• Direct In Italy: +39 375 823 5314
  • Toll Free: 1-866-779-2565
Hike and Walk Puglia, Basilicata and Calabria

Semi-Private · Bari

Explore the Hidden Gems of Puglia, Basilicata and Calabria

9 Days Puglia · Basilicata

The Overview

Overview

This is a unique opportunity through southern Italy  where we will introduce you to somee of souther Italy's most incredible landscapes.

Duration

9 days

8 nights

Pricing

On request

Tailored to your dates and group.

This is a unique opportunity through southern Italy where we will introduce you to somee of souther Italy's most incredible landscapes.

Regions
Puglia · Basilicata
Tour Style
Semi-Private
Departs From
Bari
Meeting Point
Bari Airport
Included Meals
7 breakfasts · 5 dinners · 3 lunches · 2 wine tastings
Day by day

Itinerary

Follow the route as you read. The map traces each day of the journey, moving with you from place to place.

Puglia

Chapter 1 · Days 1–3

Welcome to Puglia

Imagine Italy as a shapely leg whose foot is shod by a Manolo Blahnik high-heeled boot.  Puglia (Apulia), rarely visited by English-speaking travelers, is Italy's elegant stiletto heel.  The southern reaches of the Salentine Peninsula are virtually surrounded by the immemorial waters of the Adriatic on the east, the Ionian Sea to the south east, and the…

Explore Puglia
Day 1

Puglia, Bari

Arrival in Bari - Welcome Dinner and Orientation

  • Dinner
Arrival in Bari - Welcome Dinner and Orientation — photo 1 Arrival in Bari - Welcome Dinner and Orientation — photo 2 Arrival in Bari - Welcome Dinner and Orientation — photo 3 Arrival in Bari - Welcome Dinner and Orientation — photo 4 Arrival in Bari - Welcome Dinner and Orientation — photo 5

Bari is one of southern Italy's largest cities and most important ports.  It has a fascinating and beautiful historical center to discover and enjoy.

Upon your arrival at Bari airport we will be there to meet you and bring you to a glorious hotel located in a charming historical center of Conversano city which is near Bari where your guide will be starting to give you first notions about the area for you to get acquainted with.  

This evening, a wonderful walk along the seafront and welcome dinner in the historic center. 

Overnight in Conversano at the Corte Altavilla.

Where we meet Bari Airport
Day 2

Puglia, Alberobello Puglia, Martina Franca Puglia, Ostuni

Alberobello, Itria Valley, Ostuni and Lecce.

  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Wine Tasting
Alberobello, Itria Valley, Ostuni and Lecce. — photo 1 Alberobello, Itria Valley, Ostuni and Lecce. — photo 2 Alberobello, Itria Valley, Ostuni and Lecce. — photo 3 Alberobello, Itria Valley, Ostuni and Lecce. — photo 4

This morning we head to the southern Puglia, Itria Valley where you will see Alberobello, the entire Itria Valley and experience a wonderful wine tasting at Si Rose. Lunch in Ostuni and Lecce. Return to the hotel and overnight stay here!    

Day 3

Puglia, Monopoli Puglia, Polignano a Mare Puglia, Grotte di Castellana

The Coastal Towns of Polignano a Mare, Monopoli and the Castellana Caves

  • Breakfast
The Coastal Towns of Polignano a Mare, Monopoli and the Castellana Caves — photo 1 The Coastal Towns of Polignano a Mare, Monopoli and the Castellana Caves — photo 2

This morning after a buffet breakfast at the hotel, we head south to Castellana caves which are some of the most impressive networks of caves in Europe and an absolute must see in Puglia.   Descending down over 350 feet, we will venture into some cooler territory this morning, so make sure to bring a light jacket and wear good footwear today.  

 

Following our morning tour here, we head to the coastal town of Monopoli for a walk along the 'Lungo Mare' of this very pretty town which is also home to some wonderful shopping.

For lunch, only 20 minutes north we move onto the town of Polignano a Mare which is world famous for the many movies filmed here as well as the singer Domenico Modugno who wrote the song "Volare" . 

