Amalfi and Puglia, southern Italy, 9 th: From the cliff coast to the white stone city, an Italian-style journey through time and space.

Day 1 Arrival in Naples

The plane lands in Naples and our special vehicle is already waiting to transfer you directly to your hotel. The hotel you will stay in has a long history. Since its opening in 1882, it has hosted celebrities from all walks of life such as Wilde, Picasso and Armani. The hotel is perfectly located, and your room is likely to face the charming harbor of Naples.

Meals: None
Accommodation: Grand Hotel Vesuvius

Day 2 Explore the Millennium City of Naples

Naples is an ancient city with a history of nearly 3,000 years. Greeks, Normans and Spaniards have all left their marks here. Today, we will deeply feel its thickness and brilliance.

In the morning, we first visit a Jesuit church converted from a 15 th century palace. There is a legend here: in World War II, a bomb penetrated the roof of a church but did not explode. Today, this “dud” is still in place. Then, we will visit a family tomb, which houses the masterpiece known as “the greatest realistic marble statue”-The Veiled Christ.

As the birthplace of modern pizza, how can you miss lunch? The guide will take you to an authentic old pizza shop and taste the most authentic taste.

The afternoon art tour was equally wonderful. The Capodimonte Museum has a collection of many treasures of the Farnese family, and the paintings of Titian, Bellini and other masters are dizzying. Then, we will go 40 meters underground to visit early Christian tombs from the 2 nd-4 th century AD, with murals still clear. Finally, under the guidance of the guide, enjoy Caravaggio’s first masterpiece “Seven Good Deeds” since his escape.

Dining: Breakfast
Accommodation: Grand Hotel Vesuvius

Day 3 Pass through Pompeii and arrive on the Amalfi Coast

Today we will travel to the ancient city of Pompeii, known as the “time capsule”. In 79 AD, a violent eruption of Mount Vesuvius instantly buried this bustling Roman city, but it also accidentally preserved the streets, houses and even murals at that time completely. Following the learned guide, you will witness the real life scenes of the ancient Romans first-hand.

In the afternoon, we bid farewell to history and head to the Amalfi Coast, known as one of the most beautiful coasts in the world. Tonight’s hotel is located in the hilltop town of Ravello. It is converted from a 12 th century aristocratic mansion. It not only has invincible sea views, but also has its own Michelin-starred restaurant and private beach club.

Dining: Breakfast

Accommodation: Ravello Avino Palace Hotel

Day 4 Enjoy the Amalfi Coast (choose from three ways)

Today, you can choose a way to experience the Amalfi Coast in depth according to your preferences:

Option A (Driving Roam) The most classic way. Take a ride along the winding viewing road, visit several pearl-like fishing villages along the coastline, and visit ancient fortresses, fragrant lemon gardens and exquisite beach houses.

Option B (light hiking) Suitable for friends who like sports. From near Positano, walk through bushes and pine forests, overlooking the magnificent sea view, walk to San Domenico Monastery, and finally enjoy lunch in the mountain restaurant (about 3 hours on foot). In the afternoon, return to the hotel for free relaxation.

Option C (Private yacht to sea, additional cost) The most luxurious experience. Take a yacht to enjoy the Amalfi Coast and Capri Island from the sea, and explore hidden bays and sea caves. Also enjoy a refreshing swim in the crystal clear waters of the Ligali Islands on your return trip.

Dining: Breakfast

Accommodation: Ravello Avino Palace Hotel


Day 5 Travel to Matera, the “Stone City”

Today, take a bus to Matera, known as the “Stone City”. It has been inhabited since the Paleolithic Age, and the unique cave dwellings and grotto churches have made it famous all over the world. We will stroll through the ancient “Sasi” grotto area, visit the 9 th century cave church, enjoy the murals dating back more than 700 years, and feel the magic of time frozen here.

For lunch, the guide recommends an innovative tavern popular with locals, and try delicious roasted lamb shoulder and local wine. In the afternoon, stay at a boutique hotel transformed from traditional cave dwellings and experience the unique “cave dwelling” life. Then, visit two ancient monasteries built on the cliffs.

Dining: Breakfast
Accommodation: Characteristic Cave Hotel

Day 6 Matera and “Mushroom Village”, stay in the countryside of Puglia

In the morning, continue to explore Matera, visit a modern art gallery transformed from a cave, and stroll through the ancient city square. In the afternoon, take a bus to the lovely town of Alberobello, which is famous for its “Chuli” buildings with white walls and gray roofs and conical roofs, like a fairy tale world. We’ll walk into a family-run cheese farm, try our hand at making fresh mozzarella cheese, learn about the maturation process of burrata cheese, and sample a variety of flavored cheeses live.

Optional upgrade experience (at additional cost)

If skipping the Matera itinerary in the morning, head straight to Alberobello and add a leisurely ride in the idyllic scenery of Puglia.
In the evening, stay at a boutique design hotel converted from a 16 th-century estate, surrounded by ancient olive trees and boasting an exclusive private beach club. We will stay here for three consecutive nights, enjoying the countryside and seaside of Puglia at the most soothing pace.
Dining: Breakfast

Accommodation: Select design hotels

Day 7 Country of Olive Oil and “White City”

Today, I visited an olive estate that has been passed down for generations. The oldest olive tree in the garden is 3,000 years old. The host will take you to taste four different flavors of extra virgin olive oil and appreciate the charm of “liquid gold”. Then go to Ostuni, known as the “White City”, where pure white buildings shine brightly in the sun. Strolling through the maze-like alleys of the old city and climbing to the top of the mountain, you will see the endless olive groves and the blue sea in the distance.

Return to the hotel at noon for free activities. In the evening, the arrangement can be flexible according to your interests: you can enjoy lazy time in the hotel’s beach club, or you can go out to visit the charming mountain town or seaside town nearby and return comfortably after dinner.

Dining: Breakfast

Accommodation: Select design hotels

Day 8 “Southern Florence” and Centennial Winery

Head to Lecce, which has the reputation of “Florence of the South”. This ancient city was once an important trade center of the Kingdom of Sicily, and it is full of stunning 17 th-century Baroque buildings. We will visit the most ornate churches of them all, as well as an ancient Roman amphitheater that is still in use today.

Then, visit a family winery that has been passed down for four generations. Walking into its underground wine cellar with a depth of 14 meters and a history of 500 years, the constant temperature and humidity environment is like a time tunnel. Finally, enjoy an authentic Puglian-inspired lunch at the estate, paired with a tasting of three premium wines produced at the estate.

After a good meal and wine, return to the hotel in the afternoon and enjoy the last leisurely holiday time.

Dining: Breakfast, lunch

Accommodation: Select design hotels

Day 9 Say goodbye to Nanyi and embark on your way home

The wonderful journey is drawing to a close. Depending on your flight time, a special vehicle will transport you to Bari Airport for your return flight. The welcoming island of Sicily is waiting for your next exploration if time and budget are plentiful.

Dining: Breakfast

Accommodation: None

 

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