Hidden Gems of Puglia – 10 Days
- Discover hidden villages and historic towns off the beaten path
- Walks in the Umbra Forest and along panoramic cliffs
- Culinary experiences and encounters with local artisans
- Visit Castel del Monte and port towns like Trani and Barletta
- Baroque villages and UNESCO trulli in the Valle d’Itria
- This is a sample itinerary which is completely customizable, ask us how.
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Vieste
Day 1 – Vieste
Arrival in Vieste, an ancient town perched on the Gargano promontory.
Stroll through the historic center, with its whitewashed houses and cobbled streets, overlooking the crystal-clear sea and cliffs. The pace is slow, focused on observing the town and its harbor, while the sunset over the Adriatic closes the day poetically.
Overnight: Vieste
Day 2 – Peschici & Baia di Manaccora
Day 2 – Peschici & Baia di Manaccora
Transfer to Peschici, a medieval village suspended above the sea.
Explore the historic center, the castle, and the stunning views of Baia di Manaccora. The day also includes relaxation in hidden coves and walks along coastal paths that remain largely undiscovered by mass tourism.
Overnight: Peschici
Day 3 – Foresta Umbra
Day 3 – Foresta Umbra
A day immersed in the nature of the Umbra Forest, the green heart of the Gargano.
Walks among centuries-old trees, listening to the silence, interrupted only by birdsong and the rustle of leaves. This is a contemplative experience for those seeking a deep connection with pristine nature.
Overnight: Peschici / Vieste
Day 4 – Monte Sant’Angelo
Day 4 – Monte Sant’Angelo
Transfer to Monte Sant’Angelo, a historic village perched on the Gargano. Visit the sanctuary and medieval castle, enjoying panoramic views over the promontory. The town is distinguished by its spirituality and the understated elegance of its streets, offering a fascinating contrast with the surrounding nature.
Overnight: Monte Sant’Angelo
Day 5 – Castel del Monte & Andria
Day 5 – Castel del Monte & Andria
Transfer to northern Murgia to discover the famous Castel del Monte, a symbol of Frederick II’s architecture. Private visit of the castle and surrounding countryside, with sweeping views of the hills. The day also includes an immersion in local gastronomy at masserie and artisanal producers.
Overnight: Andria / Murgia
Day 6 – Trani
Day 6 – Trani
A day dedicated to Trani, an elegant and luminous port town. Stroll through the historic center and the harbor, visit the cathedral by the sea, and observe local life.
Relaxing moments on terraces overlooking the Adriatic complete the experience.
Overnight: Trani
Day 7 – Barletta
Day 7 – Barletta
Transfer to Barletta, a historic town with few tourists and rich in monuments.
Visit the Swabian Castle, the historic center, and local museums, with free time to discover hidden corners of the town and wander through quiet squares and alleys.
Overnight: Barletta
Day 8 – Cisternino
Day 8 – Cisternino
Transfer to the Valle d’Itria and arrival in Cisternino, an intimate and characteristic village. Stroll through whitewashed streets and flower-filled balconies, with the possibility to taste local cuisine in one of the traditional “fornelli” tucked into the alleys. The atmosphere is cozy and discreet, perfect for a slow travel experience.
Overnight: Cisternino
Day 9 – Martina Franca
Day 9 – Martina Franca
A day dedicated to Martina Franca, an elegant Baroque village. Walk among noble palaces, churches, and artisanal workshops. Wine tastings and local product experiences complement the day, while the town’s pace invites observation and contemplation.
Overnight: Martina Franca
Day 10 – Alberobello
Day 10 – Alberobello
Final visit to Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its trulli.
Stroll through the narrow streets, discover artisanal workshops, and taste local specialties. The day concludes with a leisurely lunch celebrating the flavors of the Valle d’Itria, before transferring to Bari or Brindisi for departure.
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Palermo, Two Nights
Walking tour of Palermo
Discover the iconic sights of Palermo on a private guided tour with an expert guide. On this private VIP experience, our expert guide will meet you at your hotel before taking you on a journey of discovery through the most glorious parts of Palermo. As a part of this special day, you will have the chance to see all of Palermo’s main attractions and stunning Baroque architecture, including Piazza Politeama, Teatro Massimo, the Quattro Canti, the Cathedral, the Martorana, Piazza Pretoria, the Palatine Chapel, the Norman Palace and the popular markets. During your cultural walk, there will be plenty of time to ask your private guide questions and learn more about the history of Palermo and its charming culture.
