Kingdom of the Sun Escorted Tour of Italy's Deep South including Puglia, Basilicata and Calabria Departing Spring 2026: May 23, June 6 Fall 2026: Sept 12, Oct 10,

The day begins with a breakfast of refined simplicity, where the flavors of Puglia are expressed in their purest form: ripe seasonal fruits bursting with sweetness, farm-fresh eggs prepared to perfection, and delicate pastries crafted from organic flour, still warm from the oven.

From there, we journey into the heart of the Itria Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site where vineyards and olive groves stretch to the horizon. As we explore its enchanting towns — from the baroque elegance of Martina Franca to the circular lanes of Locorotondo, the fairytale trulli of Alberobello, and the authentic charm of Cisternino — each stop becomes an opportunity to taste the valley itself.

In no particular order, you will have the chance to enjoy local cheeses paired with crisp white wines, handmade orecchiette dressed in seasonal sauces, charcuterie rich with tradition, and robust reds that capture the warmth of the Apulian sun — every flavor tells a story, and every glass deepens our connection to the land.

Throughout the day, our guides and historians bring context not only to the art and architecture, but also to the food and wine traditions that have endured here for centuries. In their company, each tasting becomes an immersion into culture — the rhythm of daily life expressed through what is placed on the table.

As evening descends, we pause in Ostuni, the radiant “White City,” for a graceful aperitivo — sparkling wine and small bites that glow in the golden light. Our journey then continues to the celebrated Masseria Il Frantoio, a historic country estate where olive oil and wine have been perfected across generations. After a private tour of its groves and cellars, we sit down to a multi-course dinner of rare distinction. Each dish, crafted from seasonal ingredients, is paired with one of the estate’s vintages — an elegant dialogue between land, cuisine, and glass.

This evening is not simply a dinner, but an immersion into the heart of Puglia. Within the historic walls of Masseria Il Frantoio, each course is crafted from seasonal estate-grown ingredients and paired with the estate’s renowned olive oils and wines. As you move from plate to plate, the pairings reveal the depth of Puglia’s culinary traditions.

In the glow of candlelight, surrounded by fellow travelers and the timeless countryside, this experience becomes more than a meal — it is a true celebration of the region’s soul. 

Following dinner, we will return to Monopoli for a leisurely rest.  

Today unfolds at a gentle pace, allowing you to immerse yourself in two of Puglia’s most captivating treasures.

Our day begins with a descent into one of Europe’s most extraordinary natural wonders — the Grotte di Castellana. Guided along a series of illuminated pathways, you’ll journey nearly 3 kilometers underground through vast caverns sculpted by time. Here, nature reveals its artistry: soaring chambers glitter with stalactites and stalagmites, delicate limestone draperies hang like frozen waterfalls, and crystal-clear pools reflect the otherworldly formations above.

The highlight is the “White Cave”, considered the most spectacular of all, where the pure brilliance of the rock creates an almost ethereal glow. Walking through these ancient spaces, you experience not just the majesty of geology, but also a profound sense of awe — a reminder of the earth’s timeless power and beauty

Following our underground experience we break for lunch and then continue to the enchanting coastal town of Polignano a Mare, dramatically perched atop limestone cliffs that plunge into the Adriatic Sea. Here, time slows down. Stroll through narrow whitewashed streets, pause for an espresso in a sunlit piazza, or simply gaze out from the panoramic terraces where the sea sparkles below.

Here, you will have time to shop and  enjoy the town at your own rhythm — perhaps indulging in fresh seafood or sampling the town’s famous artisanal gelato — before we return, carrying with us the beauty and serenity of Puglia’s landscapes, both above and below the earth.

Many of you may want to take the opportunity to dine tonight at the world famous Grotta Palazzese restaurant, which we can help you reserve should you want to indulge in one of Italy's most famous fine dining experiences! 

Return to Monopoli for overnight at Palazzo Indelli. 

Today offers a journey into the heart of southern Italy, where ancient traditions and breathtaking landscapes come together in an unforgettable experience.

We begin in Aliano, a village set amid dramatic clay ravines, where the story of bread has been carefully preserved through generations. Here, you’ll discover the art of baking as it has been practiced for centuries — from the cultivation of local grains to the wood-fired ovens that give Aliano’s bread its unmistakable aroma and character. Tasting this “pane della memoria” is to savor a piece of living history, a symbol of resilience and community.

We will enjoy lunch in Aliano before we continue to Matera, one of Italy’s most extraordinary UNESCO World Heritage sites. A guided walk through the Sassi — ancient cave dwellings carved into the limestone cliffs — reveals a city that has been continuously inhabited for over 9,000 years. Along the way, you’ll step into rock-hewn churches, artisan workshops, and hidden courtyards, each corner telling a story of human ingenuity and endurance.

As evening falls, you will retreat to the magnificent Palazzo Gattini, an exclusive five-star hotel set within Matera’s historic heart. Surrounded by refined design, vaulted stone architecture, and panoramic views of the Sassi illuminated at night, this stay is a true indulgence. Dining here is an experience in itself, where fine cuisine and regional wines are presented with elegance, ensuring that your time in Matera concludes with a sense of luxury, intimacy, and wonder.

Few places in the world rival Matera, one of humanity’s most ancient continuously inhabited cities and a UNESCO World Heritage site. With a private guide, you’ll explore the extraordinary Sassi districts, where cave dwellings carved into limestone cliffs reveal over 9,000 years of history. From prehistoric shelters to medieval monasteries and artisan workshops, Matera offers a living chronicle of human resilience and adaptation.

