DISCOVERY OF PUGLIA Small Group Tour: 8 Days / 7 Nights

Exploring the enchanting region of Puglia, Italy has never been easier. The "DISCOVERY OF PUGLIA Small Group Tour" promises an unforgettable 8-day adventure, where you’ll uncover the area’s rich history, stunning architecture, and mouthwatering cuisine. From visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites to indulging in wine tastings and cooking classes, this tour offers a well-rounded experience tailored for small groups. With comfortable accommodations, private transportation, and expert guides, you’ll be able to learn about the authentic charm of Puglia. But the real question is, what hidden gems will you discover on this remarkable journey?

Key Points

• An 8-day small-group tour exploring three UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Puglia, including Castel del Monte, the trulli houses of Alberobello, and the ancient city of Matera.

• Immersive experience in Puglia’s Baroque architecture, local cuisine, and wine tasting, with visits to vineyards, olive oil mills, and a cooking class.

• Two nights in traditional "trullo" accommodations in Alberobello and five nights in 4-star and 5-star hotels across the region.

• Private transportation and an experienced driver/tour leader providing navigation and commentary, enhancing the exploration of Puglia’s cultural heritage.

• Tour priced from $4,925.85 per person, with a maximum group size of 15 travelers for personalized attention, and an overall rating of 5.0 stars from 7 reviews.

Tour Overview

Embarking on an 8-day small-group tour from Bari, Italy, travelers will discover the captivating region of Puglia.

They’ll visit three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the enigmatic Castel del Monte, the charming trulli houses of Alberobello, and the ancient city of Matera.

The tour also explores the Baroque splendor of Lecce, offering a chance to savor local cuisine and wine.

Accommodations include two nights in a traditional "trullo" in Alberobello and five nights in 4-star and 5-star hotels.

With private transportation, an experienced driver/tour leader, and local guides, this tour promises an immersive experience of Puglia’s rich cultural heritage.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

The tour explores three UNESCO World Heritage Sites that showcase Puglia’s rich cultural heritage.

First, you’ll visit Castel del Monte, a 13th-century castle built by Emperor Frederick II, known for its unique octagonal shape and striking appearance.

Next, you’ll wander through the trulli of Alberobello, the distinctive whitewashed conical-roofed houses that have become an icon of the region.

Finally, you’ll discover the ancient cave dwellings of Matera, a city carved into the rock and once one of the most impoverished areas in Italy, now transformed into a captivating cultural destination.

These UNESCO gems offer a window into Puglia’s fascinating history and architecture.

Baroque Architecture in Lecce

After exploring Puglia’s stunning UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the tour then turns its attention to the region’s impressive Baroque architecture, particularly in the lively city of Lecce.

Lecce, known as the "Florence of the South," boasts an abundance of Baroque masterpieces, from the ornate Basilica di Santa Croce to the intricate Palazzo dei Celestini.

Visitors can stroll through the city’s charming streets, admiring the elaborate carvings, columns, and facades that adorn the buildings.

The tour includes a guided walk through Lecce’s historic center, allowing travelers to fully enjoy the city’s Baroque splendor.

Key sights include:

• Basilica di Santa Croce
• Palazzo dei Celestini
• Piazza del Duomo
• Chiesa di San Matteo
• Palazzo del Sedile

Local Cuisine and Wine

One of the highlights of the Discovery of Puglia tour is the opportunity to take in the region’s renowned culinary traditions. From wine tastings to hands-on cooking classes, guests will savor the flavors that define this corner of Italy. The tour includes stops at local vineyards, olive oil mills, and specialty food producers, where travelers can learn about the region’s artisanal techniques and sample the highest-quality products.

Wine Tasting	Olive Oil Tasting	Cheese Tasting	Cooking Class
Explore Puglia’s renowned wine regions and sample the area’s finest vintages.	Discover the secrets behind the production of Puglia’s prized extra virgin olive oil.	Indulge in a tasting of the region’s artisanal cheeses, each with its own unique flavor profile.	Learn to prepare traditional Puglian dishes during an interactive cooking demonstration led by a local chef.

