Category: Vacation

Day 1 – Bari

Spend your first day exploring Puglia’s vibrant port city of Bari. In the morning, take a walking tour of Bari’s medieval old town to see historic sights like the 11th century Basilica di San Nicola, overlooking the harbor. Then visit the ornate Bari Cathedral, seat of the local archbishop. For lunch, indulge in fresh seafood at Michelin-starred Il Pescatore restaurant.

In the afternoon, wander through Bari’s Murattiano neighborhood to window shop local designers and explore the Archaeological Museum. Cap off the day with dinner at intimate Gastronomia D’asino, savoring antipasti and handmade pastas near the citadel walls. Retire to luxury accommodations at the Excelsior Bari Palace, overlooking the Adriatic Sea.

Day 2 – Alberobello & Ostuni

On your second day, head inland to Alberobello. Wander past the magical circular stone trulli huts of the Rione Monti district and take pictures next to the two-story Trullo Sovrano with its distinctive spire. Stop for lunch at Trattoria Terra Madre to feast on Puglian specialities like orecchiette pasta and bombette meat rolls with views of the trulli rooftops.

Then continue on to the beautiful whitewashed hilltop town of Ostuni. Stroll the winding white alleys and marvel at Ostuni’s olive groves from Piazza della Libertà. End the day with an atmospheric dinner of octopus salad and fresh seafood at Osteria del Tempo Perso, set inside a candlelit cave. Stay overnight at Trulli Holiday Resort, amidst modernized trulli stone cottage accommodations.

Day 3 – Lecce

On your third day explore Lecce, known as the “Florence of the South” for its ornate Baroque architecture. In the morning, take a guided walking tour of Lecce’s beautiful churches and piazzas, including the 12th century Basilica di Santa Croce and the bustling Piazza del Duomo anchored by a Roman amphitheatre. Stop for a long lunch at Le Zie to dine on pastas paired with local Primitivo wine.

In the afternoon, visit papier-mâché studios to learn about Lecce’s artisanship and the 16th century underground archaeology museum Museo Faggiano. End your day at upscale restaurant U’Ncuc savoring creative local cuisine. Retire to the boutique hotel Casa dei Mercanti nestled in Lecce’s historic center.

Day 4 – Polignano a Mare

On day four, head south along the coast to the charming cliffside town of Polignano a Mare. Spend the morning relaxing on the sunny sands of Lama Monachile Beach and browsing the seaside shops and boutiques in town. For lunch, walk to Friggitoria Masseria Calderisi to enjoy casual fried seafood like anchovies and cod croquettes.

In the afternoon, take a boat tour to better admire Polignano’s dramatic sea caves and limestone cliffs towering above the azure waters. After swimming, enjoy an indulgent seafood dinner at Grotta Palazzese, set inside a cliffside cave perfectly framing the sea. Stay the night at the same luxury hotel, Grotta Palazzese.

Day 5 – Matera

On your last day, journey to the ancient cave city of Matera, a 2019 European Capital of Culture. In the morning, join a guided tour of Matera’s sassi cave district to explore the stone carved churches, rock-cut houses, and winding alleys. For lunch, stop at cozy bistro Area 8 for modern Puglian cuisine.

Spend the afternoon seeing top sites like the Cathedral of Sassi, the primitive cave dwelling Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario, and the contemporary art museum MUSMA. Enjoy a memorable farewell dinner at acclaimed Casa Grotta restauraasting traditional Basilicata dishes. Stay the night at Locanda di San Martino, an elegant hotel set inside ancient caves.

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Day 1: Arrival in Agrigento

• Explore the Valley of the Temples: Begin your journey in Agrigento by immersing yourself in the ancient wonders of the Valley of the Temples. Marvel at the well-preserved ancient Greek temples, such as the Temple of Concordia and Temple of Juno.
• Indulge in Sicilian Cuisine: Treat your taste buds to the flavors of Sicily at a local restaurant. Sample traditional Sicilian dishes featuring fresh seafood, aromatic herbs, and locally sourced ingredients.

