We can’t wait to take you on this adventure through Puglia and Basilicata, two regions that showcase the Italy we genuinely love—the one rarely seen by tourists.
This is the Italy of ancient traditions, genuine flavors, and warm connections. Over 11 days, we’ll introduce you to the artisans, farmers, and winemakers who make these lands unique. While wandering the ancient streets of Matera and savoring fresh seafood by the Adriatic, every experience was carefully curated to reveal the authentic soul of Southern Italy.
Let us show you the places, people, and food we hold dear—you’ll leave with a deeper understanding of the Italy that captured our hearts.
Stay at a Traditional Masseria – Experience the warmth of a historic Pugliese farmhouse, combined with modern comforts and tranquil surroundings.
Explore the Sassi of Matera – Walk through the ancient UNESCO-listed stone dwellings carved into the cliffs of this iconic city.
Wine Tastings at Local Wineries – Delight in visits to family-run vineyards in Puglia and Basilicata.
Ostuni, the White City – Stroll through the gleaming whitewashed streets of this hilltop town.
Altamura’s Historic Forno – Witness the craftsmanship behind the legendary Pane di Altamura at one of Italy’s oldest ovens.
Cooking Lessons and Food Tastings – Learn to select the finest extra virgin olive oils, taste regional cheeses, and savor hearty dishes from Puglia and Basilicata.
Polignano a Mare and Monopoli – Swim in crystal-clear waters and explore the picturesque charm of these coastal towns.
For 24 years, Jen and Frans Weits have owned and operated Jack Sprat, a beloved restaurant in Girdwood, Alaska. Their globally inspired “fat and lean” cuisine is rooted in years of culinary travel and a deep respect for regional ingredients. To them, food tells the story of the land and the people who care for it. That same philosophy guides their approach to wine—especially Italian vintages, which hold a proud place in both their restaurant and home. The upcoming Puglia tour will be their fifth hosted journey to Italy since 2015, and they can’t wait to share another unforgettable adventure with fellow food lovers.
Juan and Mariana are the heart of the Artisan Culinary School, where they combine over 15 years of hands-on experience in culinary arts and hospitality. Their journey began in professional kitchens and evolved into a mission to educate and inspire. Juan brings deep technical expertise and a love for the cultural dimensions of food, while Mariana is a hospitality leader with a refined palate for wine. Together, they design and lead immersive gastronomic experiences that are both enriching and delicious. Join them to discover Italy through the eyes—and tastes—of true culinary storytellers.
As always, our hotels are carefully selected to reflect the spirit of the place, mixing luxury and rustic elegance. Restaurants are carefully selected and curated with intention: local gastronomy serves as our guide, and we work directly with chefs to create unique menus. Every experience on this trip is meant to be meaningful, not rushed or mass-produced.
Throughout this journey, we’ll dive deep into the gastronomic and cultural richness of Puglia and Basilicata through meaningful experiences with local artisans. You’ll visit boutique vineyards to taste exceptional Primitivo and Negroamaro wines, watch a cheesemaker at work, and join a local chef for a hands-on pasta-making class using traditional techniques. We’ll enjoy an olive oil tasting with local products in a private session led by Chef Juan, and take to the sea on a scenic boat ride along the region's most breathtaking coastline.
You’ll have a full free day to explore at your rhythm, whether that means relaxing, hiking, or wandering Matera. We’ll also visit some of Italy’s officially recognized “borghi più belli,” the most beautiful villages in the country, where heritage, landscape, and lifestyle come together in perfect harmony. Every experience has been designed to be personal, rooted in place, and worth remembering
Our Gourmet Getaway in Italy is a celebration of the region's rich culinary heritage, with a special emphasis on local flavors and fresh, seasonal ingredients. We collaborate with local restaurants to create exclusive menus that showcase the finest Italian cuisine. If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, particularly to fish, shellfish, or specific types of meat, please notify us in advance.
Our journey through Italy will take us to historic towns with cobblestone streets, narrow alleyways, and ancient stairs. These locations offer stunning views and cultural treasures, but may require walking up and down uneven surfaces and stairs. We recommend comfortable footwear and suggest that guests with mobility concerns assess their ability to navigate these areas comfortably.
Italy in spring offers pleasant weather, but it's not uncommon to encounter occasional rain showers, especially in coastal and hillside areas. We encourage you to come prepared to ensure you can fully enjoy outdoor activities, regardless of the weather. Embracing the local approach to life, where "a little rain never stops the day," will enhance your experience of Italy's natural and cultural landscapes.
Please note that the itinerary is subject to change due to the nature of some local providers and national holidays that may occur during the tour. We always strive to adjust our plans to ensure the best possible experience for our guests. While some details may shift, rest assured that nothing will be taken away from the richness of the journey—we often find opportunities to add even more value than initially planned.
The total price for this 11-day experience is €5,950 per person.
To confirm your reservation, a deposit of €2,500 is required. You may choose to pay the remaining balance in one or two additional installments.
Please note that solo travelers will incur a €500 single supplement to cover the cost of individual accommodation.
Clients who have previously traveled with us will have early access and priority booking. Once the trip is released to the public, reservations will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.
Spaces are limited.
Accommodations
10 nights in 4*+ hotels (Salento area, Matera, and Bari)
Transport
Upon arrival, scheduled transportation from Bari airport to the hotel
Upon departure, scheduled transportation from the hotel to Bari airport
All land transportation during our itinerary
Food and wine
All breakfasts included
Seven lunches
Seven dinners
Wine tasting, extra virgin olive oil, cheese, and salumi tasting
Cooking experience
Logistics
Local guides who speak Italian and English
Free day to explore at your leisure with our suggestions
Reservations management service, as well as assisting you in purchasing tickets and entry fees
VAT, tourist tax, and tips will be included
- Flights to/from Puglia
- Travel insurance (required)
- Meals not specified in the itinerary
- Personal expenses
- Optional activities during free time
- Gratuities for tour leaders and drivers are also not included and are left to your discretion
