Apulia Escorted Tour – 9 days

DAY 1 | Arrival in Bari and City Tour

Individual arrival in Bari, the capital of Puglia. Meeting with the tour guide at the hotel and departure for a guided city tour. In the afternoon, explore the historic center known as “Bari Vecchia.” During this walk, interesting information about Bari’s past and the history of its main monuments will be shared. Along the way, stroll through the characteristic streets and small squares inside the city walls until you reach the Pontifical Basilica of San Nicola, which houses the relics of Saint Nicholas, and the Swabian Castle. This castle was built in the 12th century by King Roger II of the Normans and later restored by Frederick II of the Holy Roman Empire. You will have the opportunity to admire the splendid view from the castle (entrance not included). Next, visit Piazza Mercantile, where the Column of Justice stands, believed to have been used as a small column of infamy. Return to the hotel for dinner and overnight in Bari.

DAY 2 | Bari > Trani > Castel del Monte > Alberobello

Breakfast at the hotel, and departure for Trani, known as the “Pearl of Puglia.” You will have the opportunity to explore its Jewish quarter and admire the majestic Cathedral, built with a local stone called “tufo calcareo,” characterized by its distinctive very light pink color. In the afternoon, continue to visit Castel del Monte, an extraordinary castle built by Frederick II. This castle is protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its unique geometric design, with an octagonal prism and an octagonal tower at each corner. Many mysteries surround the true purpose of this castle. After the visit to Castel del Monte, you will proceed to Alberobello, the “City of Trulli,” also protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Trulli are dry stone huts with cone-shaped roofs, originally built for storage purposes but often used as permanent dwellings, referred to as “casedde” by the locals. Alberobello is a fairytale place and will offer a unique experience with the possibility of staying in a Trullo at a “scattered hotel.” Dinner is included. Overnight in Alberobello.

DAY 3 | Alberobello > Matera > Alberobello

Breakfast and departure to Matera, the capital of the “Sassi,” a UNESCO World Heritage site known as the “City of Stones” and often compared to Cappadocia in Turkey. Matera was the European Capital of Culture in 2019. During the visit, you will have the opportunity to admire the “Sassi” from different perspectives and views. These caves, inhabited since the Paleolithic period, constitute the monumental historic center and are connected by a labyrinth of picturesque alleys, offering a unique experience. The “Sassi” visually resemble ancient sites near Jerusalem and have served as locations for various religious-themed films. A visit to the Cathedral of Matera is a must. You will return to Alberobello in the evening for dinner and overnight in the Trulli.

DAY 4 | Alberobello > Locorotondo > Ostuni > Lecce

After breakfast, gather again in a parking area near the hotel (200 meters from the Trulli) and depart for Locorotondo, a picturesque town recognized among the “Most Beautiful Villages in Italy.” The name Locorotondo comes from the Latin phrase “locus-rotundus,” meaning circular place, in reference to its characteristic shape. Next, you will reach Ostuni, the “White City,” located on a hill 74 kilometers south of Bari. This city, built by the Normans, is famous for its city walls with four gates still partially visible. The region is renowned for the production of high-quality olive oil and wines. You will have ample free time to explore the historic center, savor local specialties, shop for typical products, or simply get lost in the ancient medieval streets. In the evening, transfer to Lecce, the heart of Salento. Dinner and overnight in Lecce.

DAY 5 | Lecce > Otranto > Dinner at “Masseria le Stanzie” > Lecce

The morning is dedicated to the discovery of Lecce with a professional guide. Lecce is known as the “Florence of the South” due to its lively artistic and cultural scene. Its distinctive feature is the baroque style of its buildings. You will have the opportunity to explore numerous religious and secular monuments. At lunch, you will be transferred to Otranto, just a 30-minute drive from Lecce. Otranto has been dominated by the Greeks, Romans, and Turks over the centuries, and this variety of cultural influences is still visible in the city. The Cathedral of Otranto houses the bones of 813 martyrs in a sanctuary behind the main altar and is famous for its impressive mosaics, rivaling those of the major churches in Ravenna. To end the day on a high note, enjoy dinner at “Masseria le Stanzie” in Supersano, near Lecce, an authentic Salento farmhouse. During the visit, you will have the opportunity to explore the estate, which includes some medieval tombs, and learn about the culinary history of Puglia. You will also have the chance to watch the traditional homemade pasta preparation, followed by a dinner allowing you to taste local products. Overnight in Lecce.

DAY 6 | Lecce > Gallipoli > Lecce

The day is dedicated to Gallipoli, one of the most popular and cosmopolitan tourist destinations in Salento. Gallipoli, with its Greek roots, is a beloved summer destination for young people, known for its vibrant nightlife and beautiful wild beaches, including dunes and pine parks. You will have free time to explore the center of Gallipoli, its walls, and the harbor hosting extraordinary yachts. In the afternoon, you will return to Lecce, where you will have more free time to enjoy the evening. Overnight in Lecce.

DAY 7 | Lecce > Martina Franca > Lunch at Masseria Zona Fasano > Bari

The morning marks the return journey to Bari, passing through the Murgia plateau, characterized by a unique landscape. The first stop will be Martina Franca, an elegant baroque town with a rich history, majestic churches, and squares perfect for memorable photos. The urban focal point is Piazza Plebiscito, the Cathedral, the Ducal Palace, and the Clock Tower. You will have free time to explore this charming city. You will then continue to the Itria Valley, a rural area rich in olive groves and vineyards. During the journey, you will have the opportunity to enjoy a meal at a local Masseria, where high-quality food and extra virgin olive oil are produced using organic farming. Tasting these products is included. In the afternoon, you will have more free time before taking a short journey back to Bari for the overnight stay.

DAY 8 | Bari > Polignano > Monopoli > Bari

The journey continues to two of the most charming coastal towns in Puglia: Monopoli and Polignano a Mare. The first stop will be Monopoli, a fortified citadel by the sea. Monopoli’s intricate alleyways offer an almost mystical experience. This port was one of the places from which medieval crusaders set out for the Holy Land. The oriental atmosphere still permeates the city due to its rich trade with Constantinople. The second stop will be Polignano a Mare, known for its coves, small bays, and spectacular cliffs. Lama Monachile is one of its wonders, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and rocky overhangs. You will have free time for shopping or enjoying an aperitif in the main square. After the visit, return to Bari for the overnight stay.

DAY 9 | Departure from Bari

After breakfast at the hotel, our services conclude. For private transfers to Bari Karol Wojtyła or Brindisi airports, please refer to our transfer catalog or contact our Reservations Department. They can arrange a transfer at an additional cost.