Undiscovered Italy - Highlights of Puglia
Your Guided Group Holiday To Puglia
Travel with us to discover the enchanting region of Puglia, on the heel of Italy’s ‘boot’. On this trip to Italy, we’ll have plenty of time to explore both the culture and the heritage of this area including landmark cities like Lecce - the ‘Florence of the South’, Bari with its atmospheric seaport, and the unspoiled heritage towns of Trani and Ostuni. We’ll discover sandy beaches, rolling green hilltops with panoramic views and incredible art and architecture. Known for its superb olive oils and wines, Puglia has its own unique cuisine, including the famous ‘orecchiette’ pasta. We’ll have the opportunity to sample some of these local flavours on a full day excursion to Alberobello for homegrown produce and regional wines, and Martina Franca for fresh olive oil. With a convenient direct flight from Dublin to Bari, there’s never been a better time to discover this unique part of Italy!
Trip Itinerary
Activity Level: Moderate
Day
Travel to Italy
Transfer to Hotel
Depart for Bari today where we will be met on arrival by our expert guide, who will accompany us on the transfer to our hotel.
(Arrivals from London will visit Bari & Trani today before transferring to the hotel)
Alberobello & Martina Franca
Full Day Guided Excursion
We set off from our hotel this morning for an excursion to Alberobello, known for its UNESCO protected conical-shaped Trulli constructions. We will savour a tasting at one of the local wine cellars and more local flavours with olive oil tasting in Martina Franca. There will be free time for some independent sightseeing in Alberobello before returning to our hotel
At Leisure
Free Time in Puglia
Enjoy a day at leisure to see more of Ostuni and perhaps take a trip to the coast, just 6km away. Our guide will be pleased to provide information on getting around in the area.
Lecce
Guided Excursion to Lecce
Let’s join our guide this morning and travel to the baroque city of Lecce, also known as the Florence of the South. Our guided walking tour takes us through the historic centre, which is characterised by the white and gold colour of the famous Lecce stone. (Entrances not included)
There will be free time for lunch in Lecce (not included) and our guide can suggest places which offer delicacies unique to the region.
At Leisure or Optional Excursion to Matera
Free Time at Leisure
Today is a free day, to relax and discover the charms of Ostuni. Explore the historic town centre and enjoy a coffee or a refreshing gelato while admiring the panoramic views. Our expert local guide will be happy to suggest activities and advise on must-see highlights.
Optional Excursion to Matera
Optional full day excursion to the European Capital of Culture 2019 and UNESCO listed town of Matera. Home to the Sassi di Matera cave-like dwellings your excursion will include a guided walking tour through the labyrinth of alleys and streets followed by free time at leisure for sightseeing and shopping before returning to your hotel. This excursion is subject to minimum numbers.
Trani & Bari
Trani
This morning we set off from our hotel to visit the beautiful town of Trani, where traces of Arab, Byzantine and Norman civilisations can be found.
Bari
After some free time for lunch (own arrangements) we continue with a visit to Bari, capital of the Puglia region. We will uncover more on a guided walking tour of the old town centre, including visits to the churches of San Nicola and San Gregorio.
Day at Leisure
Explore Puglia At Your Own Pace
We'll enjoy a free day for relaxing or independent sightseeing. Our guide will be on hand to suggest activities based on your interests.
Return Home
Depart Italy
Time to say 'arrivederci' to lovely Puglia, and transfer to the airport for our flight home.
* We aim to operate your tour itinerary according to the format shown. Occasionally, local conditions and unexpected events may result in adjustments to the planned schedule. We kindly ask for your understanding and flexibility in the event of any changes.
Customer Reviews
Know before you go
What if there is an emergency?
We have local representatives in all of our destinations who are available 24/7 as well as an emergency contact number for our offices in Ireland should you ever need it.
Do I need a Visa?
Please visit our visa page for information on requirements for each country's entry requirements
Will I be met at the airport?
You will be met on arrival at your destination airport and transferred to your accommodation. You will be accompanied on all included excursions by your Travel Department guide. Your expert local guide is also available to give you tips and advice on any aspect of your holiday.