Amazing Puglia: Sassi, Trulli and Salento

Day 1 – Arrival in Matera

Welcome to Matera, one of Italy’s most extraordinary destinations, world-famous for its ancient Sassi cave dwellings and breathtaking scenery. Located between Basilicata and Puglia, Matera boasts over 30,000 years of history and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore rupestrian churches, visit a traditional cave house museum, and enjoy the unique atmosphere of this magical city.
Overnight stay in Matera.

Day 2 – Matera to Alberobello (78 km | +650 m)

After bike delivery and fitting, your cycling adventure begins through the wild landscapes of the southern Murgia plateau. Today’s destination is Alberobello, the charming town known as the capital of the Trulli houses—iconic white stone buildings with conical roofs. Around 1,500 trulli can be admired in the Monti and Aia Piccola districts, protected by UNESCO since 1996.
Overnight stay in Alberobello.

Day 3 – Alberobello to Ostuni (52 km | +600 m)

Ride through the rolling hills of the stunning Itria Valley, surrounded by endless olive groves, vineyards, and postcard-perfect trulli landscapes. Along the way, stop in:

• Locorotondo for a refreshing local white wine aperitif

• Martina Franca for its elegant historic center

• Cisternino for a delicious lunch in a traditional butcher shop

Arrive in Ostuni, the famous “White City,” shining across three hilltops.
Overnight stay in Ostuni.

Day 4 – Train Transfer Ostuni to Lecce + Bike Ride to Gallipoli (62 km | +220 m)

Today includes a short train ride from Ostuni to Lecce (about 55 minutes). From Lecce, cycle toward the Ionian coast and reach the lively seaside town of Gallipoli. Along the way, discover baroque gems like Galatina and Galatone, home to beautiful churches and charming streets.
Overnight stay in Gallipoli.

Day 5 – Gallipoli to Santa Maria di Leuca (75 km | +520 m)

Cycle south along the crystal-clear Ionian coastline toward Torre San Giovanni. A scenic inland detour leads you to Ugento and Specchia, one of Italy’s most beautiful borghi. Continue to Santa Maria di Leuca, where the Adriatic and Ionian seas meet at the southern tip of Salento—an unforgettable place of silence, light, and color.
Overnight stay in Santa Maria di Leuca.

Shorter option available: 52 km | +230 m.

Day 6 – Santa Maria di Leuca to Otranto (63 km | +650 m)

Today you head north along the spectacular Adriatic coastline. Pass through picturesque seaside villages such as Tricase Porto and Castro Marina, before reaching the enchanting town of Otranto, one of Salento’s highlights. Enjoy a seafood dinner and stroll through the historic old town filled with artisan shops.
Overnight stay in Otranto.

Day 7 – Otranto to Lecce (56 km | +285 m)

Spend the morning exploring Otranto’s impressive cathedral, famous for its medieval mosaic floor and the relics of 813 martyrs. Then cycle past the serene Alimini Lakes and stop in Torre dell’Orso for a swim in the magical Grotta della Poesia. Before arriving in Lecce, enjoy a break in Acaya, perfect for an espresso or sunset drink near its castle.
Overnight stay in Lecce.

Day 8 – Departure from Lecce

After breakfast, your cycling holiday in Puglia comes to an end. Before leaving, don’t forget to taste a pasticciotto, Lecce’s famous local pastry.
Arrivederci and goodbye Puglia!