Puglia's Glistening Coast and Matera's Ancient Marvels

Days 1  Otranto        
Arrive into Brindisi airport where your private driver will meet you at arrivals and transfer you to the splendid port town of Otranto. Upon arrival to your hotel, perhaps enjoy a sumptuous pasta dish with a glass of rich Puglia wine.        
         
Days 2-3  Otranto  
Take in the slower pace of life in Otranto, with a dip in the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic, walks along the charming harbour and a picnic on the numerous splendid, sandy beaches accessible from the town. Admire the town’s 15^th Century Aragonese Castle, which juts out into the bay, and 11^th century Otranto Cathedral, featuring a unique mosaic floor. After a busy day of sightseeing, check out the town’s lively nightlife.

Day 4  Otranto to Lecce          
After enjoying a leisurely breakfast, settle in for your transfer to the cultural capital of Puglia, Lecce, known as ‘Florence of the South’ owing to its rich historic and cultural heritage. On arrival, sample some of the traditional culinary delights such as the caffe Leccese and Leccese pasticiotto, in one of the charming cafés near your hotel.        

Day 5  Lecce        
Get your bearings with your included Lecce walking tour. Discover the astounding Baroque architectural style of Lecce, featuring soft, local sandstone, and shown through spectacularly carved façades, apparent in Piazza del Duomo and Piazza Sant’Oronzo. Pass by some of Lecce’s fascinating Roman Age sites, before ending the tour at the impressive Basilica di Santa Croce. Perhaps, in the afternoon, opt for a trip down to Gallipoli, a charming, historic town on the coast, just off Lecce.        

Day 6  Lecce        
Today, enjoy a guided day trip to some of the most charming towns in Puglia. Begin with a walk through Alberobello, famed for its unique conical shaped Trulli buildings. Then, move onto Locorotondo, esteemed for its wine and gastronomy, where you will have time for lunch. Round off the day with a visit to the beautiful village of Ostuni, known as the white city, where you will have time for a quick olive oil tasting, if you wish.      

Day 7  Lecce to Monopoli      
Meet your transfer in the morning and enjoy a scenic drive to Monopoli, a delightful seaside village, famous for its charming maritime culture and golden sandy beaches. Settle into your splendid sea view hotel, relaxing into the dolce vita way of life with a refreshing dip in the pool and a cocktail on the elegant terrace.    

Days 8  Monopoli        
Absorb the historic charms of the old town by strolling down cobblestone streets, passing by colourful street markets and Monopoli’s grand cathedral, featuring an elegant 60-metre-tall bell tower built in 1693. Enjoy a gorgeous seafront hike along the Lungomare Promenade, leading to the impressive Charles V Castle, sitting on the edge of a promontory that overlooks the sparkling Adriatic Sea. Perhaps spend an afternoon soaking in the warm Puglian waters and lounging on the beaches, or glide through the waters on a boat tour or sailing excursion. The plethora of beach bars and restaurants that line the waterfront mean you are spoiled for choice when it comes to sumptuous cuisine accompanied by mesmerising sea views.            

Day 9  Polignano a Mare      
Take a short train ride up the coast to Polignano a Mare, famous for its dazzling waterfront, for a dreamy coastal day trip. Roam its sandy beaches and cliff-sided coves, and stumble upon ethereal caves and natural swimming pools. Perhaps opt for a boat ride, gliding through the crystal-clear waters or maybe for a hike along the clifftops and down to the shoreline, taking in the sweeping views of the charming, white-washed old town and sparkling sea. Cap off your beach day with a cooling, creamy gelato, as you sunbathe under the warm Mediterranean sun. Return to Monopoli in the evening, in time for a sumptuous dinner overlooking the sparkling Adriatic Sea.        

Day 10  Monopoli to Matera      
Set off today on your comfortable transfer journey to the ancient city of Matera, thought to be one of the world’s longest continuously inhabited human settlements. After settling into your centrally located hotel, enjoy dinner with a view over the remarkable city.  

Day 11  Matera        
Start the day with a fascinating guided tour of Matera with in depth visits to the Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano districts. Afterwards, step inside some of Matera’s cave churches for some respite from the heat and wonder at the frescoes inside. Afterwards, enjoy a refreshing glass of lemonade in the delightful Piazza Vittorio Veneto.  

Day 12  Matera to Bari        
After purchasing your final souvenirs, get picked up for your final scenic transfer back to Bari airport, to make your onwards flight.