Grand Tour of Puglia

Day 1 – Arrival in Bari

Welcome to Bari, the vibrant capital of Puglia and the perfect starting point for your cycling holiday. This historic port city has been a cultural crossroads for centuries. Explore the charming Old Town (Bari Vecchia) with its maze of narrow streets, ancient walls, and authentic atmosphere. Don’t miss the impressive Basilica of San Nicola, one of the finest examples of Apulian Romanesque architecture.
Overnight stay in Bari.

Day 2 – Bari to Trani (70 km / +390 m)

After receiving your bike, road book, and route briefing, you’ll begin cycling north through picturesque towns such as Bitonto, Terlizzi, Ruvo di Puglia, and finally Trani. Here you’ll admire the stunning seaside cathedral, often called the “Queen of Puglia’s Cathedrals,” featuring a magnificent bronze door by Barisano da Trani.
Overnight stay in Trani.

Day 3 – Trani to Castel del Monte (37 km / +550 m)

Today you head inland across the Apulian countryside. Stop in Andria to taste the famous creamy Burrata cheese. Continue into the breathtaking landscapes of the Alta Murgia National Park, until you reach the iconic Castel del Monte, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and masterpiece of Swabian architecture.
Overnight stay in Minervino Murge area.

Day 4 – Castel del Monte to Gravina in Puglia (53 km / +540 m)

Cycling through the wild plateau of the Murgia, you’ll encounter rocky landscapes, seasonal forests, and vast cultivated fields. Your destination is Gravina in Puglia, renowned for its dramatic ravines, caves, and ancient underground dwellings carved by rivers over centuries.
Overnight stay in Gravina in Puglia.

Day 5 – Gravina in Puglia to Matera (42 km / +530 m)

Ride towards Altamura, famous for its cathedral and delicious traditional bread. Enjoy a taste of local focaccia before continuing to the extraordinary city of Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known worldwide for its ancient Sassi cave districts.
Overnight stay in Matera.

Day 6 – Matera to Martina Franca (88 km / +770 m)

Leaving Matera, you’ll cycle through San Basilio and the impressive Gravina Nature Park, characterized by deep karst gorges and Byzantine-style rock churches. This region is rich in biodiversity and unforgettable landscapes. Arrival in elegant Martina Franca, jewel of the Itria Valley.
Overnight stay in Martina Franca.

Day 7 – Martina Franca to Manduria (65 km / +390 m)

Today you’ll reach Grottaglie, famous for its centuries-old ceramic tradition. Continue on to Manduria, the homeland of Primitivo wine, one of Southern Italy’s most celebrated reds.
Overnight stay in Manduria.

Day 8 – Manduria to Gallipoli (70 km / +400 m)

Cycle towards the Ionian coast, passing Campo Marino and Porto Cesareo. Arrive in enchanting Gallipoli, a historic island town filled with Baroque churches, noble palaces, and scenic seaside promenades.
Overnight stay in Gallipoli.

Day 9 – Gallipoli to Santa Maria di Leuca (71 km / +490 m)

Optional shorter route available (51 km / +225 m). Ride along the stunning Ionian coastline towards Torre San Giovanni. Detour inland to visit charming villages like Ugento and Specchia, one of Italy’s most beautiful borghi. End the day in Santa Maria di Leuca, where the Ionian and Adriatic seas meet.
Overnight stay in Santa Maria di Leuca.

Day 10 – Santa Maria di Leuca to Otranto (60 km / +680 m)

Today you cycle north along the Adriatic coast, passing seaside gems such as Tricase Porto and Castro Marina. Arrival in Otranto, one of Salento’s most captivating towns. Enjoy fresh seafood and explore the lively historic centre.
Overnight stay in Otranto.

Day 11 – Otranto to Lecce (60 km / +300 m)

Spend the morning visiting Otranto Cathedral, home to the famous mosaic floor and relics of the martyrs. Cycle past the beautiful Alimini Lakes and stop at Torre dell’Orso for a swim in the magical Grotta della Poesia. Before reaching Lecce, enjoy a break in Acaya, a charming fortified village.
Overnight stay in Lecce (extra night recommended).

Day 12 – Lecce to San Vito dei Normanni (64 km / +165 m)

Leaving Salento behind, cycle north through Squinzano, with the chance to visit the historic Abbey of Santa Maria di Cerrate. Pass by Mesagne Castle before arriving in San Vito dei Normanni.
Overnight stay in San Vito dei Normanni.

Day 13 – San Vito dei Normanni to Alberobello (57 km / +810 m)

Today’s ride takes you through the rolling hills of the Itria Valley, surrounded by vineyards, olive groves, and iconic Trulli houses. Pass the whitewashed towns of Ostuni, Cisternino, and Locorotondo before arriving in Alberobello, the UNESCO-listed capital of the Trulli.
Overnight stay in Alberobello.

Day 14 – Alberobello to Polignano a Mare (32 km / +180 m)

Your final cycling stage leads to Castellana Grotte, famous for its spectacular underground caves. Then enjoy a scenic downhill ride to the Adriatic coast, ending in stunning Polignano a Mare, perched dramatically on limestone cliffs above turquoise waters.
Overnight stay in Polignano a Mare.

Day 15 – Departure Day

After breakfast, your unforgettable cycling journey through Puglia comes to an end.
Arrivederci and goodbye to beautiful Southern Italy!