You’ll travel with an expert guide through unspoiled landscape boasting centuries-old vineyards that have produced the famous Primitivo, Negromaro, Sussumaniello, and Aglianico e Bombino Bianco wines. This full-day excursion begins in Gioia del Colle. You’ll be taken on a tour by one of the owners of the organic vineyard, where focus is on the fantastic Primitivo wine. We will take you through the organic wine production process. Before lunch you’ll head to the ancient city of Matera, which is home to movie director Francis Ford Coppola. Matera has been the setting for a number of well-known films including Mel Gibson’s The Last Passion of Christ. You’ll enjoy lunch at a typical restaurant in the old town and afterwards visit the famous Sassi cave dwellings. In addition, you’ll have free time to explore the city at your leisure. If your accommodation is in Bari, Ostuni, or Lecce, you may be able to arrange pick-up. You’ll travel in fully-equipped, private transport, and enjoy the service of an expert bilingual (English/Italian) tour guide. Visits to a vineyard, with wine tastings, are included. You’ll have the opportunity to purchase wine and other products from the vineyard you visit.

Lecce, the Baroque masterpiece of southern Italy, has a long traditional affinity with Greek culture, going back to its foundation. The capital of Salento appeals for a unique combination of folklore, attractions, art and exciting scents. Admire the Cathedral, a wonderful example of baroque style, the former Convent of the Celestines, the Holy Cross Church, a symbol of the baroque style in Lecce built in 1646, the Arch of Triumph, erected in 1548 to pay homage to Charles V, and the churches of Saint Matthew, Saint John the Baptist and Saint Mary of the Graces. Gallipoli, from the Greek Kallipolis meaning beautiful city, is a fishing village on the coast of southern Puglia. Gallipoli old town, built on an island now connected to the mainland by a bridge, is a picturesque and nice place to stroll. The 17th century Baroque Saint Agate Cathedral is in the center of the town; several interesting churches are along the perimeter of the old town, facing the sea. The walls and bastions surrounding the old town have been built in the 15th century to fend off attacks, especially from pirates. The walls were altered in the 19th century, permitting beautiful views of the sea, port and harbors.