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Home , Amalfi Coast, Cilento, Salice Salentino, Sassi di Matera

BAR PRESENTS Puglia, Coast &Cilento Tour MAY 12, 2020 - MAY 25, 2020 ORGANIZED BY SAM GIORDANO OF BAR CILENTO

Discover the stunning coastlines, rich cultures, local cuisine and remote towns and beaches of Puglia, the and Cilento on this panoramic 12 day tour.

This tour begins at the "heel of Italy", Puglia. We'll visit picturesque towns along the Adriatic coast, explore the Trullis of and sample locally produced olive oil.

Our next stop is the quaint region of Cilento. Explore the mountain village of Monteforte, admire the Greek Temples in and learn how to make the popular bocconcini.

We then head to the sparkling Amalfi Coast. Soak up the stunning views and sun, stroll through the iconic town of and sip on refreshing limoncello in . TOUR HIGHLIGHTS BARI CITY TOUR (UNESCO) TOUR BURRATA DI ANDRIA FACTORY TOUR BUFFALO MOZZARELLA FACTORY ALBEROBELLO (UNESCO), MARTINA GREEK TEMPLES OF PAESTUM FRANCA AND CISTERNINO TOUR IN RAVELLO OSTUNI & TOUR AMALFI AT LEISURE ONTRANTO & ADRIATIC COAST TOUR BLUE GROTTO GALLIPOLI CITY TOUR ISLE OF CAPRI TOUR LEONE DE CASTRIS WINERY VISIT CAPRI BLUE GROTTO Tour Itinerary DETAILED ITINERARY ON FOLLOWING PAGES DAY 1 | ARRIVAL & BARI HALF DAY TOUR

DAY 2 | ANDRIA CITY & BURRATA FACTORY TOUR

DAY 3 | ALBEROBELLO (UNESCO), CISTERNINO & MARTINA FRANCA

DAY 4 | OSTUNI DAY TOUR & LECCE AT YOUR LEISURE

DAY 5 | & ADRIATIC COAST

DAY 6 | GALLIPOLI & (LEONE DE CASTRIS WINERY)

DAY 7 | MATERA (UNESCO) TOUR - CILENTO

DAY 8 | BUFFALO MOZZARELLA FACTORY & PAESTUM GREEK TEMPLES

DAY 9 | AMALFI COAST (VILLA CIMBRONE, RAVELLO & AMALFI AT LEISURE)

DAY 10 | PALINURO BEACH & BLUE GROTTO

DAY 11 | & LOCAL DINNER

DAY 12 | ISLE OF CAPRI FULL DAY TOUR

2 ALBEROBELLO ANDRIA MARTINA FRANCA 1 BARI & CISTERNINO

3 OSTUNI MATERA 7 4 9 AMALFI COAST 4 LECCE CAPRI 12 8 PAESTUM GALLIPOLI 6 5 MONTEFORTE 11 OTRANTO 10 PALINURO DAY ONE | WEDNESDAY MAY 13 ARRIVAL IN BARI Depart Tuesday, May 12th on an afternoon or evening flight. Arrive at Bari Airport on Wednesday, May 13th and be picked up by private couch for transfer to your hotel.

Meet your local guide in the hotel lobby at 4pm for a city tour of Bari. Visit historical sights of Bari Vecchia; the Cathedral, the Basilica di San Nicola, the Norman Swabian Castle and Orecchiette Street where you can buy fresh hand-made Orecchiette pasta being prepared by local women.

Welcome dinner in a typical restaurant in the city center. One night stay in Bari.

ABOUT BARI & PUGLIA The second largest town in , Bari, is a busy port with connections to Greece, and . Often referred to as the south's Bologna, Bari has a historic but youthful town. More urban than its neighbors Lecce and Brindisi, Bari has grander boulevards and more active nightlife. The slower-paced old town houses the bones of St. Nicholas in its Basilica di San Nicola, a strapping castle and unfussy trattorias with delicious local foods ("cucina barese").

Puglia, also known as , is a region in . Referred to as the heel of Italy's boot, Puglia remains relatively untouched but is becoming increasingly popular as travelers discover the area's charm, baroque towns, whitewashed homes, olive groves, sunshine, clear blue beaches and excellent cuisine.

Puglia is divided into six provinces: Bari (capital), Brindisi, Foggia, Lecce, Taranto andBarletta-Andria-Trani. The area of Lecce and southernmost tip of the 'heel' is called Salento. Puglia borders regions of , Molise and .

