Self Guided Walking in Puglia: From Lecce to Matera

Self Guided Walking in Puglia: From Lecce to Matera

The Sanctuary of the Most Holy Crucifix of Piety (Santissimo Crocifisso della Pietà) in Galatone, province of Lecce, Puglia, Italy
Lecce

The Sanctuary of the Most Holy Crucifix of Piety (Santissimo Crocifisso della Pietà) in Galatone, province of Lecce, Puglia, Italy

Day 1
Alberobello, Italy
Alberobello

Alberobello, Italy

Day 5
valezones
Matera, Italy
Matera

Matera, Italy

Days 6-8
Max Roma
Matera, Italy
Province of Matera

Matera, Italy

Days 7-8
Max Roma

Map
348 Views
8 Days From

$1865

Tour Overview

Embark on a captivating self-guided walking tour through the enchanting region of Puglia, Italy, from Lecce to Matera. This journey invites you to explore UNESCO World Heritage sites like Matera and Alberobello, and discover the Baroque beauty of Lecce and the whitewashed charm of Ostuni. Delight in the region's culinary treasures, savoring local food and wine, while staying in charming hotels, including a unique stay in a traditional 'trullo' house. With optional walks, you have ample time to immerse yourself in each destination's allure. Enjoy the convenience of luggage transfers and explore at your own pace, with the freedom to arrange your own train or bus tickets for certain segments. This tour promises a perfect blend of cultural exploration, scenic walks, and gastronomic delights in one of Italy's most picturesque regions. ...more ...less

Highlights

  • Visit the UNESCO sites of Matera and Alberobello.

  • Discover Baroque Lecce, known as the Florence of the South, and explore the white city of Ostuni.

  • Savour mouth-watering local food and wine in Puglia.

  • Explore the charming seaside village of Otranto and its Aragonese castle.

  • Walk through the Dune Costiere Natural Park and see ancient olive trees.

  • Experience the unique trulli architecture in Alberobello.

  • Explore the rock churches of Matera and enjoy birdwatching on the Murgia plateau.

Places You'll See

Alberobello, Italy Fabrizio Salvadori

Alberobello, Italy

Matera, Italy simone agosta

Matera, Italy

Itinerary

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Day 1 : Arrive in Lecce

Lecce, Italy - Piazza del Duomo square and Virgin Mary Cathedral , Puglia region, southern Italy
Ancient Roman Amphitheatre in Lecce, Puglia region, southern Italy
The Sanctuary of the Most Holy Crucifix of Piety (Santissimo Crocifisso della Pietà) in Galatone, province of Lecce, Puglia, Italy
The most beautiful coast of Apulia: Torre Dell'Orso Bay, ITALY (Lecce).
Lecce, Italy - Piazza del Duomo square and Virgin Mary Cathedral , Puglia region, southern Italy
The most beautiful coast of Apulia: Torre Dell'Orso Bay, ITALY (Lecce).
The Sanctuary of the Most Holy Crucifix of Piety (Santissimo Crocifisso della Pietà) in Galatone, province of Lecce, Puglia, Italy
Lecce, Italy - Piazza del Duomo square and Virgin Mary Cathedral , Puglia region, southern Italy
The most beautiful coast of Apulia: Torre Dell'Orso Bay, ITALY (Lecce).
The Sanctuary of the Most Holy Crucifix of Piety (Santissimo Crocifisso della Pietà) in Galatone, province of Lecce, Puglia, Italy
Ancient Roman Amphitheatre in Lecce, Puglia region, southern Italy
Rocky beach of Santa Cesarea Terme
The Sanctuary of the Most Holy Crucifix of Piety (Santissimo Crocifisso della Pietà) in Galatone, province of Lecce, Puglia, Italy
Lecce, Italy - Piazza del Duomo square and Virgin Mary Cathedral , Puglia region, southern Italy
Rocky beach of Santa Cesarea Terme
Ancient Roman Amphitheatre in Lecce, Puglia region, southern Italy
Rocky beach of Santa Cesarea Terme
The most beautiful coast of Apulia: Torre Dell'Orso Bay, ITALY (Lecce).
Ancient Roman Amphitheatre in Lecce, Puglia region, southern Italy
Rocky beach of Santa Cesarea Terme

Location: Lecce

Accommodation Name: hotel

Arrive in Lecce. Enjoy some free time to discover the main monuments of the Salento region's capital, with its baroque architecture, stunning basilica and Roman amphitheatre.

