Perfectly Paired: Coastal Charms and Ancient Treasures of Southern Italy 2027

Ahh Puglia! A recipe of sunshine, tangy olives, creamy burrata and a swirl of tales itching to be told. Your first tour begins in Naples where every street is filled with a vibrancy that’ll pour into your soul. Here, you’ll meet your travel companions for the Puglia leg of the journey. After settling in, get to know your group the Italian way – over a meal of course! Which Naples staple will be on the menu this evening?! 

It’s the first full day of our calm adventure. Tuck into a bite of cornetto (Italian croissant) with your cappuccino before we take to the road, driving eastwards to our first port of call: Bari. En route, we’ll savour an artisan burrata and mozzarella tasting experience led by a local casaro (cheesemaker). Delizioso!  

Then, breathe in the scent of fresh Adriatic water as it follows you on a brief stroll around Bari with a local guide. Seek sights such as ladies making pasta by hand along narrow streets and a white-washed cathedral that stands tall in the city’s heart. Following our stroll, we’ll continue onwards to a family-owned hotel in the Polignano a Mare region where another included dinner awaits. After, it’s up to you whether you spend the evening relaxing beside the pool or on top of crisp, white sheets.  

Buongiorno! It’s another beautiful day on this expertly crafted tour of Puglia – and you’ll be carving your own path with some free time to explore breathtaking Polignano a Mare. Hop on one of two provided shuttle services – one morning and one afternoon option – from our hotel to the town and spend a few hours delving into its labyrinth of narrow, picturesque streets.  

 After working up an appetite, you’ll be spoilt for choice by vibrant local restaurants for either lunch or dinner. Tuck into some succulent local seafood – octopus or salmon – or try traditional riso patate e cozze (a baked layering of rice, potatoes and mussels). Then, return to the hotel and just... relax. This is a journey that’s been designed to slow down the pace, after all. 

Say ciao to Polignano a Mare as the next part of our journey calls to our spirit. The first stop of the day certainly doesn’t disappoint! We’ll be visiting Alberobello – a UNESCO World Heritage site that will stay in your mind’s eye far longer than the morning we’ll spend here. The trulli looks like the homes of gnomes in a tale that begins once-upon-a-time rather than homes of peasants from long ago. With a local guide, you’ll saunter along the cobblestone roads seeking the town’s slumbering secrets and visit its church, homes and shops along the way. 

Puglia’s enchanting embrace doesn’t stop there for the day. Onwards to Grotte di Castellana: an expansive underground cave system. At every twist and turn, you’ll see a cluster of sparkling stalactites or glimmering stalagmites, each one as unique as its neighbour. Explore at your own pace and witness legendary shapes such as The She Wolf of Rome, The Ballerina’s Leg and The Owl – named by past explorers whose now-invisible footsteps trace every crevice.  

Ready to step back in time to a 16th-century palace? You’re in luck with tonight’s hotel at Lecce! Nestled in a narrow street you could easily get lost in, our family-owned accommodation is filled with a regalia that’ll straighten your spine and tilt your chin – as though an invisible crown has been place upon your brow. Be swept off your feet on a large bed, get lost among the uniquely decorated rooms, or escape beyond the palace walls with a wander through the old town close by.  

Fully rested like a royal, it’s time to enjoy a full day in Lecce! Grab an espresso to wake all your senses in preparation for our walking tour this morning. We’ll wander past Lecce Cathedral, dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. Whether you’re religious or not, you’ll feel its staggering presence. Another unmissable monument is Basilica di Santa Croce. Trace your eyes across gargoyles with gruesome faces and stone statues which stand proud as you learn of its sacred symbolism.  

The rest of the day is at your leisure! Where to begin? Perhaps a bite to eat to satisfy your hunger – it's been a couple of hours since breakfast, after all! Local delicacies are dotted around Lecce, so there won’t be far to wander until you find delicious cuisine. How about rustico leccese? This small pastry bite, accompanied by a glass of Negroamaro Puglian wine is sure to go down a treat!  

After an afternoon of schmoozing the streets as the sun warms your skin, revel in more Italian food – in our book, you can never have enough! A unique (and surprising) plate if you want to dabble in extreme tastes: carne di cavallo aka horse meat. It’s a typical dish in this part of the world and deserves a try! When in Rome – or Lecce, in our case.  

The beautiful thing (well – one of them!) about experiencing this part of Italy is that you’ll discover ancient Greek heritage, too. Our first taste is in the town of Manduria where the King of Sparta died during battle in 338 BC. Its cream-coloured architecture against the backdrop of bright blue skies are enough to take your breath away, but as we stroll through its heart, we can almost hear echoes of striking swords, warrior grunts and the yell of victories past.  

What better way to experience this realm than a tasting of the area’s famous Primitivo wine? A blend of intense flavours and indigenous grapes will awaken your senses in a tale of tradition, technique and taste. First, we’ll wander through a special museum where feasts and music come alive with every step. Then, the fun part! Sip an array of flavours whilst picking at a board of local treats: cheese, salame, cranu stumpatu (a local farmer dish of grain, extra virgin olive oil and onions) and more.  

