DISCOVERY OF PUGLIA Small Group Tour: 8 Days / 7 Nights

Exploring the southern tip of Italy’s heel, known as Puglia, has never been easier or more immersive than with the “Discovery of Puglia” small group tour. This 8-day journey from Bari offers a carefully curated mix of UNESCO World Heritage sites, local culinary delights, and authentic accommodations, including two nights sleeping in a traditional trullo. Priced around $6,000 per person, it’s a solid investment for travelers eager to see Puglia without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

What really caught my eye—and the feedback from travelers—are the knowledgeable guides who bring stories and insights alive, like Gaetano, who consistently receives praise for his professionalism and warmth. You’ll also love the chance to taste regional wines, cheeses, and olive oils, often included in the meals and tastings, making this experience both flavorful and convenient. Plus, the accommodation options are a standout, combining comfort with the charm of staying in a historic trullo or a luxury hotel.

However, a point to consider is the tour’s two-week cancellation policy, which is non-refundable and requires commitment upfront. While this ensures a well-organized group, it might be less flexible if your plans change unexpectedly. Also, the tour is most suitable for those comfortable with a busy schedule and walking tours, as it covers numerous sites with some driving in between.

Key Points

Expert Local Guides: Guides like Gaetano make the difference with their deep knowledge and friendly approach, enriching every site visit.
Authentic Experiences: From wine tastings to cheese-making classes and exploring ancient ruins, the tour offers genuine interaction with Puglia’s traditions.
Comfortable Accommodations: Staying in four- and five-star hotels along with two nights in a traditional trullo provides a perfect blend of luxury and local flavor.
Well-Planned Itinerary: The schedule balances sightseeing, tasting, and leisure, giving you a well-rounded view without feeling rushed.
Focus on Food & Wine: Most meals and tastings are included, highlighting the region’s culinary richness—think regional wines, fresh seafood, and regional cheeses.
Limited Group Size: With just 8-15 travelers, it’s intimate enough to feel personalized, yet social enough for shared experiences.

A Deep Dive into the Puglia Small Group Tour

If you’re after a solid introduction to Puglia that combines history, culture, and culinary delights, this guided tour from Bari really checks many boxes. I’ve seen few trips that manage to pack so much into just over a week, and do it with such a personal touch.

Starting in Matera: Walking Through the Sassi

The journey begins with a drive from Bari to Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its ancient Sassi—cave dwellings carved from the tufa rock. The highlight here is a visit to a vineyard in Basilicata, where you’ll explore the Crypt of the Original Sin—frescoes dating back to the 9th century. This visit isn’t just about looking at old art; it’s about connecting with the region’s long-standing tradition of winemaking. As one reviewer pointed out, the guided tour of the crypt was a “short, informative visit,” giving you a taste of the area’s deep history.

After lunch featuring locally sourced ingredients and regional wines, you’ll walk through Matera’s narrow streets, discovering how locals carved homes and churches from the rock. And trust me, wandering these ancient alleys makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

Alberobello and the Iconic Trulli

Next stop is Alberobello, home to the famous trulli—whitewashed conical houses made of limestone. The local guide’s walking tour offers a detailed look at this unique architectural style, and afterward, you’ll have free time to browse local shops or enjoy a meal. Many reviews rave about the chance to stay overnight in a trullo, which transforms a sightseeing trip into an immersive experience. Picture waking up in a centuries-old stone dwelling that still has all the charm of tradition.

Martina Franca and Lecce: Food, Art, and Color

Heading to Martina Franca, the focus shifts to learning how regional cheeses like mozzarella and burrata are made during a hands-on class at a local dairy farm—an experience frequently praised for being “fun” and “informative.” Following that, your guide will take you to Lecce, often called the “Florence of the South,” for a walking tour exploring its Baroque architecture, lively streets, and artistic heritage. Staying in Lecce for three nights gives you a good base to explore at your own pace.

Otranto and the Southeastern Coast

Otranto, at Italy’s heel, is renowned for its magnificent Tree of Life mosaics in the cathedral. The guided visit here is often described as “stunning,” and the town itself offers a relaxed vibe with plenty of artisan shops. Later, a farm-to-table lunch featuring seasonal produce showcases regional flavors, a common theme in this tour.

