Personally Escorted Small Group Tours of Puglia, Calabria and Sicily 2026/27

Today we start the tour by meeting our local guide for a fascinating walking tour through Bari’s enchanting old town. As we wander the narrow lanes of Bari Vecchia, we’ll visit the famous “Pasta Street,” where local Nonna’s handcraft orecchiette outside their homes—a heartwarming and authentic glimpse into daily life and tradition. Later, we take a short drive to the stunning seaside town of Polignano a Mare, perched dramatically on limestone cliffs above the Adriatic. Enjoy time to stroll through its whitewashed streets, take in breathtaking coastal views, and perhaps sample the town’s famous gelato. The afternoon is at leisure before we reunite in the early evening for a glass of Prosecco and a welcome dinner featuring regional specialties.

Overnight in our beautiful Hotel near Bari Vecchia.

Today, we depart Bari and journey toward the elegant Baroque city of Lecce, famed for its ornate architecture and vibrant culture. Along the way, we’ll stop in Locorotondo, a delightful hilltop village known for its circular layout, whitewashed houses, and flower-filled balconies. We’ll then visit Ostuni, the “White City,” where dazzling white buildings and winding cobblestone streets create a magical, timeless atmosphere. We arrive in Lecce in the late afternoon, ready to soak in its rich history and southern Italian charm.

Check in for our 3-night stay in our hotel located in the historic centre.

This morning, we’ll join our local guide for a walking tour of Lecce, uncovering the city’s rich history, striking Baroque architecture, and vibrant culture. In the afternoon, enjoy free time to explore at your own pace—whether that means discovering hidden piazzas, browsing artisan boutiques, or simply relaxing with a coffee in one of the lively squares.

Today, we enjoy a full-day excursion exploring two of Apulia’s coastal gems. Our first stop is Gallipoli, a historic town on the Ionian Sea known for its crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and fortified old town set on an island. Once a humble fishing village, Gallipoli still boasts a lively fish market—one of the most renowned in the region. Later, we head to Otranto, a stunning seaside town where history, architecture, and dramatic coastal views come together. With its medieval charm and turquoise waters, Otranto is one of the most picturesque destinations in Southern Italy.

After breakfast, we leave Lecce and head into the countryside to visit a traditional Masseria—a historic farmhouse estate. Here, we’ll spend a memorable day learning to make cheese, cooking regional dishes, and enjoying a long, leisurely lunch in a beautiful rural setting. In the late afternoon, we continue to Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its ancient cave dwellings and dramatic landscapes.

Upon arrival, we’ll check in for a 2-night stay at a beautifully restored cave hotel nestled in the heart of the Sassi, offering a truly unique and atmospheric experience.

After breakfast, we’ll meet our local guide for a fascinating tour of the “Sassi of Matera.” As we wander through this remarkable UNESCO World Heritage site, we’ll explore ancient cave dwellings and learn about the city’s layered history and cultural significance—one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in the world. The afternoon is free for you to explore at your own pace, perhaps visiting local museums, enjoying a quiet moment with a view, or discovering hidden corners of this unforgettable city.

After breakfast, we depart Matera and make our way to Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage site nestled in the heart of Apulia. On arrival, we’ll meet our local guide to discover the fascinating history of the town’s iconic Trulli—over 1,500 whitewashed, cone-roofed dwellings dating back to the 14th century.  The late afternoon and evening are yours to enjoy at leisure—perfect for wandering the quaint streets or sampling local cuisine.

We then check in for a unique 1-night stay in a traditional trullo, offering an authentic and charming local experience.

We continue our journey south into Calabria, heading to the beautiful hilltop village of Altomonte. Along the way, we’ll stop at a lemon grove to enjoy an authentic Calabrian lunch, surrounded by the sweet scent of citrus trees and the warmth of local hospitality.

Upon arrival in Altomonte, we check into our charming, family-owned hotel for a 1-night stay.

In the evening, we’ll gather for a traditional Calabrian dinner at the hotel’s family-run restaurant.

After breakfast, we check out and continue our journey south through Calabria to the stunning seaside town of Tropea. Perched on a cliff overlooking the turquoise waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea, Tropea is famed not only for its dramatic views and golden beaches but also for its sweet red onions. Located along the breathtaking Costa degli Dei—the Coast of the Gods—this picturesque town offers a perfect blend of history, charm, and natural beauty.

Upon arrival, we check in for our 2-night stay near the town centre.

Today, enjoy a leisurely day to explore the charming seaside village of Tropea at your own pace—wander its historic streets, relax on stunning beaches, or savour local delicacies in quaint cafés.

This morning, we leave Tropea and travel to Reggio Calabria, a vibrant coastal city just across the Strait of Messina from Sicily. Upon arrival, we’ll meet our local guide for a fascinating tour of Reggio Calabria, followed by some free time to explore at your own pace.

Later, we’ll check in for a 1-night stay at our seaside hotel, boasting stunning views and convenient access to the city’s highlights.

In the early evening, we will explore the local sights and tastes whilst enjoying some local food.

Today, we depart from the mainland and cross the Messina Straits to reach Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea. Upon arrival, we will meet our guide and explore the city of Messina. Afterward, we will travel to the beautiful seaside village of Cefalù, where we will spend the next two nights.

Check in for our 2-night stay at our hotel located near the sea.