Excursion to Monreale
Overlooking the Golden Valley (Conca d’Oro) on top of Mons Regalis, the medieval village of Monreale is known for its magnificent Cathedral, which features some of the most beautiful religious mosaics of the 12th century. The Cathedral is considered to be one of the best examples of Norman architecture in Sicily and is a joy to discover on this small-group day trip from Palermo. As well as the Cathedral, you will have time to explore the abbey cloister, which boasts more than 200 intricate double columns decorated in glass mosaic.
Segesta, Erice, Marsala and Selinunte, Two Nights
Excursion to Segesta and Erice
Enhance your sightseeing experience of Sicily on an enriching full-day excursion to Erice and Segesta. First, you can delight in the medieval majesty of Erice, a walled town that reigns over the picturesque harbor of Trapani, where you can delve into the historical wonders of one of Sicily’s most in-demand destinations. Through the eyes of your expert guide, you will become acquainted with the city and its key landmarks on an in-depth history tour with the chance to also hike along the coastal reserve.
Next, you will discover Segesta, one of the major cities of the ancient indigenous Elymian people. Here you can visit the Doric temple, which dates back to the late 5th century BC. It was built on a hilltop just outside of the ancient city and has a commanding view of the surrounding area. If anyone needed yet more proof that the Greeks had a good eye for where to build, Segesta would lay any doubts to rest once and for all! Indeed, the setting of the temple is simply beautiful as completely unspoiled rolling green countryside stretches right down to the glistening aquamarine sea.
Wine tasting in Marsala and Selinunte
On this VIP excursion you will be picked up by our private driver at your hotel and leave for Marsala, which was once known as Lilibeo and was founded by refugees fleeing the destruction of Mozia. It was conquered by the Romans at the end of the First Punic War and became a luxurious town featuring glorious palaces and thermal baths. The Arabian settlers called the ancient city Mars-Alì (“the harbor of Alì” or “the big harbor”), but it is now known as Marsala. The modern city is known for its world-famous Marsala wine, as well as for the landing of Giuseppe Garibaldi in 1860. On our private adventure, you will discover all the best sights, including the Archaeological Museum and the Salt Road with the Salt Pans. You will also stop in a winery for Marsala wine tasting before reaching Selinunte, an ancient Greek city in the widest archaeological park of Europe. It was founded in the 7th century BC but was destroyed in 409 BC by the Carthaginians allied with Segesta, its eternal rival. The two most important areas you’ll visit are the Eastern Hill with the ruins of three temples, and the Acropolis where Greek and Punic ruins are still visible.
Agrigento, One Night
Valley of the Temples tour
Immerse yourself in Sicily’s Greek past with this tour of Agrigento’s Valley of the Temples (entry included).
The UNESCO-protected Valley of the Temples is one of Sicily’s most important archaeological sites and is a joy to discover if you have an interest in history or simply want to learn more about Sicily’s turbulent past. This tour experience takes you to the sacred site, where an expert guide will treat you to a guided walk through the Valley.
As a part of your tour, you will see the Temple of Hera, the Temple of Concordia, the Temple of Herakles, the Temple of Zeus and the Sanctuary of Chtonian Deities (Temple of Castor and Pollux). During the tour, your guide will discuss the temples’ construction and tell you about their on-going preservation.
Syracuse and Pantalica, Two Nights
Private walking tour of Syracuse Enjoy a private tour around the historical center of Syracuse with this VIP experience on the ancient island of Ortygia. This private walk begins at the ancient Greek Apollo Temple and leads you to Cathedral Square, which boasts beautiful limestone buildings and Baroque architecture. From here, you will visit the Arethusa Fountain, which is steeped in legend and mystery – your guide will tell you all its secrets! The tour concludes with a visit to the Jewish Quarter and Archimedes Square, where you can admire the Fountain of Diana, which was built in a Neoclassical style and is one of the most recognizable landmarks of Ortygia. Naturalistic excursion to Pantalica One of the most impressive archaeological sites in Sicily and a UNESCO World Heritage Site is the rocky necropolis of Pantalica, in eastern Sicily. This site is somewhat off the beaten track but certainly worth a visit on your complete Sicily vacation. Pantalica is a prehistoric site dating back to the late Bronze Age (from the 13th to the 8th century BC) and is famous for its necropolis, which features thousands of tombs dug into the overhanging walls of the Anapo Canyon. Pantalica is also famous for its breathtaking natural vistas and unusual wildlife. In fact, it is part of the revered Anapo Valley Nature Reserve, which is a paradise for trekking.
