Ciao! Welcome to Bari, capital of Puglia, Italy’s latest di moda travel destination. Meet with your tour leader for a stroll through the historic old town of Bari, a medieval labyrinth of winding alleyways and graceful piazzas. A university town, Bari is hipper than its old-school neighbors Lecce and Brindisi. You’ll discover the Romanesque Saint Nicholas (aka Santa Claus) Basilica, and explore the imposing walls of the Norman castle, and the 11th century Romanesque Cathedral of Saint Sabinus, which contains the remnants of an ancient Christian Basilica and Roman ruins in its basement. Talk about history in layers! You’ll then settle into dinner at an iconic Bari restaurant and raise a glass of local wine (the first of many) to the thrilling odyssey that lies ahead. 

Today’s adventure takes you beyond the city limits and into the heart of the Puglian countryside. Your morning begins with a visit to the spectacular, octagonal Castel del Monte, once the residence of Frederick II, a German emperor fascinated by esotericism and occultism. Next, you’re off to the charming coastal town of Trani, a dazzling seaport favored by well-heeled Italians who can’t get enough of its pretty marina. Enjoy a tour of the town’s dramatic 11th century cathedral, with its rose window, mysterious crypts and a bell tower that overlooks the glittering Adriatic Sea. Enjoy lunch at a local trattoria, before heading to the nearby hills of Trani, to an agricultural estate to learn about Puglia’s ancient olive oil traditions and taste the delicious local varieties. The evening is yours to soak up the maritime vibes of Bari at your leisure. 

Today, venture into the enchanting depths of the Castellana Caves, Italy’s longest natural underground wonderland. Marvel at 'the Grave,' a grand cavern often likened to the Roman Pantheon, and the dazzling 'White Cave,' a surreal grotto adorned with alabaster stalactites that evoke a fairy-tale realm. Your journey continues to the charming town of Alberobello, where whimsical trulli houses steal the show. These beehive-shaped limestone huts with conical roofs look like they're straight out of a storybook. After a delicious local lunch, embark on a guided tour of Alberobello, exploring the interiors of these iconic dwellings and shopping for souvenirs. Delve into the town's rich artisanal heritage, and learn about the region's renowned pottery. Cap off the day with an evening of delicious independence, dining solo in charming Bari.

Your itinerary today is likely to leave you shaken AND stirred as you set off to uncover the secrets of Matera, a legendary city in the region of Basilicata that famously featured in Daniel Craig’s final outing as 007. With a past of continuous occupation dating back to the Palaeolithic era, Matera's rock-cut old town brims with legend and lore. Take a wander around the city with your guide, exploring Rupestrian churches and cave houses, unveiling one of the oldest troglodyte settlements in southern Italy. For lunch, chow down on local dishes at a restaurant that boasts stunning panoramas of the valley beond the city. The rest of the day and evening is yours to relax or continue discovering Bari’s myriad charms. 

Live la dolce vita today on a fairytale journey along the Adriatic Coastline. Make a beeline for sensational Polignano a Mare, a fishing village perched atop limestone cliffs overlooking the turquoise sea. Set sail along the coastline and gaze upon stunning sea caves and scenic bays. A little further down the coast, you’ll find yourself in Monopoli, another pretty town known for its ancient churches and fortified walls. Eat local specialties in a popular restaurant, with views over the 16th-century maritime fort. Next, embark on a sightseeing tour of Brindisi, taking in a medieval fortress that once guarded the harbor, and the iconic Roman Columns that signal the end of the storied Via Appia. Finish the day in Lecce, the ‘Florence of the South,’ where you’re free to peruse the streets and treat yourself to dinner at one of its many delightful eateries.

Fall in love with Lecce today. A thriving city under the Roman Empire, you’ll visit its impressive Amphiteather, one of the best preserved gladiator arenas in Italy. Admire the Baroque Basilica of Santa Croce, with its ornate facade, wander around the Piazza del Duomo, and savor a moment of cool tranqulity in Lecce Cathedral. For lunch, join a hands-on cooking class and learn how to make orecchiette pasta. In the afternoon, visit Museo Faggiano, where one man's quest to fix his toilet unearthed an archaeological treasure trove of over 5,000 artifacts and a labyrinth of underground chambers dating back to various periods of history, a truly fascinating place! Tonight,  Lecce is all yours 

Spend your final day exploring Taranto, a Mediterranean gem once ruled by the Greeks. Begin with the ancient Aragonese Castle, a medieval fortress that’s guarded the city for centuries. Next, marvel at Taranto’s Cathedral of Saint Cataldo, with its Romanesque, Byzantine, and Baroque styles—a testament to the city's diverse past. Lunch offers stunning views of the Ionian Sea at a seaside restaurant. In the afternoon, regroup for a lively farewell as you learn the tarantella, southern Italy’s iconic dance. Move to the rhythmic beats of Puglia's traditional music, immersing yourself in this joyful celebration of community and heritage. It's the perfect way to cap off your Italian adventure!

Time to say arrivederci today. Your guide will be on hand to organise a private transfer to the airport anytime after breakfast (and your final cappuccino). If you fancy staying on for further exploration, check out the Atlas Obscura Guide to Italy for further itinerary inspiration. Until our next adventure!