Puglia & Matera Tour
- 8 days | 7 nights
- From / To Bari
- Group size: 6-12 guests
8-Day Puglia & Matera Small Group Tour
Embark on a captivating 8-day Puglia and Matera small group tour exploring the land of cone-shaped houses, whitewashed towns, cave dwellings, olive groves, and seaside towns in the long heel of Southern Italy. Capped at an intimate 6 to 12 guests, this boutique Puglia and Basilicata itinerary focuses on reconnecting with cultural discovery and rural life from Bari to Castel Del Monte, Monopoli, Lecce, Alberobello, Ostuni, Altamura, and Gravina.
Trip Highlights
- Underground Tour of the Caves of Castellana
- A Michelin-Star Dinner in Matera and Fine Dining in Ostuni
- Olive Oil and Wine Tastings in the Castel del Monte Appellation
- Experience Rural Hospitality at its Best in a restored Masseria
- Hands-on Cooking Class and Foraging Harvest
- Food tour and Lunch in Altamura
- Knowledgeable Local Guides in Bari, Matera, Lecce, and Alberobello
We begin our journey at a luxurious 5-star hotel on Bari‘s seafront, just steps away from the vibrant Old Town. From there, we delve into the wine region of Castel Del Monte, where Mediterranean breezes whisper tales of ancient traditions.
We descend into the Caves of Castellana with a speleologist before experiencing Puglia’s warm hospitality in a restored Masseria***, where husband and wife open their farmhouse to us. This tranquil retreat is surrounded by gardens filled with cacti, lemons, and vegetables, featuring beautifully restored common areas showcasing tools and memorabilia from the past.
Delving into Southern Italy’s food and wine traditions, we join a farm-to-table cooking class featuring freshly foraged vegetables and learn the art of kneading ear-shaped pasta.
In Matera, we stay at a boutique hotel that offers stunning views of the UNESCO World Heritage Sassi districts, a unique and fascinating system of cave dwellings. From enjoying a Michelin-starred dinner to visiting a producer of burrata and mozzarella, we explore the culinary contrasts of Puglia and Basilicata.
Travel like a local and let the allure of our 8-day Puglia & Matera Tour captivate your senses on this small group tour to Southern Italy’s best-kept secrets.
*** Rooms at the Masseria don’t have televisions. However, rooms are equipped with Wi-Fi and air conditioning. Check the paragraph below about Travel Requirements.
Important Info For Your Puglia & Matera Tour
2027 Rates and Dates
4390€ per person in double occupancy; 5270€ in single occupancy
- May 1 — 8, 2027: OPEN
- October 3 — 10, 2027: SOLD OUT
The rate includes:
- 2 nights at Grand Hotel Delle Nazioni in Bari, in panorama rooms (sea view) breakfast and porterage included
- 2 nights at the Masseria, breakfast included
- 3 nights at Luxury Boutique Hotel in Matera, in double rooms, breakfast and porterage included
- Private van or minibus (as per itinerary), with permits and parking included
- Tour manager for 8 days
- Guided tour of Bari, Lecce and Alberobello
- Wine and olive oil tasting with lunch included near Castel Del Monte
- Guided tour of Castel Del Monte, tickets and shuttle included
- Private guided tour (50’) of Castellana Caves, tickets included
- Food tastings and Lunch in Altamura
- Cooking class, foraging and lunch at the Masseria
- Michelin-star dinner in Matera (full tasting menu water – NO wine)
- 3 traditional dinners (3 courses, water and wine) and 1 gourmet lunch in Ostuni (3 courses, water and wine)
- VAT 22%
- Tour Operator Limited Liability Insurance and Bankruptcy/Extraordinary Circumstances Insurance (Fondo di Garanzia)
- Assistance throughout the planning process and travel tips
The rate does not include:
- Hotel city tax
- Airport transfer to Bari on day 1
- Airfare
- Wine at the Michelin-star dinner
- Credit Card fees
- Any other meal, tasting, entrance fee, transfer, personal expense, tips and anything else not mentioned above in the field “The rate includes”. The wine included is the one presented during the meal or wine tasting and it is never unlimited. Any extra is at each guest’s discretion.
