Explore Puglia and Matera: A Perfect 16-Day Travel Itinerary through Southern Italy's Charm

Day 1: Discover Bari

Bari, Italy on April 25, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Pasticceria Salvucci

Start your day with some freshly baked pastries and a perfect espresso at this local favorite, open from 7am.
EUR10, 1h0m

9:30am

Bari Vecchia walking tour

Explore the old town's narrow streets, visit the Basilica di San Nicola, and admire medieval architecture lasting from 8:30am to 1pm.
Free, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at La Uascezze

Enjoy traditional Apulian dishes like orecchiette pasta in a cozy environment, open for lunch from 12 noon.
EUR25, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Castello Svevo

Tour the historic Norman-Swabian castle near the waterfront, open 9am to 7pm. Great to learn about Bari's medieval history.
EUR5, 1h0m

4:00pm

Leisurely walk along Lungomare Nazario Sauro

Take a beautiful stroll by the sea with picturesque views and local cafes.
Free, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Grotta dei Salentini

Savor fresh seafood and authentic Pugliese cuisine in a warm, rustic setting, open until 11pm.
EUR40, 2h0m
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Day 2: Bari Exploration

Bari, Italy on April 26, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Bar Nettuno

Enjoy a cappuccino and brioche near the seafront with great morning ambiance, open at 7am.
EUR8, 0h45m

9:00am

Visit Pinacoteca Metropolitana di Bari

Explore diverse works of art housed in this metropolitan gallery, open from 9am to 7pm.
EUR5, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Osteria Le Arpie

Enjoy locally sourced dishes that highlight Puglian flavors, open from noon to 2:30pm.
EUR30, 1h0m

2:00pm

Relax at Pane e Pomodoro Beach

Spend your afternoon sunbathing or swimming at Bari’s popular public beach.
Free, 3h0m

6:00pm

Explore Bari’s street markets

Discover fresh produce, local crafts, and lively atmosphere in markets operating till early evening.
Free, 1h0m

8:00pm

Dinner at Ristorante Biancofiore

Dine on high-quality seafood with creative dishes in an elegant setting, open late.
EUR45, 2h0m
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Day 3: Monopoli & Polignano

Monopoli, Italy on April 27, 2025

7:30am

Travel Bari to Monopoli

Take an early train or drive from Bari to Monopoli, approximately 40 minutes.
EUR5, 0h40m

8:30am

Breakfast at Farinella Bakery in Monopoli

Enjoy fresh pastries and coffee to start your day in Monopoli.
EUR8, 0h45m

9:30am

Explore Monopoli Old Town

Wander Monopoli’s charming old town, visit the Cathedral of Maria Santissima della Madia, open all day.
Free, 2h0m

11:30am

Day trip to Polignano a Mare

Short 15-minute drive to Polignano a Mare. Explore cliffside views, Lama Monachile beach, and quaint streets open all day.
Free, 3h0m

2:30pm

Lunch at Ristorante Grotta Palazzese in Polignano a Mare

Enjoy a memorable lunch inside a sea cave with spectacular views, reservations recommended, open 12pm - 3pm.
EUR70, 1h30m

4:00pm

Return to Monopoli

Relax by the harbor or in a local café after the return trip.
Free, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Osteria Perricci

Taste traditional Puglian dishes in Monopoli's vibrant dining scene, open until 10:30pm.
EUR35, 2h0m
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Day 4: Monopoli Charm

Monopoli, Italy on April 28, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Caffè Letterario

Grab coffee and a pastry in this artsy spot with local flavor, open from 7am.
EUR7, 0h45m

9:00am

Visit Monopoli Castle and Harbor

Explore the historic castle and enjoy panoramic views of the harbor and coastline, open 9am - 6pm.
EUR3, 1h30m

11:00am

Beach time at Cala Porta Vecchia

Relax on this beautiful beach close to town for some morning sunbathing.
Free, 2h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at La Dolce Vita

Enjoy fresh seafood pasta and local wines, open from noon.
EUR30, 1h0m

3:00pm

Free time for shopping or leisure

Explore local shops or relax at a café in Monopoli old town.
Variable, 3h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at La Locanda di Federico