Day 2: Discover the Rich Heritage of Agrigento

• Explore Agrigento’s Historic Center: Wander through the streets of Agrigento’s historic center, admiring the captivating blend of architectural styles, from Baroque to Norman. Visit the Cathedral of San Gerlando, a stunning example of Norman-Arab architecture.
• Visit the Archaeological Museum: Immerse yourself in Sicily’s history at the Archaeological Museum of Agrigento. Discover artifacts and exhibits that showcase the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Day 3: Relaxation and Natural Beauty at La Scala dei Turchi

• Discover La Scala dei Turchi: Experience the breathtaking beauty of La Scala dei Turchi, a unique natural formation of white limestone cliffs and sandy beaches. Spend the day basking in the sun, swimming in the crystal-clear waters, and taking in the panoramic views.
• Luxury Beachfront Retreat: Retreat to a luxurious beachfront hotel, offering world-class amenities and direct access to the stunning coastline. Unwind and rejuvenate in the serene surroundings, indulging in spa treatments and gourmet dining experiences.

Day 4: Optional Excursions and Leisure Time

• Optional Excursions: Take advantage of optional excursions to nearby attractions such as the enchanting Turkish Steps Nature Reserve, the picturesque town of Realmonte, or a scenic boat trip along the Sicilian coastline.
• Leisure Time: Enjoy leisure time to relax, explore the hotel’s facilities, or venture out to discover hidden gems in the area at your own pace.

Luxury Hotels in Agrigento:

1. Villa Athena: Nestled within the Valley of the Temples, this 5-star hotel offers luxurious accommodations, exquisite dining, and stunning views of the ancient ruins.
2. Baglio della Luna: Situated in a historic farmhouse, this elegant hotel provides a tranquil retreat with beautiful gardens, a spa, and a Michelin-starred restaurant.
3. Foresteria Baglio della Luna: Located near the Valley of the Temples, this charming boutique hotel offers stylish rooms, a pool, and a rooftop terrace with panoramic views.
4. Colleverde Park Hotel: Set amidst lush greenery, this hotel provides a peaceful oasis with spacious rooms, a pool, and a restaurant serving traditional Sicilian cuisine.

Day 1:

Morning: Discovering the Ancient Heart of Matera

Start your day by exploring the ancient heart of Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Begin with a visit to the breathtaking Sassi di Matera, the ancient cave dwellings that make this city truly unique. Immerse yourself in the labyrinthine streets, marvel at the rock churches, and soak in the rich history that emanates from every corner. Don’t miss the iconic Piazza del Duomo, where you can admire the stunning Matera Cathedral.

Afternoon: Culinary Delights and Local Flavors

Indulge in a delightful lunch experience at Ristorante Baccanti, a charming restaurant known for its traditional Basilicata cuisine with a contemporary twist. Savor dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients, accompanied by a selection of fine wines. Take your time to enjoy the flavors and immerse yourself in the gastronomic delights of Matera.

Evening: Unwind in Luxury at Masseria Fontana Di Vite

Check into the exquisite Masseria Fontana Di Vite, your luxurious retreat in Matera. As a Travel Mellow reader, you can benefit from exclusive perks and upgrades when you book through our partner, Fora Travel. Immerse yourself in the elegant ambiance of this boutique hotel, with its beautifully designed rooms and breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

Day 2:

Morning: Immersive Cultural Experiences

Embark on a guided tour to delve deeper into Matera’s cultural heritage. Visit the Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario, a preserved cave dwelling that offers a glimpse into the daily life of Matera’s past inhabitants. Explore the Museo Ridola, where you can admire a collection of archaeological finds and artifacts that tell the story of Matera’s history.

Afternoon: Exploring the Murgia Materana Park

Venture into the stunning Murgia Materana Park, a natural reserve that surrounds Matera. Hike along scenic trails, marvel at the rugged beauty of the landscape, and discover ancient rock churches carved into the cliffs. Take in panoramic views of Matera from the Belvedere di Murgia Timone, a viewpoint that offers a breathtaking perspective of the city and its surroundings.

Evening: Gastronomic Delights at Ristorante Francesca

Conclude your Matera experience with a memorable dinner at Ristorante Francesca. This renowned restaurant showcases the best of Matera’s culinary scene, serving exquisite dishes that blend traditional flavors with innovative techniques. Indulge in a feast for the senses as you savor the carefully crafted menu, complemented by a curated selection of wines.

