fresco paintings.

Palazzo Gattini

For more than six centuries, this impeccably restored 5-star palazzo-hotel was the home of Matera’s oldest noble family. Gorgeous rooms offer views of the city. From rooftop terrace to the vaulted stone spa, it’s an experience in regal hospitality.

Borgo Egnazia

A whitewashed seaside compound, this chic property is designed as a Mediterranean village. Elegant rooms decorated in shades of white amplify Puglia’s sun. The property offers indoor and outdoor pools, a terrific spa and a range of dining options.

Aquatio Cave Luxury Hotel & Spa

Aquatio Cave Luxury Hotel & Spa is an enchanting 5-star property located in Matera, one of the world’s oldest cities. The luxurious rooms have been expertly designed in the ancient caves and enhanced with modern amenities for an unforgettable stay.

Masseria San Domenico

Masseria San Domenico is a 5-star hotel restored from a stunning 14th-century fortified farmhouse. Located by the sea and surrounded by beautiful gardens and olive groves, this luxurious property offers boutique-style accommodations with modern amenities.

What’s Included

• Award-winning boutique hotels that provide you unlimited access to the people and places, culture and history you came to experience
• All breakfasts, 4 lunches (1 cooking instruction), 3 dinners
• Full-time experienced guide(s) who are with you throughout the trip and handle behind-the-scenes logistics
• Admissions to tastings, historic sites and other scheduled events as noted in the detailed daily itinerary
• Gratuities for hotels, meals, and baggage
• All land transportation during the trip

Above & Beyond Benefits

Perfect pairings dinners.

• A special dinner prepared by one of our favorite chefs with a procession of wines tailored to each course.

Privileged Access Events

• One-of-a-kind access to remarkable people, places and activities arranged just for you.
• In many regions, we uncork wonderful local wines at every dinner, compliments of Classic Journeys.

Invisible Check-In

• When your group arrives, we whisk you and your bags to your room immediately. No waiting – no tipping.

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PUGLIA TRAVEL GUIDE

Olive trees as far as the eye can see, deep red earth, whitewashed seaside towns, and the sparkling blue waters of the sea are just some of the things you can expect when visiting Puglia.

This is the Southernmost region of Italy and a place full of unique culture, food, and unforgettable landscapes. The locals are friendly and generous with their time, perhaps due to the incredible climate they’re blessed with – the sun shines 300 days a year here! 

A trip to the region might include sojourning through coastal towns, trulli hunting through the Valle d’Itria, sightseeing in Lecce, sometimes described as the ‘Florence of the South, hiking in the Gargano, or indulging in the freshest burrata cheese of your life. Most famous for the towns of Alberobello and Polignano al Mare, there is so much more waiting to be uncovered. Keep reading for our ultimate Puglia travel guide. 

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Where is Puglia

Puglia is located in the heel of the Italian boot in the very deep South. The Adriatic and Ionian Sea hugs the region from left to right, and the region shares borders with Molise in the north, and Campania and Basilicata in the north west.

South of Rome, the capital, Bari , is easily reached with the high-speed train in just under four hours. Naples lies to the West and a fast train will similarly get you there in less than four hours. 

Map of Puglia

Main cities and towns in puglia.

As one of the larger regions of Italy (in fact the 7th out of 20) there are a great number of cities and towns worth exploring when you travel to Puglia. Consider visiting the following: 

• Bari: The capital (pictured above) is a great place to start or end your trip to Puglia thanks to the well-connected railway station and International Airport. Don’t miss wandering through the labyrinth-like streets of Bari Vecchia, watching the locals roll orecchiette in the streets, exploring the elegant Murat neighborhood, and strolling along the promenade with a detour to the little fish market on the port. 
• Lecce : Also known as the ‘Florence of the South’, Lecce is beautiful and unique in its own right. An extremely elegant Baroque city, it is also a University town and it shows in its friendly, welcoming atmosphere. Don’t miss seeing the remains of the Roman amphitheatre, the Theatre Romain, the Porta Napoli gate, and of course make sure to take a sip of a caffe’ leccese .
• Polignano a Mare : Perhaps the most famous place in Puglia thanks to Instagram (or one of the many weddings in US soap opera The Bold and the Beautiful) is Polignano a Mare. Perched high up on the cliffs, there is an iconic sea view that looks out onto the little beach known as Lama Monachile. Wander the pretty streets of the old town and have your camera handy – you’re going to want to take lots of photos!
• Monopoli : A small fishing village, Monopoli is as pretty as a picture. A stroll through this whitewashed town that rests along the Adriatic Sea will unveil the beautiful Cathedral, a seaside fortress, fabulous restaurants and bars, and of course the beach! If you’re looking for picturesque fishing boats, you’re in the perfect town for a photo opportunity.
• Otranto : Looking for a popular beachside town? Otranto could be your ideal destination. A trip there should also include visiting its UNESCO listed old town ‘centro storico’ and beautiful Medieval castle.
• Alberobello : The other VIP town of Puglia is surely Alberobello, famous for its spectacular streets full of trulli, the traditional dry stone huts with conical roofs. Whilst Puglia is still relatively undiscovered by the crowds, the same cannot be said for this town so aim to arrive here very early for unimpeded walking. It also pays to do a guided tour here to understand the town on a deeper level. 
• Martina Franca : A jewel of Baroque beauty, Martina Franca is a little off the beaten track when it comes to Puglia towns worth visiting. Not overrun by tourists, you can easily lose yourself for a few moments in the little streets. Be sure to try capocollo here, a delicious local cured salami and try to time your visit to coincide with the popular Sunday Flea Market. 
• Locorotondo :  Whitewashed buildings and civic pride are a feature of this pretty town close to Alberobello, and Martina Franca. Locorotondo gets its name from its round like shape, so enjoy a wander through the streets and look out across the valley dotted with trulli . This town is also famous for its white wine so be sure to try some while you’re there.
• Grottaglie : In the center of the region, Grottaglie is the undisputed capital of ceramics in Puglia. Visit the ancient ceramics quarter and while away the hours as you visit workshop, after workshop in search of the perfect piece. 
• Ostuni : F amous for its stunning whitewashed buildings, Ostuni is another breathtakingly beautiful hilltop town to visit in Puglia. Catch glimpses of the Adriatic Sea as you wander through the narrow streets of the old town towards its Gothic style Cathedral. While not directly on the beach, you’ll find several only a short drive away from the center of town.
• Gallipoli : One of the most famous Pugliese towns, Gallipoli is on the Ionian Sea. The old town, connected to the new town by a bridge, is full of lovely Baroque architecture and pretty palazzi. Go for a swim at the sandy beach and relax at one of the many bars along the promenade with a spritz. 
• Vieste : Located in the Northern Gargano area of Puglia, Vieste is a stunning seaside town. Visit the Swabian Castle, relax at the beach here and use it as a base to access the Gargano National Park.
• Taranto : Taranto has a very long and fascinating history reflected in its culture and architecture. Relatively free from tourists, the archeological museum is worth a trip as is the 15th century Aragonese Castle. Look out for Greek remains and don’t skip a visit to the fish market.

