A Taste of Puglia with Alberobello, Matera, Lecce & Polignano

A food-lovers dream, this escorted tour holiday offers a feast for the senses with the very best of the sites, tastes and experiences that Puglia has to offer, all in one unforgettable trip.

Your Holiday Itinerary

Day1Fly from Dublin

Arrive in Puglia, where you will be met at the airport by your Tour Manager before being transferred by coach to the 4-star Hotel Relais Porta del Sud. This hotel, styled as a rustic Apulian farmhouse, provides modern comforts in a peaceful, secluded setting. You can unwind by the pool on leisure days and enjoy evening entertainment on three nights during your stay.

Day2Ostuni & Alberobello with Olive Oil Tasting

After breakfast, begin your exploration of Puglia with a visit to a traditional farmhouse, or ‘Masseria,’ where you’ll sample some of the finest locally produced olive oil. Here, you’ll taste authentic Apulian fare, take in the surroundings, and relax at this charming spot.
Next, travel to the UNESCO World Heritage town of Alberobello, famous for its unique “trulli” houses with their iconic conical roofs. A stroll through the cobblestone streets of this remarkable village offers a glimpse into the past lives of farming families in this region.
Finish the day with a visit to Ostuni, the picturesque “White City” perched on a hilltop. With its winding cobblestone streets and whitewashed houses adorned with flowers, Ostuni is a beautiful end to a day of Apulian discovery. In the evening, enjoy a welcome drink and live piano music at the hotel.

Day3Matera & Altamura

After breakfast, travel to the ancient city of Matera, designated a European Capital of Culture in 2019. Matera’s unique “sassi” dwellings—caves carved into tufa limestone—create a landscape reminiscent of biblical times. These UNESCO-protected structures are among the world’s oldest continuously inhabited settlements and have been used in films such as Passion of the Christ and 007 - No Time to Die.
Continue to the nearby town of Altamura, known for its charming historic center and rich cultural heritage. Return to the hotel in time for dinner.

Day4At Your Leisure

After a few days of exploration, spend the day unwinding at your leisure. Relax by the hotel’s pool, soak up the Italian sunshine, or take a leisurely walk around the grounds. For those eager to explore further, consult with your Tour Manager about optional excursions.

Day5Lecce & Otranto

Today’s excursion brings you to the historic city of Lecce, known as “The Florence of the South” for its stunning Baroque architecture. Discover the city’s landmarks, including the Roman amphitheatre in Piazza Oronzo, and admire the intricate details of buildings crafted from “Lecce stone,” a soft limestone often used for sculptures and decorative facades.
In the afternoon, travel to Otranto, a seaside town where the Adriatic and Ionian seas meet. Explore the old town’s charming shops and cafés, and visit the historic castle, which has guarded the town for centuries. Return to the hotel for dinner.

Day6At Your Leisure

Enjoy a day at your leisure to relax or explore more of Puglia on your own. You can unwind at the hotel or consult with your tour manager for additional excursion options if you’d like to see more of this beautiful region.

Day7Cheese Tasting, Polignano & Locorotondo

Start the day with a visit to a local cheese producer, famous for crafting the region’s delicious burrata cheese. Watch a demonstration of traditional cheese-making techniques and enjoy a taste of this creamy delicacy.
Continue to the coastal town of Polignano a Mare, renowned for its striking whitewashed buildings, cliffside views, and ancient streets. The birthplace of singer Domenico Modugno, who sang “Volare,” Polignano offers plenty to explore.
Conclude the day with a visit to Locorotondo, one of Puglia’s most picturesque villages, where you’ll have time to explore its quaint streets and lovely architecture before returning to the hotel.

Day8Return to Dublin

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and enjoy some final moments in the Italian sunshine before being transferred to Brindisi Airport for your return flight to Dublin.