Puglia is probably the most surprising of Italy’s regions. The Illyric and Italic civilizations initially inhabited this area as early as 40,000 years ago; however, the Greeks, beginning in the 8th Century BC, created the first large settlements along the coast. The area was variously controlled by the Romans, Byzantines, Normans, Ostragoths, Spanish, Turkish and French. This amalgamation of cultures offers visitors a region replete with generous people, exceptional food and wine, as well as a veritable mosaic of artistic, architectural, and religious influences.
Our small group exploration of the region includes visits to Ostuni, Alberobello, Leece, and Gallipoli, to name only a few. Also included is a full day visit to the city of Matera in the province of Basilicata. For the first few days of the tour, guests will enjoy accommodations at a gorgeous, luxury masseria where wine and olive oil are produced. On the first Saturday of the tour, our guests move to an incredible luxury villa not far from Lecce.
Itinerary
Please note this itinerary indicates a typical tour with us. Some dates and destinations are subject to change to support the highest quality tour possible.
- Day One: Arrival Brindisi/Bari Airport and transfer to your private villa. Remainder of the day at your leisure.
- Day Two: Visit to the Ostuni and Alberobello with our guide. Lunch in Alberobello.
- Day Three: Transfer to the Salento city of Lecce with a stop at a small family-owned winery for lunch and tasting. Upon arrival in Lecce, check into our hotel. Cooking lesson for dinner this evening.
- Day Four: Morning walking tour of Lecce. Late morning transfer to the seaside city of Gallipoli. Board motor yacht for cruise along the Salento coast with light lunch served on board. Stop in Galatina for a brief visit as we return to the villa.
- Day Five: Visit to Ostuni with our guide. Group lunch in Ostuni.
- Day Six: Transfer to the nearby city of Polignano a Mare for open late morning, lunch on your own and shopping time. Visit to a small private family-owned winery for tour, lunch and tasting.
- Day Seven: Check out of our villa and transfer to a beautiful family owned Masseria (Winery estate) near Taranto. Upon arrival check in. Remainder of day at leisure.
- Day Eight: Open morning. Owner-led visit to the Maserria’s extensive wine cantinas. Lunch with the owner at the Masseria. Open late afternoon for spa appointments and relaxation.
- Day Nine: Visit to the ancient Basilicata city of Matera. Guided visit upon arrival. Group lunch. Time for exploration on your own.
- Day Ten: Visit to Brindisi for a guided visit of the city center and archaeological museum. Group lunch.
- Day Eleven: Transfer to Taranto for a guided visit and group lunch.
- Day Twelve: Departures from Brindisi/Bari.
Details
Included Services
- Meet-and-greet/Departure private transfers
- Luxury Accommodations in Basilicata
- Luxury villa accommodations in Puglia
- Private dedicated guides for all sites visited
- Private dedicated transportation throughout the tour with our group
- Bilingual staff