Top things to do in Puglia

No matter your interests, this travel guide to Puglia aims to show you how many great activities and experiences to have when traveling in Puglia! Whether you’re a foodie, beach lover, or history buff, you’ll find plenty of choice in this sunkissed region. Some of our favorite activities include: 

Taste olive oil

Puglia is the most important region in Italy for olive oil, producing 40% of the country’s total supply! Gain a deeper understanding as to how extra virgin olive oil is made and the difference between store bought and locally produced with a guided tasting. Try Acropoli di Puglia in Martina Franca!

Visit spectacular beaches

Puglia has some of the best beaches in the country, so you can’t miss a visit to at least one or two! The Grotta della Poesia in Roca is one of the most spectacular with a now Instagram famous sheltered natural pool to dive into. Others include the Beach of Purity in Gallipoli, Santa Maria al Bagno, and Mora Mora Beach near Lecce.

Stay in a trullo

One of the most unique experiences you can have in Puglia is staying in a trullo, the characteristic hut from the Valle d’Itria. There are many options for staying in a trullo from B&B style to luxury trulli resorts .

READ: Our full guide to the Best things to do in Puglia .

Eat pesce crudo (Pugliese sashimi)

Pugliese love their raw fish! In particular, Barese (the people from Bari) are famous for it thanks to the absolute freshness of their seafood. Wander along the old port early in the morning and buy some raw squid, calamari, and sea urchins for a fresh, healthy snack.

Learn to make orecchiette pasta

One of the best souvenirs you can bring home from your travels is the ability to cook something from the region you visited. Pasta from Puglia is very easy to make at home and requires just durum wheat flour, water, and a knife – no machine required. Learn how to make pasta with this class in Lecce .

Explore the Baroque churches in Lecce

Marvel at the sheer beauty and richness of the Baroque churches in Lecce. There’s an old Pugliese joke that the town has more churches than residents and it might seem just the way as you wander through the streets. In particular, take time to visit the Duomo and Basilica di Santa Croce.

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What to eat and drink in Puglia

The cuisine of Puglia is rustic and full of wholegrains, vegetables, fresh fish, and creamy cheeses. Whilst the region is the biggest producer of wine in Italy, it was historically used for cheap, table wine. That’s all changing now and the region is full of up and coming wineries that celebrate the local grapes of Primitivo, Aglianico, Negroamaro, Fiano, and Greco.

Besides indulging in as much raw seafood as possible (don’t miss the gamberro rosso or red prawns), look out for these tasty dishes on your trip: 

• Orecchiette with cime di rapa: The typical pasta of the region takes its name from its little earlike shape. It’s made from durum wheat of which the region is full of and water – no eggs here. The most typical pairing is with vibrant cime di rapa (broccoli rabe).
• Bombette : If you’re not a seafood lover, or simply prefer meat then this dish is for you.  Bombette are fried pork meat skewers filled with cheese, and seasoned with salt and pepper. The best place to try them is in the Valle d’Itria.  
• Taralli : The typical savoury biscuits of Southern Italy, you’ll spot these frequently at aperitivo hour served alongside your spritz. You can find them spiked with fennel seeds, chilli, nuts, raisins or even sweet versions. 
• Focaccia Barese : This focaccia is seriously life-changing! The dough is light and fluffy and thicker than its Northern relative in Genoa thanks to being made with mashed potatoes. The most classic version is topped with ripe tomatoes, oregano, olive oil, and sometimes olives. The best place to try this is at Panificio Fiore in Bari.
• Mozzarella, burrata and stracciatella: Puglia is the land of creamy cow’s milk cheeses! Look out for mere hours’ old mozzarella, burrata and stracciatella or go and visit a local caseificio, dairy farm, to get it seconds after its made.   
• Pasticciotti: The perfect breakfast treat to have at the bar in Puglia is undoubtedly a pasticciotto . This little tart is filled with ricotta, custard, pistacchio paste, or jams.
• Caffe Leccese: Upgrade your coffee order to a caffe’ leccese when in Puglia! It’s a shot of espresso on ice and topped with almond syrup. Locals will tell you not to mix it, but it’s very refreshing either way. The best place to order this is unsurprisingly in Lecce.  
• Rustico Leccese: Another Lecce special, look out for this savoury pastry filled with mozzarella, bechamel, and tomato sugo. Be sure to enjoy this piping hot at  one of the city’s wonderful bakeries like Il Fornaio di Greco Francesco .

Where to stay in Puglia

Whilst tourism is still relatively new in Puglia, there are fantastic and unique accommodation options throughout the region. There are many traditional hotels, B and Bs and apartments in the major towns available at budget to luxury prices.

More interesting however are the masseria and trulli options you can stay in – provided you are traveling with access to a car. Masseria are traditional Pugliese farmhouses that were once used as fortresses in medieval times. Today, there are hundreds of these properties that dot the countryside including many luxurious options that come with swimming pools, spa services and on-site restaurants.

Trulli or traditional stone houses are another option which are also found in the Itria Valley countryside. 

When planning your trip to Puglia, Vieste is an excellent base if you’re planning on visiting the Gargano. Along the Adriatic Sea, Monopoli (pictured above) is a wonderful option with lots of facilities and a useful position on the train line.

For those wanting to stay in the Itria Valley, a car is absolutely necessary as there is limited public transport. Consider basing yourself in the countryside in a relaxing Masseria or Trulli house between Martina Franca and Locorotondo like Masseria San Michele . Further south in the Salento, Lecce makes for the best base as the major city (with a train line) so there are lots of accommodation and dining choices and easy access to the beaches.

When to go to Puglia

Spring is a beautiful time to visit Puglia and enjoy warm weather and beach time with fewer crowds.We visit the region in late May / early June on our Early Summer Puglia tour to take advantage of these ideal conditions.

Those who love the heat and swimming will enjoy the summertime in Puglia, although August is best avoided due to crowds, inflated prices, and the hottest temperatures.

There are incredible cultural festivals during the summer which are worth seeking out including the Night of San Giovanni in Ostuni, San Pietro e Paolo in Otranto, the Puglia Jazz Festival in Bari, the Alberobello Light Festival, La Notte della Taranta in the towns south of Lecce, and many more.

Early Autumn can be a lovely time for late season swimming and sightseeing with less tourists. You can join our Puglia tour in mid September to enjoy the longer sunny days and mild nights perfect for exploring the region and discovering its delicious cuisine.

Whilst Puglia enjoys a Mediterranean climate and plenty of sunshine throughout the year, it’s important to note that things get very quiet during the Winter. Many beachside towns essentially shut down in the colder months with beach clubs closing from early October and reopening in April.

With that said, Christmastime is one of the most magical times of the year in Puglia as the towns are lit up and decorated to the max and bands walk through the streets on Christmas Eve singing Christmas carols.

How to get to Puglia

There are two main international airports in the region at Bari in the North and Brindisi in the South. If you’re arriving in Puglia from abroad, it’s possible to get a connecting flight from most Italian cities here.

