Read traveller reviews & trip stories Travelled with us? Review us on Google

Puglia & Calabria: Heritage and Horizons

Duration8 days, 9 nights

Group sizeUp to 16 guests

Arrive / departBari / Lamezia Terme International Airport

Trip highlights

A few of the days that make this itinerary, all private and adjustable.

Day 2

Discover Polignano a Mare

Day 3

Explore Alberobello and Matera

Day 4

Boat Tour of the Adriatic Coast

Day 5

Travel to Diamante, Calabria

Day 6

Cooking Class and Local Market Tour

Day 7

Visit to Scalea and Maratea

Overview

At Thrill of Italy, we specialize in organizing unforgettable travel experiences for both groups and individuals throughout Italy and Europe. With our own fleet of coaches and a team of expert guides, we offer a wide range of options and uphold a high standard of quality in all our services.

We excel in hotel bookings across all of Italy and its regions, as well as in crafting and managing our unique Customizable Tours. Whether you’re looking for a personalized travel experience or assistance in planning the perfect route for your group, we’re here to make your journey extraordinary.

At Thrill Of Italy, we prioritize quality and accessibility in every aspect of travel. With us, you’ll feel right at home as you embark on a wonderful adventure filled with delightful surprises. Our dedicated team is available 24/7 to ensure your safety and provide support, giving you peace of mind throughout your travels.

Trip style: Food and Culinary, Sightseeing, Wine

Day by day

Welcome to Italy! Arrive at your destination and enjoy a private transfer to the stunning coastal town of Polignano a Mare. Check into your charming hotel, where you can relax and soak in the breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea. Spend the rest of the day exploring the picturesque streets, iconic cliffside views, and vibrant atmosphere of this enchanting town. In the evening, savor a delightful dinner at a local restaurant, where you can sample traditional Puglian cuisine.

After breakfast, embark on a private guided tour of Polignano a Mare. Wander through its charming alleys, visit the historic Church of Saint Mary of the Assumption, and enjoy panoramic views from the famous Lama Monachile beach. Your guide will share captivating stories about the town’s history and culture. In the afternoon, indulge in a cooking class where you’ll learn to prepare classic Puglian dishes using fresh, local ingredients. Afterward, enjoy the fruits of your labor for dinner, savoring the flavors of your culinary creations.

Today, take a private transfer to Alberobello, renowned for its unique trulli houses. Your guided tour will take you through the narrow streets lined with these traditional stone dwellings, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After exploring, enjoy lunch at a local trattoria before continuing to Matera, famous for its ancient cave dwellings, known as Sassi. With your guide, wander through the labyrinth of stone-carved houses and churches, learning about their fascinating history. Return to Polignano a Mare for a relaxing evening.

After breakfast, embark on a private boat tour of the stunning Adriatic coastline. Cruise along the picturesque cliffs and hidden coves, stopping to swim in the crystal-clear waters. Explore sea caves and enjoy a leisurely lunch on board, featuring fresh seafood and local specialties. This day on the water promises to be a highlight of your trip! In the late afternoon, return to Polignano a Mare and spend the evening at your leisure.

Today, after breakfast, you’ll take a private transfer to Diamante, a beautiful coastal town in Calabria. Check into your hotel, then set off on a guided walking tour of Diamante. Discover its colorful murals, charming streets, and stunning beaches. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a seaside restaurant before spending the afternoon relaxing on the beach or exploring more of the town’s artistic treasures. In the evening, savor dinner at a local eatery, trying out Calabrian specialties.

Get ready for a fun-filled day in Diamante! After breakfast, join a private guided tour of a local market, where you’ll learn about regional ingredients and traditional Calabrian food. Later, participate in a cooking class led by a local chef, where you’ll create classic dishes like pasta al pomodoro and sorbetto al limone using fresh, local produce. Enjoy the delicious meal you’ve prepared for lunch. In the afternoon, take some time to relax before an evening stroll along the coastline, soaking in the beautiful sunset.

Today, embark on a private guided tour to the nearby towns of Scalea and Maratea. In Scalea, stroll through the historic center and visit the beautiful Church of Santa Maria d’Episcopio. Next, head to Maratea, known for its stunning coastline and the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue overlooking the town. After exploring, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, followed by some free time to relax by the beach or explore the charming shops. Return to Diamante in the evening for your final night in Calabria.

After breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to the beautiful regions of Puglia and Calabria. Enjoy a private transfer to the airport for your departure or extend your stay in Italy with one of our other tours. Your unforgettable journey through Polignano a Mare and Diamante will leave you with cherished memories and a taste of Italy’s rich culture and stunning landscapes.

What's included

Included

Not included

Gallery

Plan this trip

Every itinerary is private and can be changed day by day. Tell us your dates and your trip designer will shape it around you.

Tell us about your trip

How can we reach you?

What travellers say

In their own words, from trips we planned.

Top level experience

“Every day was well planned using experienced drivers and local guides. … I was so happy not to drive and everything was beautifully arranged and curated daily by David. I would highly recommend this group.”

Jeff and Suzan, southern Italy

Amazing tour company

“He customized our vacation to fit all of my requests. … The drivers and guides he used were knowledgeable, friendly and accommodating for any changes we made on the tour. The hotels he booked were all centrally located and close to wonderful restaurants and sites.”

John and Tiffany

More private itineraries

12 days · Amalfi Coast, Rome, Florence, Venice

Capri by boat, Pompeii, the Vatican, a Tuscan countryside day and a private boat in the Venice lagoon.

8 days · Palermo, Siracusa, Taormina

Palermo street food, Cefalù and Monreale, Ortigia and Noto, then Taormina, Etna wineries and the Godfather villages.

14 days · Puglia, Calabria, Sicily

Polignano a Mare, Alberobello, Lecce, Matera, Tropea and Mount Etna.

Make this trip your own

Tell us your dates and what you love. Your trip designer will reply with ideas and a first proposal.

WhatsApp Plan my trip