Join Cathy on a richly layered journey through Southern Italy, where whitewashed towns, sun-drenched coastlines, ancient cities, and centuries-old traditions reveal the distinctive character of Puglia and Matera. Stroll through the trulli-lined streets of Alberobello, admire the Baroque splendour of Lecce, and explore the winding lanes and hilltop viewpoints of towns such as Ostuni, Polignano a Mare, and Nardò. Along the Ionian coast, take in the region’s striking seaside scenery before travelling inland to Matera, where centuries-old cave dwellings and stone-carved churches create one of Italy’s most remarkable landscapes.
Throughout the journey, experience the flavours and hospitality of the region through home-cooked meals, olive oil and wine tastings, and time spent discovering the traditions that continue to shape daily life in Southern Italy. Blending cultural discovery, beautiful scenery, regional cuisine, and relaxed moments to simply enjoy the surroundings, this thoughtfully paced small-group tour offers a warm and engaging introduction to one of Italy’s most captivating corners.
April 22 – 30, 2027
$6,899 CAD per person, based on double occupancy and a minimum of 10 passengers (limited to a maximum of 12).
Single supplement $1,399 CAD (subject to availability). Hold your space with a $600 CAD non-refundable deposit.
Not included: International airfare and taxes, travel insurance, personal expenses, airport transfer upon departure, meals not mentioned in the itinerary, and some gratuities.
Your Package Includes:
- 8 Nights’ Accommodation in a Shared Room
- Meals as Indicated (8 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 1 Dinner)
- Airport Transfer on Arrival
- Private Vehicle Transport and Sightseeing as per Itinerary
- Guided Tour and Homecooked Trulli Lunch in Alberobello
- Ostuni Farm Visit and Olive Oil Tasting
- Private Boat Tour in Porto Selvaggio Regional Park
- Matera Winery Visit with Lunch
- Ipogeo Underground Cistern Visit
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Itinerary
Welcome to Puglia
Benvenuto! Welcome to Puglia, the heel of Italy’s boot. Your culinary adventure begins in the vibrant coastal city of Bari, where you’ll be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. If you arrive early, take time to wander the maze-like streets of Bari Vecchia, visit the magnificent Basilica di San Nicola, or stop into a local café for a traditional Italian cornetto.
This evening, meet your fellow travellers and Tour Leader before gathering for a welcome dinner. It’s the perfect introduction to the flavours of Puglia as you enjoy your first taste of the region’s renowned cuisine. (D)
Alberobello & Polignano a Mare
Today you’ll journey into the heart of Puglia to visit the UNESCO-listed town of Alberobello, famous for its enchanting trulli — distinctive whitewashed limestone homes topped with conical roofs. A local guide will introduce you to the history and traditions of these remarkable buildings as you explore the charming neighbourhoods of Rione Monti and Rione Aia Piccola, along with the unique Church of Sant’Antonio.
Later, step inside an authentic trullo for a home-hosted cooking demonstration and lunch. Learn the secrets behind traditional Apulian dishes while enjoying regional favourites prepared with fresh local ingredients.
This afternoon, continue to the spectacular seaside town of Polignano a Mare, perched dramatically above the Adriatic Sea. Wander its picturesque streets and admire the breathtaking coastal scenery before returning to Bari. On arrival, enjoy an orientation walk with your Tour Leader before the remainder of the evening is yours to explore at leisure. (B, L)
Bari
Today is yours to experience Bari at your own pace. Explore the charming streets of Bari Vecchia, visit the Basilica of San Nicola, stroll along the elegant waterfront promenade, browse local markets, or relax in one of the city’s many cafés and restaurants. (B)
Ostuni & Nardò
This morning you’ll visit a family-owned olive oil estate, where you’ll discover the centuries-old traditions of olive oil production and enjoy a tasting of some of the region’s finest extra virgin olive oils.
Continue to the beautiful “White City” of Ostuni, where narrow whitewashed streets wind past medieval churches and elegant piazzas. Enjoy lunch featuring regional specialities before travelling south to the Baroque town of Nardò.
An expert local guide will lead you through the historic centre, where grand palazzos and beautiful piazzas reveal the city’s rich architectural heritage.
Your home for the next three nights is within beautifully restored 13th-century Baronial Palaces that once belonged to the aristocracy of the Kingdom of Naples. Spend the evening exploring the elegant courtyards, gardens and impressive collection of local artwork. (B, L)
Lecce & Porto Selvaggio
Travel to the magnificent city of Lecce, often referred to as the “Florence of the South” for its extraordinary Baroque architecture. A local guide will introduce you to the city’s fascinating history as you explore its ornate churches, Roman ruins and lively streets, finishing with a traditional Italian aperitivo.
After some free time to browse the shops or enjoy lunch at your leisure, return to Nardò before embarking on a private boat excursion along the stunning Ionian coastline.
Cruise past dramatic cliffs, hidden sea caves and the protected shoreline of Porto Selvaggio Regional Park, with opportunities to swim and snorkel in the crystal-clear waters. (B)
Nardò
Enjoy a leisurely free day to soak up the atmosphere of Nardò.
You may choose to wander through its elegant Baroque centre, relax with a coffee in Piazza Salandra, browse local boutiques, or venture to the nearby beaches along the Ionian coast. This is the perfect opportunity to enjoy the slower pace of southern Italy. (B)
Winery Visit & Matera
After a relaxing morning, depart Nardò and travel towards the ancient city of Matera.
Along the way, visit a local winery where you’ll enjoy a tasting of regional wines accompanied by a leisurely lunch before continuing to one of Italy’s most remarkable destinations.
Believed to be one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited settlements, Matera is famous for its ancient cave dwellings carved into the limestone cliffs. Spend the evening exploring its atmospheric streets and discovering its unique charm. (B, L)
Matera
This morning, join a local guide to explore the extraordinary Sassi of Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site made up of thousands of ancient cave dwellings carved directly into the rock.
Wander through narrow alleyways and staircases while learning about the city’s fascinating history and remarkable transformation from one of Italy’s poorest communities into one of its most treasured cultural destinations.
You’ll also visit the remarkable underground neighbourhood of Ipogeo, where ancient homes, cisterns, churches and passageways reveal centuries of daily life beneath the city.
The remainder of the day is free to continue exploring Matera at your own pace. (B)
Departure
Enjoy one final breakfast before checking out of your hotel. As your unforgettable journey through Puglia comes to an end, you’ll leave with lasting memories of the region’s beautiful landscapes, rich history, and exceptional cuisine. (B)
Terms, conditions and restrictions apply; pricing, availability, and other details subject to change and/ or apply to US or Canadian residents. Please confirm details and booking information with your travel advisor.