Alternatively, the fast train from Rome or Naples is a reliable option to get you to Bari the capital in less than four hours. Traveling by train in Italy is easy and comfortable with the added bonus of no security checks or luggage restrictions making this our preferred way to travel to Puglia.

If you’re arriving with your own wheels or with a rental car from Rome, it’s a four to five hour drive on the A1 and A16. From Naples, it’s a shorter three hour drive along the via A16/E842 and Autostrada A14/Autostrada.

How to get around Puglia

Travel in Puglia with public transport is not widely recommended as it is slow, there are few main train stations, and regional buses might pass through just once a day (leaving you without a way back).

For travelers who are determined to visit without a car, it is possible to get the train from Bari to Polignano a Mare, Monopoli, and Lecce easily. There is a train to Ostuni, but the station is a short distance away from the town so a taxi would be required to reach the old town. Whilst there are train stations at some of the other towns, there are not normally direct routes from Bari.

With that in mind, it is most convenient to rent a car to travel around Puglia. From Bari or Brindisi airport, you can pick up a rental car to travel around the region with ease, on your own schedule. We recommend using Auto Europe or Car Rental by booking.com to browse the best car rental options. You’ll find the best deals at Bari and Brindisi airports.

Let’s go to Puglia!

We hope our Puglia travel guide has Inspired you to visit Puglia. If you’re keen to learn more about this beautiful region of Italy have a listen to our podcast episode about Puglia’s Pilgrim Trails , or discover more Picturesque Towns of Puglia .

Want to discover Puglia with us? For a deeper local connection, why not join one of our Puglia small group tours . You can see what our guests think about our Untold Italy tours in Puglia by watching the video below.

The Perfect 7 Day Puglia Road Trip Itinerary

We always knew that we would fall in love with Puglia, but after diving deep into the region on an extended Puglia road trip, it’s safe to say that we’re near-obsessed with it.

From exploring whitewashed hilltop villages to dipping (again and again and again) into the sparkling Adriatic Sea, and from devouring endless plates of orecchiette to sleeping in one of the region’s famous trulli , Puglia is awash with delightful Italy travel experiences.

Longtime readers know that we have a tendency to fall in love with certain corners of Italy and return to them repeatedly, and, well–let’s just say we expect to have plenty of opportunities to continue updating this Puglia blog post over the years.

Located on the “heel of the boot”, Puglia (sometimes called Apulia) is known primarily as a beach destination to Italian and other European travelers.

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It’s less popular with North Americans (so far), but that balance seems to be shifting a bit more each year.

With a hidden gem as absolutely sublime as this one, though, it was only a matter of time until the secret got out.

If you’re looking to spend a week exploring a laid-back and beautiful corner of Italy, where the food is fresh (fun fact: around 40% of Italy’s olive oil comes from Puglia!), the driving easy, the and the swimming sublime, this Puglia road trip itinerary is for you.

(And, I didn’t even mention yet that Puglia is significantly less crowded and less expensive than hotspots like the Amalfi Coast and Cinque Terre ).

Here’s how to make the most of 7 days in beautiful Puglia, Italy!

Table of Contents

How We Structured This Puglia Itinerary

Renting a car for your road trip (+ traveling to puglia), can this puglia itinerary work without a car, other destinations to add to your itinerary for puglia, the best time of year to visit puglia, italy, what to pack for a 7 day puglia road trip, one week puglia travel itinerary map.

With a region as large and diverse as Puglia, narrowing down the best places to visit on a 7 day Puglia road trip is quite the challenge!

Unlike many of the itineraries on Our Escape Clause , we’ve structured this Puglia itinerary as a point-to-point trip leading (loosely) from Bari to Lecce, rather than as a loop.

However, as Lecce and Bari are less than 2 hours apart by either train or car, you’ll easily be able to return to Bari at the end of your trip if needed.

We designed this trip to Puglia around visiting whitewashed villages, historic cities, and–of course–lots of beaches and seaside landscapes.

It’s a fairly fast-paced itinerary in the sense that it packs a lot in and involves visiting many beautiful towns, but to drive this route straight through without traffic would actually take less than 5 hours!

You’ll drive a bit more than that, counting day trips and such, but the bottom line is that it’s a very doable distance in a week, even at a relaxed pace.

In other words, you have more time for beach time than you might think at first glance!

However, try as you might, it’s impossible to explore all of the best places to visit in Puglia in a week, so some (very worthy) destinations have been cut.

Because of this, in addition to the detailed 7 day itinerary for Puglia that we’ve outlined here, we’ve also made notes of several more incredible places in the region that you can add or swap in, depending on your travel style, the season, and how much time you have to enjoy the heel of the boot.

This Puglia travel guide is quite long, so feel free to use the table of contents above this section to navigate to the most important parts for you if you wish!

For most people, of course, taking a Puglia road trip will require renting a car

We recommend renting a small car through  Discover Cars , which will allow you to compare the prices and inclusions of multiple companies at the same time and choose the best car for you from there.

For the purposes of this itinerary, we recommend picking up your car in Bari.

To get to Puglia itself, you can either fly into Bari (Brindisi, to the south, has an airport as well, but Bari is more convenient for this itinerary), or take the train there.

If you’re coming from outside of Europe, there’s a good chance it will be more affordable to fly into Rome or Venice, and then take the high-speed train to Bari to start your road trip in Puglia.

If you’d like to investigate flying into a major city and then taking a train to Puglia, we recommend checking the train schedules and prices through Omio (bear in mind that tickets for high-speed trains can dramatically increase as the trip gets closer).

Check rates & book your rental car for Puglia today!

This Puglia itinerary is specifically designed as a road trip, and we do strongly believe that driving is the best way to visit the heel of Italy’s boot!

From offbeat villages to quiet, out-of-the-way beaches, your trip to Puglia will absolutely be enhanced by having your own set of wheels.

That being said, if you can’t or would rather not drive, you can still cover the vast majority of the sights included on this Puglia road trip itinerary through a combination of public transportation and guided tours.

If you’re not planning to drive, you can still follow the bulk of this itinerary by train.

However, you’ll likely need to cut some of the smaller towns in the Itria Valley (as you won’t be moving as quickly), as well as stick to beaches/swim spots within walking distance of town.

You’ll also want to be sure to choose lodging that’s within walking distance of the train stations.

And, if you’re not attached the idea of sleeping in a trullo (though I’ll be the first to say it is a delight), you may consider spending longer based in Monopoli and visiting the interior towns via day trips.

If you want to structure your itinerary for Puglia without a car, we highly recommend using  Omio  to check exact ticket schedules and pricing for trains and buses in the region.

Check schedules and shop train and bus tickets in Puglia  today!

Day 1: Arrive in Bari and head to Monopoli.

Bari, Puglia’s capital and largest city, is the perfect launching pad for your road trip whether you arrive in the region by train or plane.

While Bari has several attractions worth exploring, for the sake of time, we won’t dedicate much time to Bari on this itinerary.