Indulge in exquisite Puglian dishes prepared with seasonal local ingredients, open till 10pm.
EUR40, 2h0m
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Day 5: Alberobello Arrival

Alberobello, Italy on April 29, 2025

8:00am

Travel Monopoli to Alberobello

Travel by bus or car; approx 30 minutes. Check into accommodation.
EUR5, 0h30m

9:00am

Breakfast at Il Ristorante da Michele

Traditional coffee and pastries near the Trulli for a perfect start, open from 7am.
EUR8, 0h45m

10:00am

Tour the Trulli Houses

Explore the UNESCO-listed Trulli district with its iconic stone huts with conical roofs, open all day.
EUR8 entry to Trullo Sovrano museum, 3h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Trattoria Terra Madre

Sample local Puglian dishes with homemade flavors, open 12pm to 3pm.
EUR30, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Casa D'Amore Museum

Learn about local culture and crafts inside a traditional trullo, open 2pm - 6pm.
EUR5, 1h0m

4:00pm

Leisure walk exploring shops and artisan boutiques

Shop for souvenirs and local handmade products in the old town streets.
Free, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Il Pinnacolo

Elevated dining with beautiful panoramic views and refined Puglian dishes, open late.
EUR40, 2h0m
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Day 6: Alberobello Sights

Alberobello, Italy on April 30, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Colazione da Maria

Enjoy delightful fresh pastries and espresso in a charming local spot, open from 8am.
EUR7, 0h45m

9:30am

Visit the Church of Sant'Antonio

Explore this unique trullo-shaped church with beautiful interiors, open all day.
Free, 1h0m

10:30am

Explore Monti and Aia Piccola districts

Discover different trulli neighborhoods with stunning photo opportunities and local shops.
Free, 3h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Ristorante La Cantina

Traditional Pugliese cuisine with locally sourced ingredients, open until 3pm.
EUR30, 1h0m

3:00pm

Wine tasting tour nearby

Visit local vineyards outside Alberobello for a guided wine tasting and tour, booking recommended, tours typically 2 hours.
EUR25, 2h0m

6:00pm

Free evening for relaxation

Enjoy aperitifs at local bars or rest before dinner.
Variable, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at L'Aratro

Enjoy a warm atmosphere with hearty regional dishes focusing on farm-to-table, open late.
EUR35, 2h0m
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Day 7: Ostuni Arrival

Ostuni, Italy on May 1, 2025

9:00am

Travel Alberobello to Ostuni

Approximately a 45-minute drive or bus ride to Ostuni. Check into your accommodation.
EUR10, 0h45m

10:00am

Breakfast at Caffè Principe

Kick off your day with coffee and pastries in Ostuni’s historic center, open early morning.
EUR8, 0h45m

11:00am

Explore Ostuni Old Town

Wander the famous whitewashed town known as ‘La Città Bianca’, visiting the Cathedral (open till 1pm, then 3pm - 6pm).
Free, 3h0m

2:00pm

Lunch at Osteria Piazzetta Cattedrale

Enjoy authentic Apulian cuisine in a charming piazza setting, open 12pm to 3pm.
EUR30, 1h0m

3:30pm

Visit Museo Civico Ostuni

Discover local history and archaeology exhibits, open 3pm - 7pm.
EUR5, 1h0m

5:00pm

Sunset viewpoint at Belvedere Santa Lucia

Enjoy panoramic views over the olive groves and Adriatic coast.
Free, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at La Taverna della Gelosia

Dine on fresh local ingredients with traditional cooking in a rustic setting, open until 10:30pm.
EUR40, 2h0m
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Day 8: Day Trip Martina Franca & Locorotondo

Ostuni, Italy on May 2, 2025

8:00am

Travel Ostuni to Martina Franca

Take a morning bus or drive approx 30 minutes to Martina Franca to explore its baroque architecture.
EUR5, 0h30m

8:45am

Breakfast at Pasticceria Michele Ferraro, Martina Franca

Delight in local pastries and espresso to fuel your day, open early.
EUR7, 0h45m

9:30am

Explore Martina Franca

Visit Basilica di San Martino and wander the elegant historic center, open all day.
Free, 2h0m

