Summer Family Southern Italy Vacation: Lecce, Salento, Matera & Bari Adventure (12 Days)

12 Days/11 Nights

Starting from

$7688

per person*

Summer Family Southern Italy Vacation: Lecce, Salento, Matera & Bari Adventure (12 Days)

Experience the ultimate summer family Italy vacation as you explore the heart of southern Italy together. This twelve-day journey from Lecce to Bari blends sun-soaked coastlines, whitewashed hill towns, hands-on cooking, and the ancient cave dwellings of Matera. Enjoy the dramatic peaks of Castelmezzano, the storybook trulli of Alberobello, and Bari’s lively Adriatic waterfront. Savor authentic Puglian and Lucanian flavors: fresh olive oil, rustic breads, and seaside street-food at a pace that keeps both kids and adults happy. Discover UNESCO World Heritage sites, Roman and Baroque artistry, and the everyday traditions that make Puglia and Basilicata the perfect destination for a memorable family summer escape.

Starting from $7,688 per person

Unforgettable Italian Journeys, Designed for You

Curated by passionate Italy experts, this sample itinerary is just the beginning of your Italian adventure. Every journey we design is unique, crafted around your interests, pace, and dreams so you can experience Italy’s beauty and culture like a true insider. Let us transform your vision into a one-of-a-kind travel experience, filled with authentic moments and lasting memories

Day 1

ARRIVAL IN PUGLIA

Lecce’s Warm Welcome, Family Fun from the Start

Settle in and stroll Lecce’s historic center
Marvel at Baroque façades in golden evening light
Enjoy a lively family dinner in a piazza

Day 2

LECCE CITY DISCOVERY

Baroque Beauty, Roman Roots, and Sweet Family Moments

Guided walk through Lecce’s historic heart
Café stop for espresso and a local pastry treat
Explore artisan shops and enjoy free family time

Day 3

SALENTO COAST AND TASTING ADVENTURE

Otranto Mosaics, Sea Views, Family Olive Grove Fun

Scenic Salento drive with sea breeze stops
Explore Otranto’s cathedral and mosaic floor
Family-friendly olive oil tasting at a farmhouse

Day 4

ITRIA VALLEY DAY TRIP

White Towns, Trulli Magic, Family Discovery Day

Explore Ostuni, Locorotondo, and Alberobello
Wander Alberobello’s fairytale trulli houses
Flexible stops for snacks, photos, and fun

Day 5

COOKING TOGETHER AND MATERA ARRIVAL

Family Cooking, Shared Lunch, Matera’s Sunset Magic

Hands-on Apulian cooking class for all ages
Enjoy a homemade family lunch together
Evening stroll in Matera’s ancient Sassi

Day 6

MATERA DISCOVERY

Explore Sassi Wonders, History, and Family Adventures

Guided tour of Matera’s ancient Sassi caves
Capture stunning views of ravine and skyline
Free time for museums, shops, and family walks

Day 7

CASTELMEZZANO ZIP LINE ADVENTURE

Mountain Village Thrills, Family Fun, Sky-High Views

Discover Castelmezzano’s dramatic mountain setting
Try the Volo dell’Angelo zip line adventure
Enjoy scenic walks, photos, and village exploring

Arrive in Bari for a seaside family stroll

Day 8

ALTAMURA BREAD AND BARI BY THE SEA

Bake Bread, Taste Tradition, Bari’s Seaside Welcome

Family bread-making in Altamura’s traditional bakeries
Savor iconic Pane di Altamura, fresh from the oven
Arrive in Bari for a seaside family stroll

Day 9

BARI OLD PORT DISCOVERY

Old Town Strolls, Seafaring Tales, Street Food Fun

Guided walk in Bari Vecchia and historic port
Visit Basilica di San Nicola and local landmarks
Free time for focaccia, cafés, and Lungomare strolls

Day 10

CASTEL DEL MONTE

Legendary Castle, Countryside Views, Family Reflections

Explore Castel del Monte’s iconic octagonal design
Capture panoramic views of Apulian countryside
Return to Bari for a relaxed family dinner

Day 11

POLIGNANO A MARE FINALE

Choose Your Coast—Beach, Cliffs, and Gelato Bliss

Relax in Bari or enjoy coastal downtime
Optional trip to Polignano a Mare or Monopoli
Cliffside views, harbor walks, and gelato treats

Day 12

DEPARTURE

Farewell Breakfast, Memories Packed, Journey Home Begins

Check out and say goodbye to the Adriatic
Return home with family memories from Italy

MAKE THIS ITINERARY YOURS

Turn this sample itinerary into your dream Italy vacation – tailored to your pace, passions, and budget.