- Airfare to and from this destination is not included in the tour cost.
- Suggested arrival and departure airport: Bari (BRI). As soon as you book your flights, please share with us your air information so that we can work on airport transfers (if included).
- Arrival day: no airport transfer is included upon arrival to Bari which is located within a 20-minute taxi ride from the city center (about 25€ per car).
- Pre-tour accommodations can be requested, depending on availability.
- Departure day: one group transfer from Matera to Bari is included. Flights should not be booked before 11:00 am. Please contact us if you’d like to add a transfer at a different time or a post-tour hotel room in Bari.
In addition to airline luggage restrictions, please consider that:
- Due to our van/bus space limitations during the tour, we ask you to limit your checked luggage to one average-size suitcase per person, weighing around 50 pounds (23 kg) and with overall dimensions (length + width + height) not exceeding 62 inches (158 cm).
- Each guest can also bring one carry-on and a small, soft-sided bag or backpack for day-to-day travel. The space onboard our vans and minibuses, as well as the overhead rack and the space under the seat, is typically very limited, just enough for small bags and purses.
- The tour is confirmed with at least 6 participants
- A 30% down payment is required in order to confirm the reservation (refundable up to 90 days).
- The remaining balance is due 45 days before the tour.
CANCELLATION POLICY
- There shall be a 250€ non-refundable processing fee (per person) on any cancellation request, regardless of the time frame within which the cancellation is submitted;
- From 90 days to 46 days before the performance of the Tourist Package, by paying a penalty equal to 30% of the price;
- From 45 days before the performance of the Tourist Package, by paying a penalty equal to 100% of the price
- Read the full terms and conditions here.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
Travel insurance can cover different trip components, from the full trip cost for unforeseeable reasons to medical expenses, emergency transport, luggage loss, theft while on tour, and evacuation. Without a membership, an emergency evacuation could cost over $100,000.
While each insurance company has different deadlines and policies, our partner Global Rescue allows customers to purchase their best insurance package (IMG Signature Plus) that includes the “Cancel-For-Any-Reason” policy within 20 days from the initial deposit. Other less-inclusive memberships can be purchased until the date of departure.
GLOBAL RESCUE
Meet Piemonte Tour Operator partners with Global Rescue to offer the world’s leading travel protection services. Medical and security emergencies happen. When they do, our guests can rely on Global Rescue to provide medical, security, travel risk, and crisis response services. More than one million members trust Global Rescue to get them home safely when the unexpected happens.
PASSPORT AND TRAVEL DOCUMENTS
It is your responsibility to obtain the necessary documents for traveling to Italy, depending on your country of residence.
If you are a U.S. citizen traveling internationally, you will need a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the end of your tour to enter Italy. Currently, no vaccinations are required, but it is your responsibility to stay informed about any changes to this requirement.
For citizens of other non-European countries traveling internationally, it is advisable to contact an embassy or consulate of Italy to determine the required travel documentation.
MOBILITY AND HEALTH
To enjoy our Puglia & Matera Tour, you should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances. This is not a physically demanding tour, however, there will be a lot of walking, often on uneven steps, cobblestones, uphill and downhill. One of the charming aspects of Italy is its historical and architectural conformation. Many towns and attractions can only be visited on foot, as vans and buses cannot access the pedestrian areas where most places of interest are located.
Matera, in particular, requires climbing steps on both our guided tour and during your free time.
While the driving time on our tours is limited, getting to remote farmhouses and villages may require driving on windy roads that may cause motion sickness.
WHEELCHAIRS
Unfortunately we cannot accommodate wheelchairs or motorized scooters. Our tour managers and tour guides are unable to provide ongoing individual assistance to guests with walking difficulties or other physical needs.
HOTELS, WI-FI, AIR CONDITIONING
Due to the historic nature of many luxury boutique hotels we stay in, some rooms may have stairs and can vary in size and layout. Additionally, air conditioning in Italy, as well as the Wi-Fi connection, may not be as reliable as it is in the United States.
