Benvenuti in Puglia!

Upon arrival at Bari International Airport, you'll be greeted and whisked away in a reserved private transfer to your charming boutique hotel in the heart of Lecce. The journey to this stunning Baroque city takes approximately two hours.

Alternatively, for travelers who will already be in Italy before the tour starts, we can also arrange transfers from the Lecce or Bari train stations. (Please note that transfers can only be guaranteed for those arriving on the designated arrival day)

Once in Lecce, settle into our gorgeous Boutique Hotel, perfectly located in the historic center! In the afternoon, join us for a delightful welcome drink at the hotel, where we’ll gather for a brief introduction to the exciting journey ahead.

Later, enjoy a leisurely stroll through Lecce’s vibrant historic center, soaking in the lively atmosphere and breathtaking architecture. Savor a delicious welcome dinner at a traditional local restaurant in the evening! 

After breakfast, meet our expert guide at the hotel for a full day exploring Lecce, the “Florence of Southern Italy” and a Baroque masterpiece. Visit iconic landmarks like Piazza Duomo, the Basilica of Santa Croce, and Piazza Sant’Oronzo, with a stop to enjoy traditional caffè leccese and local pastries.

Savor a delicious lunch at Tre Rane, then visit a historic papier-mâché workshop to learn about this unique local craft. Spend the afternoon at your leisure, soaking in the lively atmosphere of Lecce’s vibrant movida of restaurants and bars.

Stefano, your tour leader, will recommend his favorite local restaurants and bars for tonight!

After breakfast, we will travel to Otranto, Italy’s easternmost city, to explore its charming seaside town and visit the stunning Cathedral!

Arrive at a stunning Masseria (farmhouse) by noon for a guided tour with Sandra, the owner. Discover the historic underground oil mill and the "Cathedral of Wine," followed by a delightful lunch featuring local products and wines.

In the afternoon, visit Galatina to marvel at the breathtaking frescoes in the Basilica of St. Catherine of Alexandria, stroll through the old town’s Baroque palaces and quaint streets, and taste the legendary pasticciotto at one the most historical pasticcerie (bakeries) in town!

Get dressed up! Tonight, we will visit a noble residence from the 1700s in Lecce and enjoy an elegant private dinner in its palace court. 

After breakfast, check out and depart for Ostuni. 

En route, visit a stunning Masseria (farmhouse), an authentic 17th-century estate renowned for its cheese production. Pietro, the owner, will guide you through the entire process—from the cowshed to the dairy—showcasing the creation of Mozzarella, Burrata, Stracciatella, and other Apulian cheeses. Explore the aging cellar and trullo filled with Caciocavalli and Canestrati. 

End with a rich Apulian-flavored tasting of cheese, cured meats, fresh produce, and baked goods!

In the afternoon, we’ll visit Ostuni, the “White City,” famous for its medieval old town with whitewashed houses and winding alleyways leading to the stunning Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption!

Later, transfer to the Itria Valley for check-in to your new home for the next 4 nights!

After breakfast, transfer to the countryside of Fasano to visit a historic 18th-century Masseria. Rosaria, the warm and welcoming owner, will guide you through the ancient olive groves and the medieval underground oil mill. Conclude with a tasting of their exceptional EVO oil, discovering what sets artisanal production apart from store-bought varieties.

Next, head to Monopoli, a picturesque seaside town with whitewashed streets, ancient walls, and landmarks like the Co-Cathedral Basilica of Maria Santissima della Madia, the Church of Purgatory, and Charles V Castle. Stroll along the charming port and soak in the coastal beauty.

Return to the Masseria in the evening for dinner and an overnight stay.

Enjoy a relaxing day at the Masseria or take part in optional excursions in the surrounding area (details to be organized later).

In the afternoon, transfer to Cisternino, a charming rural village recognized as one of Italy’s Most Beautiful Villages. Savor a delicious dinner at a local restaurant or macelleria (butcher shop) featuring the famous meat bombette.

After breakfast, transfer to Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the European Capital of Culture 2019. Embark on a guided tour through the Sassi of Matera, one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in the world.

Discover how humans have harmonized with nature over millennia, carving homes and churches into the stone. Explore the Rioni Sassi—Barisano and Caveoso—featuring Rupestrian Churches, Case Grotta (cave dwellings)!

Enjoy lunch at a typical cave restaurant, followed by a hands-on bread-making workshop in a historic Sassi house, where you'll learn about the tradition of Matera’s famous bread.

Cheers to an unforgettable day in one of the most fascinating cities in the world. 

After breakfast at the Masseria, transfer to Martina Franca, the elegant "Living Room" of the Itria Valley. This Baroque city is home to the stunning Basilica of San Martino and charming houses with traditional wrought-iron balconies.

Next, head to Locorotondo, a hilltop village known for its whitewashed houses (Cummerse) that shimmer in the Apulian sunlight. Listed among Italy’s Most Beautiful Villages, it offers a picturesque stroll and a delicious lunch.

Return to the Masseria for some relaxation before an unforgettable farewell evening. Enjoy a hands-on pasta-making workshop and a delightful dinner featuring local products in a traditional country house in Martina Franca. 

Let’s celebrate an unforgettable week in Puglia!

Salute!

After breakfast, we’ll check out and head to Bari, the vibrant capital of Puglia and a historic trade hub with the East. Depending on your plans, we’ll drop you off at Bari Train Station or International Airport.

If time allows, we can explore Bari’s Old Town, known for the Basilica of San Nicola and its charming streets, where local women craft orecchiette pasta by hand. You’ll also have free time for a leisurely stroll or shopping in the city center.

Let us know if you’re extending your stay in Italy—I for Italia will gladly assist with your travel plans.

Arrivederci in Puglia!