Keepers of Tradition & Culture in Travel

Puglia & Matera

Small Group Tour Puglia & Matera: Secrets of Southern Italy

8 Days

Puglia, a region where history meets immense natural beauty, offers a uniquely authentic side of Italy, making it one of our favorite hidden gems. Our carefully crafted Small Group Tour Puglia begins in Matera, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Guests will stay in a luxurious cave hotel that seamlessly blends into the historic stone dwellings, creating an experience that feels like stepping back in time.

The journey then moves into the heart of Puglia, where the landscape transforms with cliffside towns, endless olive groves, and expansive vineyards. As part of this Small Group Tour Puglia, stops will include exploring Alberobello’s iconic trulli, also a UNESCO World Heritage site, and savoring local wines and traditional dishes that highlight the distinctive flavors of the region.

Other destinations on the itinerary include Ostuni, with its striking whitewashed facades standing in contrast to the deep blue Adriatic, and Polignano a Mare, where dramatic cliffs are said to have inspired the famous song “Volare.” Travelers will also visit Lecce, renowned for its elaborate baroque architecture, which offers a fascinating glimpse into the area’s rich history.

Activities are designed to provide a seamless flow of experiences—from an e-bike ride through the picturesque Itria Valley to a winery tour, a hands-on cooking class using local ingredients, and a scenic boat excursion along the coastline. Each activity reveals a different facet of Puglian charm and culture.

With private transfers and a dedicated guide throughout the trip, this Small Group Tour Puglia is thoughtfully arranged to immerse travelers in the region’s unparalleled beauty and rich culture. It’s an experience that will leave lasting memories of this lesser-known gem of Italy.

Raccomended reading: Travel to Puglia: 8 Hidden Treasures You Must Visit

Want to Learn More About This Trip?

What’s Included?
  • 1 night in luxury cave hotel in Matera
  • 3 nights at Locanda Don Ferrante
  • 3 nights at Palazzo Guido in Lecce
  • All breakfasts, 4 dinners, 2 lunches
  • E-bike experience through the Itria Valley
  • Guided visit of Ostuni, Polignano a Mare, Monopoli, Alberobello and Lecce
  • Exclusive boat excursion
  • Cooking class
  • Winery tour and tasting
  • Vintage car tour of the Salento coast
  • Private transfer for all activities
  • Trip guide & translator
  • Airfare – should be arranged to Rome (FCO) and then a short flight to Bari
  • Gratuities
  • Alcoholic beverages – except for the wine included during meals
  • Lunches during free time
  • Additional excursions
  • A la Carte Spa Services

Meet Your Guide(s)

Jonathan L'epée Urbani - Life Beyond the Room
Jonathan L’Epée Urbani

Jonathan is a professional photographer and videographer by trade, but a passionate world traveler by nature. From a Swiss father and an Italian mother, Jonathan has lived all over the world, and currently resides in Rome, Italy. He speaks English, Italian and French and has extensive experience exploring Southern Italy.

Sold Out
Departures Available
October 4-11, 2025
Starting at
€ 5.200
Single Occupancy Adjustment
€1.000
Maximum Group Size
8 Travelers

Meet Your Guide(s)

Jonathan L'epée Urbani - Life Beyond the Room
Jonathan L’Epée Urbani

Jonathan is a professional photographer and videographer by trade, but a passionate world traveler by nature. From a Swiss father and an Italian mother, Jonathan has lived all over the world, and currently resides in Rome, Italy. He speaks English, Italian and French and has extensive experience exploring Southern Italy.

Discover Matera

Explore the ancient city of Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its fascinating cave dwellings carved into the hillside. This historic gem offers a glimpse into Southern Italy’s past, with winding stone streets and breathtaking views around every corner.

Stroll through Whitewashed Towns

Wander through Puglia’s iconic whitewashed towns, like Ostuni and Alberobello. These charming spots, with their unique architecture and laid-back vibe, capture the essence of authentic experiences in Puglia and are a photographer’s dream.

Savor Puglian Flavors

Experience a true Puglia culinary tour, where farm-fresh ingredients and local specialties like orecchiette pasta and burrata cheese take center stage. Every meal in Puglia is a chance to dive into the region’s flavorful and time-honored cuisine.

Relax by the Adriatic Coast

The Puglia beaches along the Adriatic Coast are perfect for unwinding and taking in the coastal beauty. From sandy shores to rocky coves, the clear blue waters offer a refreshing escape, ideal for a relaxing day in Southern Italy’s coastal paradise.

Rich, Meaningful, Memorable Travel Awaits

Life Beyond the Room (LBR) is a sensorial™ travel concierge dedicated
to creating custom, unique itineraries for travelers seeking authentic experiences
immersed in the lifestyle, flavors, and culture of each region. Our local managers live in the destination countries and speak the local languages, allowing us to create incredible partnerships so our travelers can step off the beaten path, beyond the hotel room, and discover places unknown to most tourists.

Our commitment to sustainability ensures that your impact is positive. You will have the trip of a lifetime while making a long-lasting positive impact on the places you visit and the people you encounter. You will meet as a guest and leave as a friend! If you have questions about this group trip or are interested in custom travel design, don’t hesitate to contact us!

Group photo of Life Beyond the Room's Preferred Travellers

Preferred Traveler Program

The Life Beyond the Room preferred traveler program allows our frequent travelers to pay for their trips over time via a monthly subscription. Perks include discounts, access to exclusive destinations, and more!

Credits never expire and can be redeemed at any time towards a small group trip of your choice or any custom trip!

Group photo of Life Beyond the Room's Preferred Travellers
Panoramic view of historic Matera with ancient stone houses and winding streets, part of a small group tour in Puglia

Sold Out!

This small group tour is fully booked, but don’t worry, you can still join us next time!

 

Click the link below to join the waiting list and be the first to know about our next adventure.