Puglia: 4 Nights of Trulli and Caves
A journey through Puglia’s enchanting heritage.
Price Per Person
Starting at TWD 93,000
Category
The Charm of Puglia Discover the architectural wonders and hidden grottos of Italy’s sun-drenched heel.
Train
- Rome → Bari : Train , approximately 4hrs
- Bari → Matera : Transfer, approximately 1 hour
- Matera → Alberobello: Transfer, approximately 1 hour20mins
- Alberobello → Bari: Transfer, approximately 50 minutes
- Bari → Rome: Train, approximately 4 hours
- Overseas ticketing service fee applies
Accommodation
- Matera x2
- Alberobello x2
- In the event that the recommended hotels are fully booked, this itinerary will not be applicable.
Others
- Travel Accident Insurance: TWD 3,000,000 overseas travel accident coverage + TWD 1,500,000 actual medical expenses + TWD 1,000,000 emergency assistance (valid only for flights departing from Taiwan)
- Travel Liability Insurance: TWD 5,000,000 accident coverage + TWD 200,000 medical coverage (valid only for flights departing from Taiwan)
- Travel Inconvenience Insurance: Overseas travel inconvenience coverage
- Europe Data Plan
- Travel Accessories
Trip Rules
- Single traveler rate: TWD 93,000+ per person
- Applicable year: 2027
- Hotel rates may be adjusted during peak seasons or special event periods; final prices will be based on the actual hotel rates at the time of booking.
- In the event of train maintenance or service suspension, the itinerary may be subject to change. Please consult a travel advisor for further details.
- The price does not include airfare, passport fees, visa fees, train sleeper surcharges, or hotel city taxes.
Trip Map
Detailed Itinerary
Puglia : The Hidden Gem of Italy’s "Heel"
Italy’s Local Vacation Secret｜
Stretching along 800 km of coastline, Puglia defines the "heel" of the Italian boot. Unlike the bustling crowds of Rome or Florence, it offers a serene blend of rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and rolling hills. A cherished retreat for locals, it is a land where untamed landscapes meet world-class vineyards.
A Taste of the Mediterranean｜
Here, fine wine meets authentic flavors. The Mediterranean diet comes alive through golden olive oils, fresh artichokes, and savory salami. Beyond the palate, Puglia’s soul is found in its traditional pastries and the skilled hands of local artisans, offering a true taste of coastal life.
UNESCO Wonder: A Limestone Fairy Tale｜
At the heart of this region lies the UNESCO-listed Alberobello. Its iconic Trulli—fairy-tale huts with whitewashed walls and grey conical stone roofs—create a landscape like no other. Splashes of vibrant red flowers against the blue sky make every corner a living postcard.
Day 1-3 Rome – Matera / Overnight in Ancient Cave Dwellings 2 nights
Matera: Walk Through the Ancient Cave City Featured in Wonder Woman｜
Located in southern Italy's Basilicata region, Matera is one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited towns, settled since the Paleolithic era. Famous for its ancient cave dwellings known as Sassi, this UNESCO World Heritage Site served as the epic backdrop for blockbuster films like Wonder Woman and The Passion of the Christ.
Getting There & Accommodations｜
- Transport: Take the NTV high-speed train (Italo) from Rome to Salerno (~2 hours), transfer to an NTV bus to Matera (~3 hours), followed by a private hotel drop-off.
- Featured Hotels: Choose between Sextantio Le Grotte Della Civita or Sant’Angelo Luxury Resort.
History: From Slums to World Heritage｜
Originally used as religious sanctuaries, the Sassi evolved into residential homes. By the early 20th century, extreme poverty, lack of running water, and cohabitation with livestock made it a notorious national poverty zone. Following a government-mandated evacuation and multi-decade restoration, Matera successfully transformed into Europe's premier cave-dwelling destination.
Exploring the Two Main Sassi Districts｜
- Sasso Barisano (Vibrant & Restored): Fully renovated and lively, offering boutique cave hotels, local artisan shops, and restaurants that make navigating the maze-like alleys easy.
- Sasso Caveoso (Authentic & Ancient): Centered around Piazza San Pietro Caveoso, this district preserves the raw, untouched cave dwellings and historical cave churches.
💡 Unmissable Experience: Stay through twilight—watching the sunset cast warm golden hues over the limestone cliffs as evening lights illuminate the valley offers a breathtaking bridge between medieval history and modern day.
Matera
As one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited settlements, Matera is a breathtaking masterpiece carved into limestone. Its ancient cave dwellings, the "Sassi," tell a profound story of human resilience stretching from the Paleolithic era to its present-day UNESCO status. From epic cinematic backdrops to soul-stirring sunsets, Matera offers a rare chance to step back into the Middle Ages and sleep within the very heart of history.
Day 4-5 Matera – Alberobello / Overnight in Alberobello 2 nights
Transport & Accommodation | Matera → Alberobello
- Transfer: A private shuttle will take you from Matera to Alberobello (approx. 1 hour). Please note there is no direct train connection between these two regions.
- Stay: Just like the caves in Matera, Alberobello offers its own unique, must-stay accommodations!
Alberobello: The Magic Mushroom Village | The "Trulli" Houses
Heritage: A UNESCO World Heritage site with over 1,400 iconic limestone dwellings.
Architectural Gem: Known for conical stone roofs and whitewashed walls, these "Trulli" were built without mortar—an ancient tax-evasion trick! If tax collectors arrived, owners could quickly dismantle the roofs into a pile of stones.
Sister Village: Did you know? Alberobello is the sister village of Japan’s Shirakawa-go (Gassho-zukuri)!