Day 1

ARRIVAL IN PUGLIA

Lecce’s Warm Welcome, Family Fun from the Star

Arrive in Lecce and begin with an informal, comfortable introduction to the city. Lecce’s historic center is built from local limestone that seems to catch the sun and hold it, giving streets and churches a warm, golden tone. The city earned its nickname Florence of the South thanks to the richness of its Baroque architecture, with showpiece landmarks like the Basilica di Santa Croce and the elegant Piazza del Duomo.

Keep the evening gentle after travel. Wander together through the pedestrian lanes, pause to spot carved details and playful figures in the stonework, then enjoy a relaxed dinner outdoors in a welcoming piazza, a first taste of southern Italy’s open-air social life.

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Day 2

LECCE CITY DISCOVERY

Baroque Beauty, Roman Roots, and Sweet Family Moments

This morning, explore Lecce with a guide who can bring the city’s layers into focus. Baroque Lecce is exuberant and theatrical, with facades that feel almost embroidered in stone. In Piazza Sant’Oronzo, pause at the Roman amphitheater, a striking reminder that the city’s story reaches far beyond the Baroque period, with ancient foundations still visible in the heart of modern life.

After the tour, enjoy time at your own pace. Seek out pasticciotto, the city’s signature pastry, and let kids choose their favorite gelato flavors as you wander. Lecce is also known for artisan traditions, so it is a great afternoon for browsing ceramics, handmade jewelry, and local craft shops. If your family wants movement, rent bikes and head toward quieter green spaces, or simply choose a shaded bench in a bright square and watch the city pass by. As evening approaches, enjoy a family-friendly pre-dinner stop with small bites and refreshing drinks, then continue into dinner as Lecce’s streets fill with evening energy.

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Day 3

SALENTO COAST AND TASTING ADVENTURE

Otranto Mosaics, Sea Views, Family Olive Grove Fun

Set off on a sunlit journey along the stunning Salento coast, where winding roads reveal hidden coves, dramatic cliffs, and the endless blue of the sea. Feel the breeze as you pause at scenic overlooks, perfect for family photos and moments of wonder. In Otranto, let curiosity lead you through the old town’s cobbled streets before stepping into the cathedral. Here, the legendary 12th-century mosaic floor stretches out like a giant storybook, filled with fantastical creatures and scenes that spark the imagination of travelers young and old.

Continue your adventure toward the tip of the heel, Santa Maria di Leuca, where the Ionian and Adriatic seas meet in a breathtaking display of light and color. The sense of space here is unforgettable, an ideal spot for kids to run, explore, and soak in the summer atmosphere.

Later, visit a welcoming farmhouse set among ancient olive groves. Discover Puglia’s deep connection to olive oil with a hands-on tasting experience that’s fun for all ages. Sample a variety of extra virgin oils, learn to recognize different aromas and flavors, and try simple pairings with bread, tomatoes, or local cheeses. The experience is designed for families, turning tasting into a playful exploration of local food traditions.

As you return to Lecce in the evening, embrace the rhythm of Italian summer with a leisurely family meal at a traditional trattoria. Savor regional favorites like orecchiette with fresh tomato sauce, frisella with ripe vegetables, or creamy pasticciotto for dessert. Afterwards, join locals for the beloved passeggiata, an evening stroll through Lecce’s baroque streets, where families gather, children play, and the city glows in the warm twilight. It’s the perfect way to end a day of discovery, sharing laughter and new memories as you wander beneath the stars.

