Day Trips and Tours from Bari

The capital of Puglia, Bari is the ideal location for tourists to base themselves in order to discover the numerous delights of Southern Italy. While there is plenty to see and do in the coastal city itself, those who choose one of the available day trips, and tours from Bari will be able to discover Italy’s long-standing history, dating back over 9,000 years.

From rock-hewn churches to conical limestone formations, these excursions are bound to be a highlight of any Bari vacation.

Trulli of Alberobello

Located in the Puglia region of Southern Italy, the town of Alberobello is a tourist favorite, best known for its exquisite trullo. Made of limestone, Trulli of Alberobello dates back as far as the 14th century, showcasing the history of Italian architecture, and are identified by their conical, domed or pyramidal roofs.

This type of construction was typical of the Itria Valley, however, today, the largest collection of these dwellings can be found in Alberobello where there are more than 1,500 to discover. While the houses are approximately 700 years old, the earliest trullo can be traced back to the prehistoric period.

Those on a day trip to Trulli of Alberobello can discover the roots of this corner of Italy through its architecture and see how the constructs are still used today. Listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage site, this attraction is ideal for history buffs, culture lovers and photography enthusiasts alike.

These excursions are often paired with additional destinations, enabling you to have the ultimate sightseeing experience. You can choose between a wide variety of options, such as those that include Matera, as well as the whitewashed Ostuni and Locorotondo.

Matera

Another of Southern Italy’s architectural gems is the town of Matera. Situated along the banks of the Gravina River in the Basilicata Region, Matera is thought to be the third-oldest city in the world, behind Aleppo and Jericho.

Dating back 9,000 years, the destination is famed for its rock-hewn buildings, which include churches, dwellings, palaces and monasteries. The entire city is built upon excavated limestone caves and has been inhabited by a wide array of civilizations over the centuries, from the Lombards to the Greeks, Romans, and Normans.

In the 1950s, the destination was named the “Shame of Italy” as poverty and disease were so widespread. Today however, it has shaken off this reputation and now serves as a tourist attraction.

Those who wish to travel back in time as they wander through ancient streets and admire the handiwork that went into each rock-cut building can do so on a day tour to Matera. If you’re fascinated by the history of the region, you consider embarking on a combination day trip to both Matera and Trulli of Alberobello, which provides an in-depth education into life over the ages in Italy.

Lecce

While Lecce’s roots can’t compare to that of Matera, its history is still extensive, stretching back to the 5th century B.C. Located on the Salentine Peninsula, the city is among the most populated in the Apulia region. First established as Sybar, the destination underwent several name changes until Lecce was settled upon.

Those on a day trip to Lecce will have the opportunity to explore the “Florence of the South” — an affectionate nickname the city has earned because of its spectacular array of Baroque architecture. Some of the most popular attractions that showcase this opulent design style include the 17th-century Basilica di Santa Croce and the Catedral de la Asunción de Santa María.

Lecce is also home to a Roman amphitheater, as well as an archaeological museum and a 16th-century gate.