Comprehensive Puglia and Matera Itinerary: From Bari to Rome Exploring Coastal Gems and Baroque Towns

Day 1: Arrival and Bari exploration

Bari, Italy on August 30, 2025

3:00pm

Arrive in Bari

Arrive in Bari and check into your accommodation to relax before exploring the city.
CURRENCY0, 0h30m

4:00pm

Stroll Bari Old Town

Discover Bari Vecchia including highlights like Basilica di San Nicola and the picturesque waterfront.
CURRENCYFree, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at La Uascezze

Enjoy fresh seafood and traditional Apulian cuisine in this cozy Bari restaurant.
EUR30, 1h30m
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Day 2: Bari culture and cuisine

Bari, Italy on August 31, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Pasticceria Boccia

Start your day with local pastries and espresso in a popular Bari bakery.
EUR8, 0h45m

9:00am

Castello Svevo di Bari

Visit the historic 12th-century Norman castle overlooking the Adriatic Sea, open 9am-7pm.
EUR5, 1h30m

10:45am

Shopping and exploring Corso Cavour

Walk along Bari’s main shopping street filled with boutiques and cafes.
CURRENCYFree, 2h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Osteria delle Travi

Enjoy traditional Apulian dishes served in a charming, rustic setting.
EUR25, 1h15m

3:00pm

Relax at Lungomare Nazario Sauro

Take a peaceful walk along Bari’s seaside promenade to enjoy views and sea breeze.
CURRENCYFree, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Al Pescatore

Savor authentic seafood dishes in a restaurant favored by locals.
EUR35, 1h30m
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Day 3: Pick up car and move to Monopoli

Bari to Monopoli, Italy on September 1, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at local café

Grab coffee and a light breakfast before checkout.
EUR7, 0h30m

9:00am

Pick up rental car at Bari Airport

Collect your rental car from Bari airport to begin your road trip through Puglia.
CURRENCY0, 1h0m

10:30am

Drive to Monopoli

Scenic 40-minute coastal drive to Monopoli, a charming seaside town.
CURRENCY0, 0h40m

11:15am

Monopoli Old Town exploration

Discover the historic seafront castle and cathedral while strolling narrow streets.
CURRENCYFree, 2h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Osteria Perricci

Enjoy fresh seafood and local specialties in this cozy Monopoli eatery.
EUR25, 1h15m

3:00pm

Visit Cala Porta Vecchia Beach

Relax by the clear waters of this picturesque beach spot near Monopoli center.
CURRENCYFree, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at La Locanda di Federico

Dine on traditional Pugliese dishes in a warm historic setting.
EUR35, 1h30m
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Day 4: Day trip to Polignano a Mare

Monopoli base, day trip to Polignano a Mare, Italy on September 2, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at MuMu Gelato

Start your day with coffee and a light bite, open from 8am.
EUR10, 0h30m

8:30am

Drive to Polignano a Mare

Short 15-minute drive to this iconic cliffside town with incredible views.
CURRENCY0, 0h15m

9:00am

Explore Polignano a Mare old town and Lama Monachile beach

Wander charming streets and enjoy spectacular sea views and beach access.
CURRENCYFree, 2h0m

11:15am

Visit Grotta Palazzese (view only)

Admire this famous sea cave – note it’s a restaurant and not accessible without reservation.
CURRENCYFree, 0h15m

11:30am

Return to Monopoli

Drive back to Monopoli for lunch and afternoon relaxation.
CURRENCY0, 0h15m

12:00pm

Lunch at Osteria Perricci

Enjoy authentic seafood and local specialties in Monopoli.
EUR25, 1h15m

2:00pm

Free afternoon at leisure in Monopoli

Spend time relaxing in town or visiting charming shops and cafes.
CURRENCYFree, 4h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Il Guazzetto Monopoli

Fine dining experience featuring local cuisine and great wine choices.
EUR40, 1h30m
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Day 5: Monopoli to Alberobello

Monopoli to Alberobello, Italy on September 3, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Bar Karmin, Monopoli

Quick pastry and coffee to start the day before driving out.
EUR7, 0h30m

9:00am

Drive to Alberobello

About 30-minute journey to the famous Trulli village.
CURRENCY0, 0h30m

9:30am

Explore Alberobello Trulli Districts

Wander this UNESCO site’s unique cone-shaped stone houses and visit local souvenir shops.
CURRENCYFree, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Trattoria Terra Madre

Savor authentic Apulian dishes near the Trulli area.
EUR30, 1h15m

2:00pm

Visit Trullo Sovrano Museum

Tour Alberobello’s only two-story trullo open daily 9am-7pm.
EUR5, 1h0m

3:30pm

Check-in to accommodation in Alberobello

Relax and enjoy your surroundings in the trulli village.
CURRENCY0, 2h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Ristorante Il Poeta Contadino

