Embarking on the Riviera Escorted Tours 2025 promises an unforgettable exploration of Italy’s breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and culinary delights. Have you ever dreamed of wandering through charming medieval towns, savoring the finest olive oil, and uncovering the secrets of ancient cities? If so, join Unilever.edu.vn as we delve into this remarkable journey, outlining every detail to prepare you for an adventure of a lifetime.
An Overview of the Tour
This 8-day guided tour navigates through the stunning regions of Puglia, starting with the vibrant city of Lecce and concluding with your return home. Each day unfolds a new chapter filled with captivating experiences, from guided tours and visits to historical landmarks to leisurely days spent absorbing the beauty of the countryside. Let’s frolic through the itinerary and explore the magic of each destination!
Day 1: Arrival in Lecce
Upon your arrival at Lecce’s airport, a comfortable transfer awaits you. The four-star Hilton Garden Inn, where you’ll spend the next two nights, is not just a hotel; it’s a modern haven located conveniently close to the enchanting Old Town. Enjoy the hotel’s elegant amenities, including a restaurant featuring local dishes, a well-stocked bar, and a stunning rooftop swimming pool. Here, you can soak in panoramic views of the town while relaxing after your journey.
Italian Commune – Lecce, Italy
Day 2: A Tour of Lecce
Lecce is often dubbed the ‘Florence of the South,’ and it certainly lives up to that name. Your day begins at Porta Napoli, where you meet your knowledgeable local guide. As you stroll through Lecce’s charming streets, you’ll discover majestic Baroque churches and lively historical quarters.
The highlight of the tour includes the Basilica di Santa Croce, a masterpiece of intricate stonework that demands a close look. From the beautifully detailed facade to the exquisite chapels inside, this site is nothing short of mesmerizing.
Your exploration continues in the bustling Piazza Sant’Oronzo, which bears witness to ancient Rome with its partially unearthed amphitheater that once seated over 25,000 spectators. Don’t forget to pause at the beautiful Piazza Duomo, where Lecce’s cathedral stands as a testament to the town’s architectural splendor.
In the evening, enjoy a delightful dinner in a restaurant that was once a Roman granary, delighting your taste buds with local delicacies.
Piazza del Duomo and Campanile – Lecce, Italy
Day 3: Immersing in Olive Oil Culture & Exploring Alberobello
Puglia is renowned for its olive oil production, and your morning kicks off with a visit to a family-run olive oil mill. Here, you can dive into the art of olive oil making and indulge in a tasting of this exquisite liquid gold.
Later, you’ll journey to Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its unique conical-roofed trulli houses. These whimsical whitewashed structures create a fairytale-like landscape that transports you to another world.
Your guide will share fascinating stories about the construction and symbolism behind each trulli, making this visit an unforgettable highlight of your tour. After a day full of exploration, you’ll continue on to Matera, where you will enjoy a comfortable stay.
Trulli Dwellings of Alberabello – Bari, Apulia, Italy
Day 4: Unveiling Matera’s Ancient Charm
This morning, embark on a guided tour of Matera, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in history. Steeped in over 9,000 years of history, this remarkable town features stunning cave dwellings and churches hewn directly into limestone.
Wander through narrow alleys where locals once thrived, and experience the unique architecture that blends history and modernity. Spend the afternoon relaxing by the pool at your hotel or explore Matera on your own, perhaps visiting the Romanesque cathedral that overlooks the Sassi.
In the evening, savor a delicious dinner at a local restaurant in the heart of Matera’s Old Town, where you can indulge in traditional dishes made from fresh, local ingredients.
Matera, Italy
Day 5: The Charms of Bari
Your journey continues to Bari, a coastal city with a rich maritime history that dates back to Roman times. Your guided tour leads you through the Old Town, where historic gems like the imposing medieval fortress and stunning Romanesque cathedral await your discovery.
One of the tour’s highlights is the Basilica di San Nicola, where the relics of Saint Nicholas lie, a sacred site for many. Experience the lively atmosphere as you stroll through alleyways bustling with locals engaging in traditional activities, such as pasta-making or market shopping, and admire the color and vibrancy of everyday life in Bari.
By the evening, you will find peace at your hotel in Vieste, where your next three nights unfold against a backdrop of stunning Adriatic coastlines.
Baia dei Mergoli – Apulia, Italy
Day 6: A Free Day in Vieste
The charming town of Vieste is a perfect location for a leisurely day filled with relaxation and exploration. Situated on a rocky promontory overlooking sparkling turquoise waters, Vieste offers stunning beaches and charming streets meant for wandering.
Take the day to roam through ancient pathways, soak in the sun at the beach, or enjoy some delicious local seafood at a seaside café.
Day 7: Discovering Peschici & a Rustic Lunch
Experience the picturesque village of Peschici with a delightful stroll through narrow streets lined with whitewashed buildings. Enjoy the stunning views from the Medieval Castle, offering a panoramic perspective of the stunning coastline.
You’ll then be treated to a rustic lunch at a local restaurant, where culinary traditions come to life. Participate in a pasta-making demonstration and learn tips from the experts, creating a memorable connection to the region and its gastronomy.
Monte Sant' Angelo, Italy
Day 8: Farewell – Return Home
As your Riviera Escorted Tour comes to a close, it’s time to bid farewell to the enchanting landscapes and historic towns that have filled your heart with memories. With your bags packed and experiences to cherish, a transfer will take you to the airport for your journey back home, filled with stories that will last a lifetime.
Every day’s activities have been thoughtfully curated, showing you a side of Italy that goes beyond the ordinary. This tour is not merely a trip; it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in Italy’s vibrant culture, stunning scenery, and delectable flavors.
Prepare yourself for a once-in-a-lifetime experience with Unilever.edu.vn’s Riviera Escorted Tours 2025, where adventure awaits at every turn!