Taormina and Mount Etna, Two Nights
Full-day Mount Etna Jeep tour with wine tasting and lunch
Scale the slopes of Italy’s famously active Mount Etna on this full-day 4×4 Jeep tour from Taormina. As a part of this unique experience, you will travel up rugged mountain tracks in an off-road vehicle and trek by foot to a stunning lookout point with views of lava flow basins and cave tubes created by the 2002 eruption. After descending from the volcano, you will enjoy a decadent and authentic Sicilian lunch of handmade cheeses, cured meats, pasta and dessert served with local wine.
VIP Taormina tour, featuring the Greek Theater
Today you will discover Taormina’s historic secrets and modern delights on a two-hour private tour. This guided experience allows you to explore the highlights of this charming city, including Palazzo Corvaja, the Santa Caterina Church and Vicolo Stretto, which is the narrowest street in town. As a special addition to this Taormina tour, you will enjoy “skip the line” entry to the ancient Greek Theater, which boasts magnificent views of Mount Etna and Giardini Naxos. There is no better way to discover this unassuming city’s treasured attractions!
Catania, Two Nights
VIP Catania walking tour The scent of fresh lemons and oranges and the harmonized landscape of Mount Etna’s cliffs rolling into the glistening sea set the backdrop for the sublime city of Catania. And on this exclusive tour experience, you will have every opportunity to discover the best of Catania, including Piazza del Duomo, the Amenano Fountain, Castello Ursino, Teatro Massimo, Palazzo Biscari, Saint Agata Dome, Via Etnea, Piazza Stesicoro, which features a Roman Theater, and finally the Bellini Garden. Catania street food experience With our hand-selected local guide, who you can be sure knows where to find only the best Catania cuisine, you will begin this food-tasting experience with a historical overview of the city, including the intricate alleys and squares of Catania’s old town, the ancient central market of Catania, Piazza Duomo, Via Etnea (the main street) and Piazza Stesicoro. But, of course, the most important part of this Catania food tour will be the opportunity to taste no less than 15 popular street foods that the city is famous for: arancino, cipollina, pizzetta, fresh fish, meatballs, local cheese, olives, cannolo with ricotta, cassatella, granita and much more!Palermo, Two Nights
Walking tour of Palermo
Discover the iconic sights of Palermo on a private guided tour with an expert guide. On this private VIP experience, our expert guide will meet you at your hotel before taking you on a journey of discovery through the most glorious parts of Palermo. As a part of this special day, you will have the chance to see all of Palermo’s main attractions and stunning Baroque architecture, including Piazza Politeama, Teatro Massimo, the Quattro Canti, the Cathedral, the Martorana, Piazza Pretoria, the Palatine Chapel, the Norman Palace and the popular markets. During your cultural walk, there will be plenty of time to ask your private guide questions and learn more about the history of Palermo and its charming culture.
Excursion to Monreale
Overlooking the Golden Valley (Conca d’Oro) on top of Mons Regalis, the medieval village of Monreale is known for its magnificent Cathedral, which features some of the most beautiful religious mosaics of the 12th century. The Cathedral is considered to be one of the best examples of Norman architecture in Sicily and is a joy to discover on this small-group day trip from Palermo. As well as the Cathedral, you will have time to explore the abbey cloister, which boasts more than 200 intricate double columns decorated in glass mosaic.Segesta, Erice, Marsala and Selinunte, Two Nights
Excursion to Segesta and Erice
Enhance your sightseeing experience of Sicily on an enriching full-day excursion to Erice and Segesta. First, you can delight in the medieval majesty of Erice, a walled town that reigns over the picturesque harbor of Trapani, where you can delve into the historical wonders of one of Sicily’s most in-demand destinations. Through the eyes of your expert guide, you will become acquainted with the city and its key landmarks on an in-depth history tour with the chance to also hike along the coastal reserve.
Next, you will discover Segesta, one of the major cities of the ancient indigenous Elymian people. Here you can visit the Doric temple, which dates back to the late 5th century BC. It was built on a hilltop just outside of the ancient city and has a commanding view of the surrounding area. If anyone needed yet more proof that the Greeks had a good eye for where to build, Segesta would lay any doubts to rest once and for all! Indeed, the setting of the temple is simply beautiful as completely unspoiled rolling green countryside stretches right down to the glistening aquamarine sea.
