SATURDAY – Arrivals, Relaxation and Welcome Dinner

Arrive at the beautiful Trulli Damari Resort, your luxurious home for the week in the heart of the Itria Valley. We will arrange your transfers from Bari airport or train station, as well as nearby train stations or hotels.

After settling into your private luxury trullo, enjoy time to unwind. Relax beside the resort’s beautiful infinity pool, stroll through the fragrant Mediterranean gardens, or indulge in the peaceful surroundings before the week’s adventures begin.

In the early evening, join us for a Welcome Aperitivo by the pool, followed by a special Welcome Dinner featuring an array of authentic Puglian specialties, introducing you to the extraordinary flavors that define this remarkable region.

SUNDAY – Hands-on Cooking Class and Discovering Alberobello

Following a leisurely breakfast, we begin our culinary journey with our first hands-on cooking class at Trulli Damari. Guided by our chef, you’ll prepare a selection of authentic regional dishes showcasing the finest ingredients and culinary traditions of Puglia before enjoying your creations for lunch.

In the afternoon, we travel to the UNESCO World Heritage town of Alberobello, famous for its iconic trulli houses and enchanting streets lined with whitewashed stone buildings. Enjoy a guided stroll through this unique village, browse local artisan shops, and soak in its unforgettable atmosphere. Dinner will be enjoyed in Alberobello before returning to Trulli Damari for the evening.

MONDAY – Altamura Bread Tradition and the Wonders of Matera

This morning we journey to Altamura, internationally renowned for producing one of Italy’s most celebrated breads. During our visit, you’ll discover the centuries-old techniques behind the famous Pane di Altamura and traditional Focaccia Pugliese, followed by a hands-on baking experience and a delicious lunch featuring your creations.

In the afternoon, we continue to the spectacular city of Matera, one of Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited settlements and famous for its remarkable cave dwellings known as the Sassi. Accompanied by a professional local guide, we’ll explore the city aboard a traditional Ape Calessino, offering a unique perspective on its fascinating history, architecture, and artisan traditions.

We return to Trulli Damari in the evening for dinner at the resort.

TUESDAY – Cooking Class at Trulli, Leisure afternoon and Martina Franca

After breakfast, enjoy our second hands-on cooking class at Trulli Damari, where you’ll prepare another traditional Puglian menu highlighting seasonal local ingredients and time-honored family recipes.

The afternoon is yours to relax and enjoy the exceptional amenities of the resort. Unwind beside the pool, indulge in a spa treatment or massage, or simply embrace the peaceful rhythm of the Itria Valley.

In the evening, we visit the elegant Baroque town of Martina Franca. Wander through its charming historic center, lined with narrow alleyways, beautiful squares, and impressive architecture before enjoying an outstanding seafood dinner at one of our favorite local restaurants.

Return to Trulli Damari after dinner.

WEDNESDAY – Lecce and Puglia’s Great Wines

Today we travel south to Lecce, often called the “Florence of the South” for its extraordinary Baroque architecture and elegant atmosphere. A professional local guide will lead us through the city’s magnificent churches, lively squares, and historic streets.

Enjoy free time for lunch on your own, shopping, or simply relaxing in one of Lecce’s charming cafés.

In the late afternoon, we continue to a local winery where you’ll discover some of Puglia’s most celebrated wines, including Primitivo di Manduria and Negroamaro. A guided tasting will be accompanied by a light wine-paired dinner before we return to Trulli Damari.

THURSDAY – Leisure Morning and the Beauty of Polignano a Mare and Monopoli

Enjoy a leisurely morning at Trulli Damari. Relax beside the pool, reserve a rejuvenating spa treatment or massage, or simply savor the tranquility of your luxurious surroundings.

Following a traditional light lunch at the resort, we depart for the charming seaside town of Monopoli, a picturesque fishing village known for its whitewashed historic center, lively harbor, elegant churches, and maze of narrow streets. Enjoy time to stroll through its vibrant piazzas, browse local artisan boutiques, and experience the authentic atmosphere of one of Puglia’s most beloved coastal gems.

Later in the afternoon, we continue to the spectacular town of Polignano a Mare, dramatically perched atop limestone cliffs overlooking the crystal-clear Adriatic Sea. Explore its enchanting historic center, admire breathtaking panoramic views from its famous terraces, and discover why this iconic destination is considered one of Italy’s most beautiful seaside towns.

As evening falls, enjoy an exceptional seafood dinner at one of our favorite local restaurants before returning to Trulli Damari for the evening.

FRIDAY – Burrata, Orecchiette and Our Grand Farewell Celebration

Our final full day begins with a visit to an authentic Masseria, where we’ll experience the agricultural traditions that define Puglia’s culinary heritage. Tour the working farm before learning the art of crafting fresh burrata and mozzarella with local cheesemakers. You’ll also participate in a hands-on lesson preparing the region’s iconic handmade orecchiette pasta.

Following lunch, we return to Trulli Damari where you’ll have time to relax, pack, or enjoy the resort before our unforgettable farewell celebration.

This evening, experience the vibrant spirit of Puglia during our Notte della Taranta celebration. Enjoy traditional music and captivating folk dancers performing the famous Taranta, while our chef prepares the beloved local specialty, Bombette: succulent pork roulades traditionally filled with cheese, herbs, and seasonings, then grilled over an open flame until perfectly tender and flavorful. Accompanied by other regional specialties, it is the perfect finale to a week filled with exceptional food, wonderful friendships, and unforgettable memories.

SATURDAY – Departures and Transfers

After breakfast, it’s time to say goodbye to beautiful Puglia and the friends you’ve made throughout the week.

Check-out takes place during the morning, and we’ll provide transfers to Bari Airport or train station, nearby train stations, or local hotels.

Additional Information

We provide small group vacations and try to be flexible in accommodating your needs as best as possible. Because it’s a culinary vacation, expect a wide variety of local and regional Italian cuisine. We ask that guests embrace authentic Italian cooking. Most allergies and dietary restrictions can be accommodated if given to us in advance. We offer a full schedule, but also include time to relax and enjoy each other’s company. You may add optional massages or opt out of any activity if you prefer.

*All-inclusive details: all of the above details are included, plus wine service during lunches, dinners and lessons, excluded are airfare, transfers within Italy except as noted, massages, liquor and wine outside of meals and lessons. Tipping of guides and end of week tip for staff not included.

**As this is an investment in your happiness, we encourage you to obtain trip insurance on any of your vacation travel. While we offer a generous change policy, with the ability to change to a new date within 18 months, all our vacation deposits and final payments are non-refundable. Certain vacations also involve late cancellation penalties. Please inquire before you book.