Photo Tip: For the best panoramic view, head to Piazza del Popolo near the station to capture the entire fairy-tale skyline.
Trulli Houses: A Game of Hide-and-Seek with the Tax Collector |
Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is home to around 1,400 iconic "Trulli" (singular: Trullo)—charming, conical-roofed whitewashed stone houses that look just like fairy-tale mushrooms.
4 Highlights of Trulli Architecture:
- The Tax-Evasion Legend: In the 17th century, locals built these dry-stone huts without mortar so they could instantly collapse the roofs into rubble whenever tax inspectors approached—disguising them as unfinished buildings to avoid property taxes.
- Roof Symbols & Pinnacles: The gray roofs feature hand-painted symbols (moons, suns, or hearts representing the "Heart of Mary") and uniquely shaped stone pinnacles rooted in ancient solar worship and religious traditions.
- Clever Interior Design: Built entirely from local limestone except for wooden doors and loft floors, these naturally insulated homes stay cool in summer and warm in winter. Some even feature underground rainwater cisterns.
- Commercial vs. Residential Zones: Stroll through the bustling commercial district packed with local shops, or cross over to the quiet residential area to enjoy peaceful fairy-tale views without the crowds.
Taste of Puglia: Must-Eats |
Don’t leave without trying these local treasures:
- Burrata Cheese: A creamy mozzarella "pouch" filled with rich stracciatella. Perfect on pasta or pizza!
- Riccio di Mare (Sea Urchin): Best enjoyed from March to October. Look for fresh sea urchins served straight from the street stalls.
- Fioroni (Fresh Figs): Forget dried figs—try the juicy, fresh versions. June is the peak season for the largest, sweetest fruit.
Follow for Inspiration |
- Foodie Paradise: @pugliafood
- Official Travel: @weareinpuglia
- Burrata Lovers: @burratagram
Puglia Trulli
The Trulli of Alberobello: A UNESCO Wonder Explore the "mushroom houses" of Southern Italy. Characterized by their dry-stone construction and conical roofs, Trulli are architectural gems unique to the Puglia region. Once simple peasant homes, these historic structures in Alberobello now form a world-renowned cultural landscape that is a must-see for every traveler.
Day 6 Alberobello – Roma
After checkout, a shuttle will transfer you to Bari Centrale for a high-speed train back to Rome (approx. 4 hours).
Extend Your Stay in Bari: If you wish to explore further, we recommend staying an extra 1-2 nights for these side trips:
Grotta della Poesia (Poetry Cave): A stunning natural pool near Lecce.
Travel: ~1 hour by bus from Lecce Station. Map
Grotta Palazzese, Polignano a Mare: World-famous cave dining.
Travel: 30 mins by train from Bari to Polignano (approx. €2.60 one way).
Lecce Grotta della Poesia Swimming pools
Grotta della Poesia (Poetry Cave) Located near Lecce, this breathtaking natural sinkhole is ranked among the world’s most beautiful natural swimming pools. With its crystal-clear turquoise waters framed by ancient limestone cliffs, it offers an unforgettable spot for a refreshing cliff-dive or a scenic swim in the heart of the Adriatic.
Polignano a Mare Grotta Palazzese
Grotta Palazzese, Polignano a Mare Carved into a natural limestone sea cave overlooking the Adriatic, Grotta Palazzese is one of the world’s most romantic dining destinations. Enjoy fine Italian cuisine to the sound of crashing waves and a panoramic sunset view, making for a truly once-in-a-lifetime culinary experience.
Accommodation Guide
Matera
Matera Sextantio Le Grotte Della Civita
A New Life in Ancient Caves Located in the UNESCO-listed Matera, entrepreneur Daniele Kihlgren has breathed new life into abandoned caves, transforming them into 18 impeccable rooms. By preserving the original architecture and local aesthetics, the project blends traditional materials with minimalist modern comfort, honoring the soulful history of these ancient dwellings.
Alberobello
Alberobello Le Alcove Luxury Hotel Nei Trulli
Located in the heart of Alberobello, Le Alcove is the town's first five-star hotel composed entirely of traditional Trulli. This boutique hotel masterfully blends ancient stone heritage with sophisticated luxury, offering uniquely designed suites that provide an intimate, fairy-tale atmosphere with modern, high-end amenities.
Alberobello Borgo Canonica
Alberobello Borgo Canonica
Michelin Guide Recommended ! This luxury resort is a meticulously restored complex of 42 traditional stone "Trulli" dwellings. Set within a 6-hectare private estate, it offers ultimate serenity surrounded by ancient olive trees. The interiors feature high-end minimalist design, seamlessly blending thousand-year-old architecture with premium modern bathrooms and bedding.
FAQs
Can I join this tour if I don't drive ?
Do the cave hotels and trulli rooms have private bathrooms and air conditioning ?
Are flights and meals included in the price ?
What happens if there is train maintenance or a hotel is fully booked
Pre-Departure Tips
Terrain & Luggage
Matera and Alberobello feature ancient cobblestone paths and stairs. Lightweight luggage or a backpack is highly recommended; avoid large hard-shell suitcases.
Clothing Advice
Summer sun is intense with minimal shade—bring sunscreen and a hat. Dress modestly when visiting caves or churches.
Footwear
Extensive walking is required. Wear comfortable, non-slip walking or athletic shoes.
City Tax
Local city tax (approx. €2–€5 per person/night) must be paid in cash on-site across Italian cities.
Weather & Best Season
March to October is the best time to visit, coinciding with the peak season for sea urchins and fresh figs.
