Puglia Beyond the Postcards
A private exploration of Puglia and Matera's cultural treasures, landscapes and cuisine.
An overview
Travel through the ancient cities, striking coastlines and storied traditions of southern Italy. Discover the medieval streets of Bari, the UNESCO sites of Matera and Castel del Monte, and the seaside allure of Polignano a Mare. Dine in countryside masserie, stroll whitewashed towns and embrace Puglia’s slow rhythms, with immersive guided tours and authentic regional flavors.
- Private cultural and culinary journey through Puglia and Matera
- Explore Bari, Alberobello, Matera, Lecce, Otranto, and Gallipoli
- Stay in two elegant bases: Bari and Lecce
- Enjoy traditional masseria lunches with local wines
- Visit UNESCO World Heritage sites and Baroque architecture
A Refined Timeline
Day 01: Arrival in Bari
Arrive in Bari and settle into your hotel. The remainder of the day is free to relax and begin exploring the vibrant atmosphere of Puglia’s capital city.
Day 02: Walking Tour of Bari Vecchia
After breakfast, meet your local guide for a private tour of Bari Vecchia, the city’s historic quarter. Discover winding lanes and charming squares, including the Basilica of Saint Nicholas, Swabian Castle, Piazza Mercantile, Piazza Ferrarese, Piazza del Sedile, and the Cathedral of San Sabino. Enjoy free time in the afternoon.
Day 03: Trani, Masseria Wine Tasting & Castel del Monte
Travel north to Trani, renowned for its medieval Jewish quarter and Romanesque cathedral overlooking the sea. Continue to a traditional masseria near Andria for lunch and a wine tasting. On the return, visit UNESCO-listed Castel del Monte, famed for its mysterious octagonal design. Overnight in Bari.
Day 04: Alberobello’s Trulli & Matera’s Sassi
Begin the day in Alberobello, celebrated for its iconic trulli houses. Cross into Basilicata to discover Matera, where the ancient cave dwellings of the Sassi districts offer breathtaking panoramas. Explore the historic center before returning to Bari.
Day 05: Polignano a Mare, Ostuni & Arrival in Lecce
Depart for Polignano a Mare, a cliffside town overlooking Adriatic coves, then continue to the whitewashed hilltop city of Ostuni, set amid olive groves and vineyards. Later, travel south and check in at your hotel in Lecce.
Day 06: Baroque Lecce Walking Tour
Meet your guide after breakfast for a private walking tour of Lecce. Marvel at ornate Baroque architecture at the Cathedral of Maria Santissima Assunta, Basilica of Santa Croce, and Palazzo dei Celestini. Stroll Piazza Sant’Oronzo, the Roman amphitheater and Church of Santa Chiara. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon.
Day 07: Otranto & the Salento Coast
Set out for Otranto, blending Greek, Roman and Ottoman influences. Following a guided visit and free time for lunch, continue along the scenic Salento coast, stopping at Santa Cesarea Terme and Castro Marina. Reach Santa Maria di Leuca, famous for its villas, lighthouse and Sanctuary of De Finibus Terrae, before returning to Lecce.
Day 08: Galatina, Masseria Lunch & Gallipoli
Head inland to Galatina to visit the Basilica of Santa Caterina d’Alessandria and the Church of San Pietro, discovering local traditions of tarantismo and pizzica. Enjoy lunch at Masseria L’Uliveto before continuing to Gallipoli, with its medieval-walled historic center. Return to Lecce for the night.
Day 09: Departure via Brindisi
After breakfast, check out and enjoy a private transfer to Brindisi Airport or port, where your journey through Puglia concludes.
A bespoke proposal can be tailored to your dates and party.
Featured Hotels
The itinerary features well-located hotels in Bari and Lecce or comparable properties. Final hotels and room types will be confirmed in your personalized proposal, subject to availability.
Bari
A centrally located 4-star hotel in Bari, providing comfortable accommodations for exploring the city and surroundings.
Lecce
A 5-star historic property in the heart of Lecce, offering elegant rooms and easy access to the city's Baroque treasures.
Boutique hotels, countryside masserie and upgraded luxury options are available upon request.
Investment
| Travel dates | Starting price |
|---|---|
| April 01 – October 31 | from €6,320 per person |
Prices may vary based on dates, availability and customization. SGL/TPL prices are not displayed. Final proposal confirms hotels and inclusions.
In your journey
- 8 nights with daily breakfast: 4 nights in Bari, 4 nights in Lecce
- Private transportation as per itinerary with English- or Italian-speaking driver
- Private guided visits in Bari, Trani and Castel del Monte, Alberobello, Matera, Lecce, Otranto, Galatina and Gallipoli
- Lunch and wine tasting at a traditional masseria near Andria
- Lunch at Masseria L’Uliveto (drinks not included)
- Private departure transfer from Lecce to Brindisi Airport or port
Worth knowing
- International and domestic flights
- Arrival transfer in Bari (unless specified in your proposal)
- Entrance fees not expressly listed in the confirmed proposal
- Meals and beverages not specifically listed as included
- City taxes payable locally, where applicable
- Travel insurance, gratuities and personal expenses
- Any services not expressly listed in the confirmed proposal
A sense of place
Questions, answered
Anything else on your mind? Speak to a concierge directly.
+1 210 303 9960Yes. Transportation and guiding services are arranged privately for your travel party according to the itinerary.
A journey rewritten in your name
Share your dates, your party and the moments that matter. We’ll return a private proposal within 48 hours.