Rooms at the Masseria don’t have televisions. However, rooms are equipped with wi-fi and air conditioning.
GRATUITIES and OTHER THINGS TO KNOW
Gratuities for hotel staff and waiters are included in the tour price. Guests may choose to leave a tip for drivers and guides as a token of appreciation for their services. Suggested tipping amounts will be communicated approximately a month before departure via email, along with a list of important information about Italy, including what to pack, how to manage money withdrawals, electricity usage, VAT refunds, and more.
Accommodations: Apulian Masseria & Luxury Hotels
2 nights in Bari
A five-star luxury hotel facing Bari’s sea promenade with a rooftop breakfast room. Spacious rooms in modern style, with views over the sea, and Bari’s Old Town.
2 nights In a Farmhouse
Country-chic rooms, with vintage furniture and modern amenities, surround a central courtyard and exquisite indoor spaces that preserve traces of their original function.
3 nights in Matera
A former noble palace conveniently located on the edge of the Sassi has been carefully restored by blending the elegance of the antique with the linear style of the modern.
8-Day Puglia and Matera Itinerary
Day 1 – The Puglia & Matera Tour Sets Off in Bari
Meals included: dinner | Accommodation: Bari
The tour begins at 5:00 pm in the hotel lobby.
We recommend booking flights that arrive in the morning or the day before. See the paragraph “Flights & Transfers” below for more information.
The sunny promenade in Bari is the ideal spot to start our Puglia & Matera Tour. Splurge in the sea-view rooms of a 5-star hotel, within walking distance from all major attractions and from the main shopping streets.
In the late afternoon, you will meet a local guide for a two-hour introduction to the colorful Old Town and its labyrinth of narrow streets. We’ll visit the impressive Basilica of Saint Nicholas to admire its well-preserved Romanesque architecture. Later, we’ll have the opportunity to meet local women who knead fresh pasta outside their homes, surrounded by children playing and laundry hanging from the balconies above.
Tonight, we will celebrate the start of our Puglia tour with a traditional three-course meal at a well-known trattoria, where the cuisine beautifully blends fresh seafood with the rustic recipes of the nearby Murgia region.
Day 2 – The Murgia Region: Olive Oil, Wine and Castel Del Monte
Meals included: breakfast and lunch | Accommodation: Bari
The day begins with an excellent breakfast buffet served on the rooftop of our luxury hotel in Bari, with stunning views over the Adriatic Sea and the harbor.
We drive for about one hour to the countryside of the Murgia region, a picturesque land with gentle slopes, traditional farmhouses, olive groves, and the typical white-stone walls that define properties.
Late in the morning, our Puglia tour visits a historic estate surrounded by 39,000 olive trees and producing the DOCG wine appellation of Castel Del Monte. The wine is aged in the impressive underground cellars dug into the tufa rocks under the estate’s central courtyard.
We learn about the production of olive oil as we taste it with local bread and enjoy a traditional farmer’s lunch, paired with wine tasting.
After lunch, the iconic shape of Castel Del Monte will appear on the horizon after a short drive.
The tour of the castle brings to life the stories of Emperor Frederik II of Svevia, one of the most eclectic and controversial characters in Italian history, who built the bold structure in the mid-1200s.
Listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, Castel Del Monte is a must-see on a Puglia tour for its 360° views over the region and its incredible references to infinity and the number eight, which recur in the architecture and many symbols.
Return to Bari in the late afternoon and enjoy dinner on your own; the tour manager is on hand to recommend restaurants within walking distance of the hotel.
Day 3 – The Pristine Coastline of Monopoli and the Caves of Castellana
Meals included: breakfast, and dinner | Accommodation: Masseria, north of Lecce
Check out from Bari and drive to Monopoli, a small fishing town along the Adriatic coast with origins dating back centuries, particularly developed around the 16th-century Castle of Charles V.
The charming harbor, lined with fishing boats bobbing in the water, serves as the starting point for a leisurely walk led by the tour manager. You will stroll along the whitewashed, narrow streets adorned with vibrant flower pots, cacti, and colorful doorways.
