Magic of Italy: Rome, Sorrento, Capri & Puglia

Welcome to Rome! After meeting your driver at the airport, you will be transferred to your hotel. After checking in, explore the Eternal City at your own pace.

After breakfast, depart from the hotel for an included tour of the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica with exclusive “Skip the Line” access! No need to worry about reaching the area—upon arrival, your guide will lead you through one of the most important art collections in the world. Explore the beautiful Galleries of Tapestries and Geographical Maps, marvel at Raphael’s Rooms, and experience the awe-inspiring Sistine Chapel. The tour concludes in St. Peter’s Basilica, where you can admire its breathtaking grandeur—it’s the largest church in the world! The tour ends in St. Peter’s Square. Enjoy the rest of the day to explore the city at your leisure, or choose from one of our specially selected afternoon or evening tours. Overnight stay in Rome.

After breakfast, you’ll be picked up from your hotel at approximately 7:00 am. Begin your journey by coach, heading south through the regions of Lazio and Campania. Upon reaching Pompeii, enjoy a delicious lunch featuring authentic Neapolitan pizza. After lunch, explore one of the most significant archaeological sites in the world—the ruins of Pompeii, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With Skip the Line entrance and a guided tour, you’ll step back in time to 79 AD, when Mount Vesuvius erupted, covering the city in volcanic ash and preserving it for centuries. Walk through the haunting ruins, visit ancient houses and taverns, and marvel at the frescoes and mosaics that tell the story of this once-prosperous Roman city. Following your visit, you’ll drive along the stunning Sorrentine Coast, arriving in Sorrento for dinner (dress code: jacket for men is recommended) and an overnight stay at your new hotel.

After breakfast, prepare for an exciting excursion to the island of Capri, one of the Mediterranean’s most exclusive summer destinations! Weather and sea conditions permitting, you’ll have the chance to visit the enchanting Blue Grotto aboard a small rowboat. Afterward, enjoy free time for lunch (not included) and explore the island at your own pace. Once back on the mainland, return to Sorrento for dinner and your final overnight stay.

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before departing from Sorrento. Board the bus for an unforgettable journey to Bari, the vibrant heart of Puglia. As you travel through Campania, a region known for its rich history and unique flavors, the landscape begins to shift, revealing the vast olive groves and vineyards that define Puglia. On the way, we’ll stop at a local artisanal dairy, where you’ll immerse yourself in Puglia’s rich dairy traditions. During the tour, you’ll uncover the secrets of traditional cheese-making and sample regional delicacies, paired with fresh bread and extra virgin olive oil—offering a true taste of Puglia’s flavors. Upon arrival in Bari, check in at your hotel and, in the afternoon, embark on a walking tour to discover the city’s history and key monuments. Stroll through the charming narrow streets of the old town, visit the Basilica of San Nicola, where the relics of Saint Nicholas are housed, and admire the Norman-Swabian Castle, a 12th-century fortress built by Roger the Norman and later rebuilt by Frederick II. Enjoy breathtaking views from the fortress (admission not included). End your tour at Piazza Mercantile, where you’ll see the ancient Column of Justice.

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before departing Bari by coach to reach Trani, known as the ‘Pearl of Puglia.’ This medieval town is one of Southern Italy’s most remarkable gems, offering stunning art, monuments, and the historic Jewish quarter. Be sure to visit the striking white stone Cathedral by the sea.

In the afternoon, continue to Castel del Monte, one of Puglia’s most famous landmarks. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, built in the 13th century under Roger the Norman, is renowned for its unique octagonal shape and mysterious design.

Next, journey to Alberobello, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrated for its iconic “Trulli” houses. These cone-shaped dry-stone buildings, dating back to the 14th century, create a truly magical atmosphere in the town, which derives its name from the ancient oak forest “Arboris Belli” (beautiful trees) that once covered the area. The fairytale-like Trulli is a hallmark of the Itria Valley.

For an authentic experience, stay overnight in a scattered hotel, sleeping in a real “Trullo.” This special accommodation lets you immerse yourself in the local history and culture. Dinner is included.

Today, you’ll visit the incredible city of Matera. After breakfast, meet at the “square” of the scattered hotel (about 200 meters from the Trulli) and board the coach for your journey to this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Matera is famous for the “Sassi di Matera” (Stones of Matera), ancient cave dwellings that have been used as homes for over 9,000 years. Explore the historic center and admire the Romanesque Cathedral, its stunning Campanile (Bell Tower), and the breathtaking views of the Sassi.

In the late afternoon, return to Alberobello—but the day isn’t over yet! Prepare for a special surprise: a hands-on cooking class where you’ll learn to create a traditional local dish. Afterward, savor a typical Puglian dinner.

Start your day with breakfast in the “square” of the scattered hotel (about 200 meters from the Trulli). Afterward, depart Alberobello by coach and head to Locorotondo, one of Puglia’s charming “white towns.” Enjoy some free time to explore this picturesque town at your leisure.

Next, continue your journey to Ostuni, located between the Trulli region and Salento, overlooking a coastal plain filled with ancient olive trees. Here, you’ll have free time to explore, shop, and enjoy lunch. Don’t miss the opportunity to taste local specialties, including Ostuni’s world-famous olive oil (all at your own expense).

In the late afternoon, board the coach once more and travel to Lecce, the heart of the Salento region. Dinner and overnight stay in Lecce.

After breakfast at your hotel, enjoy a three-hour guided tour of Lecce, where you’ll discover the rich history of this city. Visit the old town center, the 12th-century Cathedral, the Basilica of Santa Croce, and the beautiful Piazza del Duomo.

After the tour, board the coach and depart for Otranto. Upon arrival, you’ll have some free time to enjoy lunch at your own pace. Spend the afternoon exploring Otranto, a city shaped by a fascinating blend of cultures, including Greek, Roman, and Turkish influences. Wander through the old quarters and be sure to visit the iconic Cathedral, where the bones of 813 martyrs are displayed behind the altar. Marvel at the stunning mosaic floor, which rivals the renowned mosaics of Ravenna in its beauty and significance.

In the early evening, head to Maglie for dinner at “Masseria L’Uliveto,” an ancient farm where you’ll learn about the history and culture of Puglia. Enjoy a dinner featuring typical regional dishes and products. After dinner, return to Lecce for an overnight stay.

Enjoy one final breakfast at the hotel before concluding your journey. Enhance your experience with a convenient departure transfer, ensuring a smooth transition to your next destination.