APULIA AND BASILICATA

DATE: 31.10., 14.11., 21.11.

PRICE: from 500€

DEPARTURE: ZAGREB, KARLOVAC, RIJEKA

PLAN AND PROGRAM:

Day 1: ZAGREB, KARLOVAC, RIJEKA – RAVENNA

Our trips start from Zagreb at 05:00 a.m. from the Central Station (details will be available in the final notification that you will receive two days before departure). After that, we leave Karlovac at 05:45 (Ka Petrol, prior notice required) and from Rijeka at 07:30 (Vrata Jadran – prior notice required). Driving through northern Italy towards the EMILIA-ROMAGNA region, which is known for its rich gastronomic offer.
Upon arrival in Ravenna, a city full of UNESCO-protected sights because it was the capital of the Western Roman Empire and the Ostrogothic Empire in the past, we will go sightseeing in this magical city. Ravenna offers a unique insight into the ancient world of Christianity, with remarkably well-preserved Byzantine architecture and beautiful mosaics. Free time to explore. After that, we continue our journey and settle in a hotel in Rimini or nearby for the night.

Day 2: BARI

After breakfast, we will head towards central Italy, traveling through the diverse region of the Marche, which stretches between the Apennine mountain range on one side and the Adriatic coast on the other. Upon arrival in Apulia, we will visit the capital, Bari, which is the capital of the Apulia region. Bari and Apulia exude the true charm of southern Italy and have retained an authenticity that is often lost in the north. During the tour of the city, we will visit some of the most famous attractions, including Bari Vecchia, a fortified medieval part of the city with narrow streets, the Basilica of San Nicola, which is one of the most important churches of Europe and Christianity, and the Cathedral of Bari Di. Free time for further exploration of the city.
After that, we continue towards accommodation in a hotel in the central part of Puglia for the night.

Day 3: ALBEROBELLO, LOCOROTONDO, MARTINA FRANCA,OSTUNI

After breakfast, we will go on a tour of some of the most famous towns of Puglia. The first stop is Alberobello, world famous for its “Trulli" houses of strange architecture. This small town is protected by UNESCO and leaves an indelible impression on visitors with its unique history and appearance. Then we will visit Locorotondo, a typical Apulian town with beautiful white facades. After that, we go to Martina Franca, a colorful town with a beautiful city center, narrow streets and spacious squares. A walk through the city center to the Palazzo Ducale, the city hall and the museum. Free time to explore the city.
We suggest an optional trip to Ostuna, known as the “White City". Ostuni is an ancient town with a beautiful panoramic view of the surroundings and the Adriatic Sea. Tour of the city center and free time to explore. Return to the hotel for the night.

Day 4: MONOPOLI, POLIGNANO A MARE

Breakfast at the hotel. Today we will explore the coastal part of Apulia, known for its beautiful coastal towns. First, we will visit Monopoli, a fishing town with a special charm of southern Italy. This city is still not overrun by mass tourism and offers an authentic southern Italian experience. We will visit the old town, including the historic harbor and the picturesque beach of Porte Vecchia, the Cathedral of Maria Santissima della Madia and the castle of Castello Norman-Svevo. After that, we continue to Polignano a Mare, a beautiful coastal town perched on the rocks with a wonderful natural beach. A walk through the city center and free time to enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
During the summer months, you will have the opportunity to swim and relax on the beach. Return to the hotel for the night.

Day 5: MATERA, ALTAMURA

After breakfast and check-out from the hotel, we head towards Matera, one of the most impressive cities in Italy. Matera is located on limestone rocks and is known for its underground passages and caves. The city is protected by UNESCO and was recently included in the list of “TOP 10 places in the world to visit" according to Lonely Planet magazine. Matera is unique because part of the city is buried in the rocks, which gives it a special atmosphere.

Day 6: SAN MARINO – RETURN TO RIJEKA AND ZAGREB

After breakfast, you have the afternoon at leisure with the opportunity to participate in an optional excursion to San Marino, the third smallest country in the world, whose city is dramatically located on top of a hill. During the excursion, we will visit the main sights, including the Palazzo Publico, Basilica del Santo, Basilica San Marino and the city walls. You will also have the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful view, drink coffee or shop for souvenirs.

In the early afternoon we head back to Croatia. Driving through Italy and Slovenia will be filled with regular breaks along the way to give you a rest. Arrival in Rijeka will be late in the evening, and in Zagreb at night.

Thus ends our trip full of cultural and natural beauties of Italy and Apulia. Happy homecoming!

The price of the trip includes the following services:

Transportation by high-floor tourist class bus.
Accommodation in 3* and 3/4* hotels in the vicinity of Rimini or Pescara and Puglia.
Breakfast during the stay in hotels.
Service of a licensed tour guide.
Organization and implementation of tours according to the program.

Price does not include:

Tickets for the sights to be visited
Optional extras and excursions (Learn more)
The cost of public transport
Travel insurance