Snapshot of the Itinerary
Puglia & Basilicata: A Luxurious Journey Through Southern Italy
Breathtaking Beauty, Culinary Discovery & Timeless Charm
Puglia Tour October 4 - 12, 2026
9 Days - Maximum 14
Day 1 - Welcome to Puglia! Arrival in Bari & the Valle d’Itria.
Benvenuti in Italia! Upon arrival in Bari, your private motor coach will whisk you away to your elegant coastal resort in the heart of the Valle d’Itria, a region renowned for its whitewashed villages, ancient olive groves, and rolling hills.
Unpack, unwind, and soak in your surroundings—perhaps enjoy a dip in the pool or a stroll through the manicured gardens. Savor a leisurely lunch of local specialties, and later, indulge in a delicious welcome dinner at the resort.
Today is all about settling into the rhythm of Puglia and embracing la dolce vita.
Day 2 - The Ancient Soul of Matera & the White City of Ostuni
After a leisurely breakfast, we set out for Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities on earth. Explore its extraordinary Sassi cave dwellings, carved into the limestone cliffs over 10,000 years ago, with insights from our expert local guide.
Enjoy lunch at a charming trattoria, then journey south to Ostuni, the dazzling “White City,” whose winding alleys, Gothic churches, and sunlit piazzas seem to glow under the Mediterranean sky.
We’ll dine this evening in Ostuni at a local restaurant featuring authentic Pugliese flavors.
Day 3 - Flavors of the Countryside & Fairytale Alberobello
This morning, experience the warm heart of rural Puglia at a picturesque agricultural estate dedicated to sustainable farming and time-honored craftsmanship. Meet the animals, sample fresh cheeses, cured meats, and handmade baked goods, and discover the true taste of the land.
In the afternoon, we’ll explore Alberobello, the enchanting town of trulli—whitewashed, cone-roofed homes so unique they’ve earned UNESCO recognition. Wander the cobblestone streets and browse charming boutiques before enjoying dinner at a local restaurant surrounded by these storybook dwellings.
Day 4 - Seaside Magic: Monopoli & Polignano a Mare
Today we travel to Monopoli, a coastal gem where ancient piazzas, noble palaces, and a glimmering Adriatic backdrop set the scene. Enjoy lunch at an authentic Pugliese restaurant, then continue to Polignano a Mare, a clifftop town famed for its limestone architecture and breathtaking sea views.
The evening is yours to explore, shop, or relax with an aperitivo overlooking the coast.
For an unforgettable dining experience, you may choose to dine at the legendary Grotta Palazzese, a restaurant carved into the seaside cliffs—one of the world’s most spectacular dining settings.
Day 5 - Olive Oil Traditions & Baroque Splendor in Lecce
After breakfast, we depart the Valle d’Itria and journey south to a historic olive oil estate that has thrived since Roman times. Discover the artistry of olive oil production, enjoy a tasting of their finest oils, and savor a lunch of regional specialties under the shade of ancient olive trees.
Continue to Lecce, often called the “Florence of the South,” where ornate Baroque facades and golden-hued limestone create an atmosphere of timeless elegance.
This evening, enjoy dinner on the hotel’s rooftop terrace, featuring regional cuisine paired with stunning city views.
Day 6 - The Charms of Lecce & the Coast of Otranto
Begin the day with a private guided walking tour of Lecce, exploring its grand piazzas, artisan workshops, and the mesmerizing Basilica di Santa Croce.
Then we’ll travel to Otranto, Italy’s easternmost town, where ancient fortresses meet turquoise seas.. Enjoy free time for a seaside lunch (optional), wander along the promenade, or relax at a lido by the water. Return to Lecce for dinner on your own—perhaps try one of the city’s acclaimed local restaurants or wine bars.
Day 7 - Puglia’s Finest Wines & Arrival in Bari
After breakfast, we head north through the countryside to visit Puglia’s oldest active wine cooperative, where Primitivo takes center stage. Enjoy a private tour of the cellars and wine museum, followed by a guided tasting and leisurely lunch.
Later, we continue to Bari, the vibrant capital of Puglia. After check-in, explore the Bari Vecchia old town, where narrow cobblestone streets and the scent of fresh orecchiette pasta fill the air.
Dinner tonight will be at a restaurant celebrating Bari’s traditional cuisine.
Day 8 -Bari’s Old Town & Farewell Celebration
After breakfast, join your guide for a walking tour through Bari’s historic heart, rich with Romanesque churches, seaside vistas, and bustling local life.
The afternoon is yours to shop, explore, or relax before gathering for our festive farewell dinner at the hotel—a perfect ending to your journey through Southern Italy
Day 9 - Arrivederci!
After breakfast, enjoy private transfers to Bari International Airport. As you depart, take with you a heart full of memories—sun-drenched landscapes, exquisite meals, and the warmth of Southern Italy’s hospitality.
ALL INCLUSIVE PRICING
Everything you need for an unforgettable 9 days in Puglia
✓What's Included
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8 nights of Boutique luxury accommodations (seaside lifestyle hotel, historical palace hotel, & boutique spa hotel)
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Wine tastings and winery tour, and museum visit
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Guided food tours and hands-on cooking experience
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Olive Oil Farm (Frantoia) tour and tasting
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Cheese Farm (Caseficio) tour and tasting
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Visits to charming village towns and UNESCO heritage sites, including the Trulli village of Alberobello, the ancient town of Matera, the white-washed village of Ostuni, the beachside towns of Otranto,Polignano a Mare, and Monopoli; Lecce, known as the Florence of the south and Bari, the old town and capital of Puglia.
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7 lunches, including some light lunches and 6 dinners (with wine, of course!)