Hidden Gems: Gallipoli, Ostuni, and Polignano a Mare

This itinerary also includes lesser-known towns like Gallipoli, with its underground olive mill and seafood restaurants, and Ostuni, known as the “White City” for its bright, narrow streets and panoramic views. You’ll visit a family-run olive oil producer, learn about production, and taste different oils, which many reviewers appreciated as a highlight.

Polignano a Mare is a charming seaside town famous for its cliffs, seafood, and coffee—the “Caè Speciale” coffee here is a local legend. The view of Domenico Modugno’s statue is a bonus for music lovers or anyone who enjoys a good photo op.

Castel del Monte and Trani: Architectural Marvels

A visit to Castel del Monte offers a glimpse of medieval engineering—its octagonal shape is a standout feature and a UNESCO site. Close by, Trani’s stunning seaside cathedral completes the historical tour, with options to enjoy lunch before returning to Bari.

Closing the Circle

The final evening in Bari is marked by a group dinner, a chance to share impressions and toast your Puglian adventure. The comfort of the transportation—professional drivers and a small group size—helps keep the experience relaxed and personal.

What You’ll Love About This Tour

The guides are clearly the backbone of this experience, with travelers praising Gaetano for his extensive knowledge and friendly manner. His storytelling adds depth to each site, whether you’re exploring ancient churches or learning about local wines and oils. Many reviews mention how the guides’ professionalism and warmth foster a welcoming atmosphere, making the trip feel more like visiting friends than just sightseeing.

The culinary focus is another hit—most meals and tastings are included, which means you get to indulge in regional specialties without extra planning. From cheese tastings to wines from local vineyards and seafood in Gallipoli, your palate is treated at every turn. Staying in a trullo overnight in Alberobello also elevates the experience from a typical tour to a memory worth savoring.

Who is This Tour Best For?

If you crave a balance of historical sites, scenic towns, and regional cuisine, this tour hits the right notes. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy guided walks, small groups, and staying in comfortable accommodations. Foodies and culture lovers will find this trip especially rewarding, thanks to the included tastings, hands-on experiences, and expert guides like Gaetano.

However, keep in mind that the schedule is quite full, with a fair amount of walking and travel involved—so those seeking a more relaxed, slow-paced vacation might find the pace a bit brisk.

Practical Considerations and Tips

While the tour is well-organized, the non-refundable policy means you should be certain of your plans before booking. Also, as most reviews suggest, the experience is best suited for travelers comfortable with group tours and a fair amount of walking or exploration. If you have food allergies or restrictions, make sure to communicate them upfront, as GoinItaly emphasizes the importance of informing the team.

The tour’s price, at nearly $6,000, includes most meals, accommodations, transport, and guided tours, reflecting a good value for a comprehensive experience in Puglia. The small group size ensures personalized attention, which can be hard to find on larger trips.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
Most meals, tastings (wine, cheese, olive oil), private transportation, accommodations in 4- and 5-star hotels, and guided tours at the key sites are included.

Are the accommodations comfortable?
Yes, you’ll stay in quality hotels, including two nights in a traditional trullo, which offers a genuine but comfortable way to connect with the local culture.

Can I expect to do any walking?
Absolutely. The itinerary involves walking tours in towns like Matera, Alberobello, Lecce, and Ostuni, along with some sightseeing at UNESCO sites. Expect to explore narrow streets and historical centers.

Is the tour suitable for food lovers?
Definitely. Most meals and tastings are included, and there are opportunities for hands-on cheese-making and olive oil tasting, making it ideal if you love regional cuisine.

How large are the groups?
The group size is limited to 8-15 travelers, fostering a more intimate and flexible experience.

What is the pace of the tour?
It’s quite full, with multiple stops each day and some travel time in between. If you prefer a very leisurely pace, this might feel a bit busy.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sun protection, and a good camera. Also, a sense of curiosity and an appetite for adventure.

Are there any restrictions or dietary considerations?
Tour providers recommend informing them about food allergies or restrictions. Note that the tour is not recommended for vegans and may have limited options for special diets.

What is the weather like?
The tour depends on good weather; if canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a refund.

This Puglia tour presents an excellent chance to experience Italy’s less touristy, more authentic side. It’s best suited for travelers who want depth, good food, and expert guides, all in a small-group setting.