Day 2 : Otranto Walk

Location: Otranto

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Take a morning train or bus to Otranto (train or bus ticket not included), a little seaside village facing the Adriatic sea and known as the gateway to the Orient. Visit its Aragonese castle and cathedral, home to the impressive 'Tree of Life' mosaic which covers its entire floor and is well worth a visit. Then follow the coastline, past imposing coastal watchtowers, to the Orte cove. Return to Lecce by bus or train (pay locally).

Day 3 : Lido Morelli to Ostuni walk

Location: Ostuni

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Private transfer (1hr) to the golden sands and crystal clear waters of Lido Morelli. Then set off through the rich and verdant wetlands of the Dune Costiere Natural Park, passing traditional masserie (farmhouses) and ancient olive trees - at 1000 years old, they are the oldest in the Mediterranean. End the day in the striking hilltop town of Ostuni, known as the 'white city' due to its brightly whitewashed buildings clustered together on the hillside. Explore Ostuni's enchanting maze of Greek-style winding streets before dinner.

Day 4 : Locorotondo and the Itria Valley

Location: Itria Valley

Accommodation Name: Trullo

Meals Included: Breakfast

We take you (40 mins) to the sleepy village of Correggia, then make your way through the gently rolling countryside of the Itria Valley, past ancient olive groves, vineyards and trulli, to the wine town of Locorotondo. Take a short (15 minute) train ride back to Alberobello (train ticket not included). Spend the night in a typical 'Trullo' in the historical centre of Alberobello.

Day 5 : Alberobello exploration or Martina Franca Walk

Alberobello, Italy
Fabrizio Salvadori Alberobello, Italy
Alberobello, Italy
Fabrizio Salvadori Alberobello, Italy

Location: Alberobello

Accommodation Name: Trullo

Meals Included: Breakfast

Discover Alberobello, UNESCO World Heritage Site and iconic town owing to the 1000 white-tipped trulli that can be found here. Alternatively, walk through a patchwork of trulli dotted meadows, wheat fields, vineyards and olive groves to the elegant Baroque town of Martina Franca. There is an optional transfer to the start of this walk to make a shorter walk of 14km.

Day 6 : The Rock Churches of Matera Walk

Astrit Myrtaj Matera, Italy
Astrit Myrtaj Matera, Italy
simone agosta Matera, Italy
Max Roma Matera, Italy
simone agosta Matera, Italy
Astrit Myrtaj Matera, Italy
simone agosta Matera, Italy
Astrit Myrtaj Matera, Italy
Max Roma Matera, Italy
Max Roma Matera, Italy
Max Roma Matera, Italy
simone agosta Matera, Italy

Location: Matera

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

After a private transfer, this scenic walk takes you across the Murgia plateau facing Matera, and the impressive 8th century rock churches that pepper the landscape. This area is perfect for a spot of birdwatching as you walk amongst the pastures and stone farmhouses, keeping your eyes out for birds of prey as you go.

