8D7N Apulia, the Heel of Italy (6270)

Check into your hotel. The rest of the day is free to start exploring Naples, one of the oldest continuously- inhabited cities in the world. Tonight, meet your Tour Director and fellow travellers. 

The guided sightseeing tour this morning gives you an introduction to the eventful history of this city and its colourful traditions. Depart Naples and travel into Apulia, the legendary "heel" of Italy. Stop to visit Castel del Monte, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, built in the 13th century by Holy Roman Emperor Frederick II, and renowned for its unique octagonal shape. Continue to the Adriatic coastline for an orientation tour of the beautiful port city of Bari.

Experience the famous limestone caves of Castellana Grotte. This impressive system is a wonderland of captivating stalactites, stalagmites, and crystallised mineral deposits. Next stop is Alberobello, renowned for its distinct conical-roofed "trulli" houses. Follow the coastline to lovely Lecce, the "Florence of the South."

On your included excursion to Santa Maria di Leuca, the southernmost tip of Apulia, discover art nouveau villas and beach huts from the early 20th century. On to Gallipoli, an ancient Greek city built on an island in the Ionian Sea. Enjoy the Old Town with its quaint ambiance, winding streets, and inviting squares. Discover Frantoio Ipogeo, an underground olive press buried in the tufa rock. Between the 16th and 19th centuries, workers pressed Gallipoli's olive oil, and used it to light the city's oil lamps. Return to Lecce. Time to marvel at its opulent Baroque buildings.

On to Manduria, situated in the rural wine-growing region. Visit a wine cellar and get to taste some of the typical Primitivo wine. Next stop is Ostuni, only 42 miles from Greece, characterised by its flat-roofed, white, Greek-looking town centre. Overnight in Fasano, a peaceful town surrounded by olive groves and vineyards, not far from the Adriatic Sea.

Today is free to do as you like. Maybe join the optional excursion to Matera and Altamura. The impressive "rock city" of Matera is home to the prehistoric sassi cave dwellings, while a guided tour of Altamura reveals the amazing stone-clad city, with free time afterwards to stroll through the Old Town on your own.

Puglia is famous for its olive trees and, this morning, you'll visit a traditional olive mill. Taste some genuine olive oil, enjoy a light lunch, and stroll around the groves. Later, travel back to Naples for a chance to treat yourself to a real espresso coffee shot or the most authentic pizza.

Your holiday ends with breakfast this morning.