11:30am

Travel Martina Franca to Locorotondo

Short 15-minute drive or bus to the picturesque town famed for whitewashed circular old town.
EUR3, 0h15m

12:00pm

Lunch at U’ Cecchino Locorotondo

Enjoy a leisurely lunch of local specialties in an intimate setting.
EUR28, 1h30m

1:30pm

Explore Locorotondo Old Town

Wander cobblestone streets, admire panoramic vineyard views, and visit the Mother Church of San Giorgio.
Free, 2h0m

3:30pm

Return to Ostuni

Relax and prepare for evening activities after the trip back.
EUR5, 0h45m

6:00pm

Aperitivo and downtime in Ostuni

Enjoy drinks at a terrace bar soaking up the old town atmosphere.
EUR10, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Osteria degli Spiriti

Elegant dining with creative local cuisine and a great wine list, open till 11pm.
EUR45, 2h0m
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Day 9: Relax in Ostuni

Ostuni, Italy on May 3, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Caffe Pascucci

Start with an authentic Italian breakfast with espresso and brioche, open early.
EUR7, 0h45m

9:00am

Day at Torre Guaceto Natural Reserve

Spend a refreshing day at this protected marine area and nature reserve with walking trails and beaches, open from 9am to sunset.
Free, 6h0m

3:30pm

Return to Ostuni and rest

Prepare for an evening out after an active day.
Free, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Il Cantuccio

Savor traditional Pugliese cuisine with excellent hospitality in Ostuni's historic center, open late.
EUR35, 2h0m
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Day 10: Ostuni Leisure

Ostuni, Italy on May 4, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Pasticceria La Bomboniera

Indulge in freshly baked sweets and coffee at this local favorite, open from 8am.
EUR7, 0h45m

9:30am

Cycle or hike local countryside

Rent bikes or hike the scenic olive groves and rolling hills around Ostuni, rentals available nearby.
EUR15 (bike rental), 3h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at La Taverna di Ostuni

Enjoy authentic local dishes and regional wines, open noon to 3pm.
EUR30, 1h0m

3:00pm

Relax at accommodation or explore shops

Take time to unwind or shop for artisan crafts.
Variable, 3h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Ristorante Porta Nova

Discover fine dining with innovative local cuisine and excellent service, open until 11pm.
EUR50, 2h0m
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Day 11: Travel to Lecce

Lecce, Italy on May 5, 2025

9:00am

Travel Ostuni to Lecce

Take a train or drive east for approximately 1.5 hours to Lecce, famed for baroque architecture.
EUR15, 1h30m

11:00am

Breakfast at Caffè Alvino

An elegant cafe in Lecce serving pastries and coffees, open from 7am.
EUR8, 0h45m

12:00pm

Lecce Baroque Walking Tour

Explore landmarks like Basilica di Santa Croce and Piazza del Duomo, open all day for wandering.
Free, 3h0m

3:00pm

Lunch at Le Zie Trattoria

Traditional Salento cuisine with handmade pasta, open for lunch until 3pm.
EUR30, 1h0m

4:30pm

Visit Roman Amphitheatre

Discover ancient Roman ruins located in the heart of Lecce, open 9am - 7pm.
EUR6, 1h0m

6:00pm

Relax in Piazza Sant’Oronzo

People-watch and enjoy the lively ambiance at Lecce’s main square.
Free, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Mimi e Coco

Experience refined Salento gastronomy with a modern twist, open late.
EUR40, 2h0m
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Day 12: Gallipoli Day Trip

Lecce, Italy on May 6, 2025

8:00am

Travel Lecce to Gallipoli

Journey about 40 minutes by train or car to the beautiful coastal town.
EUR7, 0h40m

9:00am

Breakfast at Panificio Bocca

Try local breads and pastries before exploring town, open early.
EUR6, 0h45m

10:00am

Explore Gallipoli Old Town and Castello Angioino

Visit the historic castle and charming old town by the sea, open 9am - 7pm.
EUR4, 3h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Trattoria La Puritate

