Rome & Puglia Discovery: Small Group Experience

Upon arrival in Rome, meet your private driver at the airport for a transfer to your hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. Overnight stay in Rome.

Accommodation at the Hotel St. Martin, Rome, or similar

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before checking out. Transfer to the train station for your high-speed train to Bari. Upon arrival in Bari, make your way to the hotel independently. The remainder of the day is at your leisure. Overnight stay in Bari. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Hotel Excelsior, Bari, or similar

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel, then meet your Tour Leader for a guided morning tour of Bari — the vibrant heart of Puglia. Explore the charming old town, including highlights like the Basilica of San Nicola and the Norman-Swabian Castle ticket not included), offering stunning views of the city. Stroll through Piazza Mercantile and see the historic Column of Justice.

After the tour, enjoy free time for lunch. While not included, we suggest dining at a traditional local restaurant or sampling some of Bari’s famous street food. Return to the hotel for dinner and an overnight stay. Meals: B, D

Accommodation at the Hotel Excelsior, Bari, or similar

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before departing Bari by coach toward Trani. Known as the Pearl of Puglia, this medieval town is one of Southern Italy’s true gems. Discover its rich artistic heritage, explore the Jewish quarter, and admire the stunning white stone Cathedral overlooking the sea.

In the afternoon, continue to Castel del Monte, one of Puglia’s most iconic landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in the 13th century under the reign of Emperor Frederick II, this striking octagonal fortress is a masterpiece of medieval architecture and shrouded in mystery.

Your journey then continues to Alberobello, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its Trulli — unique, cone-shaped houses made from local limestone. Dating back to the 14th century, these whimsical structures create a magical, storybook-like atmosphere. The name “Alberobello” comes from the ancient oak forest “Arboris Belli,” meaning “beautiful trees,” that once blanketed the area.

Upon arrival at your hotel, enjoy a welcome toast with a glass of local white wine and a taste of traditional Apulian taralli. Meals: B, D

Accommodation at the Grand Hotel La Chiusa di Chietri, Alberobello, or similar

Today’s destination is the extraordinary city of Matera. After breakfast, board the coach for your journey to this UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its ancient cave dwellings.

Explore the fascinating “Sassi di Matera”, a complex of cave homes carved into the rock and inhabited for over 9,000 years. These dwellings form part of the city’s historic center and offer a glimpse into one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited settlements. Visit the striking Romanesque Cathedral, perched high above the city with its beautiful Campanile tower), and take in panoramic views over the “Sassi.”

In the late afternoon, return to Alberobello. Dinner and overnight stay. Meals: B, D

Accommodation at the Grand Hotel La Chiusa di Chietri, Alberobello, or similar

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before departing Alberobello by coach. Your first stop is Locorotondo, one of Puglia’s charming “white towns,” known for its circular old town and whitewashed buildings. Enjoy some free time to explore its picturesque streets at your own pace.

Continue to Ostuni, a striking hilltop town overlooking the olive groves and coastline between the Trulli region and Salento. You’ll have free time to wander the historic center, enjoy lunch, shop, or sample local specialties — including the renowned Ostuni olive oil (at your own expense).

In the late afternoon, travel to Lecce, the baroque jewel of southern Puglia, located in the heart of the Salento region. Dinner and overnight stay. Meals: B, D

Accommodation at the Hotel Delle Palme, Hotel Mercure President, Lecce, or similar

Begin your day with a guided walking tour of Lecce, exploring its historic center, the stunning 12th-century Cathedral, the richly adorned Basilica of Santa Croce, and the elegant Piazza del Duomo.

After the visit, board the coach and travel to the coastal town of Otranto. Enjoy free time for lunch before spending the afternoon discovering this fascinating city at your own pace. Shaped by centuries of invasions, Otranto showcases a unique blend of Greek, Roman, and Turkish influences. Stroll through its charming old quarters, and be sure to visit the iconic Cathedral, home to the relics of 813 martyrs and one of Italy’s most impressive mosaic floors, rivaling those of Ravenna.

In the early evening, continue to Maglie for a memorable dinner at Masseria L’Uliveto. This historic farmhouse offers insight into Puglia’s rural traditions and a delicious meal of authentic regional cuisine. Return to Lecce for the overnight. Meals: B, D

Accommodation at the Hotel Delle Palme, Hotel Mercure President, Lecce, or similar

After breakfast, begin your journey back to Bari, passing through the scenic Murge plateau. Your first stop is Martina Franca, a refined Baroque town known for its elegant churches, noble palaces, and lively piazzas. Visit Piazza Plebiscito, the Cathedral, Ducal Palace, and the Torre dell’Orologio, with free time to explore at your leisure.

Continue through the beautiful Valle d’Itria, a countryside dotted with olive groves and vineyards. Stop for lunch at a traditional masseria, where you’ll enjoy organic, locally sourced cuisine paired with a tasting of premium extra virgin olive oil.

In the afternoon, visit Monopoli, a seaside citadel rich in history and charm. Wander through its maze of narrow streets, shaped by centuries of maritime trade and crusader voyages, and admire the fortified old town overlooking the Adriatic.

After your visit, a short drive will bring you back to Bari for your final overnight stay. Meals: B, L

Accommodation at the Hotel Excelsior, Bari, or similar

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. At the scheduled time, transfer to the train station for your high-speed train to Rome. Upon arrival, meet your driver for a private transfer to the hotel. Overnight stay in Rome. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Hotel St. Martin, Rome, or similar

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. Spend the day discovering the wonders of Rome at your own pace. You may also choose to enhance your experience with an optional tour. Optional guided visits to the Vatican Museums, the Colosseum, or immersive foodie tours are available upon request. Overnight stay in Rome. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Hotel St. Martin, Rome, or similar

Enjoy your final breakfast at the hotel. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some free time for last-minute shopping or sightseeing. A private transfer to the airport is included. Meals: B