Minds full and horizons widened, we’ll move on to Itria Valley. Our final stop for the day is our history-laden hotel in the heart of the Old Town where each stone room glistens with a touch of modern style. 

Who wants to test their cooking skills? You’re in luck! Today we’ll be making homemade pasta – from scratch! There’s no better place on earth to learn the intricacies of this dish. Our backdrop is Otsuni, also known as La Città Bianca aka the ‘White Town’ with its stronghold of white-washed buildings standing proud atop a hill – like the ancient gods of Mount Olympus. And our cooking location? A traditional farmhouse... Hundreds of voices have echoed through these rooms, but today it’s our local cook we’ll listen to as they guide us through creating our own lunch!  

After our meal, we’ll have some free time to wander through the city. The breeze may whip off our sunhats, but that won’t stop us from discovering something new at every turn. Overhear animated conversations in the middle of Piazza della Libertá. Take a calming breath in the presence of Otsuni Cathedral. Or escape to the beach a short 15-minute drive away. Our day will end back in Itria Valley – buona notte!

It’s our last full day together, so let’s cheers our cappuccinos in gratitude that we’re living in the moment. Next on our agenda, the jewel of the Basilicata region today, Matera. Tumbled together in a maze of mismatched buildings, ancient stones and crumbling homes, this city built of cave dwellings swirls with tales of life since Neolithic and Paleolithic times.  

We'll meet a local guide who’ll usher us along narrow paths to sites such as Piazza Vittorio Veneto and Casa Grotta, revealing secrets every step of the way. Then, it’ll be time to delve underground at the Palombaro Grande Matera: a 16th-century cistern that once collected millions of litres of rain and natural spring water.  

After marvelling this feat of medieval engineering, we’ll bunk down in a cave – our unique accommodation for the night. Each room in tonight’s family-owned hotel is different. Before you settle in to dream of a time from the past, we’ll gather for our final group dinner at a nearby restaurant – perhaps rionero ventresca (wild boar sausage) or strazzata (local focaccia) will be on the menu!  

Savour every morsel of breakfast this morning, before getting a different perspective on a local plazza, by heading underneath it! We'll visit the Palombaro Grande Matera, a 19th century subterranean monastic complex carved into limestone. After exploring the chambers with your Tour Leader, you can settle into the minicoach for our journey back to Naples. En route we'll pause in Altamura, famed for its durum wheat bread, pane di altamura, first baked in 1423.  

We’ll taste a platter of focaccia, bread and bruschetta, lovingly created by local bakers – prepare your senses for another Italian treat!  

For the road back to Naples, we suggest picking up a box of mostaccioli or marzapani to share between you as a farewell treat. Guests on the Secrets of Puglia tour will head home today, while you get to enjoy some free time in the city before beginning the Enchanting Southern Italy tour.  

This evening you'll meet your new group and Tour Leader for the Enchanting Southern Italy tour in the hotel lobby. Until then your time in Naples is entirely your own. Spend it taking in the buzz of the city, making like a local by drinking your espresso at the bar instead of a table, and hunting down the city's best ragu. Come dinner time you'll have plenty of stories to break the ice with your new group.

This morning, we’ll be immersed in intrigue as we get lost in Naples’ labyrinthine streets on a walking tour. Your local guide will unveil plenty of secrets about this ancient city, including leading you to the hidden location of the Capella Sansevero – an ornate 16th-century chapel home to the Veiled Christ, one of Europe’s finest ecclesiastical sculptures.
Continuing with the history theme, our next stop is a world-famous archaeological wonder: Pompeii. Nothing will prepare you for the sheer magnitude of this once mighty Roman port’s destruction by the red-hot lava flows of Vesuvius over 1,000 years ago. As you explore its eerie remains with a guide, close your eyes and imagine what it must have looked like before the eruption: a rich mosaic of bustling lanes, lavish Roman villas and fabulously frescoed bathhouses. 
With our heads full of stories, we’ll move onto the scenic seaside town of Santa Maria di Castellabate where a leisurely evening of relaxation and reflection awaits. 
 

Italy is famed for its delectable cheese but perhaps none more so than smooth, stretchy and oh-so creamy mozzarella. We’ll be kickstarting today at a rustic local farm where we’ll meet the resident buffaloes and enjoy a demonstration in how to make this iconic delicacy.
Then, it’s onwards to the UNESCO World Heritage Paestum where the ruins of three fascinating Greek temples, a Roman Forum and a majestic Amphitheatre lie in wait. Pick up titillating titbits of knowledge about their past and purpose from your local guide – including how the coastal city’s original name was Poseidonia in honour of the God of Seas and Storms.
Feeling peckish after all that exploring? Reward yourself with an authentic Italian cooking class where a local family will show you how to create your own seasonal treats from scratch for lunch. We’ll then embrace la dolce vita (the sweet life) even further as we wind our way down the Amalfi Coast to Minori. This quaint clifftop town, with its backdrop of the sparkling turquoise Tyrrhenian Sea, is more relaxed than its glitzy cousins, Amalfi and Positano. After settling into our hotel, wander Minori’s pretty streets in search of some local fare for dinner. We recommend sampling the Amalfi Coast specialty of scialatielli – a thick pasta with a heritage dating back to medieval times.
 

