Explore the best of Southern Italy's Basilicata and Puglia regions, walking the ancient paths of d'Otranto and Terra di Bari as they were once historically known. Setting out from the City of Rocks (Matera), this spectacular 8-day walking tour will take you through the enchanting towns of Italy's heel, leading you to the most beautiful city of Puglia, Lecce.
Walking at your own pace, you'll spend your days discovering cities and natural landscapes that will take your breath away. Walk through the fairytale-like UNESCO town of Alberobello, where you'll be pleasantly charmed by its one of a kind historic "Trulli" buildings with their whitewashed walls and corbelled roofs. Revel in the captivating beauty of the Baroque cities of Lecce and Martina Franca, taking in grand churches and noble palaces. Spend an evening delighting in Locorotondo's famous wines, getting lost in the tiny streets of the old town perched upon a hill. Welcome the magical presence of the Adriatic Sea as your final days on the walk will lead you to the easternmost point of Italy, where the "first dawn" rises.
Soak up the best of these regions, experiencing them on foot and immersing yourself fully in the beauty of the land.
Basilicata and Puglia Walking Tour
Explore the best of Southern Italy's Basilicata and Puglia regions, walking the ancient paths of d'Otranto and Terra di Bari as they were once historically known. Setting out from the City of Rocks (Matera), this spectacular 8-day walking tour will take you through the enchanting towns of Italy's heel, leading you to the most beautiful city of Puglia, Lecce.
Walking at your own pace, you'll spend your days discovering cities and natural landscapes that will take your breath away. Walk through the fairytale-like UNESCO town of Alberobello, where you'll be pleasantly charmed by its one of a kind historic "Trulli" buildings with their whitewashed walls and corbelled roofs. Revel in the captivating beauty of the Baroque cities of Lecce and Martina Franca, taking in grand churches and noble palaces. Spend an evening delighting in Locorotondo's famous wines, getting lost in the tiny streets of the old town perched upon a hill. Welcome the magical presence of the Adriatic Sea as your final days on the walk will lead you to the easternmost point of Italy, where the "first dawn" rises.
Soak up the best of these regions, experiencing them on foot and immersing yourself fully in the beauty of the land.
Discover an ancient hillside complex of cave dwellings in the Sassi district of Matera.
Explore the heart of Puglia, walking its picturesque towns perched on the last eastern edge of the Murgia Plateau.
Walk among the age-old oak forests of Bosco Selva, enjoying the beautiful country roads and gently sloping paths of Alberobello.
Delight in Ostuni's majestic olive trees, sampling the most refined olive oil and discovering an ancient underground oil mill.
Trip map for Basilicata and Puglia Walking Tour
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Arrive in Matera, also known as the City of Rocks. After settling in, perhaps set out on a mini-adventure to acquaint yourself with this magical town, exploring its historical center and enjoying a dinner at one of its many inviting restaurants. Matera is known for having some of the best bread in Italy, so make sure your dinner plans include trying some!
Today, enjoy a scenic hike through the Natural Park of Chiese Rupestri, also known as the Rock Churches of Matera. Explore this stunning natural and historical landscape.
After breakfast, take a private transfer to the Itria Valley. Hike along the Greenway of Puglia Aqueduct, Europe’s longest aqueduct, leading you to the charming village of Locorotondo. Afterward, return to Alberobello by public transport for the night.
Embark on a hike from Alberobello to Martina Franca, taking in the picturesque landscape. Return to Alberobello by public transport for an overnight stay.
After breakfast, take a private transfer to a Masseria (old farmhouse) where your hike through the Natural Park Dune Costiere begins. Stop at a family-run farm for a nature-filled break, and optionally detour to the Sanctuary of San Biagio. Before reaching Ostuni, you’ll pass by the Archaeological Park of Santa Maria di Agnano.
A morning trail on gravel roads leads you downhill towards the sea will take you to the edge of the Regional Natural Park Dune Costiere and walk further to the coast at Lido Morelli. From here, take a private transfer to Lecce.
After breakfast, take a public transfer to Otranto. Enjoy a loop hike in the southern part of Otranto, where you’ll visit the picturesque Orte Bay and the abandoned bauxite quarry, also known as the Blue Lake, a site offering vivid colors and striking views. Return to Lecce by public transport for the night.
After breakfast, your journey comes to an end with the conclusion of services.
These reviews reflect all trips offered by this local tour partner on 10Adventures, not just the tour you’re viewing.