Enjoy fresh seafood in the heart of Gallipoli, open noon to 3pm.
EUR35, 1h0m

2:30pm

Relax at Baia Verde Beach

Spend the afternoon enjoying sun and sea at one of Salento’s famous beaches.
Free, 3h0m

5:30pm

Return to Lecce

Travel back and rest for the evening.
EUR7, 0h40m

7:30pm

Dinner at La Cucina di Mamma Elvira

Traditional cuisine in a cozy atmosphere, open till 10:30pm.
EUR35, 2h0m
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Day 13: Otranto Day Trip

Lecce, Italy on May 7, 2025

7:30am

Travel Lecce to Otranto

Approx 1-hour drive or train to the historic seaside town.
EUR10, 1h0m

8:30am

Breakfast at Bar Meeting

Enjoy coffee and pastries before exploring Otranto, open early.
EUR7, 0h45m

9:30am

Visit Otranto Cathedral and Aragonese Castle

Explore the stunning cathedral with famous mosaic floor and the 15th-century castle, open 9am - 7pm.
EUR5, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at L'altro baffo

Taste fresh local dishes within walking distance of the cathedral, open till 3pm.
EUR30, 1h0m

2:00pm

Relax at Spiaggia di Otranto Beach

Enjoy afternoon sunbathing or swimming in crystal-clear waters.
Free, 3h0m

5:30pm

Return to Lecce

Head back to Lecce for a restful evening.
EUR10, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Osteria degli Spiriti

Dine on exquisite Apulian dishes in a refined setting, open until 11pm.
EUR45, 2h0m
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Day 14: Travel to Matera

Matera, Italy on May 8, 2025

8:00am

Travel Lecce to Matera

Drive or train/bus for approximately 2.5 hours. Check into hotel upon arrival.
EUR20, 2h30m

11:00am

Breakfast at Caffè Tripoli

Enjoy coffee and pastries in Matera’s historic center, open from 7am.
EUR7, 0h45m

12:00pm

Explore the Sassi di Matera

Walk through the ancient cave dwellings, a UNESCO World Heritage site, open all day.
Free, 3h0m

3:00pm

Lunch at Ristorante Baccanti

Offers authentic Lucanian cuisine, open noon to 3pm.
EUR35, 1h0m

4:30pm

Visit Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario

Tour a furnished ancient cave home showing historic lifestyle, open 9am - 7pm.
EUR3, 1h0m

6:00pm

Sunset viewpoint at Belvedere Piazzetta Pascoli

Enjoy stunning views over the Sassi during sunset.
Free, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Ristorante Francesca

Contemporary Lucanian cuisine in a stylish setting, open late.
EUR40, 2h0m
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Day 15: Explore Matera

Matera, Italy on May 9, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Caffè Ridola

Enjoy a calm café atmosphere with local pastries, open from 7am.
EUR7, 0h45m

9:30am

Visit Palombaro Lungo

Explore the ancient underground water reservoir, guided tours available, open 9am - 6pm.
EUR5, 1h30m

11:15am

Church of San Pietro Caveoso

Visit this historic rock-hewn church overlooking the Sassi, open all day.
Free, 0h45m

12:00pm

Lunch at Trattoria del Caveoso

Traditional local dishes located in a cave setting, open noon to 3pm.
EUR30, 1h0m

2:00pm

Matera Cathedral visit

Explore this beautiful 13th-century cathedral with panoramic views, open till 6pm.
Free, 1h0m

3:00pm

Free time for shopping or leisurely stroll

Browse artisan shops or relax in local parks.
Free, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Il Terrazzino

Cozy restaurant offering Lucanian specialties with excellent wine pairings, open late.
EUR40, 2h0m
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Day 16: Matera to Bari & Depart

Bari, Italy on May 10, 2025

8:00am

Travel Matera to Bari

Morning transfer by car or bus, approximately 1.5 hours.
EUR20, 1h30m

10:00am

Breakfast in Bari at Pasticceria Di Fiore

Relax with a last Italian coffee and pastry before departure, open from 7am.
EUR7, 0h45m

12:00pm

Transfer Bari to Rome

Catch your train or flight from Bari to Rome for onward travel.
EUR40, 3h0m
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