If you arrive by train and are a completionist at heart, it’s about a 15-minute walk from Bari Centrale to the heart of the old town, if you’d like to take a quick spin around the city’s central sights like the Basilica San Nicolo and the Cathedral of San Sabino.

Once you wrap up, though, it’s time to pick up your rental car and zip off to Monopoli!

It’s about a 45-minute drive between the 2 cities, depending on traffic, so you’re not in a rush.

After checking into your hotel (ideally in or near the historic center–more on that in a minute), it’s time to start exploring.

While Monopoli’s historic center has some interesting churches and such to check out, the Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi is definitely worth a peek (as is the Bella Blu Gelateria right on it), what you’re most likely looking for is the sparkling Adriatic Sea!

Head to the Porto Antico (Old Harbor) to start your stroll past the Castello Carlo V and along the Lungomare.

As you head further away from the historic center, you’ll notice more and more people with their towels spread out on the rocks, going for a dip–and yes, this is highly recommended!

Where to Stay in Monopoli, Italy

We loved our stay at La Maison dello Zio : the property was clean, spacious, and very quiet (extra impressive considering its location in the heart of Monopoli’s small historic center).

We’d be happy to stay again!

Other popular, well-reviewed options in Monopoli include Corte Sant’Angelo or–if you’re looking for a splurge complete with incredible views–the stunning Hotel Don Ferrante .

We recommend staying in Monopoli for 2 nights.

Check rates & book your stay in Monopoli!

Day 2: Visit Polignano a Mare and explore Monopoli.

On the second day of your road trip in Puglia, head just 15 minutes north or so along the coast to the famous town of Polignano a Mare.

You’ll likely recognize Polignano a Mare’s picture-perfect beach: the views of this beach from above are some of the most iconic images of the region!

While the beach itself is small and very rocky (you’ll definitely want water shoes if you plan to swim there), the water is gorgeous and the views of the coast from above are well worth the trip.

Polignano a Mare is one of the most popular–read crowded–towns in Puglia, so we recommend getting an early start if you can.

Don’t miss the opportunity to wander through the old town, seeking out stunning views of the Adriatic along the way.

Terrazza Santo Stefano in particular is a must-see!

If you want even more unique views of the coast, joining one of the popular Polignano a Mare boat tours is a fantastic option (and will also give you an opportunity to swim away from the crowds at the beach).

Want a bucket-list dining experience while in Puglia?

The picturesque cave overlooking the sea found at Hotel Grotta Palazzese has been used as a restaurant since the 18th century (today, you’ll definitely need reservations if you plan to eat lunch there).

After wrapping up your morning exploring, eating, and possibly swimming your way through Polignano a Mare, head back to Monopoli and enjoy the afternoon and evening there!

To swim, check out Cala Porta Vecchia, or keep walking along the water until you hit Cala Cozze or Porto Bianco.

There are plenty of lidos (paid Italian beach clubs with umbrellas and chairs) around Monopoli, but for less than a full beach day, we prefer to stick with free swimming spots.

Day 3: Head inland to Alberobello and nearby whitewashed towns.

As difficult as it can be to leave the coast behind, it’s worth it to see another side of Puglia during your week in the region!

Puglia is famous for trulli –the dry, stone, conical buildings typical of the area, and the buildings are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site!

You can find them across the Itria Valley, but no town has a higher concentration of them than the famous–and stunning–Alberobello.

After Polignano a Mare’s central beach, the trulli of Alberobello are probably the most recognizable image of Puglia.

However, today won’t just be about Alberobello, but about the surrounding villages.

The nearby small towns of Locorotondo and Martina Franca are both also well worth visiting, and while they have fewer trulli , they’re beautiful and will be far less crowded.

We recommend saving Alberobello for the end of the day, and spending the night there–ideally in a trullo !

The crowds of day trippers that swarm Alberobello throughout the day can be downright overwhelming, making this down best enjoyed in the evening and the early morning (and if you’re visiting in the summer, this will help with the heat, too).

If you want to make sure you don’t miss any of the most iconic trulli , this popular walking tour is a great addition to your time in Alberobello.

Book your walking tour of Alberobello today!

Where to Stay in Alberobello, Italy

For a memorable stay in the Itria Valley, you can’t beat spending the night in a trullo!

We can’t rave enough about our stay in the Miratrulli Apartment & Trullo –everything from the structure to the location to the hospitality of the owner was flawless.

If it’s booked, though, Trulli Holiday Albergo Diffuso and Trulli Soav e also get excellent reviews.

We recommend spending 1-2 nights here.

Check rates & book your stay in Alberobello today!

Day 4: Continue exploring the Itria Valley or head to Matera.

As you hit the mid-point of your Puglia road trip, it’s time for a decision!

Option one: stay in the Itria Valley, continue exploring whitewashed hilltop towns, tasting wine, sampling olive oil, and enjoying trulli .

With this option, you may want to head over to the gorgeous city of Ostuni, a longtime favorite in the region that features magnificent views from its hilltop as well as plenty of nooks and crannies to explore.

Alternatively, you can head west to the fascinating city of Matera.

Matera, though located in the region of Basilicata rather than in Puglia itself, is a popular addition to Puglia itineraries.

Matera is an endlessly interesting place, known for being populated since the prehistoric area, its incredible views, and its Sassi area–the area populated by cave dwellings dating back thousands of years.

In the 1950s, Matera gained international notoriety for the poor living conditions in the Sassi, and was nicknamed the “Shame of Italy”.

The population was forcibly removed the the “new” (still quite old) town surrounding the Sassi, and the historic cave dwellings were abandoned.

Fast forward several decades, though, and Matera has achieved new life as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a popular filming location (for films ranging wildly from “The Passion of the Christ” to “James Bond: No Time to Die”), and a European Capital of Culture.

Many of the formerly shameful Sassi have been converted into popular boutique cave hotels.

Matera is absolutely, without a doubt, worth visiting–but it is also incredibly hot during the summer months, even by the standards of southern Italy.

If that sounds like a fair trade, or you’re enjoying 7 days in Puglia outside of summer, Matera is a great idea.

If you don’t have a high heat tolerance, consider sticking around the Itria Valley instead, where it still gets quite hot, but is easier to cool off.

Where to Stay in Matera, Italy

Unfortunately, as beautiful as the views from our balcony were, we can’t recommend the cave hotel we stayed in when visiting Matera.

However, Conche Luxury Retreat and Il Belvedere are both beautiful properties that get excellent reviews!

Matera in general is extremely affordable by Italian standards, making it a wonderful place to splurge on a memorable place to stay.

If you choose to visit Matera, we recommend spending one night there.

Check rates & book your stay in Matera today!

Day 5: Make your way back to the sea in Otranto.

Whether you’ve been exploring the Itria Valley or Matera, if you’re visiting Puglia during the summer, one thing is certain: at this point, you’re going to be ready to get back to the sea!