Today, you have the option to venture into the scenic Madonie Mountains for a morning of exploration, or simply unwind with a full day at leisure by the sea in beautiful Cefalù.

This morning, we travel to Palermo, the vibrant capital of Sicily. Known as the world’s most conquered city, Palermo is a fascinating tapestry of cultures shaped by Phoenicians, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, Normans, and more. Upon arrival, we’ll meet our local guide for a walking tour through the city’s lively streets and markets, immersing ourselves in its rich history and local traditions.

After the tour, we’ll check in for our two-night stay at a centrally located hotel in the historic centre.

The remainder of the day and evening is yours to enjoy at leisure.

Today is yours to soak up the lively atmosphere of Palermo at your own pace. Explore its bustling markets, visit stunning churches and museums, or simply relax and enjoy a coffee in one of its lively piazzas.

This evening, we’ll meet for dinner to savour authentic Palermitan cuisine —a delicious way to end the day.

Today, we leave Palermo and make our way to the enchanting hilltop village of Erice. On arrival, we’ll enjoy a leisurely walk through its cobbled streets, taking in the medieval charm and panoramic views, followed by a chance to sample some of Erice’s world-famous pastries. In the afternoon, we continue to Trapani for a stroll through its historic centre, rich in Baroque architecture and seaside atmosphere. We then travel on to Marsala, where we’ll check in for a one-night stay at our centrally located hotel in the historic heart of the city.

This morning, we explore the historic centre of Marsala, known for its charming streets, Baroque architecture, and rich cultural heritage. Afterwards, we’ll enjoy a wine tasting experience paired with “Pizzullo” -local Street food. In the afternoon, we continue our journey to Agrigento, where we’ll check in for a two-night stay at our hotel, conveniently located just a short distance from the Valley of the Temples.           

After breakfast, we head into the countryside to visit a traditional olive farm. Here, we’ll tour the olive groves, learn about the production process, sample fresh olives and oils, and enjoy a relaxed street food-style lunch.

In the late afternoon, we’ll meet our guide for a walking tour of the Valley of the Temples, a remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing some of the best-preserved ancient Greek ruins in the world.

Today, we travel to Ragusa, with a stop along the way at the picturesque town of Piazza Armerina. Here, our guide will lead us on a tour of the magnificent Villa Romana del Casale, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its remarkably preserved Roman mosaics. We’ll then enjoy a traditional Sicilian lunch at a nearby restaurant before continuing on to Ragusa. Upon arrival, we’ll check in for our two-night stay at a charming hotel near the historic centre of Ragusa Ibla.

We begin the day with a visit to the elegant Donnafugata Castle, a 19th-century noble residence surrounded by lush gardens and steeped in Sicilian history. From there, we travel to Modica, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its magnificent Baroque architecture and famous artisanal chocolate. Here, we’ll enjoy a special tasting experience that showcases the unique flavours and ancient techniques of Modica’s chocolate-making tradition. Later, we return to Ragusa Ibla to relax before gathering in the evening for a traditional Sicilian dinner at a local restaurant.

Today, we leave Ragusa Ibla and travel to the stunning Baroque city of Noto. With a local guide, we’ll explore its magnificent architecture and charming streets before continuing to Siracusa and the island of Ortigia, our home for the next two nights. Upon arrival, we’ll check into our hotel, ideally situated on the edge of Ortigia, offering easy access to this enchanting historic district.

Today, we’ll enjoy a guided walking tour of Siracusa and the quaint island of Ortigia, discovering its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant local life. The afternoon is yours to explore at leisure—wander charming streets, browse lively markets, visit unique shops, or relax in one of the many inviting restaurants.

Today, we travel to Catania, an ancient port city on Sicily’s east coast, gracefully nestled at the foot of Mount Etna. From there, we continue to the charming town of Taormina. In the afternoon, we’ll meet our local guide for a walking tour, uncovering Taormina’s rich history and breathtaking views. After the tour, the rest of the day and evening are yours to explore the medieval streets and winding laneways at your own pace.

We then check in for a three-night stay at our hotel overlooking the sparkling Mediterranean Sea.

After breakfast, we set out for Mount Etna, the highest active volcano in Europe, for our unforgettable Etna Experience—an opportunity to take in its dramatic landscapes and volcanic wonders up close. Afterwards, we return to Taormina for some free time to continue exploring this enchanting hilltop town. With the evening at leisure, you might like to find a scenic spot for dinner and soak in the views as the sun sets over the coast.

Today, we journey to Savoca, a peaceful and ancient hilltop village perched high above the sea, where you can truly soak in the authentic spirit of Sicily. This charming town is best known for its connection to Francis Ford Coppola’s The Godfather, with scenes filmed in the village square at the iconic Bar Vitelli.

After exploring Savoca, we continue to my parents’ home village—another memorable filming location from The Godfather. Here, we’ll be welcomed by my cousins and share a traditional home-cooked Sicilian meal. It’s the perfect way to toast the end of our unforgettable 26-day journey, surrounded by new friends, heartfelt stories, and the warmth of true Sicilian hospitality.

Our unforgettable journey comes to an end after breakfast this morning. We say our goodbyes, taking with us wonderful memories, new friendships, and a deeper connection to the heart of Sicily and Southern Italy.