8 NIGHT TRIP

Savor the rich culture and cuisine of southern Italy on this unforgettable journey through Puglia and Basilicata. From ancient cave dwellings to seaside towns, olive groves to Greek temples, this immersive experience blends history, heritage, and hands-on cooking classes. Discover Bari, Matera, Alberobello, Ostuni, Polignano, and more as you uncover the secrets behind southern Italy’s most flavorful dishes and storied past.

The mystical octagonal fortress of Castel del Monte

Cooking class in a traditional trullo home

Explore Matera and its UNESCO-listed cave dwellings

The seaside charm of Polignano a Mare

Wine tasting at a family-run winery in Gioia del Colle

Olive oil tasting in the heart of Puglia

The Greek temples of Metaponto

The whitewashed hilltop towns of Ostuni and Locorotondo

Description

Day 1: Arrive in BariI

Welcome to southern Italy! Upon arrival at Bari airport, meet your private driver for a comfortable transfer to your hotel in the heart of the city. Check in and settle in at leisure. Overnight stay in Bari.

Day 2: Discover Bari &
Polignano a Mare

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before setting off on a guided walking tour of Bari. Wander through the vibrant markets, elegant piazzas, and Romanesque churches of this coastal gem. Admire the Basilica of Saint Nicholas and the lively promenade. Sample authentic street food along the way. In the afternoon, head to Polignano a Mare with your private driver, where dramatic cliffs and sea-view terraces await. Treat yourself to a local gelato or granita before returning to Bari. Overnight stay.

Day 3: Castel del Monte & Trani

After breakfast, explore Trani’s charming port and visit its ancient cathedral and the Church of the Templars. Continue to a countryside masseria for a delicious local lunch. In the afternoon, tour the UNESCO-listed Castel del Monte, known for its unique octagonal design and mysterious symbolism. Return to Bari for an evening at leisure. Overnight stay.

Day 4: Grotte di Castellana & Alberobello

Enjoy breakfast before departing to the mesmerizing Grotte di Castellana, a network of ancient underground caves. Then, continue to Alberobello, famous for its fairytale trulli homes with conical roofs. Visit the Trullo Sovrano and explore the town’s unique architectural heritage. Enjoy an olive oil tasting at a local mill before checking into your hotel in Alberobello. Overnight stay.

Day 5: Ostuni & Locorotondo
with cooking class

Start your day with breakfast, then head to Ostuni, the dazzling “White City” perched on a hilltop. Meander through narrow alleys and whitewashed buildings. Continue to Locorotondo, one of Italy’s most beautiful villages, and enjoy its peaceful pace. Later, take part in a hands-on cooking class where you’ll learn traditional recipes using fresh local ingredients. Return to Alberobello. Overnight stay.

Day 6: Gioia del Colle & Matera

After breakfast, travel to Gioia del Colle for a guided visit of the castle, historic center, and local churches. Stop at a family-owned winery for a tasting and light lunch. Then journey to Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its ancient cave dwellings, the Sassi. Check in to your hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure. Overnight stay in Matera.

Day 7: Explore Matera &
cooking class

Breakfast at the hotel followed by a guided walking tour through Matera’s incredible stone-carved neighborhoods and medieval burial grounds. Learn about daily life in the Sassi and the city’s fascinating history. In the afternoon, enjoy a traditional cooking class focused on Basilicata’s rustic cuisine. Overnight stay.

Day 8: Temples of Metaponto & return to Bari

After breakfast, travel with your driver to Metaponto to explore the remains of ancient Greek civilization. Visit the Tavole Palatine (Temple of Hera), Apollo Licio’s archaeological park, and the Archaeological Museum showcasing the area’s rich Hellenic heritage. In the afternoon, return to Bari and check in to your hotel. Overnight stay.

Day 9: Departure

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before your private transfer to Bari airport. As you depart, take with you memories of magical towns, delicious food, and the timeless charm of southern Italy. Arrivederci!

NOTE: This journey of a lifetime is subject to change based on the availability of the services/tours/activities listed at the time of your traveling.