Make your way to Otranto (despite this being your longest drive of the trip, getting from Matera to Otranto is still likely to take you only about 3 hours), where you can enjoy wide, sandy beaches and plenty of coastal charm again.

Choosing a favorite between Monopoli and Otranto would be very, very difficult, but Otranto’s wide, sandy beaches located right next door to the center are definitely a plus.

(Monopoli has plenty of swimming near the center too, of course, but not as many sandy stretches quite as conveniently located).

While in Otranto, be sure to pay a visit to the gorgeous Duomo, the Castello Aragonese, and the tiny Church of St. Peter.

Walking along the town ramparts is also a must, but without a doubt, a good portion of your time in Otranto should be dedicated to beach time!

Where to Stay in Otranto, Italy

We loved our stay at the spacious Marimar Apartments , located a short walk from Centro Storico and an even shorter walk from the sea.

B&B Palazzo Marzo and Palazzo de Mori are both excellent options as well!

Otranto’s small size and location hugging the Adriatic make it simple to find places to stay near the water, a big advantage for a beach town.

We recommend staying in Otranto for 2 nights and wrapping up your 7 days in Puglia here.

Check rates & book your stay in Otranto today!

Day 6: Explore Otranto and visit the Cave of Poetry.

While we’ve tried to leave plenty of room for afternoon swimming in this 7 day itinerary for Puglia, today is the only day that is dedicated almost exclusively to it!

Other than perhaps a bit of sightseeing (gelato in hand, of course) in Centro Storico, today is all about the water.

We recommend taking a drive out to the Cave of Poetry (in Italian, Grotta della Poesia ) to enjoy one of the most stunning swimming holes we’ve ever had a chance to enjoy!

Featuring crystal-clear water, jaw-dropping views, a cave to swim through, and even some nearby ruins to explore, it’s a remarkable sight.

And, if you’re feeling particularly daring, you can even join the locals for a bit of cliff-jumping.

Looking for something a bit different, either as an alternative or an addition to your day?

The Bay of Turkey ( Baia dei Turchi ) is also nearby and boasts what is widely considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Puglia.

If you happen to be visiting Puglia outside the swimming season and are looking for an alternative away from the water, you could substitute a visit to Gallipoli and/or Lecce here.

Day 7: Make your way home, possibly stopping in Lecce on the way.

As you wrap up your 7 days in Puglia and prepare to head home, there’s one final stop we recommend making on the way: Lecce, the “Florence of the South”.

This university city is packed with stunning Baroque architecture and long history with ties to Ancient Greece and Rome.

It’s gorgeous and well worth a visit, but since it’s located inland in the southern part of Puglia, it doesn’t draw nearly as many visitors as the coasts.

If you have time, spend some time exploring the best things to do in Lecce’s Centro Storico, including the remains of the Roman Amphitheatre, the Basilica di Santa Croce, and the Piazza del Duomo and Duomo itself.

This well-reviewed walking tour can help you efficiently cover the highlights of the city in just a couple of hours!

If you don’t want to drive back to Bari to drop off your rental car (it’s about a 2-hour drive), consider checking prices for a one-way rental that you drop off in Lecce.

That’s what we did on our Puglia road trip, and it ended up being very affordable!

Lecce is home to a well-connected train station that can easily whisk you off to your next destination in Italy if you’re planning to continue your travels within the country.

If you’re flying home from Bari, though, it’ll likely be easiest to drive back yourself.

While this itinerary covers quite a bit of Puglia in 7 days, no one trip could hope to cover it all!

In addition to the choose-your-own-adventure modifications we’ve included throughout the itinerary, here are a few more stops you might consider adding on with more than a week in Puglia.

Located on the western edge of the Salento region of Puglia, Gallipoli is located more or less opposite Otranto on the peninsula.

Featuring the beautiful seaside Castello Aragonese, a charming center, and plenty of surrounding beaches, Gallipoli makes for a delightful seaside base in southern Puglia.

Gargano National Park

This itinerary for Puglia doesn’t stray further north than Bari, so sadly doesn’t pass through Gargano National Park.

However, if you’re looking for rugged, wild beaches, offbeat small towns like the gorgeous Vico del Gargano, and even a forest (the Forest Umbra is stunning), Gargano National Park has you covered.

Unless you have an exceptionally long time to spend on your Puglia vacation, this part of the region is probably best visited on a separate trip.

Tremiti Islands

This small archipelago, made up of 5 main islands, is known for its magnificent beaches, sea caves, cliffs, and brilliant turquoise water.

The Tremiti Islands are part of Gargano National Park, but you’ll need to hop on a boat–or, if you’re feeling like a splurge, a helicopter–to get there!

Castel del Monte

The mysterious Castel del Monte dates to the 13th century and was built by King Frederick II.

Its unusual shape has caused some to speculate over the centuries that it was never meant to be a defensive fortress at all!

Today, it is known as one of Puglia’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites and is located just outside of Bari.

Located right on the Adriatic Sea and featuring a beautiful Duomo, charming Centro Storico, and the remains of once-important defensive structures, Trani has quite a bit in common with towns like Monopoli and Otranto!

Too far north to fit into this 7 day Puglia trip, it is nonetheless well worth a visit with more time in the region.

Grotte di Castellana

This stunning karst cave system is a feast for the eyes, and definitely one of the coolest places to visit in Puglia!

And, during the summer, “coolest” is literal: the caves maintain a constant temperature of around 62 ° F/16.5 ° C, making them a great place to escape the summer heat on a particularly hot afternoon.

You can reach the Grotte di Castellana in under 30 minutes from Monopoli or Alberobello.

We’ve designed this Puglia road trip for a visit that takes place during the swimming season–so late spring, summer, and early fall.

Personally, we find June and September to be the ideal months for visiting Puglia if you’re hoping to swim and have a typical beach trip: the water will be great for swimming, and the towns lively without being overrun as in July and August.

July and August are the most popular months for visiting Puglia, so if you want the height of the mid-summer, peak season experience, that’s when to go!

In May, the weather is a bit cool for swimming as far as we’re concerned, but some brave souls do take it on.

Spring and fall are both ideal for cultural trips to Puglia focused on exploring the villages of the Itria Valley, the region’s historic sites, and of course, its food.

We found sweating during mid-day when inland a fair trade-off for swimming in the Adriatic, but we definitely would have been far more comfortable in places like Locorotondo and Alberobello in the spring or fall.

Winter is a decidedly slow season in Puglia, however, the weather does stay mild and quite dry, making it a great choice if you’re looking to escape the cold, dark weather further north during winter in Europe !

Here are a few essentials that you should definitely add to your packing list as you prepare for your road trip in Puglia, Italy!

Travel Insurance  — We don’t ever suggest traveling without travel insurance–anything can happen, and a fast-paced road trip is definitely a case of better safe than sorry.

We use and recommend  Safety Wing  for trips to Italy.

Travel Adaptors for Italy  — If you’re coming from outside of Europe, you’ll definitely need adaptors for your electronics.

Hands-Free Phone Mount  — This is especially important if you don’t have a reliable co-pilot: the last thing you want to do is fumble with the GPS on your phone when driving in Puglia.

