Arrival in Bari Welcome to Puglia! Upon arrival in Bari, meet your tour guide and transfer to your hotel. Free time to relax or enjoy your first introduction to the Mediterranean atmosphere of southern Italy. In the evening, welcome cocktail and dinner included.

Bari, Between Traditions and Byzantine Heritage This morning, enjoy a guided walking tour of the historic centre of Bari, the capital of Puglia and one of the Adriatic coast’s most iconic cities. Discover the treasures of the old town, including the cathedral, the Castello Svevo (exterior view only), and the famous Basilica di San Nicola, an important pilgrimage site where Saint Nicholas rests. Stroll along the renowned Strada delle Orecchiette, where local women still prepare the region’s famous handmade ear-shaped pasta. Free afternoon to explore the city at your own pace.

Castel del Monte and Trani Departure for the spectacular Castel del Monte, a fascinating medieval castle built by Frederick II of Swabia. With its unique octagonal design and remarkable mathematical and astronomical symbolism, this UNESCO World Heritage Site has intrigued visitors for centuries. In the afternoon, guided tour of Trani, an elegant seaside town famous for its magnificent Romanesque cathedral overlooking the Adriatic Sea. Return to Bari at the end of the day.

Polignano a Mare, Monopoli and Conversano Departure with your French-speaking local guide toward Polignano a Mare, known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic” thanks to its crystal-clear waters and spectacular cliffs. This iconic village offers some of the most breathtaking coastal views in southern Italy. Continue to Monopoli, a charming fishing town rich in maritime history. Free time to stroll through its whitewashed streets and picturesque harbour before heading to Conversano for a three-night stay.

Castellana Caves and Alberobello This morning, discover the impressive Castellana Caves, one of the most remarkable natural attractions in Puglia. Explore a spectacular underground world filled with stalactites, stalagmites, canyons, and fascinating rock formations shaped over thousands of years. After lunch, continue to Alberobello, famous for its trulli, whitewashed houses topped with cone-shaped roofs that have become symbols of Puglia. Visit the Trullo Sovrano, the largest trullo in town and a designated national monument. Return to Conversano for dinner.

Locorotondo and Martina Franca Guided tour of Locorotondo, recognized as one of Italy’s most beautiful villages thanks to its circular whitewashed streets and authentic charm. Late in the morning, stop at a local vineyard for a tasting of regional wines and traditional products from Puglia. In the afternoon, discover Martina Franca, an elegant Baroque town known for its refined architecture and lively squares. Highlights include Piazza Maria Immacolata, Palazzo Ducale (exterior view only), and the magnificent Basilica di San Martino.

Ostuni and Lecce Departure toward the Salento Peninsula in southeastern Puglia. Stop in Ostuni, known as “The White City” thanks to its limewashed buildings reminiscent of Mediterranean Greek villages. Guided visit of the historic centre and entrance to the cathedral. Continue to Lecce, often referred to as the “Florence of the South” for its extraordinary Baroque heritage. Discover its historic centre featuring Piazza Sant’Oronzo, the Duomo, Palazzo Celestini (exterior only), the Monastery of the Theatines, and the Roman amphitheatre. Free time to explore the elegant streets or sample the famous pasticciotto leccese pastry, a regional specialty.

Otranto and the Salento Coast Excursion to Otranto, a charming seaside town rich in Mediterranean history and eastern influences. The day begins with a boat excursion through the Bay of Otranto to discover the stunning natural coves of the Salento coastline, including Cala di Grotta Monaca, Baia del Mulino d’Acqua, Baia Morrone, and Baia dei Turchi. Opportunity for swimming in the crystal-clear Adriatic waters. Return to shore for lunch followed by free time to explore the town at your own pace, admire the cathedral mosaics, or enjoy panoramic views from the Aragonese Castle. Return to Lecce at the end of the day.

Lecce – Matera Departure toward the Basilicata region and the famous city of Matera. Along the way, stop in the Manduria area to visit a vineyard located within a traditional masseria, a historic rural estate typical of Puglia. Enjoy wine tastings and local products in an authentic setting. Continue to Matera and check in at your hotel.

Matera, UNESCO Cave City Discover Matera, a fascinating cave city famous for its historic districts known as the Sassi. Carved directly into the rock, these unique dwellings earned Matera UNESCO World Heritage status. Visit the Sassi districts, a rock-hewn church, and the Casa Grotta Museum, which provide remarkable insight into traditional cave life that continued until the mid-20th century. During the tour, enjoy a tasting of local specialties including peperoni cruschi, a signature delicacy from Basilicata. Lunch in a local restaurant followed by free time to further explore this spectacular city, which has served as the setting for several internationally acclaimed films.

Bari – Return Transfer to the airport in Bari for your return flight with connections. End of this unforgettable journey through Puglia and Basilicata, featuring whitewashed villages, Italian gastronomy, and Mediterranean landscapes.