Bari, Matera, Alberobello, Altamura

It sounds like you have an exciting trip ahead of you! Let’s dive into a fun-filled 2-day itinerary that covers Bari, Matera, Alberobello, and Altamura, ensuring you get to eat delicious food, visit museums, and have a knowledgeable guide to enhance your experience.

Day 1: Bari & Matera

Morning: Bari

• Breakfast: Start your day with a traditional Italian breakfast at a local café. Try a cornetto (Italian croissant) and a cappuccino to fuel up for the day!
• Guided Tour: Meet your guide for a walking tour of Bari’s Old Town (Bari Vecchia). Explore the narrow streets, visit the stunning Basilica di San Nicola, and don’t miss the Castello Normanno-Svevo. Your guide will share fascinating stories about the city’s history and culture.
• Museum Visit: Head to the Museo Archeologico di Santa Scolastica to see artifacts from the region’s rich history.

Lunch: Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local trattoria. Try the orecchiette pasta, a specialty of the region, served with a simple tomato sauce or broccoli rabe.

Afternoon: Matera

• Travel to Matera: After lunch, take a scenic drive to Matera (about 1.5 hours). The views along the way are stunning!
• Guided Tour: Once in Matera, meet your guide for a tour of the Sassi di Matera, the ancient cave dwellings that are a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the rock churches and learn about the unique history of this fascinating city.

Evening: Dinner in Matera

• Dinner: Treat your group to dinner at a restaurant that offers local cuisine. Try the “cucina povera” dishes, which are hearty and delicious. Don’t forget to sample some local wine!
• Night Stroll: After dinner, take a stroll through the illuminated streets of Matera. The views of the Sassi at night are simply magical!

Day 2: Alberobello & Altamura

Morning: Alberobello

• Breakfast: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation or a nearby café.
• Travel to Alberobello: Head to Alberobello (about 1 hour from Matera).
• Guided Tour: Meet your guide for a tour of the famous trulli houses. Visit the Trullo Sovrano and the Trulli Museum to learn about the unique architecture and history of this charming town.

Lunch: Enjoy lunch at a local eatery. Try the “focaccia barese” or a platter of local cheeses and cured meats.

Afternoon: Altamura

• Travel to Altamura: After lunch, make your way to Altamura (about 30 minutes from Alberobello).
• Museum Visit: Visit the Museo Archeologico Nazionale, where you can see the famous Altamura Man, a prehistoric human skeleton. Your guide will provide insights into the archaeological significance of the area.
• Explore the Town: Take some time to wander around Altamura’s historic center, visiting the stunning Altamura Cathedral and enjoying the local atmosphere.

Evening: Dinner in Altamura

• Dinner: For your final meal, indulge in some local specialties like Altamura bread and “cicoria” (chicory). Pair it with a nice local wine to toast to a wonderful trip!
• Wrap Up: After dinner, reflect on your adventures with your group. Perhaps find a cozy spot for gelato to end the day on a sweet note!

Tips:

• Make sure to book your guided tours in advance to ensure availability.
• Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be doing a fair bit of walking.
• Don’t forget your camera; the sights are incredibly picturesque!

Enjoy your trip! Each of these towns has its own unique charm, and I’m sure you’ll create wonderful memories together!