11 days, 10 nights · Best for Baroque towns, coastal romance, and ancient cave cities
Apulia and Basilicata Honeymoon: Lecce Nights, Southern Coastlines, Matera Magic, and Bari by the Sea
A romantic 12-day journey through southern Italy featuring charming towns, candlelit piazzas, ancient wonders, and breezy seaside escapes from Lecce to Bari, with experiences designed for
unforgettable moments together.
Your Adventure Starts Here
This is a starting point. Change the nights, choose the style of hotel, add the experiences you want. Your planner takes it from there.
Stop 1Lecce, Apulia
Lecce
Baroque elegance and golden stone in the south
Lecce's ornate facades and honey-colored limestone set the stage for your arrival in the deep south. Your guide leads you through Piazza del Duomo and past the exuberant Basilica di Santa Croce, revealing the city's Baroque soul and its lively squares where locals gather for evening aperitivo. Between guided walks, you have time to seek out pasticciotto in a café, watch cartapesta artisans at work, or pedal through quieter lanes on rented bikes.
Day trips carry you to the Salento coast, where Otranto's twelfth-century cathedral mosaic and Santa Maria di Leuca's two-sea panorama frame the Adriatic drama. Inland, the Itria Valley's white hill towns (Ostuni's flowered balconies, Locorotondo's circular streets) and a masseria tasting among ancient olive groves offer a slower rhythm and a glass raised to the journey ahead.
Arranged for you: We arrange private arrival transfer, guided walk of Lecce's historic center, private driver and guide for Salento coastal tour with masseria tasting, and private driver and guide for Itria Valley villages.
Your hotel
Styles, not names. We name the property once we know your dates and your party.
Interests in Lecce
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Private cooking class in a Lecce home Day Trips · Half day
Learn to shape orecchiette and prepare rusticella or pasticciotto with a local cook, then share the meal at her family table.
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Private pottery workshop in the Salento Day Trips · Half day
Work alongside a ceramicist in his studio, decorating a plate or bowl in traditional Puglian motifs to take home.
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Sunset boat tour from Santa Maria di Leuca Day Trips · Half day
Cruise the headland by private boat as the sun sets over the point where the Adriatic meets the Ionian.
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Private olive oil tasting at a family frantoio Day Trips · Half day
Visit a working mill to taste estate oils, learn harvest methods, and walk the groves with the producer.
Day by day in Lecce
Step into the golden light of southern Italy, where Lecce’s stone streets invite you to wander hand in hand. Known as the Florence of the South, Lecce is famous for its Baroque architecture,
including the ornate Basilica di Santa Croce and
Piazza del Duomo. Savor your first evening with a relaxed stroll and a celebratory dinner in a
charming piazza, setting a gentle, romantic pace for the days ahead.
Let Lecce’s golden light and timeless elegance sweep you off your feet as you wander through
sunlit piazzas and marvel at the city’s exuberant Baroque churches. Pause in Piazza Sant’Oronzo
to admire the ancient Roman amphitheater, then let your guide reveal hidden corners and stories
that bring Lecce’s vibrant local life to the fore.
After your tour, the afternoon is yours to explore at your own pace. Seek out a cozy café for a
leisurely coffee and a taste of pasticciotto, Lecce’s signature pastry. Stroll hand-in-hand through
winding streets lined with artisan workshops, perhaps pausing to watch a master cartapesta (papier mâché) artist at work or to browse delicate ceramics and handmade jewelry. If you’re feeling adventurous, rent bikes and pedal to the city’s tranquil gardens, or simply find a quiet spot in a sun-dappled square to soak up the atmosphere together. As evening falls, let Lecce’s lively aperitivo scene draw you in for a toast to the start of your Italian love story.
Embark on a breathtaking drive along the sun-drenched Salento coastline, where the turquoise
sea meets rugged cliffs and ancient towns. Begin in Otranto, wandering its charming old town
and stepping inside the magnificent cathedral, famous for its twelfth-century mosaic floor that
tells centuries of stories beneath your feet. Follow the winding coastal road to Santa Maria di
Leuca, where the land meets two seas and panoramic views create the perfect backdrop for a
romantic escape.
