8-Day Tour of Puglia, Italy

Begin your journey in the vibrant port city of Bari. Explore the old town area of Bari Vecchia, a labyrinth of ancient streets next to the harbor. Visit the Basilica of San Nicola, a historical gem said to house the bones of Saint Nick. Meet your tour leader at the hotel reception at 6 pm for a welcome meeting. Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure, perhaps strolling along the Lungomare seaside promenade.

Depart Bari for Altamura, a city renowned for its bread. Sample local delicacies before heading to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Castel del Monte, a well-preserved medieval castle. Later, arrive in Matera, famous for its ancient sassi, a troglodyte quarter dating back to prehistoric times. Spend the night in a hotel nestled within these ancient cave dwellings.

Embark on a guided walking tour of Matera's sassi quarter, split into two halves - Sassi Caveoso and Sassi Barisano. Spend the afternoon at leisure, perhaps taking a train to the historic town of Gravina, known for its deep river gorge and the remarkable Gravina Sotterranea, an underground network of passageways.

Travel to an agriturismo in Putignano for a cheese tasting. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Listed town of Alberobello, famous for its unique trulli houses. Stop at the Cantina Albea Winery and Museum for a guided tour and wine tasting. Spend the night in a traditional trulli house.

Enjoy a free day to explore at your own pace. You might choose to visit the picturesque town of Locorotondo, or the Castellana Caves. Alternatively, spend the day on the coast in Monopoli, where you can relax on sandy beaches and explore the town's historic sites.

Leave Alberobello and head to Masseria Frantoio Ipogeo, an olive press in natural limestone caves. Continue to the historic town of Otranto for a visit to the cathedral and a coastal walk to the old bauxite quarry lake. Later, arrive in Lecce, known as the 'Florence of the south' for its rich Baroque heritage.

Start the day with a guided walking tour of Lecce, visiting the Basilica di Santa Croce and Piazza del Duomo. Spend the rest of the day at leisure, exploring the city's Roman amphitheater, the statue of Saint Oronzo, and the Triumphal Arch, or visiting the Museo Faggiano for a deeper dive into the city's history.

Your journey concludes after breakfast. You're free to depart at any time. If you're flying out of Bari International Airport, you can take a train from Lecce. If your flight departs early, you can arrange a private transfer at an additional cost. Alternatively, spend more time exploring Lecce before heading to the airport at your convenience.