Day 1 – CASERTA
Arrival in Caserta and meeting with the guide for a visit to the majestic Royal Palace of Caserta, a masterpiece of Baroque architecture designed by Luigi Vanvitelli, with its sumptuous royal apartments and vast park adorned with fountains and gardens. We will continue with a visit to the Belvedere of San Leucio, where Ferdinand of Bourbon established the Royal Silk Factory, an enterprise of great historical and industrial significance. Lunch during the excursion, enjoying typical local dishes. Afterwards, we will explore Casertavecchia, a charming medieval village perched on a hill offering breathtaking views. Transfer to the hotel, dinner with local specialties, and overnight stay.
Day 2 – NAPLES
Breakfast at the hotel and departure for a panoramic tour of Naples, the vibrant capital of Campania. We will stop at Piazza del Plebiscito, dominated by the imposing facade of the Royal Palace, and at the Teatro San Carlo, one of the most prestigious opera houses in the world. We will admire the Maschio Angioino, a medieval fortress built by Charles of Anjou. Lunch during the excursion, savoring local delicacies. In the afternoon, we will explore the historic center of Naples: we will walk along Spaccanapoli, visiting the Church of Santa Chiara and its Majolica Cloister, the Church of Gesù Nuovo, and the Cathedral of San Gennaro, famous for its relics. We will also discover the artisan workshops of Neapolitan nativity scenes, renowned worldwide. Return to the hotel, dinner, and overnight stay.
Day 3 – POMPEII AND SORRENTO
Breakfast at the hotel and departure for Pompeii, the ancient city buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. During the visit, we will explore the fascinating ruins, admiring paintings, mosaics, and ancient domus that tell the story of daily life in ancient Rome. Typical lunch in a panoramic restaurant on Vesuvius, with a spectacular view of the city below. In the afternoon, we will continue to Sorrento, situated on a rocky promontory offering a charming "balcony" over the Gulf of Naples. A stroll through the characteristic alleys and artisan shops will allow us to soak in the unique atmosphere of this place. Return to the hotel, dinner, and overnight stay.
Day 4 – MELFI AND VENOSA
Breakfast at the hotel, check-out, and departure for Melfi. We will visit the Castle of Frederick II, an imposing medieval fortress, and the Cathedral, with its Baroque facade and Norman bell tower. Lunch during the excursion, enjoying traditional dishes. In the afternoon, we will move to Venosa, one of the most beautiful villages in Italy, located in the Vulture area. We will visit the historic center and the archaeological park, discovering the remains of the ancient Roman city. Return to the hotel, dinner, and overnight stay.
Day 5 – MATERA
Breakfast at the hotel and a day dedicated to visiting Matera, famous for its Sassi (ancient cave dwellings). We will explore the Sassi area of Matera on foot, visiting the Casa Grotta, furnished in a typical style, and Piazza Vittorio Veneto, offering a panoramic view of Civita and Sasso Barisano. We will descend into Sasso Caveoso, the oldest and most evocative part of the Sassi, walking among steps, small squares, rock churches, and historic alleys. Typical lunch in a local restaurant. Afternoon free to explore Matera independently and shop. Return to the hotel, dinner, and overnight stay.
Day 6 – ALTAMURA AND LATERZA
Breakfast at the hotel and departure for Altamura, a medieval city founded by Frederick II of Swabia. We will visit the historic center and the Cathedral, the only church in the empire built directly by the sovereign. We will continue with a visit to an ancient bakery to discover the tradition of Altamura bread and taste this typical product. Lunch in Laterza at a characteristic “Fornello,” where we will enjoy meats cooked on scenic spits and other typical products accompanied by excellent wine. In the afternoon, a walk through the historic center and the Laterza ravines. Return to the hotel, dinner, and overnight stay.
Day 7 – CASTEL DEL MONTE, TRANI, AND APULIAN OLIVE OIL
Breakfast at the hotel and departure for Castel del Monte, a brilliant example of medieval architecture, known for its unique octagonal structure. Guided tour of the castle. We will continue to Trani, a city overlooking the Adriatic, famous for its Cathedral of San Nicola Pellegrino, the Swabian Castle, and the Jewish quarter of La Giudecca, with its characteristic narrow streets. During the day, we will visit an oil mill to discover the production of extra virgin olive oil, with a tasting of oils and typical Apulian products. Typical lunch in a local restaurant. Return to the hotel, dinner, and overnight stay.
Day 8 – BARI AND RETURN
Breakfast at the hotel, check-out, and departure for Bari, a city rich in traditions and charm, located along the Apulian coast. We will visit the ancient heart of the city, including the Basilica of San Nicola, the picturesque historic districts, and the Norman-Swabian Castle, known for the legend of St. Francis's presence in one of its towers. Typical lunch in a restaurant and departure for the return journey.