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Day 4

ITRIA VALLEY DAY TRIP

White Towns, Trulli Magic, Family Discovery Day

Set out for a day of adventure in the heart of Puglia’s Itria Valley, where rolling olive groves and sunlit hills are dotted with some of Italy’s prettiest towns. Your first stop is Ostuni, the famed “White City,” where winding lanes and whitewashed houses invite families to explore. Kids will love discovering hidden stairways, peeking into tiny courtyards, and climbing up to panoramic terraces with sweeping views all the way to the sea.

Next, wander through Locorotondo, a town famous for its circular old center and flower-filled balconies. Here, families can browse local shops for handmade crafts, sample sweet almond treats from a bakery, or join a mini scavenger hunt to spot the town’s unique architectural details.

In Alberobello, step into a storybook world surrounded by the whimsical trulli, cone-roofed stone houses that seem straight from a fairytale. These fascinating dwellings aren’t just picturesque; they have a story all their own. Trulli were originally built with dry stone and without mortar, a clever technique developed centuries ago. According to local legend, this design allowed residents to quickly dismantle their homes when tax inspectors came through, helping them avoid property taxes under old feudal laws! Kids and adults alike will enjoy imagining the ingenuity of past villagers as they count trulli or visit a trullo-turned-museum.

Throughout the day, keep the itinerary flexible and family-friendly. Take breaks for gelato, pizza by the slice, or a picnic in a shady square. Pause for playful photo ops, browse colorful markets for souvenirs, or simply let curiosity lead the way. The focus is on making memories, discovering the charm of Puglia’s white towns at your own pace, with plenty of time for laughter, exploration, and spontaneous moments that make a family trip special.

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Day 5

COOKING TOGETHER AND MATERA ARRIVAL

Family Cooking, Shared Lunch, Matera’s Sunset Magic

Start your day with a hands-on cooking adventure designed for all ages, where laughter, flour-dusted hands, and teamwork take center stage. Guided by a welcoming local chef, your family will discover the secrets behind beloved Apulian dishes. Picture everyone gathered around the kitchen table, rolling orecchiette pasta or kneading rustic focaccia dough, each step accompanied by stories of Nonna’s Sunday feasts and the cherished recipes passed down through generations. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a joyful lesson in southern Italian culture, where every ingredient has a tale and every dish is a celebration of togetherness.

After your culinary creations are ready, sit down and savor the fruits of your labor. Sharing a meal you’ve made as a family is a memory that lingers, one that may spark new traditions for years to come.

In the afternoon, journey to the magical city of Matera. As you arrive, set out on a gentle stroll through the Sassi, Matera’s legendary stone districts. The golden glow of sunset transforms the ancient rock facades, casting long shadows and revealing a skyline that seems sculpted by time itself. Pause for a family treat, perhaps a creamy gelato or a refreshing spritz in a cozy piazza before continuing your wanderings. There’s time to explore artisan workshops brimming with handmade treasures, or to step quietly into a centuries-old cave church, where the cool stone walls whisper stories of Matera’s remarkable past. This evening is yours to wander, wonder, and weave new family memories in one of Italy’s most enchanting settings.

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Day 6

MATERA DISCOVERY

Explore Sassi Wonders, History, and Family Adventures

Begin your day with an immersive guided tour through Matera’s mesmerizing Sassi districts, a labyrinth of ancient dwellings, stairways, and rock-hewn churches. Your expert guide will bring to life the stories of generations who carved out daily existence in these caves, revealing how Matera’s architecture and landscape have become inseparable over the centuries. Listen for echoes of the past as you pass through narrow alleys and sunlit courtyards, each corner offering a new perspective on this city where history feels alive and deeply personal.

After your tour, Matera is yours to explore at your own pace. For lunch, why not try a traditional cave restaurant, where you can savor regional specialties such as crapiata (a hearty legume soup), peperoni cruschi (crispy sweet peppers), or the city’s famous rustic bread baked in wood-fired ovens for a flavor you’ll remember long after your trip.

Wander through artisan shops filled with hand-painted ceramics, intricate textiles, and unique souvenirs crafted by local artists. Step inside the Casa Grotta museum for a glimpse of family life in centuries past, or visit the MUSMA contemporary sculpture museum, set within ancient caves. If you’re drawn to the outdoors, follow the scenic trail across the Murgia plateau for sweeping views of Matera’s stone skyline and the dramatic ravine below, a setting that has inspired filmmakers and dreamers alike.