Lunch will be on your own.
The Puglia & Matera Tour continues with a short drive to the entrance of the Castellana Caves. Here, we will meet a local expert for an easy underground walk that requires little effort.
These caves are a fascinating natural wonder in the province of Bari, renowned for their stunning limestone formations, including intricate stalactites and stalagmites that have formed over thousands of years through erosion and mineral deposition.
Be sure to pack sneakers or sturdy, closed-toe shoes with a good grip, as well as a warmer layer, for our 50-minute tour, which covers approximately half a mile.
In the afternoon, the straight highway connecting Bari to southern Puglia takes us to our home for the next three nights, a restored Masseria a few miles north of Lecce.
Staying in this former fortified farmhouse is one of the trip’s highlights and an experience that reconnects with nature.
Upon arrival, check in and relax in the central inner courtyard or in one of the many lounges, tastefully decorated by the young couple who inherited this extraordinary property and welcome guests into their home. From the pool to the wine cellar, the greenhouse and the garden, and the kitchen filled with pots and old pans, every corner is like an open book, revealing a story. Rooms are spacious and well-appointed with elements that remind us of their original function.
Sit at the table and enjoy the best homemade Apulian cuisine, prepared with only seasonal ingredients and served in colorful ceramics.
Day 4 – Foraging, Cooking and Lecce
Meals included: breakfast and lunch | Accommodation: Masseria, north of Lecce
Enjoy a relaxing morning with breakfast in the central courtyard of our Masseria, where you can take in the peaceful ambiance of the countryside. You might choose to read a book by the pool or explore the grounds and surrounding areas of the farmhouse on foot.
Late in the morning, join us for a leisurely foraging walk in the farmhouse garden, where you can learn about Puglia’s abundant natural resources and farmers’ traditions.
Next, participate in a fun cooking class where you will learn how to knead orecchiette pasta, shaped like an ear, and delve into Puglia’s rich culinary heritage. Once lunch is prepared, we will gather to enjoy a leisurely farm-to-table feast. The table will be set in the picturesque common areas of the Masseria, allowing us to savor the flavors of Puglia while soaking in the ambiance of the Italian countryside. Engage in lively conversations with fellow food enthusiasts as you share stories and culinary tips while enjoying the fruits of your labor.
Our next destination is Lecce, a city that was once Roman and later rebuilt in Baroque style using the local yellowish stone, which gives the historic center a distinct light, especially at sunset.
In the late afternoon, we’ll join a local guide for a walking tour that includes visits to Roman ruins, the highly ornate exterior of the Church of Santa Croce, and several hidden treasures.
We’ll end our day in Lecce with dinner at your leisure in one of the numerous cozy restaurants or simply enjoy an aperitivo while people-watching in one of the bustling piazzas.
Return to the Masseria.
Day 5 – Ostuni and Alberobello
Meals included: breakfast and lunch | Accommodation: Matera
After breakfast, check out and head north to Ostuni, one of the most charming towns in the Valle d’Itria sub-region, located in central Puglia. Often referred to as the “White City” due to its characteristic whitewashed buildings, Ostuni is perched on a hill. Take a leisurely walk with our tour manager through the secondary alleys where locals live, leading up to the striking façade of the Cathedral, featuring a unique rose window and a towering campanile.
Our culinary adventure continues with a gourmet lunch at a renowned restaurant in Ostuni, where we will focus on modern Puglian cuisine, featuring reimagined traditional dishes.
In the afternoon, we explore one of Puglia’s most iconic towns: Alberobello. An expert local guide will lead us through the area with the highest concentration of famous trulli houses—cylindrical structures with conical roofs made of limestone. We will hear stories about what it was like to live in these homes and learn the historical facts that influenced each new urban settlement. This history includes the need to design buildings that could be quickly demolished in the event of war or loss of control.
You will have free time to shop for souvenirs in Alberobello.
Next, we arrive in Matera, located in the neighboring region of Basilicata. Upon our arrival, a van will deliver our luggage directly to the hotel.