Your adventure continues at a traditional masseria, a historic farmhouse nestled among silvery
olive groves. Here, discover why Puglia is celebrated as Italy’s olive oil capital. Sample golden,
peppery extra virgin olive oils, each one a testament to the region’s centuries-old traditions and sun-soaked terroir. Pair your tasting with local wines and savor the flavors of the land, all while
soaking up the peaceful countryside and gentle sea breezes. Let the day unfold at a relaxed pace,
with every stop offering new sights, tastes, and moments to share together.
Set out for the enchanting Itria Valley, where romance lingers in the air and every hilltop village
feels like a secret waiting to be shared. In Ostuni, the “White City,” stroll hand-in-hand along
winding lanes lined with sun-bleached houses, their balconies overflowing with vibrant
flowerpots in every hue. Pause in quiet piazzas to sip espresso or share a sweet pastry, and let the
sweeping views of olive groves and the distant Adriatic set the mood for your day.
Continue to Locorotondo, a circular village famed for its immaculate white facades and
charming, flower-trimmed balconies. Here, lose yourselves in a maze of cobblestone streets,
discovering artisan boutiques and cozy wine bars perfect for a romantic toast. Then, journey to
Alberobello, where the whimsical trulli, those fairytale cone-roofed houses invite you to create
storybook memories together. Throughout the day, savor the flavors of Puglia with tastings of
local olive oil, cheese, and regional specialties, and enjoy the freedom to linger wherever your
hearts lead you.
Stop 2Matera, Basilicata
Matera
Ancient Sassi caves and mountain adventure
Your guide walks you through the Sassi's labyrinth of stone, one of the world's oldest inhabited settlements and a UNESCO site where cave dwellings cling to the ravine. Hidden viewpoints and carved churches reveal centuries of adaptation and survival, the kind of history that changes how you see a city. Afterward, you choose the pace: lunch in a cave restaurant, a ceramics shop selling handmade work, or a quiet corner to let the weight of the place settle.
The next day carries you to Castelmezzano, perched high in the Lucanian Dolomites. The Volo dell'Angelo zip line sends you soaring between peaks (if you want the thrill), and the medieval village streets offer a slower counterpoint. You return to Matera for the evening, the mountain air still in your lungs.
Arranged for you: We arrange private transfer from Lecce, guided tour of Matera's Sassi districts, private driver and guide for Castelmezzano and zip-line experience, and overnight accommodation.
Your hotel
Styles, not names. We name the property once we know your dates and your party.
Interests in Matera
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Private Rupestrian church tour with art historian Day Trips · Half day
Explore frescoed cave churches hidden in the ravine, learning the stories of monks and hermits who carved them centuries ago.
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Sunset walk and aperitivo on the Murgia plateau Day Trips · Half day
Hike the opposite rim of the ravine for the classic Sassi panorama, then settle in for wine and local cheese as the light fades.
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Ceramics demonstration and workshop in Matera Day Trips · Half day
Meet a local potter who continues Matera's clay traditions, then try your hand at shaping a bowl or decorating a tile.
Day by day in Matera
Begin your morning with a guided tour through Matera’s labyrinthine Sassi districts, where
history whispers from every stone. Your expert guide will share the fascinating story of this
UNESCO World Heritage Site, one of the world’s oldest continually inhabited cities leading you
to hidden viewpoints and ancient dwellings that capture the city’s unique spirit.
After the tour, the day is yours to explore Matera at your own rhythm. Linger over lunch in a
cave restaurant, browse local craft shops for handmade ceramics or textiles, or simply find a
quiet spot overlooking the ravine to soak in the extraordinary landscape. For a touch of
adventure, consider visiting a rupestrian church or the Casa Grotta museum, or take a scenic
walk along the Murgia plateau for breathtaking views of Matera’s stone skyline. As evening
approaches, let the city’s magical atmosphere inspire a romantic dinner under the stars.