Day 7 : Matera exploration or Gravina Walk

simone agosta Matera, Italy
simone agosta Matera, Italy
Astrit Myrtaj Matera, Italy
simone agosta Matera, Italy
Astrit Myrtaj Matera, Italy
Max Roma Matera, Italy
simone agosta Matera, Italy
Max Roma Matera, Italy
Max Roma Matera, Italy
Max Roma Matera, Italy
Astrit Myrtaj Matera, Italy
Astrit Myrtaj Matera, Italy

Location: Matera

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Matera's Sassi district is renowned for its cave-houses, which have been inhabited for centuries and have since been converted into comfortable accommodation. Take a guided tour to learn more of this UNESCO recognised city (payable locally), or hop on the train to Gravina, birthplace of Pope Benedict XIII, with its historic palaces and dramatic canyon. From the town's iconic 17th century aqueduct bridge, head uphill to the Botrugno Hill for sweeping views of this picturesque town, before returning to its atmospheric centro storico. Return to Matera by train.

Day 8 : End Matera

simone agosta Matera, Italy
simone agosta Matera, Italy
simone agosta Matera, Italy
Max Roma Matera, Italy
Max Roma Matera, Italy
Astrit Myrtaj Matera, Italy
simone agosta Matera, Italy
Astrit Myrtaj Matera, Italy
Max Roma Matera, Italy
Max Roma Matera, Italy
Astrit Myrtaj Matera, Italy
Astrit Myrtaj Matera, Italy

Location: Matera

Meals Included: Breakfast

End in Matera after breakfast.

What's Included

  • All breakfasts

    All breakfasts are included in the tour package.

  • Luggage transfers between hotels

    Luggage transfers between hotels are included in the tour.

  • Walk transfers

    Walk transfers are included, but this excludes rail and bus transfers.

What's Not Included

  • Travel insurance

    Travel insurance is not included in the tour package.

  • Single accommodation

    Single accommodation is not included and is available on request with a compulsory supplement.

  • Solo traveller supplement

    A solo traveller supplement is required when only one person is travelling on a departure date.

  • Visas or vaccinations

    Visas or vaccinations are not included in the tour package.

  • Rail and bus transfers

    Rail and bus transfers are not included and participants need to arrange their own train or bus tickets for certain segments.

Food

All breakfasts are included. In Puglia you will find genuine regional cooking that has strong links to the land and the sea. To give you an example of the types of food on offer in Puglia: simple, tasty dishes such as the pasta delicacy “orecchiette” served with a sauce of turnip-tops or fresh tomato and sheep’s ricotta-cheese, “cavatelli” with pulses, aubergine and parmesan bake, courgettes “alla poverella” - marinated in oil, garlic, mint and vinegar, etc., to accompany grilled fish, seafood, horse-meat chops, lamb, “burrata” (soft mozzarella and cream cheese), mozzarella and “caciocavallo” sheep’s cheese... plus excellent wines. This region is a food lovers paradise!
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Accommodation

All the hotels on this trip have been specially selected for their location and character. In Alberobello, we use a family-run hotel in beautifully restored 'trulli' houses while in Matera, your hotel is just a few steps from the famous Sassi district, with wonderful views from its panoramic terrace.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of accommodation can I expect during the tour?

    The tour features charming hotels selected for their location and character. In Alberobello, you will stay in a family-run hotel in beautifully restored 'trulli' houses, while in Matera, your hotel is just steps away from the famous Sassi district, offering wonderful views from its panoramic terrace. ...more ...less

  • Are there any meals included in the tour?

    All breakfasts are included in the tour. Puglia offers genuine regional cooking with dishes such as 'orecchiette' pasta, 'cavatelli' with pulses, and a variety of cheeses and seafood, making it a food lover's paradise.

  • What kind of transportation is provided during the tour?

    The tour includes luggage transfers between hotels and walk transfers. However, participants need to arrange their own train or bus tickets for certain segments, such as traveling to Otranto and returning to Lecce.

  • What are some of the highlights of the walking tour in Puglia?

    Highlights include visiting UNESCO sites like Matera and Alberobello, discovering Baroque Lecce and the white city of Ostuni, and savoring local food and wine. The walks are optional, allowing plenty of time to explore each destination.

  • What can I expect to see during the walk in Otranto?

