Part 1: The Southern Soul - 5 Days in Puglia
Puglia, the heel of Italy's boot, offers a slower pace of life. It’s a region of postcard-perfect villages, spectacular coastlines, and some of the best food in the country. A rental car is highly recommended here for maximum freedom and flexibility.
Day 1: Otranto, Torre Sant’Andrea & Lecce
Start your journey in Otranto, working your way up the coast. Visit the Punta Palascia Lighthouse, Italy's most easterly point, and the surreal Bauxite Cave with its Martian-red soil. Explore Otranto’s quiet old town before heading to Torre Sant’Andrea to see its iconic sea stacks. End your day in Lecce, the "Florence of the South." This historic city is a feast for the eyes, especially at golden hour. Grab a famous Lecce iced coffee, explore the Roman amphitheater, and find a restaurant in one of the main squares for dinner. Using Lecce as a base for a night or two is a smart move.
Day 2: The Fairytale Towns of Locorotondo & Alberobello
After a relaxed morning, drive to Locorotondo, one of Puglia’s prettiest hilltop villages. Its circular layout, white-washed buildings, and flower-draped laneways offer a tranquil escape. Continue to the world-famous Alberobello, known for its unique cone-roofed Trulli houses. To avoid the crowds and get the best photos, visit just before sunset or early in the morning around 7:30 am. Pro Tip: Book two nights in Alberobello to use it as a base, minimizing the hassle of daily packing and unpacking.
Day 3: Cycling Val D’Itria & Torre Canne National Park
Immerse yourself in the countryside with a cycling tour through the Val D’Itria. You’ll ride past endless olive groves, traditional Trulli, and fields of wildflowers—a perfect way to disconnect. In the afternoon, head to Torre Canne National Park. This wild coastal area with its vast sand dunes is a haven for kite surfers and beach lovers. It’s an ideal spot to relax, watch the sunset, and enjoy a gelato from a local beach bar.
Day 4: Polignano a Mare & a Bari Food Tour
Visit Polignano a Mare, the town that graces a thousand postcards. Built precariously on cliffs, it’s home to a stunning hidden beach and is the site of the Red Bull Cliff Diving championships. It’s also famed for having the best seafood in Puglia. In the afternoon, drive to Bari. While many skip this port city, its old town is a maze of charming laneways and timeless piazzas. Take a food tour (a rickshaw tour is a fun option) to discover hidden gems and taste local specialties like fresh pasta made by local nonnas, award-winning focaccia, and fresh cheese. Bari is an excellent base for your final two nights in the south and is conveniently located for your flight north.
Day 5: The Mountain Villages of Bovino & Sant’Agata di Puglia
For a change of pace, head inland to the mountains. This less-traveled part of Puglia offers a glimpse into its historic farming regions. Visit Bovino, a member of "Italy’s Most Beautiful Villages," with 2,000 years of history and a castle overlooking three regions. Then, explore Sant’Agata di Puglia, an equally charming but more lively town that feels like stepping back in time. Climb to its castle for breathtaking panoramic views before heading back to Bari for the night.
Part 2: Northern Sophistication - 5 Days in Lombardia
A short flight from Bari to Milan transports you to a completely different Italy. Lombardia is home to fashion, finance, historic cities, and the country's largest lake, offering a perfect contrast to the rustic south.
Day 6: Fly to Milan & Drive to Lake Garda
Take an early flight to Milan, pick up a rental car, and drive less than two hours to Lake Garda. The scenic shift is immediate. Stretch your legs with a hike around the western shores to Lido di Manerba for stunning views. Afterwards, explore the picturesque southern towns like Desenzano del Garda. End your day in Sirmione. Though touristy, its incredible castle and magical sunset views from the main piazza make it a must-see. Enjoy a Spritz as the sun goes down.
Day 7: Sirmione Castle & an Authentic Cooking Course
In the morning, explore Sirmione Castle and climb its tower for spectacular lake views. For a different perspective, rent a boat for an hour. Don't miss the nearby ruins of an ancient Roman villa, a hidden gem often overlooked by tourists. The absolute highlight of Lombardia is a local cooking class. Find one at a local winery, where you can learn to make traditional ravioli, tagliatelle, and desserts like strawberry tiramisu. It's a relaxing, therapeutic experience that ends with a beautiful meal paired with local wines.
Day 8: The Historic Splendor of Mantova
Discover Mantova (Mantua), Lombardia’s most surprising city. Often off the typical tourist radar, this city is a UNESCO World Heritage site packed with grand palaces and rich history, thanks to the influential Gonzaga family. A full day is needed to explore sights like the immense Palazzo Ducale and the unique Palazzo Te. Be sure to taste the local specialty: pumpkin ravioli. In the evening, take a sunset cruise on one of Mantova’s artificial lakes for a unique view of the city skyline.
Day 9: Cremona's Musical Heritage & An Evening in Milan
Spend the morning in Cremona, the world capital of violin making and the home of Antonio Stradivari. With over 150 artisan workshops, the city's musical soul is palpable. Visit the Violin Museum and a luthier’s workshop to see the craft up close. Climb the city's towering campanile for incredible views before sampling local delicacies like nougat and mostarda cremonese. In the afternoon, drive to Milan and check into your hotel for the final night.
Day 10: A Whirlwind Day in Milan
Many nomads bypass Milan, but Italy's economic powerhouse has much to offer and can be explored efficiently. Start with the iconic Duomo—book tickets in advance to access the panoramic terraces. See Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper at Santa Maria delle Grazie (tickets sell out weeks ahead!). Contrast the historic with the modern by visiting the Porta Nuova district. For your final evening, head to the Navigli District. Its canals host a fantastic "happy hour" (aperitivo). For around €11, you get a cocktail and access to a generous buffet—a brilliant dinner hack and the perfect way to end your Italian journey.