Pack a cell phone holder to attach to the car and you’ll be able to drive much more safely!

Dry Bag — Want to keep your electronics safe during a beach day or boat trip?

Securing them in a dry bag is the perfect low-cost solution!

Sunscreen — The day we visited Polignano a Mare, we forgot our sunscreen and ended up panic-buying a very overpriced bottle in town… that didn’t even work well.

Moral of this story: bring your own sunscreen!

Additional Car Insurance  — Whether you purchase a policy that covers car rental (only some do, so double-check!), purchase a policy through the rental car company, or something else, be sure you have coverage: it’s worth the peace of mind.

Portable USB Charger  — Don’t stress about your phone dying while you’re spending long days driving from village to village: add a portable charger to your packing list.

Swiss Army Knife  — Want to open wine bottles in your hotel room, slice cheese from the market, or cut up that fresh focaccia from the bakery?

You’ll be so glad you brought a Swiss Army Knife along on your Puglia vacation!

Camera  — We absolutely adore our  Sony a7R III , but whatever camera you’re comfortable with works.

Just make sure you have something with you to preserve your memories!.

Hand Sanitizer  — We carry this everywhere, and have never been sorry to have it floating around in our day bag.

Take This Map With You! Click each highlight to pull up the name of the destination. To save this map to “Your Places” on Google Maps, click the star to the right of the title. You’ll then be able to find it under the Maps tab of your Google Maps account! To open the map in a new window, click the button on the top right of the map.

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About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

10 thoughts on “The Perfect 7 Day Puglia Road Trip Itinerary”

Hi there, absolutely loved all the info. I am from Canada and going to Italy(Verona) to visit family from May 24- June 29th. My friend is meeting me in Italy within those 5 weeks and we are going to Puglia. We are planning out our trip next week. This info was perfect. We will be renting a car and are planning for a 7-10 day trip. If we wanted to spend a couple of extra days to relax would you recommend just staying in Otranto?

Otranto is a great choice! Monopoli would be almost a tie with it for us–can’t go wrong with either. 🙂

Hi, Was it easy having the dog with you? Was the dog allowed eveywhere you went e.g. Beaches, restaurant etc. Or was it difficult? I’m asking as I would love to bring my dog with me

In general, it’s very easy to travel with dogs in Italy, and that’s true in Puglia, too. 🙂

Dogs are allowed on some beaches (some are limited to the winter and not all lidos are dog-friendly), so definitely check before heading out on that.

Outdoor dining at restaurants is more or less universally dog-friendly.

Not all hotels and apartments are dog-friendly, but a wide variety are, and we are never short on options for places to stay.

Hope you and your furry friend have a great trip!

Just read your 7 day itinerary for Puglia and so tempted to book almost everything you mentioned. Looks a great trip! So glad we found your site.

Thank you so much, Tina! Hope you have a wonderful time in Puglia!

Hi Kate, my husband and I are planning our 3rd trip to Italy this coming March (2024). Our 2nd trip was to the northern regions, and your advice was extremely helpful. This trip we are going to focus on the southern region. Is there a way to easily print your guides? I didn’t see a print bottom and the formatting changed a bit when I tried to print the page – cutting off some of the info. Thanks for all the great information!!

Thank you so much, that’s great to hear our posts already helped you once! 🙂

Unfortunately we don’t have a specific printable version available right now, though it is something we’ve considered setting up in the future!

Do you know of the Masseria Pote winery in Puglia? We are headed to a wedding there this fall and love your 7 day tour of the area.

I am not, but it looks beautiful! Hope you guys have a fantastic time–Puglia is such a special place. 🙂

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4- 5 Days: Ischia? Sardinia? Puglia? Other? - Italy Forum

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8 Best Places to Retire in Italy, According to Local Experts

From gorgeous islands to the idyllic countryside, here are some of the best places to retire in Italy.

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Retiring in Italy is a dream for many and a reality for quite a few, too. From major cities to small towns, the sea to the mountains, and the Mediterranean to the Adriatic, Italy offers a variety of lifestyle and cost of living options. In preparing this list, Travel + Leisure spoke to residents of Italy as well as travelers who visit multiple times a year. We also joined a Faceboook group called Retired Expats in Italy, in which members from around the world share experiences, answer questions, and discuss taxes, housing, driving, and more.

According to Expatica , approximately five million foreigners were living in Italy in 2023, about 8.8 percent of the population. European Union citizens don't need a visa to retire in Italy, and they're able to access the country's public health care system. Others, however, need an Italian residence visa and a stable minimum income in order to stay longer than 90 days. High-quality health care is available for retirees who establish residency, and in the meantime, a private policy is recommended. Pension income is taxable, and in some regions, residents may qualify for a flat seven percent tax.

When it comes to choosing where to retire, other factors like climate, housing costs, lifestyle, health care, and activities might come into play. Then, there's the decision of whether to rent, buy, or invest in a building to renovate. While every retiree has different needs and preferences, we're here to help you get started. Here are some of the best places to retire in Italy, according to experts.

Laura La Monaca/Travel + Leisure

An island off mainland Italy’s toe, Sicily offers a low cost of living and a variety of landscapes, from beaches and mountains to deserts and historic cities. On Sicily’s eastern coast, the popular tourist area of Taormina has restaurants, resorts, beach clubs, and an ancient amphitheater where concerts and events are held. Catania, home to the international airport, is located at the base of Mount Etna, and Siracusa is known for its Baroque architecture and archaeological sites.

The capital of Sicily, Palermo, is a dynamic city on the northern coast with an international airport, and nearby Cefalù is a beautiful seaside town. The island is also home to well-preserved archaeological sites in Agrigento, Segesta, Selinunte, and Siracusa. Sicily's interior consists of wheat fields, olive groves, farms, and villages, including many of the places where houses are selling for one euro to those who are willing to refurbish and live there.

During my many trips to Sicily, I experienced several of its mountain towns where my grandparents emigrated from, as well as the more popular coastal tourist destinations. The Sicilian people are welcoming, the food is delicious, the wines are superb, and the scenery is stunning. English is commonly spoken in the cities most visited by tourists, and in the small towns, most residents speak Italian or the Sicilian dialect. Retirees in Sicily enjoy a laid-back lifestyle, fresh produce, affordable rent and home prices, and a strong sense of community.

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Located along the heel of Italy’s boot, Puglia features coastlines on both the Adriatic and Ionian seas. Warm weather, small towns, olive groves, beaches, and a relaxed atmosphere make the towns here lovely places to visit and live. The main airport is in Bari, the region’s capital and a major seaport. One of the lower cost areas for retirement in Italy, Puglia is also home to historic cities, beautiful architecture, and UNESCO World Heritage sites, like the hilltop Castel del Monte. Using Bari for comparison, the overall cost of living is about 47 percent lower than New York, and rents are about 84 percent lower.