    In Otranto, you can visit the Aragonese castle and the cathedral, which houses the impressive 'Tree of Life' mosaic. The walk follows the coastline past coastal watchtowers to the Orte cove.

  • What is unique about the walk from Lido Morelli to Ostuni?

    This walk takes you through the Dune Costiere Natural Park, past traditional masserie and ancient olive trees, ending in the hilltop town of Ostuni, known for its whitewashed buildings and Greek-style winding streets.

  • What is special about the Rock Churches of Matera Walk?

    The walk across the Murgia plateau offers views of 8th-century rock churches and is ideal for birdwatching. You will walk among pastures and stone farmhouses, with opportunities to spot birds of prey.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    If you wish to make any changes to your booking, particularly if you need to alter any flights booked through us, please let us know as soon as possible. There is a booking or flight amendment fee of £40 per change and flight amendments often incur extra airline costs depending on the changes to be made and if the ticket has been issued or not.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Exodus has been trading since 1974

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Your final joining instructions and flight details, if booked with us, will then be sent out 2 to 3 weeks before departure. If you would like a hard copy posted, or if you require these any earlier, please contact the customer operations team. We advise that if you are booking connecting travel before receiving these, please ensure you leave plenty of time.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Travellers are welcome to opt to share a room with a tour member of the same gender for no additional charge. If you'd like your own room, we can request a single supplement so that you will have your own room throughout.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    You are welcome to meet the group after the tour has departed however there is no reduction in rate for joining a tour after the departure date.

Reviews of this operator

Gergana Racheva  

Very helpful and prompt service

06-Jan-2023

Very helpful and prompt service. I called to check for an already booked trip and once we sorted this, the agent was ready to help me with another booking as well. He actually waited for me to book my flight tickets, answered all my questions, informed me of all my options. Exodus is a tour company I am using regularly due to the quality of their trips, ease of booking and helpfulness of their customer service team ...more ...less

Trustpilot
Tim Hardy  

Stunning walking. Walking the Amalfi Coast

04-Nov-2021

This trip takes you through the most beautiful parts of the Mediterranean walking with a guide and also discovering the wonders of Pompeii and Vesuvius. The hotel had a nice feel as family run, spotless and comfortable rooms, we were well looked after for breakfasts and dinner each day, and the barmen fixed some mean cocktails for us.! ...more ...less

paul green (Google Reviewer)  

Went on a tour of...

14-Jan-2022

Went on a tour of morocco in October and loved it ,mohamed the tour guide was excellent, probably go with exodus to India next year

Paul Green  

It's amazing what you can do in a week! Cycling the Dalmatian Coast.

08-Oct-2021

This holiday was extremely enjoyable. The itinerary is well planned and the route takes you to a variety of destinations. Not having been to Croatia before I didn't know there were so many beautiful small islands and I loved the ferry and catarmaran rides. The coastal route we took was dramatic and the World Heritage sites in Split and Dubrovnik very interesting and worth visiting. The Adriatic Sea was warm, blue and inviting, good for swimming even in October. The hotels we stayed in varied in size from medium to large. I particularly liked the one just outside Dubrovnik as I had a sea view. Tourists were plentiful in Split and Dubrovnik but in the other places we stayed there was an end of season feel and it was quiet on the roads and in the resorts. The food was good and our guide was always able to recommend a nice restaurant for our evening meal. The weather in October was good for cycling - not hot, partly cloudy most days and one day it rained! ...more ...less

Roger Wells (Google Reviewer)  

We have just returned from...

12-Feb-2025

We have just returned from a 2 week Exodus trip to Egypt, Alexandria to Aswan. We had a great time, enjoyable company, with an excellent guide, Sayed. All worked out as described. The 3 day Red Sea extension was relaxing. Even the train journey, Cairo to Aswan, was a great part of the experience ...more ...less

Mrs Y Morrison  

Fabulous company and trip

06-Jan-2023

We went overland from Cape Town to Zimbabwe through Botswana and Namibia. What a fantastic trip. Our first time with Exodus although we have travelled extensively around the world. We would highly recommend this company for such a brilliant trip - we got everything and more all at a good price. Thanks to everyone involved. We are looking at our next trip! ...more ...less

Trustpilot
Alison Payton (Google Reviewer)  

I've done 8 trips in...