Relish local flavors accompanied by excellent wines in a warm atmosphere.
EUR35, 1h30m
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Day 6: Alberobello and surrounding area

Alberobello, Italy on September 4, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Mastro Ciccio

Enjoy an Italian-style breakfast with fresh coffee and pastries.
EUR7, 0h30m

9:00am

Visit nearby Locorotondo

Take a 15-minute drive to the nearby whitewashed circular town known for its wine.
CURRENCY0, 0h15m

9:15am

Explore Locorotondo old town

Stroll through charming streets and visit local wineries or shops.
CURRENCYFree, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at U Curdunn

Savor local Puglian flavors in a cozy setting.
EUR30, 1h15m

2:00pm

Return to Alberobello and visit Museo del Territorio

Explore local history and traditions, open till 7pm.
EUR5, 1h0m

3:30pm

Relax and explore artisan shops in Alberobello

Discover handcrafted items and souvenirs at your leisure.
CURRENCYFree, 3h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Trattoria Il Pinnacolo

Enjoy creative regional cuisine in a charming atmosphere.
EUR35, 1h30m
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Day 7: Alberobello to Ostuni

Alberobello to Ostuni, Italy on September 5, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at your accommodation

Enjoy a relaxing breakfast before departing Alberobello.
EUR7, 0h30m

9:00am

Drive to Ostuni

About 45-minute drive to the stunning hilltop town known as the White City.
CURRENCY0, 0h45m

10:00am

Explore Ostuni old town and cathedral

Wander through narrow whitewashed alleys and visit the cathedral with panoramic views.
CURRENCYFree, 3h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Osteria Piazzetta Cattedrale

Taste fresh regional dishes on a charming terrace in the old town.
EUR25, 1h0m

2:30pm

Check-in and relax at accommodation

Enjoy your hotel amenities and rest after exploring.
CURRENCY0, 2h30m

6:00pm

Evening aperitivo at Caffè Tripoli

Sip a local aperitif while enjoying sunset views over the olive groves.
EUR15, 1h0m

8:00pm

Dinner at La Taverna della Gelosia

Dine on refined Puglian dishes with great ambiance in Ostuni.
EUR35, 1h30m
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Day 8: Ostuni Day

Ostuni, Italy on September 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Panificio Rosticceria Capriccio

Start your day with fresh breads and pastries in Ostuni.
EUR7, 0h30m

9:00am

Explore olive groves and countryside

Enjoy a peaceful morning walk or drive through Ostuni’s famous olive landscapes.
CURRENCYFree, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Osteria del Tempo Perso

Savor authentic Puglian dishes with lovely views in the old town.
EUR28, 1h15m

2:00pm

Visit Cathedral Museum and Santa Maria Maddalena Sanctuary

Explore religious art and architecture open till 6pm.
EUR5, 1h30m

5:00pm

Relax at Piazza della Libertà

Enjoy gelato and an evening stroll in the central square.
EUR5, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Ristorante Porta Nova

Dine on elegant local cuisine to conclude your day.
EUR40, 1h30m
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Day 9: Day trip to Martina Franca & Locorotondo

Ostuni base, day trip to Martina Franca & Locorotondo, Italy on September 7, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at accommodation or local café

Early breakfast to prepare for scenic day trip.
EUR7, 0h30m

8:00am

Drive to Martina Franca

40-minute drive to this baroque town with stunning architecture.
CURRENCY0, 0h40m

8:45am

Explore Martina Franca

Visit Ducal Palace, Basilica di San Martino and the charming old streets.
CURRENCYFree, 2h0m

11:00am

Drive to Locorotondo

15-minute drive to the circular white town known for its wine.
CURRENCY0, 0h15m

11:15am

Explore Locorotondo

Walk the quaint streets, visit the Mother Church, and enjoy panoramic views.
CURRENCYFree, 1h30m

12:45pm

Lunch at U Curdunn

Enjoy delicious local dishes with excellent atmosphere.
EUR30, 1h15m

2:30pm

Return to Ostuni

Relax during your 40-minute drive back to Ostuni.
CURRENCY0, 0h40m

3:15pm

Free afternoon at leisure

Explore Ostuni further or enjoy downtime at your accommodation.
CURRENCYFree, 4h15m

7:30pm

Dinner at Osteria Piazzetta Cattedrale

Revel in local flavors to complete your day.
EUR35, 1h30m
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Day 10: Ostuni to Lecce

Ostuni to Lecce, Italy on September 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at local bakery

Grab coffee and cornetto before traveling.
EUR7, 0h30m

9:00am

Drive to Lecce

Approximately 1 hour 20 minutes scenic drive to Lecce, the Baroque city.
CURRENCY0, 1h20m

10:30am

Explore Lecce's historic center

Visit Piazza del Duomo, Basilica di Santa Croce and Roman Amphitheater.
CURRENCYFree, 3h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Le Zie Trattoria