We will check in for the next two nights at a hidden gem: a former aristocratic palace that has undergone extensive restoration to welcome guests to its spacious, luxurious accommodations. We will gather in the central living room of this boutique hotel to admire the stunning view of the Sassi district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The hotel’s prime location gives us easy access to both the modern and old towns, sparing us unnecessary stair climbs.
Dinner on your own in Matera.
Day 6 – Michelin-Star Dinner in Matera
Meals included: breakfast and dinner | Accommodation: Matera
This morning, we will explore Matera with a local guide, one of the most unique cities in the world, where residents lived in cave dwellings carved into the limestone rock until just a few decades ago. Words cannot capture the beauty and surreal atmosphere of the old Sassi districts and the surrounding landscape.
At the end of the tour, we’ll enjoy a fun ride aboard an Italian three-wheeled tuk-tuk back to the upper city! Afterward, you’ll have a free afternoon to explore Matera at your own pace.
Tonight, we embark on a journey of flavors with a full tasting menu at a Michelin-starred restaurant.
*** Wine is not included at the Michelin-star restaurant. Each guest can choose a complete wine pairing or just a glass based on their mood for the evening.
Day 7 – The Bread and Cheese of Altamura
Meals included: breakfast and lunch | Accommodation: Matera
After breakfast, we take a short drive to Altamura, a charming town known for its exceptional bread and rich history, offering an unforgettable blend of culinary delights and cultural treasures.
We start our adventure by sampling exquisite cheeses from the Alta Murgia region, including the creamy Burrata, classic Mozzarella, and distinct Scamorza, along with aged specialties like Caciocavallo.
Next, we set out on foot to explore the enchanting claustri, or small courtyards, of the old town, which showcases an ancient defensive network of narrow streets steeped in history.
Our exploration culminates with a visit to a historic bakery renowned for producing Pane di Altamura DOP (Protected Designation of Origin). This hearty, slow-rising sourdough bread, crafted from local durum wheat semolina, is a true culinary gem you won’t want to miss.
Don’t forget to admire the majestic Romanesque cathedral, commissioned by Frederick II of Swabia, where you can marvel at its stunning main portal and the two famous lions that guard its entrance.
Finally, we’ll gather for a farewell lunch at a charming local farmhouse, set against the backdrop of the picturesque countryside that borders Basilicata and Puglia. This truly is a day that promises rich flavors and unforgettable memories before we return to Matera in the mid-afternoon, leaving you free in the evening for your own adventures and dining.
Day 8 – Arrivederci to our Puglia Tour
Meals included: breakfast | Accommodation: n/a
After breakfast, a group transfer is scheduled to Bari’s airport, located only one hour away.
Flights should not be booked before 11:00 am.
Arrivederci, until next time
What Guests Say About our Puglia and Matera Tour
Don’t just take our word for it—discover why travelers rate our 8-Day Puglia & Matera Small Group Tour as their favorite Italian holiday.
Read all our reviews on Tripadvisor, Google, and WeTravel
"Having both loved Italy in our younger days, we were thrilled at the chance to return, especially to a region new to us both. The trip exceeded all expectations—and all we had to do was show up! Every detail was thoughtfully arranged. The itinerary struck the perfect balance between intimate local experiences and major highlights, never feeling rushed. Knowledgeable local guides brought each stop to life with insight and humor. Though initially hesitant about joining a group, we quickly appreciated the small size (just 12 people) and generous free time, which made the experience feel personal and flexible. Our fellow travelers were a delight. Accommodations were top-notch, comfortable, and ideally located for exploring on our own. Rooms in town had lovely views and balconies, and the stay at the Masseria was pure magic—a beautifully restored farmhouse compound with home-cooked meals and warm hospitality from our host, Vanessa. Transportation was equally comfortable. The spacious vans, big windows, and scenic backroad routes made every ride enjoyable. Our guide, Clarissa, kept us entertained and informed throughout, seamlessly managing logistics and sharing stories that deepened our appreciation for each destination. Clarissa deserves special praise…professional, gracious, and endlessly resourceful. When rain threatened to disrupt plans, she effortlessly adjusted schedules and logistics to keep things smooth. Her quiet competence and kindness made the trip unforgettable."
