Puglia - The Road Less Travelled Tour 2027

The journey begins with a group meeting in Bari before travelling north along the Adriatic coast towards the Gargano Peninsula. This stretch of coastline is one of the most beautiful in southern Italy, with limestone cliffs, clear water and small towns set above the sea.

By late afternoon, we arrive in Vieste, where we stay for the next three nights. With its narrow streets and coastal setting, it provides an easy introduction to the region. In the evening, we gather for a welcome dinner.

Overnight: Vieste

Today we explore the coastline by boat, travelling along a series of cliffs, sea caves and small inlets that are best seen from the water. The colours of the Adriatic and the changing shapes of the limestone create a constantly shifting landscape.

In the afternoon, there is free time to enjoy Vieste at your own pace. In the evening, dinner is at a traditional trabucco, a wooden fishing platform that now serves as a simple seafood restaurant.

Overnight: Vieste

Travel inland to Monte Sant’Angelo, an important pilgrimage site, where we visit the Sanctuary of Saint Michael, set within a cave and recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Later, continue into the Foresta Umbra, a protected woodland area within Gargano National Park. The shaded roads and dense vegetation provide a clear contrast to the coastal landscape. Return to Vieste in the afternoon.

Overnight: Vieste

Leaving the Gargano, we travel south along the coast to Trani. Its cathedral, set directly beside the sea, is one of the most recognisable buildings in the region. There is time to walk through the harbour and historic centre before continuing inland.

In the afternoon, we arrive in the Valle d’Itria, known for its rolling countryside, olive groves and traditional trulli houses.

Overnight: Valle d’Itria

Begin in Locorotondo, a town known for its whitewashed houses, balconies filled with flowers and views across the surrounding countryside.

Later, visit Alberobello, where clusters of trulli create one of the most recognisable landscapes in southern Italy. Walking through the narrow streets offers a closer look at this distinctive style of building.

Overnight: Valle d’Itria

Travel to Matera, located just across the regional border. The town is known for the Sassi, a network of cave dwellings that developed into a unique settlement over centuries.

A guided visit introduces the history of the area, followed by time to explore the streets, churches and viewpoints independently before returning in the afternoon.

Overnight: Valle d’Itria

The day begins with a visit to a traditional masseria, where we learn about local dairy production and see how regional cheeses are made.

We then continue to Grottaglie, a town associated with ceramic production, where small workshops continue to operate using traditional methods. In the afternoon, travel on to Lecce.

Overnight: Lecce

Explore Lecce with a local guide. Built from the region’s pale limestone, the city developed a distinctive Baroque style, visible in its churches, balconies and decorative facades.

The walk includes Piazza del Duomo, the Basilica di Santa Croce and Piazza Sant’Oronzo. The afternoon is free to continue exploring or relax in one of the city’s cafés.

Overnight: Lecce

Travel through the Salento countryside to Galatina, where we visit the Church of Santa Caterina d’Alessandria, known for its extensive frescoes.

Continue to Otranto, a coastal town overlooking the Adriatic. The cathedral’s mosaic floor is one of the highlights, depicting a detailed Tree of Life and a wide range of symbolic scenes.

Overnight: Lecce

Leaving Lecce, travel north through the countryside to visit a local winery. Learn about the grape varieties of the region and enjoy a tasting followed by lunch.

In the afternoon, continue to Polignano a Mare, set on cliffs above the sea. The town’s narrow streets and viewpoints provide a relaxed setting for the final stage of the journey.

Overnight: Polignano a Mare

Travel inland to Castel del Monte, an unusual octagonal castle built in the thirteenth century. Its geometry and isolated setting have made it one of the most discussed historic sites in southern Italy.

After visiting the castle, continue to a well-regarded local restaurant for lunch featuring seasonal ingredients.

Overnight: Polignano a Mare

Visit Bari, the regional capital, where the old town is made up of narrow streets and small squares. Walking through the area offers a glimpse into everyday life, including the preparation of traditional pasta.

We also visit the Basilica di San Nicola before spending time along the waterfront.

Overnight: Polignano a Mare

Travel into the countryside to visit an olive oil estate, where some of the trees are centuries old.

Continue to Ostuni, known for its whitewashed buildings and elevated position above the surrounding landscape. There is time to walk through the historic centre before returning for a farewell dinner.

Overnight: Polignano a Mare

Transfer to Bari Airport or Bari Centrale train station for onward travel.