As evening falls, choose a cozy trattoria for dinner and sample local dishes such as orecchiette con cime di rapa (pasta with turnip greens) or agnello alla lucana (Lucanian-style lamb). Let the flavors, sights, and stories of Matera linger as you reflect on a family day spent discovering one of Italy’s most unforgettable places.

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Day 7

CASTELMEZZANO ZIP LINE ADVENTURE

Mountain Village Thrills, Family Fun, Sky-High Views

Today, journey deep into the heart of Basilicata to discover Castelmezzano, one of Italy’s best-kept secrets. Nestled within the Lucanian Dolomites, this enchanting village clings to jagged peaks that rise abruptly from the landscape, creating a backdrop so striking it feels straight out of a fairy tale. Colorful houses seem to cascade down the mountainside, while narrow lanes wind between centuries-old stone buildings, each turn revealing sweeping views of the valley below.

For thrill-seekers, the renowned Volo dell’Angelo zip line offers an unforgettable adventure: soar like an “angel” between Castelmezzano and its sister village, Pietrapertosa, suspended high above the dramatic cliffs and forested ravines. It’s a heart-pounding way to experience the region’s wild beauty from a bird’s-eye view.

If your family prefers to keep their feet on the ground, Castelmezzano has plenty of charm to offer at a gentler pace. Stroll the village’s picturesque streets, pausing at panoramic terraces for family photos or to simply take in the mountain air. Visit the ruins of the Norman castle perched above the rooftops, or explore local legends of brigands and hidden treasures that add a touch of mystery to the village’s history. Younger travelers might enjoy a scavenger hunt among the whimsical rock formations, while food lovers can sample regional treats like caciocavallo podolico cheese or peperoni cruschi, the area’s famous crispy peppers.

This is a day to embrace the slower rhythms of rural southern Italy. Whether you’re flying through the sky or savoring a peaceful moment in a mountain piazza, Castelmezzano invites you to experience a side of Italy few travelers ever see, where nature, adventure, and tradition come together in unforgettable ways.

Day 8

ALTAMURA BREAD AND BARI BY THE SEA

Bake Bread, Taste Tradition, Bari’s Seaside Welcome

In Altamura, discover a bread tradition that locals take seriously. Pane di Altamura is celebrated for its flavor and texture, baked in wood-fired ovens and tied to long-standing practices often traced back to Roman-era habits of grain and baking in the region. Learn how the bread is made, then taste it fresh, a simple food that carries a deep sense of place. As you taste the warm, crusty slices fresh from the oven, you’ll share a piece of history and a true taste of southern Italy’s culinary heritage.

Continue to Bari and feel the shift back to the sea. The Adriatic breeze, lively streets, and waterfront energy make a refreshing change of scene. Settle in, then enjoy an easy walk, with time to explore nearby streets or simply take in the coastal atmosphere. Families can enjoy gelato by the water, play on sandy beaches, or join locals for a game of soccer on the promenade. Bari’s lively piazzas and open-air cafés are perfect for a casual dinner, letting everyone unwind and soak up the city’s summer spirit.

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Day 9

BARI OLD PORT DISCOVERY

Old Town Strolls, Seafaring Tales, Street Food Fun

Start your morning with a guided exploration of Bari Vecchia, the city’s ancient heart. Wander through a maze of narrow streets where neighbors chat from balconies and the aroma of fresh focaccia fills the air. Your guide will share tales of Bari’s seafaring past and point out the Basilica di San Nicola, a place of legend and devotion for centuries. Kids might enjoy searching for the city’s hidden shrines or peeking into artisan workshops tucked behind stone arches.

After the tour, the day is yours to explore together. Watch fishermen mend their nets at the old port, or join locals at the fish market to sample just-caught seafood. For a true Bari experience, snack on street foods like focaccia barese, crunchy sgagliozze (fried polenta), or panzerotti: cheese-filled dough pockets that are a hit with kids.

Families can rent bikes and ride along the Lungomare, Bari’s scenic waterfront promenade, or relax at a playground overlooking the sea. As the sun sets, gather for a family meal at a typical trattoria, where the evening comes alive with laughter, music, and the promise of more summer adventures ahead.