By Bob P on Oct 29, 2025 | From WeTravel
"Exceptionally well organized with enough down time for adventure. Our guide Clarissa was kind, knowledgeable and adaptable considering some rough weather. Our group bonded well and everyone had a great vacation. Looking forward to our next tour."
By Daniel V on Nov 04, 2025 | From WeTravel
"A great experience traveling through Puglia with Meet Piemonte.
The tour manage/guide was very professional and knowledgeable. Accommodations and meals were excellent. Information provided and responsiveness were unmatched.
Good value for the money. Recommend highly."
By Jim H. on October 29, 2025 | From Google
Why a Small Group Tour to Puglia & Matera with Meet Piemonte?
At Meet Piemonte, we hand-craft our Puglia and Matera small group tour by personally scouting unique local hosts, boutique venues, and immersive travel experiences that go far beyond standard itineraries.
- Our luxury small group tour of Puglia and Basilicata relies on deep-rooted relationships with expert local guides and resident friends who share authentic insider access across Southern Italy.
- Led by passionate local experts, this fully escorted small group tour of Puglia and Matera offers an intimate, slow-travel journey through the culture, history, and culinary traditions of the region.
- To ensure an exclusive and immersive travel experience, our strictly limited group size of 6 to 12 guests unlocks hidden gems that are off-limits to larger tour groups.
How do I get to Bari for the start of the tour?
Getting to the starting point of your 8-day Puglia & Matera small group tour has become easier in recent years, thanks to the introduction of direct nonstop flights from New York airports to Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport (BRI). Italian carrier Neos operates flights from JFK, while United Airlines offers direct flights from Newark (EWR) four times a week.
For travelers coming from other North American or European cities, there are convenient one-stop connecting flights to Bari available daily through major European hubs such as Rome (FCO), Milan (MXP), Frankfurt (FRA), and Munich (MUC), operated by carriers like ITA Airways and Lufthansa.
Once you arrive at Bari Airport (BRI), our city-center meeting hotel is just a 20-minute taxi ride or private transfer away. We recommend scheduling your flight to arrive in Bari by early afternoon on Day 1. Alternatively, arriving a day early can help you adjust to the time difference, ensuring you feel refreshed and ready for the guided Old Town walking tour and welcome dinner.
Additionally, new nonstop high-speed trains from Rome have been introduced, eliminating the previous connections that made rail travel longer.
Best time to join a Puglia and Matera tour
Our tours in the Puglia and Basilicata regions are scheduled for spring and fall to avoid the extremely hot temperatures of summer. Southern Italy is known for its high temperatures from June to mid-September, making it an ideal destination for Italians looking to spend time at the beach.
However, our small group tours include a variety of activities, such as sightseeing in Bari, Lecce, and Alberobello, as well as wine tasting in the Castel del Monte wine region. Cooler temperatures during these seasons ensure a more enjoyable experience.
How to visit Puglia and Matera in 8 days
Puglia is a region in Southern Italy that offers a variety of must-visit destinations, each with its own unique character and charm. Because the Apulian peninsula is narrow but long, we prefer to set up multiple bases for our journey. This approach allows us to avoid long drives and embrace our idea of slow travel, taking day trips from each location.
- Bari, with the main region’s airport, serves as an ideal starting point for exploring the northern part of Puglia. It also provides a perfect opportunity to relax while enjoying views of the Mediterranean from the balconies of our luxury five-star hotel along the city’s seafront promenade.
- Our second base for the small group tour is located near Lecce, which will allow us to explore the central and southern highlights of the region. The historic city of Lecce, often called the “Florence of the South” for its stunning Baroque architecture, is a delight for history enthusiasts and architecture lovers alike, with ornate churches, palaces, and charming piazzas waiting to be discovered. The Basilica di Santa Croce, with its intricate facade and stunning interior, is a must-see, as is the Roman amphitheater, dating back to the 2nd century. Lecce’s vibrant atmosphere, combined with its rich cultural heritage, makes it an essential stop on our Puglia tour, in the heart of Southern Italy.