Enjoy local traditional Salento cuisine in a family-run setting.
EUR25, 1h0m

3:00pm

Visit Museo Faggiano

Explore this fascinating museum uncovering centuries of history beneath a private home.
EUR10, 1h30m

6:00pm

Relax and evening stroll

Enjoy a leisurely walk through Lecce’s beautifully illuminated streets.
CURRENCYFree, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Osteria degli Spiriti

Sample contemporary Salento cuisine in an elegant atmosphere.
EUR40, 1h30m
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Day 11: Day trip to Gallipoli

Lecce base, day trip to Gallipoli, Italy on September 9, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at pasticceria in Lecce

Enjoy espresso and pastries before your day trip.
EUR7, 0h30m

8:00am

Drive to Gallipoli

Around 45-minute drive to the Ionian Sea town.
CURRENCY0, 0h45m

9:00am

Tour Gallipoli Old Town

Visit the 13th-century castle, fish market, and beautiful seafront.
CURRENCYFree, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Trattoria La Puritate

Feast on fresh seafood with stunning views.
EUR30, 1h15m

2:00pm

Relax at Baia Verde Beach

Spend your afternoon soaking up the sun and clear waters.
CURRENCYFree, 2h0m

5:00pm

Return to Lecce

Drive back to Lecce for your evening.
CURRENCY0, 0h45m

7:30pm

Dinner at Alle Cisterne

Enjoy dinners set inside a historic cellar with authentic cuisine.
EUR40, 1h30m
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Day 12: Day trip to Otranto

Lecce base, day trip to Otranto, Italy on September 10, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at local café

Quick coffee and pastry to start your day early.
EUR7, 0h30m

8:00am

Drive to Otranto

45-minute drive to the easternmost Italian town on the Adriatic coast.
CURRENCY0, 0h45m

9:00am

Explore Otranto Cathedral and Old Town

Admire the unique mosaic floor and charming historic streets.
EUR5, 2h0m

11:30am

Visit Aragonese Castle

Tour this coastal fortress open until late afternoon.
EUR5, 1h0m

12:45pm

Lunch at L'altro baffo

Seafood specialties with a view of the sea.
EUR30, 1h15m

2:00pm

Baia dei Turchi Beach relaxation

Spend the afternoon at this nearby beautiful beach.
CURRENCYFree, 2h0m

4:30pm

Drive back to Lecce

Return for dinner and rest.
CURRENCY0, 0h45m

7:30pm

Dinner at La Cucina di Mamma Elvira

End the day with home-style Apulian cooking.
EUR35, 1h30m
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Day 13: Lecce to Matera

Lecce to Matera, Italy on September 11, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at local pasticceria

Grab espresso and pastry to energize your journey.
EUR7, 0h30m

8:00am

Drive to Matera

Approximately 2 hour 15 minute scenic drive to the stunning cave city.
CURRENCY0, 2h15m

10:30am

Explore the Sassi di Matera

Wander the ancient cave dwellings and enjoy UNESCO World Heritage surroundings.
CURRENCYFree, 3h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Osteria al Casale

Taste traditional Matera cuisine in a rustic setting.
EUR30, 1h0m

3:00pm

Visit Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario

Tour this historical cave home, open till evening.
EUR3, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Ristorante Francesca

Enjoy refined dishes overlooking Matera’s dramatic landscape.
EUR40, 1h30m
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Day 14: Explore Matera

Matera, Italy on September 12, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Bar Avvenire

Popular spot for coffee and pastries to start your day.
EUR7, 0h30m

9:00am

Visit Matera Cathedral and MUSMA Museum

Explore the cathedral and contemporary sculpture museum within the Sassi.
EUR10, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Baccanti

Taste modern cuisine inspired by Matera’s flavors in an artistic setting.
EUR35, 1h15m

2:00pm

Tour Palombaro Lungo

Visit the ancient underground water cistern beneath the main square.
EUR5, 1h0m

3:30pm

Explore artisan shops and galleries

Discover local crafts and unique souvenirs at leisure.
CURRENCYFree, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Ristorante Francesca

Enjoy another exquisite dinner with gorgeous views.
EUR40, 1h30m
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Day 15: Matera to Bari and Departure

Matera to Bari, Italy on September 13, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast and checkout

Have coffee and a quick breakfast before driving to Bari airport.
EUR7, 0h30m

8:00am

Drive to Bari Airport

Relax on the roughly 1 hour 15 minute drive back to Bari airport.
CURRENCY0, 1h15m

9:30am

Return rental car and check-in

Return your car rental and proceed with airport security and check-in.
CURRENCY0, 2h0m

1:30pm

Flight Bari to Rome

Depart Bari on your 1:30 pm flight to Rome to conclude your Puglia adventure.
EUR50 (approximate), 1h0m
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