The World Heritage Sites of Puglia and Basilicata

Day 1 – Arrival in Bari

Welcome to Bari, the vibrant capital of Puglia and the perfect starting point for your cycling adventure. This historic port city has two distinct souls: the charming Old Town (Bari Vecchia) with its narrow alleys and ancient walls, and the elegant modern district developed in the 19th century.
Don’t miss the magnificent Basilica of San Nicola, one of the finest examples of Apulian Romanesque architecture.
Overnight stay in Bari.

Day 2 – Bari to Trani (67 km | +430 m)

After receiving your bike, road book and route briefing, you will begin cycling through the heart of northern Puglia. Today’s ride is dedicated to the region’s spectacular Romanesque cathedrals.
You will pass through Bitonto, Terlizzi and Ruvo di Puglia, before reaching the seaside town of Trani.
Here you’ll admire Trani Cathedral, often called the “Queen of Puglia’s Cathedrals”, famous for its stunning bronze door panels.
Overnight stay in Trani.

Day 3 – Trani to Castel del Monte (38–50 km | +550–750 m)

Today you cycle inland across the rolling landscapes of Puglia. Your first stop is Andria, home of the delicious local specialty Burrata cheese.
Continuing into the Alta Murgia National Park, you’ll ride among pastures, vineyards and olive groves.
The highlight of the day is the iconic Castel del Monte, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and masterpiece of Swabian architecture.
Overnight stay in the Minervino Murge area.

Day 4 – Castel del Monte to Gravina in Puglia (45–55 km | +320–540 m)

Your journey continues through the vast Murgia Plateau, a unique landscape of rocky terrain, seasonal woodlands and cultivated fields.
Today’s destination is Gravina in Puglia, famous for its dramatic ravines, caves and ancient rock-carved dwellings shaped over centuries by underground rivers.
Overnight stay in Gravina in Puglia.

Day 5 – Gravina in Puglia to Matera (43 km | +535 m)

Leaving Gravina behind, you’ll cycle toward Altamura, renowned for its cathedral and its world-famous Altamura bread and focaccia.
By the end of the stage, you’ll reach one of Italy’s most extraordinary places: Matera, a UNESCO-listed city celebrated for its ancient Sassi cave districts and breathtaking scenery.
Overnight stay in Matera.

Day 6 – Matera to Alberobello (78 km | +650 m)

Today you return to Puglia, crossing charming towns such as Gioia del Colle, known for mozzarella production, and Noci, surrounded by countryside and traditional farms.
Your final stop is Alberobello, the world-famous town of the Trulli, unique dry-stone houses with conical roofs.
With more than 1,500 trulli, this magical village has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996.
Optional overnight in a traditional Trullo.
Overnight stay in Alberobello.

Day 7 – Alberobello to Polignano a Mare (34 km | +160 m)

Today’s ride takes you through the stunning landscapes of the Valle d’Itria. You’ll cycle toward Castellana Grotte, home to one of Italy’s most impressive cave systems filled with stalactites and stalagmites.
Then enjoy a scenic downhill ride toward the Adriatic coast, arriving in Polignano a Mare, a jewel perched on limestone cliffs above crystal-clear waters.

From here, you may return to Bari either:

• by train (bike travels free on regional trains), or

• by bike: Polignano – Bari (total 82 km | +500 m)

Overnight stay in Bari.

Day 8 – Departure from Bari

After breakfast, your unforgettable cycling holiday in Puglia comes to an end.
Arrivederci and goodbye from Bari!