Perfect 9-Day Puglia Exploration

On your first day in Puglia, you will waste no time getting to know the region and its main attractions. After departing your hotel after a fortifying breakfast, you will make your way to the scenic town of Alberobello by means of a comfortable transfer. Your day trip here will begin with a visit to a local cheese artisan. Here, you will sample some of the region's best cheeses and Burrata before making your way to the curious stone huts that line the neighborhoods of Alberobello. These huts have earned the town the privilege to be listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Cheese will be replaced by olives when you embark on a day trip to an authentic Italian olive press. Here, some of the region's most important export is produced. As you sample the delightful varieties of olive oil, you will learn about the methods and secrets that go into making this tasty treat. In the afternoon, you can stroll through the village of Ostuni on a walking tour of the open piazzas and limestone alleyways of this attractive community.

Your exploration of Puglia's status as a European olive growing center will continue when you visit one of the region's oldest olive groves for a midday picnic. As you stroll along olive trees, some of which are over 2,000 years old, the true heritage of this plant and its impact on the Mediterranean diet will be revealed. In the afternoon, you can enjoy a subterranean visit to the famous Grotte di Castellana Caves. Here, you can enjoy the numerous sights and oddities that can be found here.

To ensure a comprehensive glimpse of Puglia's rural charm, you will enjoy a private tour of three of the region's most charming villages. Perched atop cliffs and sea, Polignano a Mare provides a breathtaking glimpse of one of Puglia's most ancient villages. In Cisternino, you will have a chance to witness the Italian love affair with piazzas, which are open-air squares where people assemble throughout the day. Lastly, you will be able to end your day among the narrow alleys and medieval buildings of Locorotondo.

Located at the heel of the famous boot of Italy, the southern portion of Puglia juts into the Mediterranean Sea. Over the centuries, the town was a conspicuous landing spot for friendly traders and would-be invaders. Today, you will venture further into this landscape to the town of Lecce. Once you have settled into your comfortable accommodation, you can acquaint yourself with the town during a walking tour of the Baroque beauty that is well-displayed throughout the many neighborhoods.

For your first full day on the Salentine Peninsula, you will enjoy a trip to the nearby town of Gallipoli for some stunning views of the marina. This rustic island town is reachable only by a 16th-century bridge and resembles a more modest Mont-St. Michelle. During your guided tour of the town, its rich history and cultural significance will come to life. By the time you return to your hotel in the evening, you will be impressed that so much beauty can be contained in such little town.

For your final full day in Southern Italy, you will depart the Baroque beauty of Lecce and make your way to the Basilicata province and the charming town of Matera. After arriving in this stunning example of Southern Italian living, you will have a chance to settle in to your hotel before exploring the rustic environment of the town. Your orientation will greet you in the form of a walking tour of the city center. This tour will allow you to explore the famous cave dwellings, where people have sheltered for centuries, before returning to your comfortable accommodation.

Your Puglian adventure will come to an end today as you depart Matera by private transfer and make your return trip to Bari. As you pass the crumbling ruins of villas and farms and take in the sweeping views of the sea, you will be charmed by this off-the-beaten-path part of Italy. From the coastal brilliance of Savelletri to the landlocked serenity of Lecce, you will have seen a side of Southern Italy that is often missed by many. As you board your return flight, you will carry with you the fond memories that you have made in this storied land.