Clearly, everything the Italophile craves is here in abundance: ancient towns with the tangible past right in your face; ornate churches dreamt up by Europe’s finest architects; the footprints of an endless procession of conquerors and cultures, stamped in stone, gold and marble; seas of olives; olive-green seas; and fish and veggies the envy of most other regions of Italy. Tired of hearing about Tuscany? Come take in the baroque splendor of Lecce, ‘Florence of the South’, and the many lesser (but no less remarkable) Pugliese towns. But it’s perhaps outside of its cities that Puglia shines brightest. For it’s in the countryside – the source of its food, wealth and culture — where you’ll find the region’s soul.
FREE CANCELLATION THROUGH JULY 9, 2020! This trip defines the easy-going southern Italian lifestyle. You’ll be spending the whole week in a comfortable 4-star hotel by the crystalline Adriatic sea, restful and life-affirming after that long trip across the Atlantic. Each day will unfold new secrets of Italy’s heel, visibly rich in Arabic, Byzantine, Spanish and Norman traces. You’ll explore with your local guide several Pugliese towns, including Polignano a Mare, the magical town shown above. Optional visits include Matera, the 2019 European Cultural Capital, as well as Otranto and Gallipoli in the Salento and the unique Castellana Caves.
Indulge in the casual and relaxed pace of Southern France. These azure skies give meaning to the term “French Blue”, and the gnarly olive trees, heady lavender, perky sunflowers, and sublime local wine and food are unsurpassed. Our week introduces you to the countryside of Provence as well as the impressive Mediterranean coastline. Explore the land of Van Gogh, Chagall and Cezanne. Immerse in the most famous French markets, filled with local produce and goods as well as the works of French artisans. All this and more await your exploration!
Check “Special Features” for our de rigueur Parisian Pre-tour!
Begin planning your journey