You may want to make reservations at the restaurant "Il Bastione" and enjoy the sea view that this restaurant offers.


You will enjoy your leisure as well as the incredible shopping and scenery this town is world famous for.

Following our afternoon here, we will head back to the hotel in Coversano, near Bari for dinner and overnight at your leisure. 

Basilicata

Chapter 2 · Days 4–9

Welcome to Basilicata

Basilicata is a beautiful and diverse region in Southern Italy, known as the 'breadbasket' of the south considering that most of southern Italy's wheat and other grains are produced here. It is home to unique and sprawling landscapes where rolling hills covered with crops give way to some of Italy's most ancient and important cities like Matera, Melfi,…

Explore Basilicata
Day 4

Basilicata, Matera Basilicata, Castelmezzano

Morning Walking Tour of Matera and the the Southern Dolomites

  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
Morning Walking Tour of Matera and the the Southern Dolomites — photo 1 Morning Walking Tour of Matera and the the Southern Dolomites — photo 2 Morning Walking Tour of Matera and the the Southern Dolomites — photo 3

After breakfast today we depart from Bari for the incredible city of Matera which is about a one hour drive.  Here, you will enjoy a morning walking tour of this incredible city which is one of the most ancient cities in Italy and has been featured in major motion pictures like the Passion of Christ, James Bond and many others. 

Following our tour, there will be time for lunch on your own before we carry on into the mountain towns in the heart of the southern Dolomites mountain range where we will stay in Castelmezzano.

This evening, upon check into the hotel Villa Monserrat, there will be a brief orientation tour of the town and dinner at the hotel's wonderful restaurant this evening. Overnight stay here! 

Day 5

Basilicata, Castelmezzano Basilicata, Pietrapertosa

Lucanian Dolomites - Pietrapertosa & Castelmezzano

  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
Lucanian Dolomites - Pietrapertosa & Castelmezzano — photo 1 Lucanian Dolomites - Pietrapertosa & Castelmezzano — photo 2

Today after breakfast we begin our 1.5 hour walk from Castelmezzano to Pietrapertosa.

Then once we reach Pietrapertosa, time to explore it and visit the castle up in the mountains.

Here we provide you the option to experience the volo dell' angelo "The fly of  the Angel" or provide you alternatively a transfer back to Castelmezzano or better visiting the Gallipoli Cognato which is a natural park where you will admire the local flora & fauna. Return to the hotel and dinner overnight there in Castelmezzano.

Day 6

Basilicata, Melfi Basilicata, Lake Monticchio and San Michele Monastery Basilicata, Venosa

Continue exploring the Basilicata mountains, lakes and castles

  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
Continue exploring the Basilicata mountains, lakes and castles — photo 1 Continue exploring the Basilicata mountains, lakes and castles — photo 2

Today after breakfast you will admire castles connected by under passages around the area of Melfi and the pretty town of Venosa where the Aragonens castle and the pretty town makes this place so enjoyable to visit.

Then you will have lunch at the lake Monticchio and relax among nature.

After lunch we will take you to visit the unbelievable abbey where you can admire the lakes of Monticchio from the top! 

Return to the hotel and overnight here.

Day 7

Basilicata, Lagonegro Basilicata, Maratea Calabria, Tortora

Get onto the cost of Basilicata with a stop in Lagonegro for a wine tasting and then the beginning of Calabria.

  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Wine Tasting
Get onto the cost of Basilicata with a stop in Lagonegro for a wine tasting and then the beginning of Calabria. — photo 1 Get onto the cost of Basilicata with a stop in Lagonegro for a wine tasting and then the beginning of Calabria. — photo 2 Get onto the cost of Basilicata with a stop in Lagonegro for a wine tasting and then the beginning of Calabria. — photo 3 Get onto the cost of Basilicata with a stop in Lagonegro for a wine tasting and then the beginning of Calabria. — photo 4 Get onto the cost of Basilicata with a stop in Lagonegro for a wine tasting and then the beginning of Calabria. — photo 5

Day tour Lagonegro with wine tasting and lunch included. Then Cristo Redentore statue up the mountain and arrive at Tortora town which is located in the beginning of Calabria Region. Check in to La Loggia resort with dinner on your own and overnight here enjoying the spectacular view of the coast !!!