Last September, I traveled to Puglia , landing in Bari and driving south to Lecce , where there’s a well-preserved Roman amphitheater, the Baroque Basilica di Santa Croce, and the beautiful Old Town. In Otranto, we toured the 15th-century Aragonese Castle and shopped at the many boutiques in town selling everything from handmade ceramics to clothing. In Alberobello, we walked among the trulli, the white buildings set on curved hilly lanes, recognizable by their conical stone roofs. Many are occupied by full-time residents, and several are available through Airbnb or rental agencies.

Retirees living in Puglia can choose to live near the coast or inland in an agricultural area. According to Italy Property Guides, “In Puglia, you can have a quiet rural location and be near a town with all the facilities you might need. Road links are good, some towns are on bus and train routes, and fares are cheap. Big towns such as Bari, Brindisi, Lecce, Ostuni, and others have hospitals and industrial zones with large supermarkets.”

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Located in central Italy on the west coast bordering the Tyrrhenian Sea, this region includes mountains, valleys, and coastal plains. The main city is Rome , home to one of Europe’s busiest international airports and the port of Civitavecchia. Retirees can choose Rome, with its museums, restaurants, ancient sites, and sophisticated atmosphere, or a nearby small town .

Laura Itzkowitz , a resident of Rome for several years, says, “The Castelli Romani would be a good place to retire since they offer small-town life, beautiful rural surroundings, and easy access to Rome ." Historically, many noble Roman families built villas in the area to escape the hectic pace of the city. Frascati, for example, is surrounded by vineyards and has a charming town center with plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops. There are also other idyllic towns like Grottaferrata, Castel Gandolfo, Ariccia, and Nemi.

The cost of living varies among the cities in Lazio, with Rome being the priciest, but even at that, the overall cost of living is about 44 percent lower than New York, while rent is about 73 percent lower. In the pedestrian-friendly city, residents don’t need a car, and access to the international airport provides another advantage of living in the area.

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This area in central Italy lives up to its romantic reputation with rolling hills, vineyards, rivers, forests, castles, and charming towns. The region also offers 250 miles of Mediterranean coast and beachfront towns like Viareggio, Livorno, Massa, and Carrara. The culturally rich destination includes Florence, Siena, Pisa, Lucca, Arezzo, San Gimignano, and more.  According to International Living , the area is one of the most popular with expats, and there’s an English-speaking presence in most towns.

On a visit to Tuscany, I spent a few days in Lucca, a walled city and one of my favorite places in Italy. “The people in Lucca stick to their traditions, so it’s the perfect location to immerse yourself in the culture and get lost in the food, drink, and people,” chef Luca Moriconi , who grew up there, told T+L.

I've also visited popular tourist destinations like Pisa, Siena, and San Gimignano, as well as quieter small towns that are still conveniently located near these destinations and ideal for retirement. In Viareggio, on the coast, my husband and I enjoyed lunch and browsed the shops where we saw many versions of Pinocchio and a beach club named for the story’s puppet. For retirees who love Tuscany and wish to live near the sea, the Viareggio area is the perfect location.

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Located in the center of Italy, about 30 miles east of Rome, the Abruzzo region is bordered by the Adriatic Sea on the east, offering coastline, lakes, hills, mountains, vineyards, and three national parks. According to a 2023 article in International Living , “Abruzzo is a region for bargain hunters because it has managed to stay off the expat and trendy radar, despite its allures. You’ll find everything from rock-bottom priced village homes to country villas, at prices that will appeal to all budgets. Of course, the lowest prices are in small villages, but even many of those have castles and monuments, everyday services, and access to larger towns.

Livingcost.org compared the cost of living in Abruzzo with the other regions in Italy, and only Umbria showed a slightly lower figure. The website also detailed other expenses, and estimated rent for a three-bedroom apartment in a city center to be $753 a month and a cappuccino to be $1.48. International Living pointed out that the area’s rural farms provide excellent seasonal produce and local fishermen bring fresh catches to the region’s markets. Their estimate for a typical Italian breakfast, including a cappuccino and a cornetto, costs just $2.50.

Places to consider for retirement include coastal Pescara, historic and culturally rich L’Aquila, Teramo on the Adriatic (home to Roman ruins and medieval churches), and tranquil Schiavi di Abruzzo. With three national parks, there’s hiking, skiing, and mountain biking, as well as water sports and golf. Universities in Teramo, Chieti, Pescara, and L’Aquila offer cultural opportunities, too.

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This area in northern Italy includes Venice — known for its canals, history, hotels, and restaurants — but it also serves up Roman ruins, medieval castles, beaches, mountains, beautiful small towns, and cities like Verona, Padua, and Vicenza. The hilltop town of Asolo has cobblestone streets and a medieval castle. Conegliano, a medieval walled town, is located in the heart of Italy’s Prosecco region. And Bardolino, on the shores of Lago di Garda, hosts several festivals each year.

While most retirees in Veneto have the opportunity to conveniently visit Venice, they will likely choose to live in one of the towns or cities nearby. For those who want to be near the canals, there’s the island of Burano in the Venetian Lagoon, beloved for its colorful houses. Nearby, seaside Caorle features similar pastel dwellings as well as sandy beaches. In the medieval walled town of Cittadella, there's an annual historic event featuring a torch-lit parade, music, fireworks, and archery competitions.

I spent a few nights in the beautiful city of Verona where I saw (like every tourist) Juliet’s balcony and statue, attended an opera at the Arena di Verona, and strolled across the bridge over the Adige river. I loved the city, and would agree with Expatra that Verona is an excellent retirement destination. According to Numbeo , Verona is about 44 percent less expensive than New York, and rent is about 80 percent lower.

This region in northern Italy is known for fashionable Milan , glamorous Lake Como, and many of the towns around Lake Como, including Bellagio, Menaggio, and Como. The health care system is excellent, and retirees who enjoy city life or smaller towns will find both in Lombardy. According to Livingcost.org , the cost of living in Lombardy is 1.35 times more expensive than other regions of Italy. For Milan, Numbeo indicates that the cost of living is about 31 percent lower than New York, and rents are about 61 percent lower.

Giammario Villa , Italian wine and food historian, spends much of the year in Italy and describes the Franciacorta area of Lombardy as "offers a rare natural beauty and gorgeous landscape, made of pre-Alpine mountains, glacier lake views, gently rolling hills, and, of course, plenty of vineyards." He adds, “This charming northern Italian scenario is completed by perfectly preserved castles, historical villas, and millenarian monasteries, perfect for idyllic walks, glorious biking, and horseback riding. Besides that, Franciacorta offers advanced, high-quality services for senior citizens in both public and private facilities.”

Villa points out that the area’s proximity to Lake Iseo guarantees mild winters and a moderate climate. Franciacorta is one hour from Milan, a plus for retirees who enjoy the city’s shopping and cultural opportunities, as well as convenience to medieval destinations like Brescia and Bergamo. Orio al Serio Airport, the third-largest in Italy, is nearby. Wine lovers will appreciate living among the vineyards, and as Villa notes, “Franciacorta is known to be the very best area in Italy for elegant, classic sparkling wines, with sustainable agriculture at the core of winemaking.” He mentions the excellent local cuisine, too, with examples like saffron risotto, lake fish polenta, and ossobuco.