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Private motorcoach transportation throughout the tour, as well as transfers from and to the Bari airport
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Local guides and cultural experiences
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A few surprise treats along the way
✗Not Included
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Flights
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Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
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Alcoholic beverages outside of included tastings and meals
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Additional accommodations before or after the trip dates
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Travel Insurance
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Gratuities are optional (can be offered for exceptional service to our tour guides and the bus driver)
Tour Cost
$ 8,500 before April 1 2026
$ 9,000 after April 1 2026
Per person, double occupancy
CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED
Secure your spot with a 50% deposit
before April 1, 2026
How do I book my spot? Please click the “Reserve Your Spot” button, which will take you to the Tour Forms page. Shortly after, you will receive an email from us with further instructions on how to make your deposit and book your spot. Reservations will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Credit cards are accepted with no additional fees.
When should I arrive for this trip? As you plan your travel, please be sure to arrive by 11:00 AM in Bari, Italy on October 4th. We’ll have one scheduled group transfer to our waterfront hotel in Puglia. If you arrive after this time, you’ll need to make your own way to the hotel which is about one and half hours away. We can’t wait to welcome you!
Who would enjoy this tour? This tour is an intimate, small-group tour and will not have more than 14 travelers. The tour is perfect for wine lovers, food enthusiasts, and curious travelers who want a deeper taste of Puglia—culturally and literally. You don’t need to be a foodie or wine geek, just someone who enjoys good company and beautiful places. Past travelers range from couples and friends connecting over shared interests. If you appreciate quality over quantity and authentic experiences over tourist traps, you will love this tour.
What is the price of this tour? The Early Bird price is $8,500.00 per person double occupancy. After April 1, 2026 the price is $9,000.00 per person double occupancy.
What is included in the price? ● 8 nights in three locations throughout Puglia at luxury boutique hotels (seaside lifestyle hotel, historical palace hotel, & boutique spa hotel). ● Visits to charming village towns and UNESCO heritage sites, including the Trulli village of Alberobello, the ancient town of Matera, the white-washed village of Ostuni, the beachside towns of Otranto, Polignano a Mare, and Monopoli; Lecce, known as the Florence of the south and Bari, the old town and capital of Puglia. ● Daily breakfast ● 7 Lunches (a few light lunches or street food tastings), as per itinerary ● 6 Dinners with wines picked by our very own wine expert, as per the itinerary ● Tastings and tour of a historical olive oil farm with lunch (Frantoio) ● Tastings and tour at an agricultural farm dedicated to the production of high-quality local products, especially the making of their local cheeses (Caseificio) ● Local winery tour with a museum visit, tastings, and lunch ● A wine expert at your disposal for the week ● Hands-on cooking class with a local chef ● English-speaking local tour guides, as per the itinerary ● Private motorcoach transportation throughout the tour ● Transfer from and to Bari Airport ● A few surprise treats along the way
What is not Included? ● Flights ● Meals not mentioned in the itinerary ● Alcoholic beverages outside of included tastings and meals ● Additional accommodations before or after the trip dates ● Travel Insurance ● Gratuities are optional (can be offered for exceptional service to our tour guides and the bus driver)
What’s the pace of the trip? Expect a relaxed but full itinerary. Moderate walking is involved, especially in historic hill towns and some towns where the streets are slick from worn pavement. There’s plenty of wining, dining, and touring, but also time to explore, rest, or sip your favorite beverage in a sunny piazza.
What will the weather be like in Puglia in October? October is a beautiful time to visit Puglia. We are hoping for typical weather-mild and pleasant, with average temperatures around 63-73°F. While it will be warm enough for daytime activities, evenings will be cooler, 50-55°F. The sea is often still warm enough for swimming, especially early in the month.
What should I pack? ● We hope for beautiful, sunny autumn days, but please be sure to prepare for rain, just in case Mother Nature decides not to cooperate. It’s a good idea to bring a lightweight rain jacket, a sweater or light fleece, a packable umbrella and comfortable walking shoes with good gripping rubber soles. We will be walking on cobblestone streets and uneven pavement, and visiting a countryside vineyard and farms. We suggest you dress in layers for warm days and cooler evenings. Pack a swimsuit, should you want to take a dip in one of the hotel pools. ● Your passport!! Please check the expiration date; it must be valid for six months beyond your travel dates. We will need a copy of your passport information page for the hotels. ● Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses) ● An appetite for wine and delicious food!
How do I get to Bari, where the tour begins? Fly into Bari International Airport–Karol Wojtyla (BRI). The most convenient connections are usually through Rome (FCO) on ITA Airways. As you plan your travel, please be sure to arrive by 11:00 AM in Bari, Italy on October 4th. We’ll have one scheduled group transfer to our waterfront hotel in Puglia. If you arrive after this time, you’ll need to make your own way to the hotel which is about one and half hours away.
What's the payment plan? A 50% deposit per person of the total price is due upon booking, based on double occupancy. The balance is due by June 1, 2026. Credit cards are accepted with no additional fees.
What's the cancellation policy? A cancellation must be received in writing and confirmed by Sips Sites & Bites. Deposits are refundable up until 120 days prior to the departure date of October 4, 2026, an administrative fee of $400 will be charged per person. If canceled between 119 days to 90 days prior to departure date the penalty will be 50% of the total tour price. If canceled 89 days or less the penalty is 100% (nonrefundable).
What if I have dietary restrictions or food allergies? We can accommodate most dietary restrictions. Please let us know at the time of booking on your tour form.
Can I extend my stay in Puglia before or after the trip? Absolutely! Many travelers choose to arrive in Europe early or stay longer to explore other parts of Puglia or Italy independently.
What's your health policy? We follow current Italian travel requirements and health guidelines. We recommend all travelers have comprehensive travel insurance that includes medical coverage. If you feel unwell during the trip, let us know immediately—your health and the group's safety are our priority.