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Historical site of Matera in Basilicata, known for its Sassi di Matera, ancient cave dwellings The Statue of Christ the Redeemer in Maratea, offering majestic views over the Tyrrhenian Sea Castelmezzano in Basilicata, famous for its dramatic positioning within the Dolomites Maratea in Basilicata, known for its Christ the Redeemer statue and beautiful coastline Lush greenery and rolling hills of many hilltop towns in Southern Italy Lucanian Dolomites in Basilicata

Private · Bari

The Heel and Toe of Italy : Puglia, Calabria and Basilicata

11 Days Puglia · Basilicata · Calabria

The Overview

Overview

This meticulously crafted 11-day journey through Southern Italy offers an immersive experience into the heart of Puglia, Basilicata, and Calabria. Starting with your arrival at Bari airport, you are welcomed with a dinner in Polignano a Mare, followed by a restful night in the historic center of Conversano. Your adventure includes exclusive accommodations and buffet breakfasts for 10 nights, along with the luxury of private drivers and guides, ensuring a seamless exploration in a private vehicle, inclusive of all related expenses.

The itinerary encompasses a blend of welcome dinners, select meals, private tours, and transfers, curated to enrich your stay. Despite the comprehensive inclusions, please note exclusions such as hotel city taxes, international airfare, gratuities for drivers and guides, and credit card fees for deposits.

From the onset, you are introduced to the charm of southern Italy, beginning with a visit to the enchanting towns of Alberobello, Martina Franca, and Monopoli in the Itria Valley, celebrated for its picturesque landscapes and wine tasting opportunities. The journey then leads you to Matera for a walking tour of this ancient city, nestled in the Southern Dolomites, before exploring the Lucanian Dolomites, including Pietrapertosa and Castelmezzano, offering the thrilling "Volo dell'Angelo" zip-line experience.

As you continue, the itinerary unveils the majestic castles and natural beauty of Basilicata, including visits to Melfi and the serene lakes of Monticchio. The exploration extends to the coastal wonders of Maratea in Basilicata, adorned with the Statue of the Cristo Redentore, and ventures further into the heart of Calabria, with stops in Praia a Mare, Tortora, San Nicola Arcella, and the vibrant town of Tropea, celebrated for its breathtaking views over the ocean.

Your journey is punctuated with visits to historical towns facing the Ionian Sea, offering a glimpse into the rich Greek and Byzantine heritage, before concluding with a visit to the Bronze of Riace in Reggio Calabria. On the final day, a private transfer to Vibo Valentia Airport facilitates your departure, marking the end of an unforgettable Southern Italian adventure. Throughout your stay, you are supported with 24-hour assistance and all taxes included, ensuring a worry-free and enriching travel experience.

Duration

11 days

10 nights

Pricing

On request

Tailored to your dates and group.

This meticulously crafted 11-day journey through Southern Italy offers an immersive experience into the heart of Puglia, Basilicata, and Calabria. Starting with your arrival at Bari airport...

Regions
Puglia · Basilicata · Calabria
Tour Style
Private
Departs From
Bari
Meeting Point
Bari Airport
Included Meals
Daily breakfast · 2 dinners · 2 wine tastings · 1 lunch
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 1–2

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 Puglia, Polignano a Mare Puglia, Bari, Conversano

Arrival at the Bari airport and Welcome dinner at Polignano a Mare. Overnight in Coversano!

  • Breakfast
  • Dinner


Bari, one of Southern Italy's premier cities and a pivotal port, boasts a captivating and picturesque historical center awaiting exploration.

Upon landing at Bari Airport, our welcoming team will greet you and escort you to an exquisite hotel nestled within the enchanting historical heart of Coversano. Here, your driver-guide will begin to introduce you to the local area, setting the stage for your immersive experience.

The evening promises a delightful seaside stroll followed by a welcome dinner in the ancient quarter of Bari Vecchia.

Your day concludes with a restful night at Corte Altavilla, ensuring comfort and serenity in preparation for the adventures ahead.

  Corte Altavilla:

https://www.cortealtavilla.it/en/home/#_ga=2.80730450.437257070.1707246338-1181297863.1707246338

 

Where we meet Bari Airport
Day 2

Puglia, Alberobello Puglia, Martina Franca Puglia, Monopoli

Day trip visiting Alberobello, Martina Franca and Monopoli. ( Itria Valley )

  • Breakfast
  • Wine Tasting
Day trip visiting Alberobello, Martina Franca and Monopoli. ( Itria Valley ) — photo 1 Day trip visiting Alberobello, Martina Franca and Monopoli. ( Itria Valley ) — photo 2


This morning, we venture into the heart of Southern Puglia, to the enchanting Itria Valley. Here, we'll explore the picturesque towns of Monopoli and Alberobello, immersing ourselves in the beauty of the entire valley.

The day will be highlighted by an exquisite wine tasting experience near Martina Franca. Enjoy lunch at your leisure before we return to Coversano for an overnight stay.

