Our Puglia tours are all 8 days long. Each itinerary is designed to immerse you in the very best this region has to offer, and whether you choose to hike, cycle, or focus on the culture of the area, our expert guides will help you make the most of your time in the region.
Planning a trip to Puglia can be an overwhelming task, especially if you’ve never visited before. Small group tours of Italy can be a great way to travel with confidence, knowing that all the logistics are being taken care of by experts and that you’ll have a local guide with you every step of the way. Whether you are looking for a hiking tour, cycling trips in Italy, a family adventure, or a cultural trip, Exodus has the perfect itinerary for you.
Puglia’s strategic location in the Mediterranean has made it a crossroads of civilizations, resulting in a rich tapestry of traditions, architecture, and cuisine. The region’s Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Norman, and Aragonese heritage is evident in its archaeological sites, historic towns, and cultural practices. Puglia’s agricultural roots are deeply ingrained in its culture, with olive oil production, wine-making, and traditional farming practices playing central roles. Furthermore, the region’s proximity to the sea has shaped its culinary traditions, emphasizing fresh seafood dishes and a Mediterranean diet. Festivals, such as the Tarantella music and dance festival, also reflect Puglia’s vibrant cultural heritage, showcasing its unique blend of influences in a lively and dynamic celebration.
While Puglia is considered a safe and tourist-friendly destination, traveling anywhere on your own comes with its fair share of challenges. Joining small group tours of Puglia can be a great way to travel solo but not alone, as you’ll be in the company of like-minded adventurers. With an expert local guide leading the way, you’ll feel safe and at ease throughout your travels. It’s the easiest way to tour Italy without having to take on the tedious planning or any of the risks of traveling alone.
The best times to visit Puglia for a walking or cycling trip are in spring (April-May), early summer (June) and fall (September-October). Mild temperatures and gentle sea breezes create perfect conditions for exploring this scenic region of southern Italy, both on foot and two wheels. Although Puglia enjoys year-round sunshine, you can still expect some rainfall. If you avoid the blazing summer heat and buzzing crowds, you’ll have a more authentic and enjoyable experience. In springtime, wildflowers pepper the landscapes while in the fall, the region comes alive with harvest festivals. Whatever time you choose to visit Puglia, prepare to explore undiscovered treasures, ancient olive groves and whitewashed hillside villages.
Known as the heel of Italy’s boot on the southern peninsula, Puglia is made up of ancient towns and villages, each one a visual masterpiece. Lecce, the Florence of the South, dazzles with Baroque architecture, sandstone cathedrals and vibrant piazzas, while Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, plays host to ancient cave dwellings and views that go on for days. On our Puglia tours, explore the whimsical town of Alberobello, famous for its Trulli houses or wander through the narrow streets of Ostuni, known as the “White City”. Wherever you visit in Puglia, you’ll fall in love with its rich history, culture and natural beauty.
Feast on Puglia’s culinary delights, which blend rich flavors and aromas, shaped by its Mediterranean heritage. Taste the region’s iconic olive oil, dine on fresh seafood at a coastal restaurant and indulge in creamy, artisanal cheeses. Pasta dishes like orecchiette are a regional favorite, often served with cherry tomatoes and olive oil, and traditional specialties like Panzerotto (stuffed dough pockets) and Frittura di Paranza (fried fish) can often be found on the menu. Be sure to pair your meals with Puglia’s renowned wines, such as Primitivo and Negroamaro, a staple in every Pugliese kitchen.
Most of our Puglia tours include group arrival transfers from Rome or Naples. However, it is possible to take public transport, but this can be complicated, so we do advise taking the group transfer. We can also arrange a private transfer for an additional cost. Please check individual itineraries for more information about transfers or speak with a member of our expert sales team.
The official currency of Italy is the Euro (EUR). While you can change your currency on your trip, you might find it cheaper and easier to exchange your money before you go.