- Finally, we will spend three nights in Matera, where we have the privilege of experiencing the UNESCO World Heritage site of the cave dwellings at night. Matera’s proximity to Bari makes it convenient for a quick drive to the airport on our last day, and it also offers access to the gravine of the Murgia plateau and nearby towns like Gravina and Altamura.
Stay in an Authentic Puglia Masseria of Southern Italy
The Masseria we stay at during our Puglia & Matera Tour is not just a farmhouse-style hotel, but an authentic fortified structure typical of the Puglia region. The owners are a husband and wife who still manage the farm (olive groves, vegetable gardens, and other crops) and welcome guests into their home. The restoration of the Masseria brought new life to the old barn and the former workers’ lodging. Old tools, pottery, kitchen supplies, fabrics, and crafts are displayed in the common areas and the central courtyard, looking like works of art, wisely arranged by Vanessa, who is strong in art history.
Staying three nights there is the chance to experience rural hospitality at its best, in an authentic setting, yet with modern comforts such as air conditioning, comfortable mattresses, and linen. The place’s vibe is evident from the moment guests wake up, surrounded by original pieces of furniture, a rooster in the distance, and a healthy breakfast buffet featuring seasonal, organic products from nearby farms.
The charm of Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
The old section of Matera is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient cave dwellings, or “Sassi.” These remarkable structures, dating back to the Paleolithic, were excavated from natural grottoes on the steep slopes of a ravine in the Basilicata region and adapted into homes where residents lived until the 1950s. Our small-group Puglia tour offers a unique, breathtaking atmosphere from a privileged vantage point: the lounge of a luxury boutique hotel right on the edge of the old town.
Looking down at the maze of stairways and narrow streets, one can glimpse the past and a unique perspective on human ingenuity, where history and culture intertwine seamlessly. As we wander through the labyrinthine streets with our local guide, you can almost hear the whispers of Southern Italy’s past, echoing tales of resilience and survival. Then, we board a tuk-tuk to return to the hotel.
Puglia Food and Wine Small Group Tour
On our Puglia and Matera small group tour, regional gastronomy takes center stage, celebrating farm-to-table traditions, seasonal ingredients, and the rich agricultural heritage of Southern Italy. Throughout the Puglia and Basilicata regions, local cuisine highlights simple yet extraordinary flavors centered on world-class extra virgin olive oil and sun-ripened produce.
A highlight of our Puglia food and wine tour is the cooking class during our authentic Apulian masseria stay. Guests join a guided foraging walk through organic gardens to harvest fresh ingredients before mastering the art of kneading handmade orecchiette—Puglia’s iconic ear-shaped pasta traditionally served with broccoli rabe, garlic, and savory anchovies.
Extending from the Adriatic coastline to the inland Murgia plateau, this guided Southern Italy culinary tour seamlessly bridges coastal seafood traditions and rustic land-based recipes. Starting in the charming port town of Monopoli, taste fresh Adriatic specialties like grilled octopus and spaghetti with clams. As the 8-day Puglia tour itinerary continues through Bari, Ostuni, and Alberobello, coastal delicacies give way to the robust flavors of the Murgia region—where wild game, prime meats, and artisan cheeses take center stage.
Whether dining at a seaside trattoria or enjoying a Michelin-starred meal in Matera, every menu showcases the remarkable culinary depth of Puglia and Basilicata.
The Culinary scene of Matera and the Basilicata Region
Matera’s picturesque setting frames an incredible foodie town where the cheeses, bread, vegetables, mushrooms, and game of the Murgia Valley are at the center of ancient recipes. Here, the cuisine is influenced by the unique history and geography of Basilicata. From ancient grains and cereals to pulses, cheeses, and greens, the rugged Basilicata region is a foodie heaven, recently discovered and acclaimed by international chefs.
Bread alone, particularly the famous Pane di Matera, a sourdough bread made using ancient techniques for centuries, is a protected product and is used in many recipes. The region’s agricultural bounty is celebrated in dishes like cialledda, a bread salad made with stale bread, tomatoes, onions, and fresh herbs, showcasing the resourcefulness of local cuisine.
