11 days in Basilicata & Puglia Itinerary

Basilicata, the most mountainous region in the south of Italy, boasts two separate coastlines and numerous places to visit, including secluded beaches and medieval hilltop towns. Over the centuries, the Greeks, French, Spanish, and Arabs invaded Basilicata. Each of these cultures left a deep mark on the area's culture and traditions, most visible in the region's Byzantine rock churches and fortified towns--as well as the numerous festivals throughout the year. Basilicata is known for combining a few local ingredients into delicate dishes. Make sure your itinerary includes exploring the region's small towns, where locals create several types of wheat pasta and offer a wide range of vegetable specialties.

Situated at the southeastern tip of the country, Puglia forms the heel on the "boot" of Italy. First colonized by Mycenaean Greeks, the region flourished during Roman times as a major producer of grain and oil. Today, Puglia remains a predominantly agricultural part of the country, though its warm and sunny coastal weather makes it a favorite holiday destination with an ever-increasing number of tourists. The long coastline features attractions like sun-kissed beaches and lively resorts, many of which are overlooked by limestone cliffs. Deeper inland, Puglia is largely flat, a land of charming villages and world-class cuisine. Here, you'll find olive oil, grapes, tomatoes, peppers, mushrooms, and fresh seafood to give you sustenance as you continue sightseeing. Despite its reputation as a producer of some Italy's best food and wines, Puglia still has numerous rural corners that most tourists have yet to explore.