Puglia was a primarily feudal farming region, and its character today still reflects its humble agricultural past. Centuries ago, Greek colonists established cities in southern Italy. While not much Greek history remains, Apulian Ware pottery from the period can be seen in museums. The Romans then established ports to serve the empire. The Appian Way which starts in and ends in Brindisi is still marked by one surviving Roman column. The Middles Ages hold an impression on Puglia when churches were built with Romanesque style. In the 13th century, Puglia was ruled by Roman Emperor Frederick II who built castles throughout the region which are still among its most notable sights.

Like the rest of Italy, the region endured difficult decades and saw lots of emigration as Pugliesi headed north or abroad to seek fortune. Nowadays, travelers find the area settled and comfortable. Much of the region is covered in olive groves, interspersed with orchards. Although rainfall is low, the Pugliesi land grows large quantities of fruit and vegetables and their cuisine is rich in local products such as beans, chicory and broccoli. One of the more popular types of is Masseria. Masserie were the big houses at the centre of large agricultural estates: now they frequently offer comfortable rural accommodation. DAY TWO | THURSDAY MAY 14 ANDRIA - CASTEL DEL MONTE - MARTINA FRANCA Enjoy breakfast at the hotel and check-out. Today you have an early morning departure to the area of Andria where you'll visit a local cheese factory that produces Burrata di Andria. Here you'll learn how the cheese is made from local cheese makers who spend the day with their hands in hot water (100°C) to create these unique excellences. The tour will be followed by a cheese tasting. After, you will visit the center of Andria with a chance to make a gastronomic stop at the Dragées Museum, another culinary tradition in the city.

Later, transfer to one of the best restaurants in the area to enjoy an unforgettable meal with traditional local foods. After lunch, you'll have a guided visit of Castel del Monte which rests over Alta Murgia National Park. This castle is probably the finest example of Frederician in Italy with its geometrical harmony. Each side of the octagonal castle measures 16.5m and is enriched by eight 25m octagonal towers.

After, proceed to the Itria Valley (1 hour drive). Check into a lovely Masseria in the Apulian Countryside for a 2 night stay.

Dinner at the Masseria.

DAY THREE | FRIDAY MAY 15 ALBEROBELLO & CISTERNINO FULL DAY TOUR After breakfast, you'll enjoy a full-day guided tour of the most iconic towns of the Itria Valley, Alberobello and Cisternino.

Alberobello is a UNESCO site with white conical-shaped homes called Trullis. On arrival, enjoy a two-hour walking tour around the main attractions of the Rione Monti, Aia Piccola, the Church of Sant'Antonio and Trullo Sovrano which is the sovereign trullo. This Trullo was built in the 18th century and is the only two- story building of its kind. Enjoy leisure time walking the beautiful streets before moving to our next stop, Cisternino.

Cisternino is the best town for meat lovers! Its small alleys are dotted with butcher shops, all equipped with grills and butchers ready to cook your preferred cut. After a nice grilled lunch, head to Martina Franca to stroll the streets and ancient squares of this little gem.

Return to your hotel in the late afternoon. Dinner at Masseria. DAY FOUR | SATURDAY MAY 16 OSTUNI - LECCE Enjoy breakfast at the hotel and check-out. Today we depart for Lecce, first stopping at the enchanting town of Ostuni, the "White City" or "Città Bianca." The name derives from the roofs of its houses which are painted with white lime, a habit that originated in the Middle Ages. Ostuni is perched on a hill that descends towards the sea.

The town center hosts golden ochre stained convents, antique palaces and a beautiful Cathedral with Romanesque architecture. The town is interlaced in a net of narrow winding streets that create a unique atmosphere. the origin of the city dates back to the Palaeolithic Period (40,000-50,000 years ago) and was originally occupied by hunters before being under Spanish empire of Isabella of Aragon. Today Ostuni bases its economy on agriculture exporting olive oil, almonds and wine

Enjoy lunch on your own before departing for Lecce (1 hr drive). Arrive in the afternoon and check into your hotel for a three night stay. Meet your guide for a walking tour of Lecce, also known as " of the South." You will visit highlights including baroque Piazza Sant'Oronzo, Roman Amphitheater, Church of Santa Chiara, Roman Theatre, Cathedral Square (Piazza del Duomo), Corso Vittorio Emanuele, Church of Saint Irene, Basilica of Santa Croce, Piazza Dei Celestini and Piazza Loffredo Adorno.