Day 8

Basilicata, Maratea Calabria, Praia a Mare

Explore Maratea, the southest part of the Basilicata and then go visiting Praia a Mare right next to Tortora

  • Dinner
Explore Maratea, the southest part of the Basilicata and then go visiting Praia a Mare right next to Tortora — photo 1 Explore Maratea, the southest part of the Basilicata and then go visiting Praia a Mare right next to Tortora — photo 2 Explore Maratea, the southest part of the Basilicata and then go visiting Praia a Mare right next to Tortora — photo 3 Explore Maratea, the southest part of the Basilicata and then go visiting Praia a Mare right next to Tortora — photo 4 Explore Maratea, the southest part of the Basilicata and then go visiting Praia a Mare right next to Tortora — photo 5

Today after breakfast you will go visiting the wonderful Praia a Mare with its Dino Island and the Magna Grecia 

"Arco Magno". You will also admire la "Madonna della Grotta" which is a church carved in the rocky mountains.

Farewell dinner at the resort and overnight here. 

Day 9

Depart from train station for any optional exstension of thetour on your own

  • Breakfast

Private transfer from the resort La Loggia to the train station in Praia a Mare.

The journey ends

Farewell, Basilicata

The details

Inclusions & Exclusions

What's Included

  • Daily Buffet Breakfast
  • Detailed route notes and maps
  • Dinner with Wine
  • Wine and Olive Oil Tastings

What's Not Included

  • Airport departure taxes
  • International fights
  • Luggage Handling at Airport
  • Personal Expenses or Extras at hotels
  • Travel Insurance
In their words

Traveler Reviews

Emily and David Davison Travelled with us

My husband and I just took a two week trip to Italy that was planned for us by Eleanor Kinchin-Smith. It was a fantastic trip and we could not have been more thrilled. We worked together with Ele to let her know about our interests and our style of travel. She planned the perfect trip with excellent private guides at all of our sites, professional drivers and lovely hotels. We arrived in Italy with all of our train and ferry reservations made by Ele, with tickets in hand. She was in touch with us daily throughout our trip to make sure that things were going smoothly. She was able to make a few changes to our itinerary as needed. We look forward to working with Ele again on our next trip and have put her in touch with another family member to help plan their trip as well.

Ron and Deb Crosby Travelled with us

Dear Guiseppe and Jesse,

We just returned from our most wonderful vacation to Italy and wanted to first thank you for putting together such a wonderful trip, and second to provide some feedback for the future.

Hotels

1. Hotel Sovestro in San Gimignano was wonderful. The staff were very friendly and helpful and made the first portion of our journey very stress free. They made us feel like we were part of their family. I would recommend it to anyone and would specifically ask for it if we were to make a return visit.

2. Hotel La Baia in Monterosso was nice and it's location was very good especially for us older folks humping luggage from/to the train station.

3. Hotel Lucchesi in Florence- what can I say expect FANTASTIC. The rooftop view at sunset is well worth it. Again very friendly and helpful staff. Would recommend it to everyone.

Wine Tour

Money well spent. We had a great time overall. The driver Mario was OUTSTANDING. He had lots of local knowledge as well as about winemaking. USE HIM AGAIN!!!

The various wineries we visited on tour:

Altesino- fantastic and they were not cheap on their pouring. Great experience.

Azienda Agricola Patrizia Cencion Sloaria- Again a great tour by one of the owner's daughters. We felt like we were the only thing on their mind although there were other customers there. A great way to complete the day.

Again we had a fantastic time and are very appreciative of everything you booked for us. We wish you continued success and if our travels should bring us back to Italy, we know who to call.