 

Basilicata

Chapter 2 · Days 3–6

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 3

Basilicata, Matera Basilicata, Castelmezzano

Walking Tour of Matera and the Southern Dolomites

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


Following breakfast, we set out from Bari towards the remarkable city of Matera, approximately an hour's drive away. Matera, celebrated for its profound antiquity and appearance in renowned films like "The Passion of Christ" and various James Bond movies, awaits us for a morning walking tour.

Following our tour, you'll have the opportunity to enjoy lunch at your leisure before we proceed to the picturesque mountain towns nestled within the Southern Dolomites, where our stay will be in Castelmezzano.

Upon hotel check-in this evening, a concise orientation tour of the town is planned, followed by a delightful dinner at the hotel's excellent restaurant.

The night will be spent in Castelmezzano at the Villa Monserrat!

Villa Monserrat: 

https://villamonserrat.it

 

Day 4

Basilicata, Pietrapertosa Basilicata, Castelmezzano

Lucanian Dolomites - Pietrapertosa & Castelmezzano

  • Breakfast
Lucanian Dolomites - Pietrapertosa & Castelmezzano — photo 1 Lucanian Dolomites - Pietrapertosa & Castelmezzano — photo 2 Lucanian Dolomites - Pietrapertosa & Castelmezzano — photo 3

Following breakfast today, we embark on a scenic 1.5-hour trek from Castelmezzano to Pietrapertosa. Upon arrival in Pietrapertosa, we'll have the opportunity to explore this charming village and ascend to its mountain-top castle.

During your visit, you'll have the choice to partake in the exhilarating "Volo dell'Angelo" zip line experience or, alternatively, opt for a transfer back to Castelmezzano. Another option is to explore the Gallipoli Cognato Natural Park, a sanctuary where the local flora and fauna can be appreciated in their natural habitat.

After the day's adventures, you'll return to the hotel. Dinner will be at your discretion, followed by another restful night in Castelmezzano.

 

Day 5

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

Continue exploring the Basilicata mountains, lakes and castles

  • Breakfast
Continue exploring the Basilicata mountains, lakes and castles — photo 1 Continue exploring the Basilicata mountains, lakes and castles — photo 2 Continue exploring the Basilicata mountains, lakes and castles — photo 3 Continue exploring the Basilicata mountains, lakes and castles — photo 4 Continue exploring the Basilicata mountains, lakes and castles — photo 5


Today, following breakfast, you'll have the opportunity to explore the captivating region around Melfi, renowned for its interconnected castles via underground passages, and the picturesque town of Venosa, where the splendid Aragonese castle and the town's charm make it a delight to visit.

Subsequently, enjoy lunch by the serene Lake Monticchio, taking in the tranquility of nature. Post-lunch, we'll guide you to an extraordinary abbey, offering a panoramic view of the Monticchio lakes from its vantage point.

After a day filled with discovery, you'll return to the hotel for another restful overnight stay.

 

Day 6

Basilicata, Lagonegro Basilicata, Maratea

Get onto the coast of Basilicata with a stop in Lagonegro for a wine tasting, Maratea with its Statue of the Cristo Redentore. Overnight in Maratea - Basilicata

  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Wine Tasting
Get onto the coast of Basilicata with a stop in Lagonegro for a wine tasting, Maratea with its Statue of the Cristo Redentore. Overnight in Maratea - Basilicata — photo 1 Get onto the coast of Basilicata with a stop in Lagonegro for a wine tasting, Maratea with its Statue of the Cristo Redentore. Overnight in Maratea - Basilicata — photo 2 Get onto the coast of Basilicata with a stop in Lagonegro for a wine tasting, Maratea with its Statue of the Cristo Redentore. Overnight in Maratea - Basilicata — photo 3 Get onto the coast of Basilicata with a stop in Lagonegro for a wine tasting, Maratea with its Statue of the Cristo Redentore. Overnight in Maratea - Basilicata — photo 4 Get onto the coast of Basilicata with a stop in Lagonegro for a wine tasting, Maratea with its Statue of the Cristo Redentore. Overnight in Maratea - Basilicata — photo 5


Following breakfast today, you'll embark on a tour of Lagonegro, featuring a delightful wine tasting and an included lunch.

Afterwards, you'll ascend to visit the majestic statue of the Cristo Redentore, perched high in the mountains. The journey continues to the charming town of Maratea, nestled on the border between the Basilicata and Calabria regions.

You'll then check into the Hotel San Diego, where dinner awaits you. Enjoy your overnight stay here, complemented by the breathtaking coastal views.