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Day 10

CASTEL DEL MONTE

Legendary Castle, Countryside Views, Family Reflections

Set out for a day in the rolling hills of Puglia, where the mysterious Castel del Monte rises above the countryside like something from a storybook. Built by the visionary Emperor Frederick II in the 13th century, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is instantly recognizable for its perfect octagonal shape, eight towers, and air of mathematical mystery. As you approach, kids and adults alike will be drawn to its puzzle-like design. Was it a fortress, a palace, or something more magical? The castle is a place that invites questions, imagination, and family debates about its true purpose.

Step inside to explore echoing halls and sunlit courtyards, where every angle offers a new perspective. Young travelers might enjoy counting the sides and towers, searching for hidden symbols, or imagining the lives of knights and emperors who once walked these stone corridors. Don’t forget your camera; the views from the castle’s ramparts stretch for miles across vineyards, olive groves, and golden fields, making for unforgettable family photos.

After your visit, wander around the castle’s exterior to see how its pale stone changes color in the shifting daylight. Perhaps enjoy a countryside picnic before returning to Bari. The evening is yours to savor, whether you choose a lively trattoria or a cozy spot for your final dinner, it’s the perfect time to share stories and favorite moments from your family’s Italian summer adventure.

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Day 11

POLIGNANO A MARE FINALE

Choose Your Coast—Beach, Cliffs, and Gelato Bliss

Enjoy the freedom of your final full day. Stay in Bari for a relaxed pace, or head out to the coast for a last scenic chapter. In Polignano a Mare, white buildings perch above cliffs and the Adriatic sparkles below. Wander the historic center, pause for a final gelato, and take in the view from Lama Monachile, one of the area’s most photographed spots.

If you continue to Monopoli, you will find a lively harbor with pastel fishing boats and a charming old quarter wrapped in historic walls. Stroll the waterfront promenade, explore small churches and squares, and settle into a café with a sea view. However you spend the day, it is designed to feel celebratory, easy, and full of those final moments families remember most.

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Day 12

DEPARTURE

Farewell Breakfast, Memories Packed, Journey Home Begins

Enjoy a final breakfast and look back on the journey, Lecce’s Baroque glow, Salento’s coastline, the white towns of the Itria Valley, a hands-on cooking day, Matera’s stone-carved neighborhoods, mountain village drama, Altamura’s bread tradition, Bari’s old port, and the striking geometry of Castel del Monte. Depart with stories, flavors, and family moments that will keep southern Italy close long after you return home.

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This Package Includes:

– DA RISCRIVERE
– Transportation by vehicle(s) /Train(s) as per itinerary;
– 5 nights accommodation in 3 or 4 Star Hotel in Venice;
– 3 nights accommodation in 3 or 4 Star Hotel in Rome;
– Daily Buffet Breakfast;
– 2 Local Food Experiences ( 2 Meals Included);
– 1 Vatican Museum Tour ;
– 1 Colosseum Guide Tour;
– 1 Vespa Tour;
– Guided Tours as per itinerary;
– Vat Taxes and Service Charges.

This Package Does Not Include:

– Airfare from your Country of origin.
– All Land & Air prices: Additional U.S. & Foreign Departure Taxes and Surcharges Fee(s) assessed by the Airlines.
– Hospitality city tax which varies by city and hotel category. Where applicable it must be paid locally to the hotel.
– Entrance Fees to Monuments or Museums, Tips, Extras.
– Beverages;
– Porterage service;
– All which is not listed under PACKAGE INCLUDES.

Terms and Conditions:

All itineraries are customizable. This sample is designed to inspire your own unforgettable Italian graduation celebration experience

Independent Tour package customizable to your wishes and needs.
Available all year around on request.
Minimum number of participants: 2 people.
Some transfers are operated with a private transportation with English speaking Driver. Some of the excursions are operated with private guide, others are operated in conjunction with a larger group to offer the opportunity to meet other people and maintain the cost reasonable.
(*) Rate based on two adult persons sharing a double or twin bedded room with private bathroom. Single rooms are available at an additional supplement. Childrens, triple room rates and alternative accommodation arrangements are available upon request. (Additional and different charges may apply).