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Located in northwestern Italy along the Ligurian Sea , this region is often called the Italian Riviera. Known for the five towns of Cinque Terre , the port of Genoa, olive oil, and cuisine that includes seafood, focaccia, pesto, and vermentino wine, Liguria offers mild weather and a beautiful coastline. The charming seaside town of Camogli features colorful homes, and Sanremo’s medieval old town features historic villas.

According to Expat Exchange , “There are several retirement communities in Liguria, offering a variety of amenities such as swimming pools, fitness centers, and social activities.” The 2023 article adds, “The cost of a nice two-bedroom home in Liguria can range from $150,000 to $400,000 USD, while a nice three-bedroom home can range from $200,000 to $500,000 USD.” Retirees in the active expat community have cultural attractions to explore, including Cinque Terre, Genoa’s Palazzo Ducale, and the area’s cathedrals and churches.

Livingcost.org indicates the cost of living in Liguria is 1.08 times more expensive than other regions in Italy. According to Numbeo , the cost of living in Genoa, Liguria’s capital, is about 39 percent lower than New York, and rents are about 81 percent lower.

5 Reasons Why You Should Visit This Underrated Turquoise Coast In Italy Instead Of Amalfi

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Famous for its rugged coastline, pastel-colored towns and beautiful sunsets, Amalfi is one of the trendiest holiday spots in Italy, but as anyone who's been to Positano or Atrani will be able to confirm, it can be prohibitively expensive – not to mention ridiculously crowded.

It is the busiest destination in Italy, and as new Transatlantic flights and a second airport launch simultaneously, it will, without question, be nothing short of chaotic this summer – luckily, there's a lesser-known stretch of coast on the opposite end of the Italian peninsual that's just as beautiful .

Here are 5 reasons why you should visit underrated Puglia , on Italy's turquoise Adriatic Coast, instead of jam-packed Amalfi in the upcoming season:

Just As Fascinating A Local Culture

It may not be as widely popular worldwide as the Eternal City of Rome, the Venetian canals or the elegant Costa Amalfitana , but Puglia is just as relevant a cultural hotspot as all of Italy's leading tourist hotspots:

It is home to Bari , a regional capital known for its winding streets and Baroque churches, Polignano a Mare , a laid-back coastal town and resort zone with the postcard beach bordered by small cliffs atop which sit whiteashed houses, and fairytalish Alberobello .

Often called one of the prettiest towns in Italy, this UNESCO-listed Heritage Site it is distinct for its trulli , hobbit-like stone huts with corbelled roofs; other landmarks include the perfectly-preserved medieval town of Ostuni , and the off-beat, ocher-colored, Roman-era Lecce .

The best part is, Puglian towns are nowhere near as crowded as Amalfi's, or Liguria's trendy collective of five coastal towns known as Cinque Terre, nor upscale Portofino:

Don't get your hopes up, there are still plenty of tourists around, particularly in summer – this is jam-packed Italy, after all – but outside the main cities and beach areas, you'll find most of Puglia is surprisingly quaint , and several of its historic towns remain undiscovered.

The Cuisine Is Out-Of-This-World

Italian cuisine has been voted the absolute best in the world, and while you can go on memorable gastronomic journeys irrespective of the Italian region you're visiting, with fresh pasta and pizza being served nationwide, there's dishes that are best served in their native Puglia.

Mainstream faves focaccia and burrata cheese are two examples of Puglian delicacies foodies might not even be aware originated here , though our own top picks would be:

The lesser-known friselle bread (crunchy dried bread softened in tepid water and topped with tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, tuna, and whatever else nonna has handy in the kitchen today, panzerotti , a common street pastry that oozes melted mozzarella at the first bite, and of course, pasticciotti .

This creamy custard-filled tart is a well-loved Puglian dessert , and we suspect it may have contributed to Puglia's placing in the top three best Italian destinations for food and wine:

It Has Award-Winning Wine

One in three Italians consider Puglia one of the three best regions for enogastronomy, which is just a fancy word for food and wine-based tourism.

We've touched on food, but wine is an equally-big draw for tourists skipping Amalfi and heading to Puglia instead this summer, as the sunny Adriatic province, its fertile heartland and dry, subtropical climate are the secret the full-bodied, fruity Primitivo.

Other iconic Puglian wines are the dark-colored Nero di Troia and Negroamaro, found in any Bari osteria , the smooth Castel del Monte Aglianico, and the Verdeca-based whites, made from a rare variety of grape only found in Southern Italy.

If you're a true wine conoisseur, the Primitivo Wine Tasting Tour in Gioia del Colle is a must-do activity during your Puglia vacation, costing an affordable $70 per person.

It Is Much, Much Cheaper Than Amalfi

This ties into reason number four: Puglia is remarkably affordable by Italian standards.

Of course there are far cheaper sunny destinations in Europe, like Albania or Bosnia and Herzegovina, but when you compare it to the Italian peninsula's own opposite coastline, Puglia starts to feel like a steal of a deal.

In Amalfi, you're expected to budget $218 per person, per day; on the Adriatic side, only $123. In Amalfitana towns like Sorrento and Atrani, you can spend as much as $67 on meals per day, and that's if you're being particularly frugal, while in Bari, the average is $35 , almost half the price .

As demand for Puglia vacations is lower, overnights also cost significantly less than in other parts of the country, with local-owned guesthouses advertising rooms on Booking.com from only $40 per night, while modest beachside hotels can cost a reasonable $75 – $110 to book.

In Positano, the busiest Amalfi town, the cheapest hotel overnight this summer is an eye-watering $474 : no all-inclusive deals, just a three-star listing with breakfast included (but hey, at least you get the Mediterranean views, right?)

Italians Themselves Love Puglia

Finally, Puglia is officially the number one domestic destination for Italians themselves.

Based on a recent survey carried out by Rome-based tour operator Vamonos Vacanze, 13% of Italians will be heading to Puglia for their next vacation , making it a greater consensus than Sicily (11%) and even Italy's off-path darling Sardinia (10%).

Amalfi, Cinque Terre, Portofino and the Lakes of Como and Garda are nowhere to be seen on the list, and in all fairness, these are almost exclusively visited by foreign tourists in the peak season, as they don't mind paying double – or triple – the average accommodation price, or over $20 on bland pasta.

Italians love their Adriatic Coast for the cheaper hotels and restaurants, less-chaotic beaches, and unspoiled culture.

Don't be like everyone else: this summer, go where the locals are headed .

Vinicius Costa

Vini, our senior lead writer at Travel Off Path, has over 60+ countries under his belt (and currently weaving tales from Paris!), and a knack for turning off-the-beaten-path experiences into informative stories that will have you packing your bags.

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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.

The post 5 Reasons Why You Should Visit This Underrated Turquoise Coast In Italy Instead Of Amalfi appeared first on Travel Off Path .