Experience the thrill of soaring above the Lucanian Dolomites, then unwind in the mountain
village of Castelmezzano. For those seeking adventure, the Volo dell’Angelo zip line offers a
unique opportunity to glide between the peaks, suspended high above the valley, a
breathtaking experience for the adventurous at heart. The village’s medieval streets and
dramatic setting offer a glimpse into rural southern Italy. Enjoy leisurely time for village
walks and scenic breaks, mixing excitement and relaxation.
Stop 3Bari, Apulia
Bari
Adriatic port life and coastal finale
You arrive in Bari by way of Altamura, where wood-fired ovens turn out Pane di Altamura, a rustic loaf with Roman roots and protected status. Tasting the bread warm from the oven is the kind of small ceremony that makes the trip real. Once in Bari, the Adriatic breeze and the port's working energy offer a different cadence. Your guide walks you through the old town's alleys and piazze, stopping at the Basilica di San Nicola and pointing out the women rolling orecchiette in their doorways.
Day trips take you to Castel del Monte, Frederick II's octagonal riddle rising alone on a hill, and to Polignano a Mare, where whitewashed houses perch on cliffs above the sea. You can linger in Polignano's lanes, share gelato on the bridge, or continue south to Monopoli if the mood strikes. The days are built for wandering: fishermen mending nets, markets selling burrata, your own choice of pace and direction before the journey ends.
Arranged for you: We arrange private transfer from Matera with stop in Altamura, guided tour of Bari's old town, private driver and guide for Castel del Monte, and private driver for Polignano a Mare.
Your hotel
Styles, not names. We name the property once we know your dates and your party.
Interests in Bari
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Private pasta-making class in Bari Vecchia Day Trips · Half day
Join a local cook to learn the art of orecchiette and cavatelli, then sit down for lunch in her home with the pasta you made.
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Private boat tour of Bari's coastline and sea caves Day Trips · Half day
Cruise north along the rocky Adriatic shore, slipping into sea caves and stopping for a swim in quiet coves.
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Market walk and focaccia tasting in Bari Day Trips · Half day
Wander the morning fish and vegetable market with a local guide, then taste focaccia barese warm from a neighborhood bakery.
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Wine tasting at a Castel del Monte estate Day Trips · Half day
Visit a winery near Frederick's castle to taste Nero di Troia and other indigenous grapes, with views of the fortress in the distance.
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Charming Apulia: Bari and Castellana Caves from Otranto Shore Excursions · Tour in a DayExplore Bari’s vibrant old town and the awe-inspiring Caves of Castellana on a journey where culture, history, and natural wonder come together.
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Highlights of the Apulia Region: Bari, Alberobello and Ostuni Shore Excursions · Tour in a DayUncover the magic of Apulia in just one day, three iconic towns, endless charm, and a journey you’ll never forget.
Day by day in Bari
Discover the art of bread-making in Altamura, home to the celebrated Pane di Altamura, a
tradition dating back to Roman times. This rustic bread is baked in wood-fire ovens, giving it its
signature crust and flavor. After tasting award-winning local bread, arrive in Bari, where the
Adriatic breeze and lively streets offer a fresh chapter to your journey. Explore Bari’s historic
Murat district or simply enjoy the seaside energy.
Begin your day with a guided stroll through Bari’s atmospheric old town, where winding alleys,
sunlit piazze, and centuries-old churches reveal the city’s storied past. Your guide will introduce
you to Bari’s fascinating history and lively traditions, from tales of ancient seafarers to the
enduring devotion at the Basilica di San Nicola, a pilgrimage site cherished by locals and visitors
alike.
After your introduction, the rest of the day is yours to explore at your own pace. Wander the
bustling port, where fishermen mend their nets and the salty air mingles with the aroma of fresh
focaccia. Browse artisan boutiques tucked along narrow lanes, or linger in a café overlooking the
Adriatic, savoring local specialties like sgagliozze (crispy polenta) or a creamy gelato. For a
touch of romance, stroll along the Lungomare promenade at sunset, watching the city glow as the
sea breeze carries the sounds of laughter and music.