Hotel San Diego:

http://www.hotelsandiego.it/en/

 

Calabria

Chapter 3 · Days 7–11

Welcome to Calabria

  Calabria is the region in Italy where many members of the team at Italy Vacation Specialists, still call home and lead guided tours and experiences for travelers from all over Italy and the world at large.   On our siste site, VisitsItaly, which is quite literally an encyclopedia about Italy, we have written about over 50 different towns and cities in the…

Explore Calabria
Day 7

Calabria, Praia a Mare Calabria, Tortora Calabria, San Nicola Arcella

Explore the region of Calabria visiting Praia a Mare, Tortora as well as San Nicola Arcella

  • Breakfast
Explore the region of Calabria visiting Praia a Mare, Tortora as well as San Nicola Arcella — photo 1 Explore the region of Calabria visiting Praia a Mare, Tortora as well as San Nicola Arcella — photo 2 Explore the region of Calabria visiting Praia a Mare, Tortora as well as San Nicola Arcella — photo 3 Explore the region of Calabria visiting Praia a Mare, Tortora as well as San Nicola Arcella — photo 4 Explore the region of Calabria visiting Praia a Mare, Tortora as well as San Nicola Arcella — photo 5

After enjoying breakfast, your day will be dedicated to exploring the enchanting town of Praia a Mare, celebrated for its captivating Dino Island and the magnificent "Arco Magno" from the era of Magna Grecia.

Additionally, you'll have the opportunity to marvel at the "Madonna della Grotta," a remarkable church hewn into the rocky mountainside, and wander through the quaint streets of San Nicola Arcella's downtown.

Following this immersive experience, you'll return to your hotel for another restful overnight stay.

 

Day 8

Calabria, Diamante Calabria, Tropea

Depart from the San Diego Hotel for immersing into the deeper south of Calabria!

  • Breakfast
Depart from the San Diego Hotel for immersing into the deeper south of Calabria! — photo 1 Depart from the San Diego Hotel for immersing into the deeper south of Calabria! — photo 2 Depart from the San Diego Hotel for immersing into the deeper south of Calabria! — photo 3 Depart from the San Diego Hotel for immersing into the deeper south of Calabria! — photo 4 Depart from the San Diego Hotel for immersing into the deeper south of Calabria! — photo 5


Start your day with a buffet breakfast before setting off to experience the southern charms of Calabria. After checking out of the hotel, make a stop in Diamante, renowned for its spicy Peperoncino chili pepper and vibrant murals.

Following this visit, you'll head to Tropea, where you will spend two nights at the Hotel Terrazzo Sul Mare, boasting stunning ocean views.

Hotel Terrazzo Sul Mare:

https://www.facebook.com/p/Hotel-terrazzo-sul-mare-100063596919537/

 

Day 9

Calabria, Gerace Calabria, Stilo Calabria, Rocella Ionica

Day trip to the Ionian sea and the southeast of Calabria facing Greece

  • Breakfast


Enjoy a buffet breakfast before embarking on a day trip to the Ionian Sea, where you'll explore the historic and picturesque towns of Gerace and Stilo, each boasting rich Greek and Byzantine heritage.

Following these visits, you'll have the opportunity to witness the stunning seaside views at Rocella Ionica, famous for its beautiful promenade and castle.

Conclude your day with a return to Tropea for another comfortable overnight stay.

 

Day 10

Calabria, Tropea Calabria, Reggio Calabria

End of the trip and fly back home

  • Breakfast
End of the trip and fly back home — photo 1 End of the trip and fly back home — photo 2 End of the trip and fly back home — photo 3 End of the trip and fly back home — photo 4 End of the trip and fly back home — photo 5


Start your day with a buffet breakfast, followed by a leisurely walk through Tropea to explore its iconic castle set upon white sands and the charming downtown area, where you can enjoy lunch at your leisure.

In the afternoon, embark on a journey to Reggio Calabria, just a 90-minute drive away, to admire the renowned Bronze of Riace statues at the local museum.

Afterward, return to Tropea for another night's stay.

 

Day 11

Calabria, Vibo Valentia

Check out at the hotel and reach the Vibo Valentia Airport to fly back home through Rome

  • Breakfast
Check out at the hotel and reach the Vibo Valentia Airport to fly back home through Rome — photo 1 Check out at the hotel and reach the Vibo Valentia Airport to fly back home through Rome — photo 2 Check out at the hotel and reach the Vibo Valentia Airport to fly back home through Rome — photo 3 Check out at the hotel and reach the Vibo Valentia Airport to fly back home through Rome — photo 4 Check out at the hotel and reach the Vibo Valentia Airport to fly back home through Rome — photo 5

Enjoy a buffet breakfast followed by a private transfer to the airport for your return flight home.

 

The details

Inclusions & Exclusions

What's Included

  • Accommodation for 10 nights, including buffet breakfast.
  • Private transportation in a brand-new vehicle, inclusive of fuel and tolls.
  • Personalized service with private drivers and guides.
  • Welcome dinner and additional meals as specified in the itinerary.
  • Exclusive private tours and transfers throughout your Italian adventure.
  • Round-the-clock assistance and all applicable taxes.

What's Not Included

  • City taxes imposed by hotels.
  • International flight fares.
  • Tips for drivers and guides.
  • Fees for deposit payments made by credit card.
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

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

Where we meet

Bari Airport

Where it starts

Bari

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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.

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11 days · Pricing on request

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