Solo Traveller
Single Room (2+)
Double/Twin Room
| Standard Hotels | Solo Traveller | Single Room (2+) | Double/Twin Room |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 6, 2025 to Mar 28, 2025 | $1,475USD | $1,225USD | $975USD |
| Mar 29, 2025 to Jun 13, 2025 | $1,650USD | $1,395USD | $1,095USD |
| Jun 14, 2025 to Aug 31, 2025 | $1,950USD | $1,675USD | $1,350USD |
| Sep 1, 2025 to Oct 26, 2025 | $1,650USD | $1,395USD | $1,095USD |
| Oct 27, 2025 to Dec 16, 2025 | $1,475USD | $1,225USD | $975USD |
| Dec 17, 2025 to Jan 5, 2026 | $1,950USD | $1,675USD | $1,350USD |
| Optional Transfers (min 2 travellers, per person): | |||
| Transfer Bari Airport – Matera:$95USD | |||
| Transfer Brindisi Airport – Matera:$195USD | |||
| Transfer Lecce – Bari Airport:$150USD | |||
| Transfer Lecce - Brindisi:$75USD | |||
| Superior Hotels | Solo Traveller | Single Room (2+) | Double/Twin Room |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 6, 2025 to Mar 28, 2025 | $1,925USD | $1,650USD | $1,275USD |
| Mar 29, 2025 to Jun 13, 2025 | $2,175USD | $1,925USD | $1,450USD |
| Jun 14, 2025 to Aug 31, 2025 | $2,550USD | $2,275USD | $1,775USD |
| Sep 1, 2025 to Oct 26, 2025 | $2,175USD | $1,925USD | $1,450USD |
| Oct 27, 2025 to Dec 16, 2025 | $1,925USD | $1,650USD | $1,275USD |
| Dec 17, 2025 to Jan 5, 2026 | $2,550USD | $2,275USD | $1,775USD |
| Optional Transfers (min 2 travellers, per person): | |||
| Transfer Bari Airport – Matera:$95USD | |||
| Transfer Brindisi Airport – Matera:$195USD | |||
| Transfer Lecce – Bari Airport:$150USD | |||
| Transfer Lecce - Brindisi:$75USD | |||
Meals
7 breakfasts are included on this tour, as well as 1 tasting.
Accommodations
Accommodations for 7 nights are included on this tour.
Transportation during the Tour
Transfers mentioned in the itinerary, both public and private, are included on this tour. Luggage transportation from accommodations to accommodations is included on this tour.
Also Included
- Maps and route directions
- Phone assistance between 8 am and 9 pm
- Tasting of local produce on Day 5
Not Included
- Flights to and from Italy
- Airport transfers
- Visas if required
- Travel insurance
- Tourist taxes if applicable
- Meals or drinks and snacks not previously mentioned
- Fees not mentioned as 'included'
- Guide
Optional Extras
- Activities and excursions unless otherwise mentioned as included
- Single room supplements
- Solo traveller supplements
- Any additional nights before or after the tour
Accommodation for Basilicata and Puglia Walking Tour
This tour is based in either 3-star or 4-star hotels and B&Bs depending on whether you choose the standard or superior package. All the hotels offer basic amenities, comfortable rooms with ensuite bathrooms and great locations.
Rooms are double occupancy and single travellers will pay a supplement.
In some cases, the accommodation listed below may need to be substituted for other comparable accommodations.
Single Rooms and Solo Travelers
You can pay a supplement to have a private room in a hotel.
How hard is the Basilicata and Puglia Walking tour?
We rate this tour as a 2 / 5. There is a fair amount of walking involved in the tour, but most of it is not particularly strenuous. Average walking time each day is between 2.5 hours and 4 hours with a distance of 7 km to a maximum of 17 km covered.
Do I need a visa to travel to Italy?
Check with your local country about visa requirements. You could also try this website, though you should verify with your government.
Are meals included on the Basilicata and Puglia Walking Tour?
7 breakfasts are included on this tour, as well as 3 tastings.
What equipment should I bring on the Basilicata and Puglia Walking Tour?
Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots are recommended on this tour, as well as a water bottle, sunscreen, swimming suit and a waterproof jacket in case of rain.
Do I need insurance?
Yes, it is mandatory to have health and medical insurance to join this trip. Get your Travel Insurance.
How do I get to Matera to start this tour?
Bari Airport (BRI) is the closest airport to your start point of Matera. You can get to Matera directly from the airport by bus (approximately 1 hour), by train (approximately 3 hours), by booking a private transfer as a supplement, or by arranging your own private transfer (approximately 50 minutes).
Where does the Basilicata and Puglia Walking Tour end?
Departing from Lecce, you can take a train to Bari Airport (BRI), taking approximately 3.5 hours. Alternatively, you can book a private transfer from Lecce to Bari Airport or arrange your own private transfer.
Do I need special vaccines to travel to Italy?
Check with your family doctor.
Are there any travel restrictions for Italy?
Please check with your local government about travel restrictions before you book your tour. This map from the US Department of State provides an overview of the current status in countries around the globe. The UK‘s Foreign Office and Government of Canada also provide advice on foreign travel. Note that the travel advice may change depending on your nationality.
When is the best time to travel to Italy for this tour?
The best time to travel to Italy for this tour is during the late spring (May and June) and early fall (September and October) when the weather is pleasant but not too hot.
Why book with 10 Adventures?
Self-guided Specialists
Combine the freedom of travelling on your own with the confidence that all of the logistics are taken care of.
Packed with Inclusions
Accommodations, luggage transfers, gear rentals, and more - all taken care of so you can focus on making memories.
World Class Support
Have peace of mind for when travel plans change with our hassle-free booking process and unbeatable support.
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