Whether you’re seeking history, flavor, or simply the joy of discovering Bari together, this day
invites you to make the city your own.
Return to Bari for a restful evening Set out for the mysterious Castel del Monte, rising
majestically atop a solitary hill amid the Apulian countryside. Commissioned by Emperor
Frederick II, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is famed for its striking octagonal design,
blending elements of medieval fortresses, classical temples, and mathematical symbolism. As
you explore its echoing halls and sunlit courtyards, let your imagination wander through
centuries of history, intrigue, and legend.
Step onto the ramparts for sweeping views of olive groves and distant mountains, a breathtaking
backdrop for photos and quiet reflection. Take time to walk the castle’s perimeter, noticing how
the play of light and shadow changes with every angle, a testament to the genius of its
architecture.
After your visit, return to Bari for a restful evening. Perhaps enjoy a leisurely dinner in the old
town, sharing stories from the day and savoring the flavors of Puglia one last time. Let the magic
of Castel del Monte linger as you relax and prepare for the journey ahead.
Savor your final day in Puglia with the freedom to relax in Bari or set out for one last coastal
adventure. Venture south to Polignano a Mare, where whitewashed houses cling to dramatic
cliffs above the sparkling Adriatic. Lose yourselves in the town’s enchanting historic center,
wandering narrow lanes that open onto breathtaking sea views. Pause for a romantic gelato in a sunlit piazza, or linger on the iconic Lama Monachile bridge, capturing postcard-worthy
memories together.
If you’re eager to explore further, continue to nearby Monopoli, a lively seaside town where
pastel-colored fishing boats bob in the harbor and medieval walls embrace a charming old
quarter. Stroll hand-in-hand along the waterfront promenade, discover hidden churches and
bustling market squares, or simply soak up the relaxed local vibe at a café overlooking the sea.
Whether you choose to unwind in Bari or discover the beauty of these coastal gems, your last
day promises moments of joy, reflection, and celebration of your Italian journey.
Day 11
Departure
Enjoy a final breakfast and reflect on a journey filled with shared flavors, coastal beauty, and
southern Italian magic. Depart with hearts full and memories to last a lifetime.
Why plan with Trips 2 Italy?
Designed around you by Italian-born planners
Guides, drivers and boats for your party alone
Hand-selected hotels in every destination
Local English-speaking guides who know their city
Met at the airport, private transfers throughout
Testimonials
Hear from travelers who have planned Italy with us
They took the time to understand our preferences and designed an itinerary that was comfortable, personalized, and enjoyable. They offered thoughtful recommendations while never being pushy.
We missed our connecting flight in Munich. I had just got through customs and was looking up the number to call when Trips 2 Italy called me. They told me exactly what to do and they already knew what flight we had been rebooked on.
Ready to make it yours?
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Questions travelers ask
Where will we travel on this itinerary?
Over 11 days this journey brings you to Bellagio, Cernobbio, Como, Lake Como, Mantua, Milan, and Tremezzo. Each stop is woven into the itinerary with time for the landmarks, the views, and the local flavor that make it special.
How will we get around during the vacation?
Transportation is arranged as part of the itinerary, with comfortable train segments between the cities and vehicle transfers where they serve you best. Every connection is planned for you, so you can focus on the scenery instead of the logistics.
What kind of traveler is this package for?
It is designed for couples, with romantic settings, intimate experiences, and time built in to simply enjoy each other and Italy.
Can we customize this itinerary?
Absolutely. Every Trips 2 Italy itinerary is designed to inspire and can be tailored end to end, from the number of nights and hotel categories to the experiences along the way. A minimum of 2 travelers applies.
What is the best season for this itinerary?
It is available all year around on request. May through September shows the lakes at their sunniest, with gardens in bloom and ferries running full schedules, while spring and fall bring softer light and thinner crowds.