This unique setting has also captured the imagination of filmmakers worldwide, serving as the backdrop for iconic productions including The Passion of the Christ and No Time to Die. As you walk its winding lanes, descend into rock-hewn churches, and gaze out over the canyon landscape, your guide will weave together Matera’s dual identity: a cradle of civilization and a stage for modern storytelling.

Experiencing Matera in this way is to stand at the intersection of past and present — where Italy’s deep cultural roots meet global recognition, creating an encounter that is as thought-provoking as it is unforgettable.

 

Today we leave behind the dramatic cave dwellings of Matera, a city carved from stone and steeped in millennia of history, and journey westward across the rugged landscapes of Basilicata. The route winds through rolling hills and untouched countryside, where ancient villages, vineyards, and olive groves mark a land that feels both timeless and undiscovered.

As we approach the coast, the scenery transforms. The mountains rise and the scent of the sea fills the air, leading us to Maratea, known as the Pearl of the Tyrrhenian. This enchanting town cascades down the hillside toward a sparkling coastline of hidden coves and dramatic cliffs. Crowned by its majestic Christ the Redeemer statue, Maratea offers not only natural beauty but also an atmosphere of refinement and serenity, making it the perfect contrast to Matera’s ancient stone labyrinth.

This day is more than a transfer — it is a passage from the depths of history to the elegance of the sea, revealing the many faces of southern Italy along the way.

This morning we embark on a half-day private cruise from the port of Maratea, sailing along one of the most captivating stretches of the Tyrrhenian coastline. The journey reveals a panorama of dramatic cliffs, secluded coves, and the dazzling blues of the Mediterranean.

Our first stop is Dino Island, where we explore a series of remarkable grottoes. As the boat glides inside, sunlight filters through openings in the rock, illuminating the water in shades of emerald and sapphire — a natural spectacle that feels almost otherworldly.

We then continue toward the celebrated Arcomagno Cave near San Nicola Arcella. This striking sea arch shelters a hidden beach, creating one of southern Italy’s most unforgettable coastal scenes. Here, you may choose to swim in the crystal-clear waters, capture photos of the dramatic scenery, or simply relax and savor the beauty around you.

After a leisurely morning on the water, we return to Maratea, refreshed by the sea air and carrying with us the memory of an enchanting coastal escape.

This morning we depart Maratea and journey south along the Tyrrhenian sea along Calabria's untamed coast, a land of rugged beauty and ancient tradition. Travelling along the SS18 coastal road, you will experience what is known as the 'Cedri Riviera' from north to south where you will witness Scalea, Maiera, the hill top towns of Verbicaro and several others.  

Our route brings us to the seaside town of Diamante, known as the “city of murals.”  Here, a leisurely stroll reveals more than 300 vibrant works of street art painted across the historic center — each mural telling a story of local life, folklore, and Mediterranean spirit. Diamante is also famed for its fiery peperoncino chili pepper, and you may notice its influence in the aromas drifting from trattorias and spice shops.

Continuing along the coast, the landscapes unfold in a spectacular mix of turquoise sea, rocky cliffs, and villages clinging to the hillsides. By late afternoon, we arrive in Tropea, one of southern Italy’s true jewels. Dramatically perched on cliffs above the sea, Tropea enchants with its golden beaches, winding lanes, noble palazzi, and the striking Santa Maria dell’Isola monastery standing sentinel above the waves.

This day offers not only a journey through breathtaking scenery but also an immersion into the artistry and soul of Calabria — a fitting prelude to your stay in Tropea.

Your final full day in Calabria invites you to embrace the beauty and charm of Tropea at a relaxed pace. Stroll through the winding streets of the old town, where noble palazzi overlook the sea and boutiques tempt with local crafts and delicacies. Pause to admire the striking Santa Maria dell’Isola, perched dramatically on its cliff, or simply take time to enjoy Tropea’s golden beaches and the turquoise waters for which it is famous. A taste of the town’s celebrated sweet red onions — perhaps in a gelato or as part of a light lunch — offers a memorable nod to its culinary heritage.

In the late afternoon, we travel north along the coast to Scilla, a seaside village steeped in myth and legend, believed to be the home of Homer’s sea monster. Here, the ancient fishing district of Chianalea awaits: narrow lanes lapped by the sea, stone houses rising directly from the water, and restaurants perched above the waves.

As the sun sets, we gather for our farewell dinner in this enchanting setting, savoring the freshest seafood and fine Calabrian wines. It is a fitting conclusion to our journey — a celebration of flavors, friendships, and the timeless beauty of Italy’s southern shores.

On our final morning in Tropea, take a moment to enjoy the last views of the turquoise Tyrrhenian Sea and the charm of this cliff side town before we bid farewell. After breakfast, private transfers will be arranged to Lamezia Terme Airport or rail station, ensuring a seamless journey onward.

For many, this marks the conclusion of our Kingdom of the Sun Tour, filled with unforgettable landscapes, flavors, and friendships. Yet for those wishing to extend their adventure, we warmly invite you to join us for our next curated experience through Sicily and Malta — a journey that continues the story of the Mediterranean with new horizons, cultures, and discoveries. For those who join, the journey does not end in Calabria; it transforms into a seamless continuation of discovery, indulgence, and cultural depth, designed for travelers who wish to experience the Mediterranean in its most exquisite form.