Wine tasting in Marsala and Selinunte
On this VIP excursion you will be picked up by our private driver at your hotel and leave for Marsala, which was once known as Lilibeo and was founded by refugees fleeing the destruction of Mozia. It was conquered by the Romans at the end of the First Punic War and became a luxurious town featuring glorious palaces and thermal baths. The Arabian settlers called the ancient city Mars-Alì (“the harbor of Alì” or “the big harbor”), but it is now known as Marsala. The modern city is known for its world-famous Marsala wine, as well as for the landing of Giuseppe Garibaldi in 1860. On our private adventure, you will discover all the best sights, including the Archaeological Museum and the Salt Road with the Salt Pans. You will also stop in a winery for Marsala wine tasting before reaching Selinunte, an ancient Greek city in the widest archaeological park of Europe. It was founded in the 7th century BC but was destroyed in 409 BC by the Carthaginians allied with Segesta, its eternal rival. The two most important areas you’ll visit are the Eastern Hill with the ruins of three temples, and the Acropolis where Greek and Punic ruins are still visible.Agrigento, One Night
Valley of the Temples tour
Immerse yourself in Sicily’s Greek past with this tour of Agrigento’s Valley of the Temples (entry included).
The UNESCO-protected Valley of the Temples is one of Sicily’s most important archaeological sites and is a joy to discover if you have an interest in history or simply want to learn more about Sicily’s turbulent past. This tour experience takes you to the sacred site, where an expert guide will treat you to a guided walk through the Valley.
As a part of your tour, you will see the Temple of Hera, the Temple of Concordia, the Temple of Herakles, the Temple of Zeus and the Sanctuary of Chtonian Deities (Temple of Castor and Pollux). During the tour, your guide will discuss the temples’ construction and tell you about their on-going preservation.Syracuse and Pantalica, Two Nights
Private walking tour of Syracuse Enjoy a private tour around the historical center of Syracuse with this VIP experience on the ancient island of Ortygia. This private walk begins at the ancient Greek Apollo Temple and leads you to Cathedral Square, which boasts beautiful limestone buildings and Baroque architecture. From here, you will visit the Arethusa Fountain, which is steeped in legend and mystery – your guide will tell you all its secrets! The tour concludes with a visit to the Jewish Quarter and Archimedes Square, where you can admire the Fountain of Diana, which was built in a Neoclassical style and is one of the most recognizable landmarks of Ortygia. Naturalistic excursion to Pantalica One of the most impressive archaeological sites in Sicily and a UNESCO World Heritage Site is the rocky necropolis of Pantalica, in eastern Sicily. This site is somewhat off the beaten track but certainly worth a visit on your complete Sicily vacation. Pantalica is a prehistoric site dating back to the late Bronze Age (from the 13th to the 8th century BC) and is famous for its necropolis, which features thousands of tombs dug into the overhanging walls of the Anapo Canyon. Pantalica is also famous for its breathtaking natural vistas and unusual wildlife. In fact, it is part of the revered Anapo Valley Nature Reserve, which is a paradise for trekking.Taormina and Mount Etna, Two Nights
Full-day Mount Etna Jeep tour with wine tasting and lunch
Scale the slopes of Italy’s famously active Mount Etna on this full-day 4×4 Jeep tour from Taormina. As a part of this unique experience, you will travel up rugged mountain tracks in an off-road vehicle and trek by foot to a stunning lookout point with views of lava flow basins and cave tubes created by the 2002 eruption. After descending from the volcano, you will enjoy a decadent and authentic Sicilian lunch of handmade cheeses, cured meats, pasta and dessert served with local wine.
VIP Taormina tour, featuring the Greek Theater
Today you will discover Taormina’s historic secrets and modern delights on a two-hour private tour. This guided experience allows you to explore the highlights of this charming city, including Palazzo Corvaja, the Santa Caterina Church and Vicolo Stretto, which is the narrowest street in town. As a special addition to this Taormina tour, you will enjoy “skip the line” entry to the ancient Greek Theater, which boasts magnificent views of Mount Etna and Giardini Naxos. There is no better way to discover this unassuming city’s treasured attractions!Let us design you
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