Puglia: 4 Nights of Trulli and Caves
A journey through Puglia’s enchanting heritage.
Price Per Person
Starting at TWD 73,000
Category
The Charm of Puglia Discover the architectural wonders and hidden grottos of Italy’s sun-drenched heel.
Your Trip at a Glance
Train
- Rome → Matera: Bus, approximately 5 hours 15 minutes
- Matera → Alberobello: Transfer, approximately 1 hour
- Alberobello → Bari: Transfer, approximately 50 minutes
- Bari → Rome: Train, approximately 4 hours
- Overseas ticketing service fee applies
Accommodation
- Matera x2
- Alberobello x2
- In the event that the recommended hotels are fully booked, this itinerary will not be applicable.
Others
- Travel Accident Insurance: TWD 3,000,000 overseas travel accident coverage + TWD 1,500,000 actual medical expenses + TWD 1,000,000 emergency assistance (valid only for flights departing from Taiwan)
- Travel Liability Insurance: TWD 5,000,000 accident coverage + TWD 200,000 medical coverage (valid only for flights departing from Taiwan)
- Travel Inconvenience Insurance: Overseas travel inconvenience coverage
- Europe Data Plan
- Travel Accessories
Trip Rules
- Single traveler rate: TWD 73,000+ per person
- Applicable year: 2026
- Hotel rates may be adjusted during peak seasons or special event periods; final prices will be based on the actual hotel rates at the time of booking.
- In the event of train maintenance or service suspension, the itinerary may be subject to change. Please consult a travel advisor for further details.
- The price does not include airfare, passport fees, visa fees, train sleeper surcharges, or hotel city taxes.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1-3 Rome – Matera / Overnight in Ancient Cave Dwellings 2 nights
Matera: A Journey Through Time and Stone
Transportation: From Rome to the City of Caves
After arriving in Rome, you will board the NTV Italo High-Speed Train—famously known as the "Ferrari of Trains"—for a sleek 2-hour journey to Salerno. From there, a comfortable 3-hour NTV bus ride will take you to Matera, where a private transfer awaits to whisk you away to your hotel.
For your stay, we offer two exceptional choices that define luxury within heritage:
- Sextantio Le Grotte Della Civita
- Sant’Angelo Luxury Resort
The Sassi of Matera: A Cinematic Epic
Does Matera look familiar? These ancient cave dwellings, known locally as "Sassi," represent the most complete example of a rupestral (rock-cut) settlement in the Mediterranean. Its epic, primordial geography has captivated Hollywood, serving as the backdrop for blockbusters like the superhero hit Wonder Woman and Mel Gibson’s The Passion of the Christ.
A Living History: From Hardship to Heritage
Located in the Basilicata region of Southern Italy, Matera is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with roots stretching back to the Paleolithic period.
Its history is a poignant story of transformation:
- The Struggle: Between the 8th and 13th centuries, the Sassi were refuges for those fleeing religious persecution. By the 19th and 20th centuries, however, they had become Italy’s "poverty district." Families lived in overcrowded caves without electricity or running water, sharing space with livestock. The lack of hygiene led to devastating infant mortality rates.
- The Rebirth: Eventually, the government intervened, relocating residents to modern quarters and revitalizing the area. In 1993, Matera was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, transforming from a national scar into a world-renowned destination.
Exploring the Labyrinth: Two Faces of the Sassi
Matera’s ancient center is divided into two distinct districts, each offering a unique atmosphere:
- Sasso Barisano (The Modernized Heart): This area thrives with tourist activity. Many caves have been elegantly renovated into boutique shops, high-end hotels, and fine-dining restaurants. While the winding alleys feel like a maze, the vibrant storefronts now serve as charming landmarks to guide your way.
- Sasso Caveoso (The Ancient Soul): Located near the San Pietro Caveoso square, this district remains more primitive and traditional. It offers a raw, authentic glimpse into a "true" cave city, where history feels etched into every limestone wall.
The Magic Moment: Sunset in Matera
When the sun begins to set, casting a golden glow over the Sassi, the atmosphere is transformative. As the natural light fades and the city’s warm lamps begin to flicker on, you are caught in the beautiful transition between the Middle Ages and the modern day. To visit Matera is not just to see a city—it is to live within the pulse of time itself.
Matera
As one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited settlements, Matera is a breathtaking masterpiece carved into limestone. Its ancient cave dwellings, the "Sassi," tell a profound story of human resilience stretching from the Paleolithic era to its present-day UNESCO status. From epic cinematic backdrops to soul-stirring sunsets, Matera offers a rare chance to step back into the Middle Ages and sleep within the very heart of history.
