Italy’s Puglia and Basilicata

Summary

Ignite the senses as we travel by rail, linking the vibrant northern cities of Milan and Turin to central Rome for a comprehensive exploration of southern Italy’s glorious scenic and artistic treasures. The region of Puglia enjoys miles of stunning Mediterranean coastline and is known for its whitewashed hill-towns, centuries-old farmland and distinctive trulli huts with their characteristic conical roofs. Neighbouring Basilicata affords views of lush forests and majestic mountains where we will stare in wonder at the incredible troglodyte rock city of Matera, thought to be possibly the third-oldest in the world after Aleppo and Jericho. The city of Lecce represents the triumph of the Baroque style architecture and is fondly known as ‘Florence of the South’, whilst the coastal town of Otranto is home to the 15th century Aragonese Castle and 11th century Otranto Cathedral with its incredible Byzantine mosaic floor. Intimate La Cutura Botanical Garden awaits with its ponds of papyrus and water lillies and Garden of Perfumes, and it complements the scale of this fascinating journey where local guides will add another dimension of expert knowledge in an inspiring journey all the way to the ‘heel’ of Italy.

Tour highlights:

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• Enjoy a full day excursion to Lecce, a pearl of the Puglia region and a cultural, historical gem.
• Visit Alberobello and Matera, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites
• Take a walking tour through the city of Otranto