Swap one Amalfi Coast gem for another as we venture into the lofty mountains that tower over the sea to lovely Ravello. The jaw-dropping views from this hilltop town aren’t the only thing that will captivate you. It’s also home to a treasure trove of grand villas – two of which we’ll spend the morning exploring.

A zesty treat lies in stores for us once we’re done strolling along Villa Cimbrone’s spectacular terraces and uncovering Villa Rufolo’s literary and musical connections. Did you know that this region of Italy is famed for its succulent lemons? Breathe in their unmistakable citrusy fragrance as we visit a local lemon grove tucked away in the hills for a tantalising tasting of luscious limoncello. 
The rest of the afternoon is yours to either relax back at the hotel before we settle down for a wonderful group dinner at our elegant hotel. Buon appetito!   
 

One of Europe’s most glamourous islands beckons today... Feel the warm sea breeze on your face as we take the ferry across to Capri where an awaiting minicoach will glide us up the hill from the port to the main town’s elegant piazza. 
The island has been a playground for the rich and famous since Roman times – and you’ll discover just why during a welcome walk around town with your knowledgeable Tour Leader. Stroll down lovely lanes scattered with chic cafes and exclusive boutiques, before relishing in some free time to delve even deeper at your own pace.
Then, it’s back to Minori for another idyllic evening of rest and relaxation. Will you indulge in an aperitivo (pre-dinner cocktail) along the atmospheric seafront? Or perhaps a late afternoon nap in your room is called for? Either way, we’ll round off today by regrouping with our fellow travellers for another mouth-watering, included dinner.
 

Cascades of pastel-hued houses, the gentle hum of lively restaurants, the intoxicating scent of the Mediterranean Sea hanging in the air – Positano is nothing short of magnificent. This dramatically positioned, cliffside town is your first port of call today and you’ll no doubt want to pinch yourself as you wander its sun-soaked piazzas and bougainvillea-filled terraces on a welcome walk with your Tour Leader.
Camera rolls filled with memories; we’ll then hop in a boat and speed along the coast to the equally as enchanting town of Amalfi. Here, you’ll have an hour or two to explore at your leisure. Perhaps you’ll seek out a waterfront trattoria for a lazy seafood lunch. Alternatively, delve into Amalfi’s maritime history at the old arsenal museum. Or seek out the town’s Duomo to feast your eyes on the smooth marble arches and Arabic-influenced tiled pillars of the chiostro del paradiso (cloisters of paradise).
The rest of the afternoon will be spent back in Minori where we’ll unlock the secrets of ceramic painting during a decorating workshop with a local artisan. Intricate ceramics have been produced in this region for centuries and your creation is bound to make the perfect souvenir of your small-group Italian adventure!
 

After a filling breakfast and an invigorating cup of espresso, you’ll be ready to spend the day exploring a few more of the Amalfi Coast’s hidden gems. First up: mesmerising Maiori – one of the area’s largest seaside towns that also features one of its biggest beaches. Feel soft sand nestle between your toes as you wander the shoreline barefoot. Or you could venture into Maiori’s picturesque heart to uncover an array of grand historical buildings, including the church of Santa Maria a Mare with its iconic yellow and green tiled domes. 
A slightly sleepier ambience awaits us in Cetara: a quaint but thriving fishing village where you can sample some of the region’s very best fresh anchovies and red tuna. Then, it’s onwards to Vietri sul Mare. This enchanting town is well-known for its hand-painted ceramics, many of which adorn the beautiful boutiques tucked away along its winding lanes.  
After treating your eyes to a riot of vibrant colours, there’ll be time to indulge in il dolce far niente (the sweetness of doing nothing) back in Minori. Later, we’ll come together for one final dinner at a local family-run restaurant where we’ll clink glasses and reminisce fondly about the week just gone. 
 

Our journey may be coming to an end – but there’s still time for two more exquisite local experiences before we meander our way back to Naples.
Stroll in the footsteps of Neapolitan royalty at the UNESCO World Heritage Royal Palace of Caserta. Once the official resident of the Kings of Naples, this 18th-century Italian Baroque palace is awash with grand sweeping staircases, elaborately painted ceiling frescoes and whimsical statues of key mythological figures like Venus and Adonis.
Then: from the royal to the rustic as we drop into a charming local farmhouse in Sant’Agata de’ Goti for a sumptuous tasting of Falanghina. This crisp white wine has been produced in the Campania region since Roman times – and you’ll get to savour some alongside a selection of fresh seasonal dishes for lunch. What better way to end your 8-day Italian escape than with good food and good wine? Salute!