9 Days / 8 Nights in Puglia, Italy | A Cultural & Culinary Journey Through Southern Italy.

October 14–22, 2026

Experience the beauty, flavors, and traditions of Puglia on a thoughtfully designed small-group journey through one of Southern Italy's most captivating regions.

From the historic streets of Bari and the ancient city of Matera to the whitewashed villages of the Itria Valley and the Baroque beauty of Lecce, you'll discover the region through its cuisine, history, artisan traditions, and the people who keep those traditions alive.

Along the way, you'll meet local producers, enjoy regional specialties, explore remarkable landscapes, and gain a deeper understanding of Southern Italy through experiences that reveal the history, traditions, and people behind each destination.

Arrival: Bari, Puglia
Guests may arrive at Bari Airport or Bari Centrale Train Station on October 14, 2026. Private arrival transfer to the hotel is included.

Departure: Lecce / Brindisi Area, Puglia
The journey concludes in Lecce on October 22, 2026. Guests may depart from Lecce Train Station, Brindisi Airport, or arrange onward travel from Bari Airport. Departure transportation details will be confirmed closer to the trip date.

Please click on here to read and accept the Terms & Conditions. You will be sent a copy separately to be signed.

Days 1–3 | Bari, Matera & Ancient Landscapes

Begin in the lively seaside city of Bari with a welcome aperitivo, dinner, and guided walk through Bari Vecchia, where local women still hand-roll fresh orecchiette along its narrow streets.

Spend a full day exploring the UNESCO World Heritage city of Matera, wandering through its ancient stone neighborhoods, remarkable cave dwellings, and breathtaking viewpoints while learning how people lived here for thousands of years.

Another day takes us beneath the surface of Puglia to explore the spectacular Castellana Caves, one of Europe's largest underground cave systems, before rolling up our sleeves for a hands-on gelato-making experience.

Meals Included: Daily breakfast, some lunches, and welcome dinner.

Travel into the heart of the Itria Valley, where rolling olive groves, vineyards, and whitewashed towns showcase another side of Puglia.

Meet local cheesemakers during a hands-on mozzarella-making experience, discover how olive trees have shaped Puglia's landscape, economy, and way of life for centuries, and enjoy a guided tasting at a local winery while learning about the native grape varieties that thrive here.

Wander among Alberobello's iconic trulli, step inside a ceramic artisan's studio in Grottaglie to see centuries-old craftsmanship firsthand, enjoy lunch at a celebrated Slow Food restaurant, and gather in the countryside for a hands-on cooking class before sharing the meal together.

Meals Included: Daily breakfast, lunches, and dinners.

Explore the elegant city of Lecce, known for its honey-colored Baroque architecture, lively piazzas, and artisan traditions. Enjoy a traditional Salento coffee and pastry while taking in the city's vibrant atmosphere.

Experience the music, history, and traditions of the pizzica, one of Salento's most celebrated cultural expressions. Through live music, storytelling, and dance, discover how this centuries-old tradition evolved from the legends of tarantismo into a vibrant celebration that continues to bring communities together throughout the region today.

Spend time exploring Lecce at your own pace—browse local boutiques, relax in a café, or simply enjoy the city's timeless atmosphere.

Spend time along the spectacular Salento coast with a gentle seaside walk, a picnic featuring regional specialties, and time to explore one of Puglia's charming coastal towns before celebrating the journey with a memorable farewell dinner.

Meals Included: Daily breakfast, select meals, and farewell dinner.