You'll then visit one of the oldest Paper Maché workshops in town where artisans create statues and other elegant objects.

After, return to your hotel to relax. Dinner in local restaurant.

DAY FIVE | SUNDAY MAY 17 OTRANTO - ADRIATIC COAST After breakfast, depart for Otranto where you'll meet your guide for a half day walking tour. Visit Porta Alfonsina, a French style Cathedral famous for its mosaic floor, before visiting the Spanish Castle and St. Peter's Church. Enjoy lunch on your own before departing for boat tour of the Adriatic Coast. You'll visit the coast between Otranto and Grotta Zinzulusa with opportunities to swim in the pristine water. First stop is at bay of Baia delle Orte before stopping at Torre Sant'Emiliano and Porto Badisco, a small fishing village that is believed to be where Aeneid's Aeneas first docked in Italy. Moving on, you arrive at the bay of La Fraula and , where you'll find a nice cove with steep cliff diving. The last stop is the famous grotto, Grotta Zinzulusa, situated under the town of Castro. *Note the boat trip can undergo changes due to currents and weather conditions.

Transfer back to Lecce. Dinner in hotel restaurant. DAY SIX | MONDAY MAY 18 GALLIPOLI - SALENTINO

After breakfast at the hotel, you'll drive to Gallipoli where you will meet your guide for a walking tour of the town.

Gallipoli is an ancient hamlet and one of the pearls of the Ionian coastline. The town is characterized by ramparts which surround an eastern array of alleyways, courtyards and narrow winding passageways. On your tour you will visit the Greek Fountain, Sanctuary of Santa Maria del Canneto, Spanish style Castle, the Cathedral, Church of Purity and ancient olive oil press Ipogeo.

After your tour, you will drive North of Gallipoli to visit the oldest and finest wine estate of Puglia and producer of world famous rosé wine “Five Roses”, Leone de Castris Winery. Enjoy a delicious light lunch and wine tasting at the estate before a guided visit of the Wine Cellars.

After your visit, return to Lecce. Dinner at hotel restaurant.

DAY SEVEN | TUESDAY MAY 19 MATERA - CILENTO After breakfast, check-out and depart for tour of Matera before arriving in Cilento.

This morning visit the (UNESCO), where you have an overview of the Caveoso and Barisano districts, which date back to the Palaeolithic age and are among the first human settlements in Italy. Walk through this underground world, see the ancient water systems and look at how these caves are put to use nowadays. With 9000 years of continuous human habitation, Matera has many layers of history. The houses’ rock-grey façades once hid grimy, filthy abodes but, since the 1980s, Matera has been a city on the rebound filled with an increasing number of cafes and restaurants. One recent film to be shot here is Mel Gibson's movie, "The Passion of the Christ".

Enjoy lunch on your own before exploring the Park of the Rupestrian Churches of Matera. Over 150 rupestrian (cave) churches can be found here.

After, depart for the Agriturismo in , Cilento (3.5 hour drive) for a six night stay.

Dinner and Wine Tasting at Agriturismo. ABOUT CAMPANIA, CILENTO & AMALFI COAST Campania is a region in Southern Italy celebrated for its food, gracious people, climate, fertility of the land and astonishingly beautiful landscapes. Campania's name comes from "Campania felix", a phrase meaning "happy land." And you are definitely guaranteed to return home happy!

From the seething streets of Naples to the spectacular scenery of the Amalfi Coast, the landscape is as varied as it is compelling. Central to everything is Naples, a sprawling city positioned on the Bay of Naples. Mt Vesuvius in the background is a constant reminder of the fate it so dramatically dealt and over 2,000 years ago.

To the south of Naples, in the sparkling waters off the coast of , it is said sirens lured sailors to their deaths. A short ferry ride away is the Isle of Capri, the most celebrated of Naples' three bay islands. Further down the coast is the magnificent ancient Greek Temples at Paestum.

Campania's biggest crowd-puller is the Amalfi Coast, a vertical world of plunging cliffs, precarious villages and stunning views. The Amalfi Coast which was hidden to the world until 'discovered' in the mid-20th century is now one of Italy's most popular destinations.

Then there is Italy's best kept secret - Cilento and National Park. Cilento, located in the region of Campania, boasts fascinating sights and unique fishing villages and beaches. It is home of the most splendid Mediterranean vegetation, varied wildlife and breathtaking panoramas. It’s all there for your senses to truly Enjoy to the fullest!.