Accommodations in Alberobello and Hotels

Immersing oneself in Puglia’s captivating culture extends to the accommodations on this tour.

Travelers will spend two nights in a traditional "trullo" in Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its conical stone dwellings. The remaining five nights are spent in 4-star and 5-star hotels, ensuring comfort and elegance throughout the journey.

These accommodations provide:

• Authentic regional ambiance
• Modern amenities for relaxation
• Convenient proximity to key attractions
• Opportunities to sample local cuisine
• Welcoming hospitality from the hosts

The blend of historic charm and contemporary comforts allows guests to fully enjoy the essence of Puglia, creating an unforgettable experience.

Private Transportation and Tour Leader

To ensure a seamless and enriching experience, the Discovery of Puglia Small Group Tour includes private transportation throughout the itinerary, courtesy of an experienced GoinItaly Driver/Tour Leader.

This dedicated professional not only navigates the roads but also acts as a knowledgeable guide, providing insightful commentary on the region’s history, culture, and hidden gems.

With their local expertise, travelers can sit back, relax, and soak in the stunning landscapes, without the hassle of driving or finding their way.

This personalized service allows the group to move efficiently between destinations, maximizing their time to fully enjoy the wonders of Puglia.

Meeting and Pickup Details

The tour begins with a meeting at 8:30 AM in the hotel lobby next to the Petruzzelli Theater on Corso Cavour, 32 in Bari.

From here, you’ll hop aboard the private transportation provided for the duration of the tour. The tour ends right back where it started – at the meeting point in Bari.

The logistics are simple:

• Meeting point: Corso Cavour, 32, 70121 Bari BA, Italy
• Meeting time: 8:30 AM in hotel lobby next to Petruzzelli Theater
• Activity ends back at the meeting point
• Confirmation received at booking
• Not wheelchair accessible, but near public transportation

Pricing and Reviews

This tour is priced from $4,925.85 per person. While the price may seem high, the value it offers is unbeatable. With a maximum group size of 15 travelers, this small-group experience ensures personalized attention and a more intimate journey. The non-refundable nature of the tour means you’ll want to be sure of your travel plans, but the 5.0 overall rating from 7 reviews speaks volumes about the exceptional experience GoinItaly provides.

	Reviews	Rating
Reviewer 1	Wonderful tour!	5 stars
Reviewer 2	Highly recommended	5 stars
Reviewer 3	Best way to see Puglia	5 stars
Reviewer 4	Unforgettable experience	5 stars
Reviewer 5	Loved every moment	5 stars

Since You Asked

What Is the Group Size for This Tour?

This tour has a maximum group size of 15 travelers. The small group size allows for a more intimate and personalized experience as you explore the highlights of Puglia with your experienced GoinItaly Driver/Tour Leader.

Can Travelers Self-Guide During Free Time?

Travelers can explore on their own during free time, but the tour includes local guides who provide insight into the UNESCO sites and historic towns. The small group size allows for flexibility to customize the experience.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Tour?

The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions – it’s open to travelers of all ages. The small group size of 15 or fewer ensures a more personalized experience regardless of participants’ ages.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy?

There’s no refund if you cancel this tour. However, you can transfer the booking to someone else, though some fees may apply. It’s a non-refundable tour, so plan your travel carefully.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Individual Needs?

Unfortunately, the tour can’t be customized for individual needs. It’s a small-group tour with a fixed itinerary, and the operator doesn’t offer refunds for cancellations. But they do accommodate food allergies and dietary restrictions if you let them know in advance.

The Sum Up

This Puglia tour offers a captivating blend of ancient history, stunning architecture, and mouthwatering cuisine. Visitors can expect to uncover the region’s UNESCO-protected gems, enjoy Baroque splendor, and savor local delicacies complemented by renowned wines. With comfortable accommodations, private transportation, and expert guides, travelers are sure to have an unforgettable adventure exploring the enchanting highlights of Italy’s Puglia.