VISIT APULIA AND CAMPANIA FROM ROME

Welcome to "The Eternal City", the wonderful Rome. You will make your own way to the city centre and check in at your hotel. Free time for the rest of the day.

Greca Tip: Come to Rome in the most comfortable shoes you have.  There are a lot of cobblestones and they are made of basalt, which can be quite unforgiving on your body.

After a delicious breakfast, we will leave Rome and head towards the Puglia region.

Along the way, we will cross the stunning landscapes of the Apennine Mountains until we reach the coast of the Adriatic Sea.

Our first stop will be a visit to the interior of the San Giovanni in Venere Abbey, perched on a hill overlooking the sea, surrounded by vineyards and olive groves.

The journey continues to Termoli, a charming coastal town where the walled old town overlooks the beach. Its 13th-century castle and Romanesque cathedral stand out among streets full of history. There will be time to enjoy lunch, take a stroll, and, if you wish and the weather allows, go for a refreshing swim in the sea.

Following the Adriatic coastal road, the route moves south, offering breathtaking views of the coastline. The next stop is Bari, a vibrant port city with centuries of history. Its medieval alleyways, enclosed by ancient walls, lead to an imposing Norman castle, a symbol of the Puglia region. The energy and charm of southern Italy can be felt in every corner of this fascinating city.

At the end of the day, we will head to the hotel to rest and enjoy a cozy evening.

Greca Tip: Don’t leave Bari without trying focaccia barese, a delicious fluffy bread topped with tomatoes, olives, and olive oil, or the classic orecchiette, a typical pasta from the region, often served with turnip greens (cime di rapa).

After a delicious breakfast at our hotel in Bari, we will head south, following the Adriatic Sea coastline.

Our first stop is Brindisi, a historic fortified city whose port has long served as a key connection between Italy and Greece. Here, we will enjoy a seaside walk, discover its iconic Roman column, and explore the charming old town.

Later, we will continue our journey to Lecce, a gem of southern Italy renowned for its stunning Baroque architecture, earning it the nickname "The Florence of the South." Its streets are filled with lavishly decorated churches and palaces, creating a perfect setting for a leisurely stroll and a delightful lunch in its vibrant historic center.

Following the route through Mediterranean landscapes, we will reach Gallipoli, a picturesque city on the shores of the Ionian Sea. Founded by the Greeks and influenced by Arab, Norman, and Aragonese cultures, its old town sits on a small island connected by a 17th-century bridge. Wandering through its maze-like streets, we will admire its cathedral, castle, and ancient city walls.

At the end of the day, we will return to Brindisi to relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the city.

Greca Tip: In Lecce, take some time to admire Piazza del Duomo, one of Italy’s most elegant squares, surrounded by breathtaking Baroque buildings. At night, the lighting enhances its beauty, creating a magical atmosphere perfect for an evening stroll.

We start the day with a delicious breakfast before setting off on our journey.

Our first stop is Alberobello, a fairytale-like village famous for its peculiar trulli—stone houses with conical roofs that have been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As we stroll through its charming streets, we are amazed by the unique architecture of this southern Italian gem.

Next, we head to the Basilicata region to discover Matera, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. We explore its fascinating historic center, the Sassi di Matera, a complex of ancient cave dwellings carved into the rock that transport us back in time. After enjoying lunch, we take the opportunity to wander its cobbled streets, admire its rock-hewn churches, and soak in its truly unique atmosphere.

Our journey continues through the mountainous landscapes of Basilicata and Campania until we reach Naples, a vibrant city rich in history.

As the evening sets in, we recommend taking a walk through its lively streets to experience its authentic character and indulge in its unmatched culinary scene.

Greca Tip: In Alberobello, don’t miss a visit to the Trullo Sovrano, the only two-story trullo in the city. This historic building offers a fascinating glimpse into life inside these unique structures and showcases their ingenious architectural design.

We begin the day with a delicious breakfast before heading to the Naples port, where we board a ferry to the island of Capri. During the crossing, we enjoy breathtaking views of the Bay of Naples, with the sea glistening under the sun and the silhouette of Mount Vesuvius on the horizon.

Upon arriving in Capri, we have free time to explore the island at our own pace. We can stroll through its elegant streets, relax on terraces overlooking the sea, or, if we wish, take a boat tour to discover the White Grotto and the iconic Faraglioni rock formations. Another option is to take the funicular up to the town of Capri, where charming squares and unforgettable panoramic views await.

Later, we board the ferry again to continue our journey to Sorrento, admiring the stunning coastal scenery as we approach this picturesque town. Upon arrival, we explore its lively streets, filled with artisan shops, cozy cafés, and a welcoming Mediterranean atmosphere that invites us to unwind.

In the afternoon, we resume our trip and end the day in Salerno, a vibrant and welcoming port city. Here, we can take a nighttime stroll and discover its charming old town, lively waterfront promenade, and excellent local cuisine.

Tip: In Sorrento, don’t miss the chance to try limoncello, a traditional lemon liqueur from the region. It’s the perfect drink to enjoy after a great meal and a wonderful souvenir to take home from this beautiful corner of southern Italy.

After enjoying our breakfast, we start the day by leaving Salerno behind and heading to Pompeii, one of the most remarkable cities of antiquity. We explore this unique archaeological site, where a local guide helps us understand how the eruption of Mount Vesuvius nearly two thousand years ago buried and preserved this Roman city, allowing us today to uncover its history through its streets, temples, and homes.

After this fascinating visit, we continue our journey to Naples, one of the most vibrant and authentic cities in Italy. Its historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, invites us to wander through its narrow alleys, lively markets, and experience the characteristic southern Italian atmosphere. Here, we have free time to explore and enjoy lunch—perhaps even tasting an authentic Neapolitan pizza in the city where it was born.

Later, we travel to Cassino, a place deeply marked by history. We visit its impressive abbey, a symbol of resilience and reconstruction after the devastating battle that took place here during World War II. From the top, we take in breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Finally, we return to Rome, where we conclude the day after an enriching journey filled with history and culture.

Greca Tip: In Pompeii, wearing comfortable shoes is essential, as its cobbled streets and uneven terrain make for an intense but incredibly rewarding walk—one of the most fascinating experiences of the trip.

In the morning, we will enjoy a delicious breakfast, and transfer to the airport to catch your flight back home, marking the end of our journey.

After spending fantastic days with Greca, we hope to see you again to share more wonderful moments that will remain in your memory forever.

Have a great trip! Or, as you would say: "Buon Viaggio!"