DAY EIGHT | WEDNESDAY MAY 20 BUFFALO MOZZARELLA FACTORY & PAESTUM After breakfast, you'll visit a Buffalo Mozzarella Factory to see water buffalos and learn the process of making local favorite mozzarella balls, "bocconcini." Enjoy a light tasting of the various products. After, enjoy lunch on your own before visiting the well preserved Greek Temples in Paestum. You'll have time to take an optional tour of the Temples and Archeological Site.

Later, return to the Agriturismo with ample time to relax and swim in the hotel pool.

In the evening, depart to local Cilento village, , for scenic views. Dinner in local Castellabate restaurant. DAY NINE | THURSDAY MAY 21 AMALFI COAST (RAVELLO & AMALFI) After breakfast you have an early morning departure to one of Italy's most scenic coast areas, the Amalfi Coast. The Amalfi Coast is one of the most scenic coastal areas of Italy. One of Italy's most popular destinations, the Amalfi Coast is a vertical world of plunging cliffs, precarious villages and stunning views. You will meet your local guide this morning and head to Sorrento for a panoramic view and brief stroll in the town center. You will then depart for town of Amalfi.

Enjoy leisure time in Amalfi to explore the town and browse the many shops. You'll have time for an optional visit to Amalfi's gorgeous Cathedral.

Later, climb higher above Amalfi to the town of Ravello. Here you'll visit Villa Cimbrone with its historic cloister and magnificent views over the coast, overlooking the dramatic outstretched panorama of sea and gardens. You'll have plenty of free time to walk around the town.

Dinner in a local restaurant After, return back to the Agriurismo.

DAY TEN | FRIDAY MAY 22 CILENTO COAST & PALINURO BEACH EXCURSION After breakfast, we will head to Palinuro. The Cilento area is home to the where olive oil production has been important for centuries. Along the drive, we will admire the beautiful landscape dotted with these olive groves. On arrival in Palinuro, you will take a boat excursion around the Palinuro Peninsula for breathtaking and panoramic views. There will be time to swim in a secluded cove. On the voyage back to port, you will enter the the fascinating Blue Grotto of Palinuro. It has been said that Palinuro's Blue Grotto rivals the Blue Grotto on the Isle of Capri.

After the boat excursion, enjoy leisure time at the beach. Lunch on your own.

Return to the Agriturismo in the evening. Dinner at the Agriturismo. DAY ELEVEN | SATURDAY MAY 23 MONTEFORTE CILENTO MOUNTAIN VILLAGE After breakfast. leave in the late morning for the village of Monteforte Cilento. Enjoy panoramic views and a walking tour of this mountain village. You'll have plenty of leisure time to stroll the alleyways and sip on a drink in the Piazza bar. The Group Farewell Dinner will be held at local restaurant "Monteverde" where the chef proprietor will prepare a delicious tasting menu of various courses. You'll have the chance to sample many old world regional dishes and various local wines.

Dinner in local restaurant. After, return to Agriturismo in the evening.

DAY TWELVE | SUNDAY MAY 24 CAPRI FULL DAY EXCURSION After breakfast, meet your guide for a full day excursion to Capri. Take a short drive to to embark on a boat, enjoying views of Amalfi & Sorrento coastline on the way. The Roamn Emperor Augustus Caesar (Octavian) famously called Capri "La Città del Dolce far Niente" which means a town for doing sweet nothings. Upon arrival in Capri, you'll take a boat ride around the island and visit the eternal Grotta Azzurra AKA Blue Grotto (weather permitting). After, explore Capri either with a guide or on your own if you prefer.

Enjoy your time on the island by exploring the gorgeous streets, eating, sampling Limoncello or people watching. Capri has some of the most diverse and lush wild flowers in the entire south of Italy.

In the afternoon, walk up into Anacapri which is located at the top of the island to see the gorgeous Villla San Michele and the beautiful views below.

Leave Capri in late afternoon for a boat ride to Salerno. Dinner in the Agriturismo.

DEPARTURE | MONDAY MAY 25 Early in the morning, you will be transferred to Naples International Airport for return flight to the USA.

Please note that group transfer is included only if entire group departs hotel at the same time for the same flight. If you have your own flight, transfer available to airport of your choice at an individual pp cost. For group or individual transfer to Rome Leonardo Da Vinci International Airport, there will be an extra charge