Puglia and Sorrento

Arrive in Bari International Airport, pick up your hire car, and take the coast-hugging roads to your chosen resort (approx. 1-2 hours). Once you've checked in, sit back, relax and enjoy a glass of Prosecco in the sunshine, or venture to one of the nearby towns for a bite to eat.

Puglia's landscape is characterised by rugged hills interspersed by whitewashed buildings and crystal-clear waters lapping against the sun-scorched coastline; wherever you choose as a base, the region is perfect for exploring by car. One must-visit destination is the town of Alberobello, whose skyline is defined by the conical roofs of the enchanting 'trulli' houses. Many of these traditional houses have been converted into shops and restaurants, or even, in one instance, a sacred church.  Close by are the Grottos of Castellana. Where you can take a guided tour around the three-kilometre network of caves and admire the precious crystals, shimmering rock pools and majestic stalagmites and stalactites. 

Other highlights of the region include the gleaming 'white city' of Ostuni, so-called because of its picturesque whitewashed houses and grand palazzi. The surrounding countryside is characterised by lush olive groves and vineyards, while the Adriatic coast is only a few minutes’ drive away. Another top destination is the ancient city of Lecce – famed for its baroque architecture and remarkable history. Primarily built from the light stone of the same name, Lecce is brimming with attractions, ranging from the grand duomo to an ancient Roman amphitheatre.

Leave Puglia for the spectacular seaside town of Sorrento, driving west across Italy's rugged countryside (approx. 3-4 hours), before checking in to your hotel. Drop off your car and head on foot to the vibrant Piazza Tasso, where you may want to enjoy a pre-dinner aperitivo at one of the pavement cafes and bars. Sorrento is one of Italy’s most scenic destinations, so exploring by foot really gives you a first-hand look at this beautiful place.

Your first full day in Sorrento should be spent ticking off the town’s top sights and sounds. After breakfast, take a stroll down to the Marina Grande, a quaint fishing harbour which was the original port of Sorrento. Watch the local fishermen milling about below the colourful houses, and sample some of the freshest fish found in the region. After lunch, head back up hill to the thriving centre of Sorrento, where attractions like the serene Chiostro di San Francesco and the Teatro Tasso musical show can be found. Complete the day with a romantic meal overlooking the sea, and enjoy classic gelato to finish.

Spend this day out and about, either visiting nearby Capri or nearby Ischia. We recommend crossing the bay via hydrofoil to the volcanic island of Ischia on the pre-bookable excursion, where you can relax on the beach, revitalise in the thermal waters of one of the natural spas, and soak up the surroundings of the Mortella Botanical Gardens – created by Lord and Lady Walton in the early 1900's. Head back to Sorrento for your last night of the trip, and enjoy a stroll as the sun sets before your meal.

Transfer back to Naples International Airport (approx. 1 hour) and fly back to the UK.