Puglia Grand Tour – 12 Days
From fairytale Trulli homes to rocky sun-soaked beaches, this two-week trip to Puglia is perfect for travelers who want to see authentic Italy. See baroque architecture in Lecce, scrubby pine forests in Gargano National Park, and sunny southern towns of Otranto and Gallipoli. End your trip in the busy port city of Bari where a maze-like old town, deep-fried panzerotto, and 12thcentury churches await.
Daily Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to Trani
VIP Tour of Trani
Start by discovering Trani. ‘The pearl of the Adriatic’, famous for its rich artistic and cultural heritage, vanity is mirrored in the clear blue waters, which surround the cathedral that is among the most beautiful in Italy, whose official name is Basilica Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta. Under the shadow of the Swabian castle, the Jewish quarter with its three synagogues and the old town, is full of boutiques, shops and lovely locals: the alleys, streets, magnificent buildings and churches are the perfect setting where to live a unique experience.
Our guide will accompany you on your discovery of this wonderful city.
Overnight: Trani
Day 2: Learn to make focaccia
Cooking class in Polignano al Mare
Bari focaccia is a cult. Known to almost everyone, how many have ever prepared, baked and eaten it? We take you to a focaccia barese lesson: you will learn how to knead the dough, knead it, season it and cook it. You will amaze your family and friends when you prepare this tasty typical Apulian dish for them! A private driver will pick you up at your hotel in Trani and take you to Polignano al Mare with a stop at local village to learn how to make your real focaccia barese- can it get any more authentic than that?
Overnight: Polignano a Mare
Day 3: Polignano Boat Tour
Tour the Caves of Polignano
Jagged cliffs overlooking the sea, caves and creeks, sandy coves surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation in complete harmony with the turquoise blue sea, make this strip of coast, one of the most beautiful in the Mediterranean. Grotta delle Rondinelle, Grotta Azzurra, Grotta Ardito, and Grotta Palazzese are just some of the most beautiful natural attractions that characterize the entire area, accessible only by sea.
During the experience, swimming breaks are included in the experience and an excellent local prosecco is served on board.
Overnight: Polignano a Mare
Day 4: VIP tour of Ostuni
Discover Ostuni
VIP Private Transfer from Polignano a Mare to Ostuni with stop in Monopoli and Cisternino with lunch
Check-in to your hotel and enjoy some leisure time at your own pace. For those who don’t want to relax by the pool in Masseria, here are some suggestions on what to do:
• Get lost in Ostuni’s historical centre and visit the Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Assumption
• Enjoy an ice cream at Cremeria La Scala
• Stroll around la Piazza della Liberta
Overnight: Ostuni
Day 5: Apulian winery with traditional lunch
VIP tour of an Apulian winery with traditional lunch
Visit a wine cellar immersed in the Apulian countryside and discover the history of the family and how the local wine is produced. Walk in the vineyard to discover the secrets of the wine varieties. After learning about the local products and long family tradition, join a tasty four-course lunch paired with four local wines.
Overnight : Ostuni
Day 6: VIP Pasta & Tiramisu Class (private tour)
Become a chef for the day
Spend time in a local’s home in Ostuni, learning the tricks to make fresh pasta and tiramisu in local style. The class shows you how to roll and cut fresh pasta by hand as you learn about the food traditions of Puglia from your host — a local who belongs to a network of home cooks who preserve culinary traditions in the region. Learn new recipes, have fun, and connect with the locals!
Overnight : Ostuni
Day 7: VIP Lecce Tour, with dinner
Walk and eat your way around Lecce
Discover Lecce’s hidden attractions on this outside walking tour of the Duomo, main Piazza and Baroque buildings. This walking tour of Lecce is a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the history and culture of this Italian treasure. On a 3 hours guided stroll through this city, you will be introduced to the ancient origins of Lecce and some landmark events in its history. Then, your guide will describe Lecce’s remarkable Baroque architectural heritage, concentrating on the special details that contribute to the theatrical effect of the local architecture, as well as the tradition behind the local crafts (papier-mâché, wrought iron, ceramics and inlaid olive wood). You will then begin your walk through the city, seeing all the main sights, including the Duomo, the main Piazza, the glorious Baroque churches and much more.
Overnight : Lecce
Day 8: VIP Tour of Otranto and Santa Maria di Leuca, with lunch
Explore Otranto and Santa Maria di Leuca
Visit some of the most picturesque towns in Salento: Otranto and Santa Maria di Leuca. The first stop of the tour is Otranto, one of the most beautiful coastal villages in Salento.The town of Otranto is full of history, and every corner highlights the passage of different civilizations, including the Romans, the Byzantines, the Ottomans and the Aragoneses. You will have free time to visit the Cathedral, the Church of Saint Peter in perfect Byzantium style, complete with a castle, towers and walls. After Otranto you will reach Santa Maria di Leuca, along the wonderful Adriatic coast, characterized by cliffs overlooking the sea, caves and bays. Santa Maria di Leuca is truly the heel of Italy, the place where the Ionian Sea meets the Adriatic Sea. From this tip of Puglia, you will admire spectacular views of the harbor and the sea, as well as the sanctuary of Santa Maria de Finibus Terrae.
Overnight: Lecce
Day 9: Leisure day in Gallipoli
Galivant around Galipoli
Enjoy free afternoon in Gallipoli! Suggested places to visit:
• Visit the Ancient Walls of the Old Town
• Stop by the Saint Agatha Cathedral
• Visit Gallipoli Fish Market
• Check on the Gallipoli Castle Museum
• Admire the Greek Fountain
• Check on the Sanctuary of Santa Maria del Canneto a baroque-style church containing a stone statue of the Virgin Mary recovered from a fire in a previous church
Overnight: Gallipoli
Day 10: Alberobello with Secret Wine Tasting in Leverano
VIP Tour of Alberobello, with dinner
Our guide will pick you up from your hotel and you will start the guided walking tour of the 2 main districts of Alberobello Rione Monti and Aia Piccola. The trulli are an important example of rural architecture that still survives today. The panoramic view of Rione Aia Piccola with its infinite expanse of conical roofs is enchanting. Do not miss the opportunity to experience an authentic experience in Alberobello, discover these unique constructions, and learn more about Italian culture.
Overnight: Alberobello
Day 11: Alberobello to Matera
VIP Sunset Tour of Matera
Explore the lovely Sasso Caveoso district in the city of Matera on our VIP walking tour with our knowledgeable local guide. Visit one cave, one church and the historical center, hearing about the fascinating history and subterranean architecture of the city. See parts of the famous Sassi of Matera, ancient cave dwellings that are still in use today and have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Our guide will pick you up at your hotel.
Overnight: Matera
Day 12: VIP Hiking Park of Murgia and Rope Bridge
Get active and prepare to be dazzled in Matera
The hiking tour in the Park of Murgia is perfect for you if you want to immerse yourself in nature, discover hidden places and satisfy your sense of adventure. You will start your tour in Sassi, walking characteristic paths along the canyon up to Gravina stream, where you will cross the rope bridge that connect the two banks, at 9 meters from the ground. You will admire beautiful landscapes and hidden gems with our hiking guide who will lead you along archaeological paths and paleolithic caves, telling you the history of these prehistoric places. At the end of the tour, you will come back in town on board of our shuttle.
Overnight: Matera
Day 13: Ciao Puglia
Enjoy your breakfast and prepare for the flight back home with a private taxi transfer to the airport.
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!Why Travel with Bellarome
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