17-May-2023

I've done 8 trips in the last 14 years with Exodus, and have been rewarded with a 10% discount on all future bookings. I feel very confident that I'll receive pleasant, efficient service, and have the unusual holiday experience that I'm looking for each time. I've trekked to the top of snow-capped peaks, wild-camped in the desert, seen amazing spectacles of nature, visited 4 capital cities in a week, and learned about local culture and experienced local hospitality in a way that I simply wouldn't on a conventional holiday. The quality of the accommodation and guides can vary, but this is mainly down to cultural differences and things that Exodus can't control. I've only ever complained once, my complaint was taken seriously, and I was sent a discount voucher - you can't say fairer than that. I remain a loyal customer. ...more ...less

David (Google Reviewer)  

Exodus are generally a good...

21-Aug-2024

Exodus are generally a good travel company. Things tend to run smoothly and trips well organised. Their customers tend to be at retirement age. Trips are a bit overpriced. I would also avoid trips in Europe, as these often focus on more coffee stops and meals, rather than walking. I would also recommend making sure your guide records any accidents you have, hopefully not applicable. I had one on Sierra de Aitana which the guide saw and knew about, but he and Exodus said it never happened when I followed up after the trip. I wasn’t putting in a claim, just suggested a safety improvement. They have since apologised and acknowledged this as an error. They are a good reliable option for outside of Europe trips. ...more ...less

Jacquelyn Moore (Google Reviewer)  

Food came quickly. Staff very...

07-Mar-2024

Food came quickly. Staff very friendly and polite . However the chef or person preparing the food did not seem to read the menu! If it says a meal should come with vegetables, you should not have to ask for them. They served shepherds pie with garlic bread! The munchies ice cream sundae said it should come in a glass with a flake but came in a little bowl with just a few munchies! When asking the staff were happy to replace and correct but customer should get what they order and what menu says first time round!! ...more ...less

johanna leonor (Google Reviewer)  

If you like to be...

07-Sep-2023

If you like to be mistreated Exodus is perfect for you. If you enjoy terrible choices for hotels and pseudo restaurants Exodus is perfect for you. Careless about their clients and loveless about their propositions. Exodus has been a dissatisfaction and disappointment about every dealing i and my group have had with him. Especially a man called Simone who just cares about the money he can get from you couldn’t care less about service. ...more ...less

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Tuesday - Tuesday

Mar 25, 2025 - Apr 01, 2025
$1865 (USD)

Wednesday - Wednesday

Mar 26, 2025 - Apr 02, 2025
$1865 (USD)

Thursday - Thursday

Mar 27, 2025 - Apr 03, 2025
$1865 (USD)

Friday - Friday

Mar 28, 2025 - Apr 04, 2025
$1865 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Mar 30, 2025 - Apr 06, 2025
$2030 (USD)
Prices last published on 21-Mar-2025

Book with Confidence

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Exodus Adventure Travels allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform exodus adventure travels, 43 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Exodus Adventure Travels requires a minimum deposit of 25% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of exodus adventure travels charges.

    Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

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Self Guided Walking in Puglia: From Lecce to Matera

8 Days Starting in Lecce, Italy and ending in Matera, Italy

Visiting: Lecce, Otranto, Ostuni, Itria Valley, Alberobello, Matera

Tour operator:

Exodus Adventure Travels

Tour code:

W07PM

Group Type:

Independent

Guide Type:

Self Guided

Physical rating:

Easy

Age range:

12-99

Activities:

Sightseeing

From: $1865 (USD)

NB: Prices correct on 21-Mar-2025 but subject to change.