Booking Your Matera Experience with Travel Mellow

To ensure you receive exclusive benefits and perks at Masseria Fontana Di Vite and other partner hotels, book through Travel Mellow and our trusted partner, Fora Travel. By booking with us, you can enjoy complimentary room upgrades, welcome amenities, and personalized assistance throughout your stay.

Experience the allure of Matera in its true essence, with luxurious accommodations, authentic cuisine, and immersive cultural experiences. Book your Matera getaway with Travel Mellow today and let us curate a remarkable journey for you.

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Rome, the Eternal City, is a treasure trove of history, art, and culture. In this 7-day itinerary, I’ll guide you through the city’s top attractions, the best dining spots, and lesser-known gems. With a bit of planning and insider tips, you can experience Rome in a way that most tourists don’t.

Day 1: Arrival and Rest at the Luxurious Hotel Eden

Start your Roman holiday with a stay at the five-star Hotel Eden located near the iconic Spanish Steps. Here, you’ll experience first-class Italian hospitality, enjoy panoramic views of Rome, and dine in one of the city’s best rooftop restaurants.

For dinner, don’t miss La Terrazza, the hotel’s rooftop restaurant. Its Michelin-starred menu offers a fine selection of Italian cuisine with a modern twist.

Day 2: Exploring Ancient Rome

Morning: Colosseum and Roman Forum

Kick-off your adventure with a guided tour of the Colosseum, an architectural marvel that once hosted gladiatorial contests. Afterward, stroll through the Roman Forum, which was the heart of Ancient Rome.

Lunch: Aroma Restaurant

Located near the Colosseum, Aroma offers a tantalizing Italian menu with a beautiful view of the amphitheater.

Afternoon: Palatine Hill and Capitoline Museums

Continue your historical exploration by visiting the Palatine Hill and the Capitoline Museums.

Dinner: Pierluigi

Wind down at Pierluigi, a Roman institution known for its fresh seafood and romantic atmosphere.

Day 3: Discovering the Vatican City

Morning: Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel

Visit the Vatican Museums, a collection of art museums within Vatican City, and marvel at Michelangelo’s frescoes in the Sistine Chapel.

Lunch: Ristorante Pizzeria Santa Anna

A short walk from the Vatican, Santa Anna offers delicious pizza and pasta in a cozy setting.

Afternoon: St. Peter’s Basilica

Spend the afternoon exploring St. Peter’s Basilica, the most significant symbol of Christendom.

Dinner: Osteria dell’Angelo

Savor traditional Roman cuisine in this family-run establishment loved by locals.

Day 4: Leisure and Shopping

Take a break from sightseeing to enjoy Rome’s shopping scene. From the high-end boutiques on Via dei Condotti to vintage shops in Monti district, there’s something for everyone.

Lunch and Dinner: Zuma Rome

Enjoy a culinary change of pace with Zuma’s modern take on Japanese cuisine.

Day 5: Off The Beaten Path

Morning: Testaccio Neighborhood

Explore the food markets and hidden gems in the hip Testaccio neighborhood.

Lunch: Flavio al Velavevodetto

Experience authentic Roman cuisine in the heart of Testaccio at Flavio al Velavevodetto.

Afternoon: Non-Catholic Cemetery and Monte Testaccio

Continue your exploration with a visit to the serene Non-Catholic Cemetery and Monte Testaccio.

Dinner: Felice a Testaccio

End your day with mouth-watering pasta at this historic eatery.

Day 6: Charming Trastevere

Morning: Stroll Through Trastevere

Start your day by exploring the cobblestone streets of Trastevere, one of Rome’s most charming neighborhoods.

Lunch: Da Enzo al 29

Treat yourself to classic Roman fare in this beloved Trastevere eatery.

Afternoon: Villa Farnesina and Basilica of Santa Maria

Visit the stunning Villa Farnesina and the beautiful Basilica of Santa Maria.

Dinner: Glass Hostaria

Dine at this Michelin-starred restaurant known for its innovative Italian dishes.

Day 7: Departure

After a week of unforgettable experiences, it’s time to pack your bags and say “Arrivederci, Roma!”

Note: Always remember to book restaurant reservations and museum tickets in advance to avoid long queues.

Enjoy Rome, the city of echoes, illusions, and yearning. Buon viaggio!

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