Embracing the culinary traditions of Puglia and Matera offers a deeper understanding of the culture and history that shape this corner of Italy.
The Michelin-Star Dinner in Matera
Our escorted tour of Puglia and Matera includes an outstanding Michelin-starred dinner where these traditions are combined with a dash of creativity and modernity. Moreover, the evocative setting of Matera’s cave dwellings makes the Farewell Dinner for our small-group Puglia Tour an unforgettable moment.
Trip Highlights
- Underground Tour of the Caves of Castellana
- A Michelin-Star Dinner in Matera and Fine Dining in Ostuni
- Olive Oil and Wine Tastings in the Castel del Monte Appellation
- Experience Rural Hospitality at its Best in a restored Masseria
- Hands-on Cooking Class and Foraging Harvest
- Food tour and Lunch in Altamura
- Knowledgeable Local Guides in Bari, Matera, Lecce, and Alberobello
Reviews
Read all reviews on Tripadvisor, Google, and WeTravel
"Exceptionally well organized with enough down time for adventure. Our guide Clarissa was kind, knowledgeable and adaptable considering some rough weather. Our group bonded well and everyone had a great vacation. Looking forward to our next tour."
By Daniel V on Nov 04, 2025
"Having both loved Italy in our younger days, we were thrilled at the chance to return, especially to a region new to us both. The trip exceeded all expectations—and all we had to do was show up! Every detail was thoughtfully arranged. The itinerary struck the perfect balance between intimate local experiences and major highlights, never feeling rushed. Knowledgeable local guides brought each stop to life with insight and humor. Though initially hesitant about joining a group, we quickly appreciated the small size (just 12 people) and generous free time, which made the experience feel personal and flexible. Our fellow travelers were a delight. Accommodations were top-notch, comfortable, and ideally located for exploring on our own. Rooms in town had lovely views and balconies, and the stay at the Masseria was pure magic—a beautifully restored farmhouse compound with home-cooked meals and warm hospitality from our host, Vanessa. Transportation was equally comfortable. The spacious vans, big windows, and scenic backroad routes made every ride enjoyable. Our guide, Clarissa, kept us entertained and informed throughout, seamlessly managing logistics and sharing stories that deepened our appreciation for each destination. Clarissa deserves special praise…professional, gracious, and endlessly resourceful. When rain threatened to disrupt plans, she effortlessly adjusted schedules and logistics to keep things smooth. Her quiet competence and kindness made the trip unforgettable."
By Bob P on Oct 29, 2025
"Traveling with Meet Piemonte on their small group tour of Sicily and Taormina was an absolutely delightful and enriching experience. One of the stand-out highlights in Sicily was our visit to a local olive farm. We learned firsthand about traditional olive oil production, walked among ancient groves, and sampled fresh oils paired with regional delicacies. The tour’s inclusion of several small, family-run wineries was a true treat for wine lovers. Exploring the salt pans was another unique highlight. In Palermo we enjoyed vibrant streets and shopping, fascinating architecture, and great street food. Our day trip to Farvignana island was a fascinating experience. The Meet Piemonte tour manager, Clarissa, was fantastic, and the guides on our excursions were outstanding. Transportation was comfortable, accommodations were fantastic, and every meal showcased Sicilian flavors. The balance of guided excursions and free time allowed us to explore independently while benefiting from expert recommendations. I highly recommend Meet Piemonte’s small group tours to anyone eager to experience Sicily, or any other Italian location."
By Kathleen L on Oct 25, 2025
"This is our second tour with Marco. Our first tour was northern Italy, and we thought nothing could compare. Well, our tour to the Amalfi Coast was just as spectacular. Everything including the hotel with private terraces overlooking the Mediterranean in Positano, the many private tours, the private boats to and around Capri, the cooking class and all the food were amazing. Marco is very accommodating; he always goes out of his way to ensure everyone is having the trip of a lifetime. Already thinking about where we want to go on our third tour with Meet Piemonte!"
By Christine M on May 27, 2025
