Puglia Rail tour

Puglia & Basilicata 2024/2025

13 Days Train Tour from £2465 per person


From iconic cities to ancient sites, indescribable Italy has it all. Starting in the capital city of Rome, discover some of the most idyllic and panoramic scenes of the south of Italy, including clusters of historic villages, breathtaking natural beauty, and azure seas. Of course, what better time to visit than in spring? The heat is just starting to climb out of the coolness of winter, and the fresh vibrancy of the countryside is bound to entice.

Itinerary

Days 1-2

Chambery and Rome

Meet your Tour Manager at Great Rail Journeys’ dedicated departure office in London St Pancras, departing by Eurostar to Paris. On arrival, we travel to rail by Chambéry, where we overnight. On Day 2, we continue south to Italy, travelling via Milan to Rome. We dine together at a local restaurant this evening.

Days 3-4

Rome and Puglia

We begin our time in Rome with a fabulous guided tour, exploring some of the many fantastic sights and monuments in this remarkable ‘Eternal City’. This afternoon, you are at leisure, perhaps to continue exploring further. On Day 4, we travel by rail to Puglia, taking us through some of Italy’s most beautiful scenery.

Days 5-6

Lecce and Otrano

This morning, we enjoy a guided walking tour of Lecce, and visit the decorative Chiesa di Santa Croce. This afternoon, you are at leisure to continue exploring Lecce. On the morning of Day 6, we travel to Otranto. We take a guided tour then venture out into the countryside to sample olive oil, as well as take a tour of an olive mill.

Days 7-8

Matera and Alberobello

Our full-day coach tour takes us to explore Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and Alberobello. Both of these fascinating towns are filled with history as well as fascinating examples of architecture, with some buildings dating back to the 8th century. Day 8 is free.

Days 9-10

Gargano Peninsula

We leave Lecce this morning, travelling along the Adriatic coastline to Foggia. Here, we transfer by coach to Vieste. We explore the Gargano Peninsula by boat on Day 10, passing the many caves cut into the cliffs, and the idyllic, secluded coves that feature regularly on the shoreline.

Days 11-13

Turin and Home

You are at leisure on your final day in Vieste. On Day 12, we transfer to Turin, where we overnight. On Day 13, we travel by high-speed rail to Paris. Here, we connect with the Eurostar to London, and our tour concludes on arrival.