8D7N Best of Apulia

Upon arrival at Bari airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. After checking in and settling into your hotel, the remainder of the day is yours to explore at your leisure

Begin your day with breakfast at the hotel before meeting your driver for a city tour of Bari. As the capital of the Puglia region, Bari offers a rich blend of history and culture. Explore its charming old town, with narrow streets that lead to the stunning Basilica of San Nicola, a pilgrimage site for Christians from all over the world. Stroll through Bari’s vibrant squares, admire its historic buildings, and soak in the lively atmosphere of this coastal city.

After the Bari city tour, continue to the picturesque village of Monopoli, located along the Adriatic Sea. Known for its dramatic beauty, Monopoli’s historic center is filled with narrow streets, beautiful churches, and sudden glimpses of the turquoise sea. A local guide will lead you through this charming fishing village, unveiling its hidden corners where you can enjoy a delicious Mediterranean meal.

In the afternoon, journey to Alberobello, the capital of the Trulli area and a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1996. The Trulli, with their distinctive round shapes and stone-domed roofs, tell the story of 15th-century peasants who built these unique structures under the Kingdom of Naples. Your guide will take you through Alberobello, sharing the fascinating history behind these remarkable buildings.

End the day with an overnight stay in Alberobello, surrounded by the enchanting beauty and rich history of this unique destination.

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Start your day with breakfast at the hotel before departing for Matera, famously known as the “City of Caves.” Matera is a place of pure charm, where the unique interplay of colors, light, and views captivates visitors. The city’s most remarkable features are the “Sassi” and the rupestrian churches, carved directly into the tuff rock. These ancient cave dwellings and churches reflect Matera’s deep spirituality, authenticity, and incredible history. Yet, Matera offers more than just its Sassi; it also boasts a rich artistic and cultural heritage, delightful cuisine, and warm hospitality.

The dramatic landscape of Matera has made it a favorite location for filmmakers, including renowned directors such as Roberto Rossellini, Pier Paolo Pasolini, Giuseppe Tornatore, and Mel Gibson, who chose Matera as the setting for “The Passion of the Christ.” Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1993, the Sassi are among the world’s most iconic landscapes. These ancient districts, with houses stacked like terraced vineyards, are connected by narrow streets and broad stairways. The Sassi feature brick facades, while their interiors are entirely dug into the rock, a testament to the area’s long history of human habitation.

Explore Matera with a guided tour that includes a visit to Casa Grotta, a typical cave dwelling, and savor an unforgettable lunch at a restaurant perched on a panoramic terrace overlooking the caves. Afterward, return to Alberobello for an overnight stay, filled with memories of this extraordinary journey.

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Begin your day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel before setting off to explore the southern part of Apulia. Your first stop is the enchanting town of Ostuni, known as “The White Town” (La Città Bianca) for its striking white walls and distinctive white-painted architecture. Perched atop a hill and still encircled by ancient fortifications, Ostuni offers a fascinating glimpse into the past. The town’s most prominent landmarks include the majestic Ostuni Cathedral and the Bishop’s Palace, along with numerous palazzi belonging to local aristocratic families such as Aurisicchio, Ayroldi, and Moro, among others. The surrounding countryside is dotted with traditional Pugliese “masserie,” fortified estate farms, including San Domenico, once held by the Knights of Malta.

As you wander through Ostuni, a knowledgeable guide will reveal the hidden corners and rich history of this charming town. Afterward, continue your journey through the scenic Salento area, arriving in Gallipoli, a coastal gem with its own unique allure.

End your day with an overnight stay in Gallipoli, where you can unwind and reflect on the captivating sights and stories of the day.

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After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, depart for Lecce, the capital of Baroque architecture, often referred to as the “Florence of the South” due to its wealth of monuments. Lecce is a city of ornate rose windows, intricate stonework, Solomonic columns, quaint piazzas, and charming alleyways. Begin your exploration by passing through the arch of Porta Napoli and entering the historic center along Via Palmieri, a street lined with aristocratic palazzos that leads to the grand Piazza Duomo. Alternatively, starting at Porta Rudiae, you can wander through the ancient, maze-like Giravolte district, known for its multicultural heritage and winding streets.

As you stroll through Lecce, you’ll discover the city’s unique charm, especially as the sun sets and the local Lecce stone takes on a warm pink hue. Along the way, explore Lecce’s rich tradition of papier-mâché, an art form that flourished between the 17th and 18th centuries. Born from humble beginnings, this craft evolved into a celebrated art, with local artisans creating expressive statues of saints and Madonnas for churches and religious processions. The fascinating history of this art is preserved at the Museum of Papier-Mâché, located in the Castle of Charles V.

In addition to its stunning churches, noble palaces, and historical monuments, Lecce is also renowned for its culinary delights. The local cuisine is rooted in the region’s abundant produce, olive oil, bread, and pasta. Signature dishes include orecchiette, maccheroncini, and tagliatelle, often served with fresh tomato sauce, tender lamb, or locally caught fish.

A guided tour will offer you the opportunity to fully appreciate the beauty and history of Lecce. End your day with an overnight stay in Lecce, immersed in the splendor of this remarkable city.

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Start your day with breakfast at the hotel before setting off with a private driver for Brindisi, a city steeped in history as one of the main harbors to Greece since the Roman Empire. Brindisi marks the endpoint of the Via Appia, one of Rome’s ancient consular roads. During the Roman era, its harbor was a crucial gateway to the East, where ships laden with spices, wine, salt, and other precious goods would arrive.

On the way to Brindisi, you’ll visit two hidden gems: Mesagne and Oria, both medieval villages with beautifully preserved historic centers. These charming towns still boast ancient castles and fortified borgos that transport you back in time. In Oria, the summer season brings a lively medieval tournament, where knights engage in sword fights on horseback. During your visit, enjoy a wine tasting experience in an authentic castle, now transformed into a renowned winery.

Afterward, continue to Brindisi, where you’ll spend the night, surrounded by the rich history and culture of this ancient port city.

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After breakfast at the hotel, enjoy a day of leisure in Brindisi. Take this opportunity to explore the city’s rich heritage and attractions. We recommend starting with a visit to the stunning Cathedral Maggiore, a remarkable example of Romanesque architecture. Continue your journey through history at the Museo Ribezzi, which houses an impressive collection of archaeological artifacts that reveal the city’s ancient past. Don’t miss the iconic Via Appia column, marking the endpoint of the historic road that once connected Rome to Brindisi, and the modern Monumento al Marinaio (Seaman’s Monument), a towering 68-meter-high helm that offers breathtaking views over the harbor.

As you explore Brindisi, be sure to indulge in the city’s diverse and delectable culinary offerings, which are a true reflection of its vibrant culture. End the day with an overnight stay in Brindisi, where the city’s timeless charm continues to captivate.

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As your journey comes to an end, enjoy a final transfer to Brindisi airport for your departure. With fond memories of Italy’s stunning landscapes, rich history, and unforgettable experiences. End of services.

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