Leon and Michele Travelled with us

The trip was great we appreciate all the hard work you and your team invested to make our experience a once in a lifetime trip. We appreciate all the attention to the details in particular Giuseppe spending the time and the focus with us on the road and as we were exploring your great country.

Bob & Sandy Travelled with us

Jesse & Giuseppe,

Sandy and I have been looking through my slides of our trip to Southern Italy. We had such a good time with you and Giuseppe that we wanted to let you know again. You were the best guides ever.

Where you are

Location

Italy Bari

Bari and beyond

9 days through Italy, with every stop chosen by the people who live here.

Where we meet

Bari Airport

Where it starts

Bari

Nearby Experiences

New Year on Italy's Amalfi Coast, Including Gala Dinner & Dance, Round Trip Transfers from Naples in Luxury Vehicle & Private Tour of the Amalfi Coast
New Year on Italy's Amalfi Coast, Including Gala Dinner & Dance, Round Trip Transfers from Naples in Luxury Vehicle & Private Tour of the Amalfi Coast
Exclusive: Rome - Florence - Tuscany - Milan - Lake District & Venice
Exclusive: Rome - Florence - Tuscany - Milan - Lake District & Venice
Flavors of Fall in Tuscany: Olive Harvest, Truffles, Wine & Cooking
Flavors of Fall in Tuscany: Olive Harvest, Truffles, Wine & Cooking
Tour On Board The Legendary Fiat 500
Tour On Board The Legendary Fiat 500
Sunset Tour of the Amalfi Coast
Sunset Tour of the Amalfi Coast
Private Tour of Capri by Boat from Positano
Private Tour of Capri by Boat from Positano
A Private Journey with Local Hosts through Southern Italy and Malta including the Amalfi Coast, Capri, Pompeii, Sicily and the Island Nation of Malta
A Private Journey with Local Hosts through Southern Italy and Malta including the Amalfi Coast, Capri, Pompeii, Sicily and the Island Nation of Malta
Private Tour of Lake Como
Private Tour of Lake Como
Exclusive & Private: Rome, Florence & Venice
Exclusive & Private: Rome, Florence & Venice
Full Day Tour of Florence from the Port of Livorno
Full Day Tour of Florence from the Port of Livorno
Good to know

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a private tour, or will we join a group?

Private. You travel with your own guide and driver, and the only people on the itinerary are the ones you bring with you. Nothing is shared with strangers, and the pace of each day is yours to set.

Can the itinerary be changed to suit us?

Yes. What you see here is a starting point, not a fixed departure. Tell us how long you have, what you love and what you would rather skip, and we will reshape it around you. A slower morning, an extra night somewhere you fell for, a different region entirely.

How do we start planning?

Send us a note using the form on this page, or call us on 1-866-779-2565. A travel specialist replies within one business day, usually with a few questions of their own. There is no cost and no obligation in asking.

When should we book?

The earlier the better, particularly for travel between May and September, when the best small hotels and the guides worth having are taken first. That said, we have put together beautiful trips at short notice, so ask and we will tell you honestly what is still possible for your dates.

Plan your journey

Start the Conversation

Quick Enquiry

Our travel specialists reply within one business day.

Handpicked

Our Featured Properties

From the journal

Our Recent Blog

Visiting Rome During a Heat Wave? Read This Before You Go Latest

Visiting Rome During a Heat Wave? Read This Before You Go

Read article
Visit the journal
Keep exploring

Explore More of Italy

Curated Italy journeys and travel inspirations.

Weddings & Honeymoons Custom Group Tours Family Vacations Guaranteed Departure Small Group Tours Health & Wellness Retreats
Cinque Terre, Italy

Ready to plan your journey?

Connect directly with a member of our team for expert guidance and fully customized travel across Italy and the Mediterranean.

Start Planning Your Trip

9 days · Pricing on request

1-866-779-2565 Enquire Now
Direct In Italy: +39 375 823 5314 Toll Free: 1-866-779-2565
Home About Italy
Our Story Meet Our Team Press & Media Coverage
Travel Agents Contact Us Book Consultation Trip Planning Customizable Tour