Puglia - Mediterranean Flavours

Small Group Tour (Min 4 | Max 12 passengers) 7 Days ex Bari Departs: Selected Departures 2027 Departure Dates: Apr: 18 | May: 16 | Sep: 12 Notes: City taxes are not included and need to be paid directly at each hotel. The amount varies by municipality and accommodation category and is subject to change without notice. Rates are not valid over public or religious holidays. Conservano (1) | Otranto (3) | Altamura (2) Discover the authentic charm of Puglia, one of Italy's most captivating regions, where centuries of history, stunning Adriatic coastline and distinctive traditions combine to create an unforgettable journey. From the iconic trulli houses of Alberobello and the dazzling whitewashed streets of Ostuni to the baroque splendour of Lecce and the ancient cave dwellings of Matera, this itinerary showcases the region's remarkable diversity. Travel through picturesque coastal villages, sample renowned local wines, olive oils and artisan breads, and explore historic towns with expert local guides. Staying in carefully selected accommodation throughout, this journey offers an immersive introduction to the culture, cuisine and heritage of southern Italy. Highlights: 24/7 local operator support in Italy Wander through the whitewashed streets of Ostuni, the "White City" Explore the magnificent baroque architecture of Lecce with a local guide Visit the picturesque coastal towns of Otranto, Monopoli, Polignano a Mare and Gallipoli Experience the flavours of Puglia with wine, olive oil and traditional Altamura bread tastings Explore the extraordinary cave dwellings and rock churches of UNESCO-listed Matera Visit the impressive Basilica of Santa Caterina d'Alessandria in Galatina Travel throughout with a dedicated local tour escort and private transfers Itinerary Accommodation Day 1: Bari – Conversano (D) Welcome to Puglia. Upon arrival at Bari Airport, you will be met by your driver and transferred by private vehicle to Conversano. This evening, meet your fellow travellers over a welcome dinner featuring regional Puglian cuisine (drinks not included), providing an excellent introduction to the flavours and hospitality of southern Italy. Day 2: Conversano – Alberobello – Locorotondo – Ostuni – Otranto (B) After breakfast, depart for a full-day exploration of the beautiful Valle d'Itria, one of Puglia's most distinctive regions. Visit Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its remarkable trulli—traditional limestone dwellings with distinctive conical roofs. Continue to Locorotondo, considered one of Italy's most beautiful villages, where whitewashed houses and flower-filled streets surround its circular historic centre. Your journey concludes in Ostuni, the spectacular "White City", where winding lanes, elegant piazzas and panoramic views create one of southern Italy's most memorable settings. Continue to Otranto for overnight accommodation. Day 3: Otranto – Lecce – Otranto (B) Travel by minivan to the elegant city of Lecce, with a scenic photo stop overlooking the dramatic Adriatic coastline en route. Often referred to as the "Florence of the South", Lecce is celebrated for its magnificent Baroque architecture, ornate churches and beautifully carved limestone buildings. A two-hour guided walking tour introduces the city's rich history and remarkable artistic heritage. Return to Otranto for the evening. Day 4: Otranto – Galatina – Gallipoli – Winery – Otranto (B) Begin the day with a guided walking tour through Otranto's historic centre, including its remarkable cathedral, famous for its extraordinary medieval mosaic floor. Continue to Galatina to visit the magnificent Basilica of Santa Caterina d'Alessandria, one of Italy's finest examples of Gothic and Romanesque architecture, renowned for its exceptional frescoes. Later, travel to the historic seaside town of Gallipoli, where ancient defensive walls surround a charming old town filled with narrow laneways, elegant churches and bustling seafood markets. The day concludes with a visit to a local winery, where you'll sample regional wines and locally produced olive oil while learning about the area's long-standing agricultural traditions. Day 5: Otranto – Monopoli – Polignano a Mare – Bari – Altamura (B) Today travel north along the Adriatic coast, visiting several of Puglia's most picturesque towns. Explore Monopoli, a charming fishing town known for its atmospheric old quarter, hidden coves and historic harbour. Continue to the dramatic clifftop town of Polignano a Mare, where whitewashed buildings perch above turquoise waters and balconies offer spectacular coastal views. Your final stop is Bari, the vibrant regional capital. During a guided walking tour, discover the atmospheric streets of Bari Vecchia and visit the famous "Orecchiette Street", where local women continue the centuries-old tradition of making handmade pasta outside their homes. Continue to Altamura for overnight accommodation. Day 6: Altamura – Matera – Altamura (B) This morning visit one of Altamura's traditional bakeries, where generations-old techniques are still used to produce the town's internationally renowned PDO bread in ancient wood-fired ovens. Sample freshly baked bread and focaccia while learning about this enduring culinary tradition. Continue by private transfer to Matera, one of Europe's oldest continuously inhabited cities and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A guided tour explores the extraordinary Sassi, ancient cave dwellings carved into the limestone hillside that have been transformed into homes, churches and boutique accommodation. Visits include a traditional cave house and one of Matera's remarkable rupestrian churches, providing insight into the city's fascinating history. Return to Altamura. The walking tour is conducted at a relaxed pace. A tuk-tuk tour is available at additional cost for travellers who prefer to minimise walking on steps and uneven surfaces. Day 7: Altamura – Bari (B) After breakfast, transfer by private vehicle to Bari Airport for your onward flight. TOUR INCLUSIONS: 24/7 local operator support 6 nights' accommodation Breakfast daily Welcome dinner (drinks not included) Local English-speaking tour escort throughout Private airport transfers Private touring by minivan as specified Guided sightseeing in Lecce, Otranto, Bari and Matera Guided visit to the Basilica of Santa Caterina d'Alessandria, Galatina Winery visit with wine and olive oil tasting Traditional Altamura bakery visit with bread and focaccia tasting Entrance fees as specified, including Matera cave house and Rupestrian Church Italy Travel Notes - issued by Innovative Travel TOUR EXCLUSIONS: International Airfares Tourist tax to be paid to the hotels EUR3-6 per person per night Optional tours and excursions Entrance fees not mentioned Drinks during meals Porterage Mandatory Tipping/Gratuities (please refer to tour notes for a recommended guideline) Personal Expenses Hotel charges for minibar or any extra charges Visas (unless specified) Travel Insurance (compulsory) Any other services not clearly mentioned in the inclusions above Accommodation based on the below (or similar): Conservano Corte Altavilla (4*) Otranto Albania (3*+) Altamura San Nicola (4*) View Important Information Enquire About This Itinerary Download Itinerary Trip prices and dates are correct at the time of the website going live, however all offers are subject to reconfirmation at the time of booking. 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