Day 4-5 Matera – Alberobello / Overnight in Alberobello 2 nights
Transport & Accommodation | Matera → Alberobello
- Transfer: A private shuttle will take you from Matera to Alberobello (approx. 1 hour). Please note there is no direct train connection between these two regions.
- Stay: Just like the caves in Matera, Alberobello offers its own unique, must-stay accommodations!
Alberobello: The Magic Mushroom Village | The "Trulli" Houses
Heritage: A UNESCO World Heritage site with over 1,400 iconic limestone dwellings.
Architectural Gem: Known for conical stone roofs and whitewashed walls, these "Trulli" were built without mortar—an ancient tax-evasion trick! If tax collectors arrived, owners could quickly dismantle the roofs into a pile of stones.
Sister Village: Did you know? Alberobello is the sister village of Japan’s Shirakawa-go (Gassho-zukuri)!
Photo Tip: For the best panoramic view, head to Piazza del Popolo near the station to capture the entire fairy-tale skyline.
Taste of Puglia: Must-Eats |
Don’t leave without trying these local treasures:
- Burrata Cheese: A creamy mozzarella "pouch" filled with rich stracciatella. Perfect on pasta or pizza!
- Riccio di Mare (Sea Urchin): Best enjoyed from March to October. Look for fresh sea urchins served straight from the street stalls.
- Fioroni (Fresh Figs): Forget dried figs—try the juicy, fresh versions. June is the peak season for the largest, sweetest fruit.
Follow for Inspiration |
- Foodie Paradise: @pugliafood
- Official Travel: @weareinpuglia
- Burrata Lovers: @burratagram
Puglia Trulli
The Trulli of Alberobello: A UNESCO Wonder Explore the "mushroom houses" of Southern Italy. Characterized by their dry-stone construction and conical roofs, Trulli are architectural gems unique to the Puglia region. Once simple peasant homes, these historic structures in Alberobello now form a world-renowned cultural landscape that is a must-see for every traveler.
Day 6 Alberobello – Roma
After checkout, a shuttle will transfer you to Bari Centrale for a high-speed train back to Rome (approx. 4 hours).
Extend Your Stay in Bari: If you wish to explore further, we recommend staying an extra 1-2 nights for these side trips:
Grotta della Poesia (Poetry Cave): A stunning natural pool near Lecce.
Travel: ~1 hour by bus from Lecce Station. Map
Grotta Palazzese, Polignano a Mare: World-famous cave dining.
Travel: 30 mins by train from Bari to Polignano (approx. €2.60 one way).
Lecce Grotta della Poesia Swimming pools
Grotta della Poesia (Poetry Cave) Located near Lecce, this breathtaking natural sinkhole is ranked among the world’s most beautiful natural swimming pools. With its crystal-clear turquoise waters framed by ancient limestone cliffs, it offers an unforgettable spot for a refreshing cliff-dive or a scenic swim in the heart of the Adriatic.
Polignano a Mare Grotta Palazzese
Grotta Palazzese, Polignano a Mare Carved into a natural limestone sea cave overlooking the Adriatic, Grotta Palazzese is one of the world’s most romantic dining destinations. Enjoy fine Italian cuisine to the sound of crashing waves and a panoramic sunset view, making for a truly once-in-a-lifetime culinary experience.
Accommodation Guide
Matera
Matera Sextantio Le Grotte Della Civita
A New Life in Ancient Caves Located in the UNESCO-listed Matera, entrepreneur Daniele Kihlgren has breathed new life into abandoned caves, transforming them into 18 impeccable rooms. By preserving the original architecture and local aesthetics, the project blends traditional materials with minimalist modern comfort, honoring the soulful history of these ancient dwellings.
Alberobello
Alberobello Le Alcove Luxury Hotel Nei Trulli
Located in the heart of Alberobello, Le Alcove is the town's first five-star hotel composed entirely of traditional Trulli. This boutique hotel masterfully blends ancient stone heritage with sophisticated luxury, offering uniquely designed suites that provide an intimate, fairy-tale atmosphere with modern, high-end amenities.
Alberobello Borgo Canonica
Alberobello Borgo Canonica
Michelin Guide Recommended ! This luxury resort is a meticulously restored complex of 42 traditional stone "Trulli" dwellings. Set within a 6-hectare private estate, it offers ultimate serenity surrounded by ancient olive trees. The interiors feature high-end minimalist design, seamlessly blending thousand-year-old architecture with premium modern bathrooms and bedding.
