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sell12 Day Best of Southern Italy 2025

12 Days / 10 Nights   Starting at $4595 PP (Land Rate)

This 12-day tour includes 2 of the most beautiful regions of Italy: Campania & Puglia. The south of Italy is known in Italian as the 'Mezzogiorno' (Midday) region; some of the oldest and most important historical towns in Italy are located here as well as some of the best food in all of Italy! Explore the beautiful region of Puglia which has a culture, history, and a dialect all its own. Discover the Trulli in Alberobello and explore Lecce, also known as the “Florence of the South”. You'll be surprised by how the 'old country' has very much joined the 21st century while retaining its special charm.

Itinerary

Depart USA - Rome

You will board your overnight flight to Rome, off to Italy on the adventure of a lifetime!

Arrive in Rome - Afternoon Free

Benvenuti a Roma, the Eternal City! We are pleased to offer complimentary transfers from the Rome airport to your hotel at scheduled times. Your Perillo representative will be waiting for you at the airport to greet you.

There will be time to relax in the afternoon before dinner with fine local wines at your hotel.

Colosseum

In the morning, you’ll get to experience a delicious Italian breakfast, complete with cappuccinos, fresh juices, croissants, fresh breads along with salami, cheeses and of course bacon and eggs!

Next, you will board a bus for a panoramic tour of Imperial Rome, including the Roman Forum, the Circus Maximus, and the Great Synagogue built in the heart of the Jewish quarter. After your tour, you will experience the Colosseum, reliving the brutal entertainment of the gladiators and the lions, judged by the Emperor himself.

The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy as you please.

In the evening you may enjoy a dinner on your own. Ask your tour leader for a recommendation or venture out and explore the local restaurants in Rome! Be sure to try a “Suppli’”, a Roman delicacy, which is a fried ball of rice filled with tomato sauce, meat, and melted mozzarella.

Vatican Museum & Sistine Chapel - St. Peter's Basilica - Dinner Out

In the morning, you will take a short drive to the smallest country in the world—Vatican City! With our expert local guide you’ll tour the Vatican Museums, a massive collection of ancient Greek sculptures, medieval tapestries, and Renaissance paintings.

Your visit starts in the Sistine Chapel, renowned for its Renaissance art, especially the ceiling, which was painted by Michelangelo between 1508 and 1512. This room, which attracts more than five million visitors each year, is also where the Pope is elected.

Next, you will visit St. Peter’s Basilica, by far the largest church in Christendom. You will see Michelangelo’s Pieta’, sculpted when he was just 24 years old, as well as Bernini’s seven story bronze canopy located above the main altar.  The rest of the day is yours to enjoy! Take a stroll along the ancient streets of Rome, enjoy a gelato, or go shopping!

In the evening, you’ll get a taste of real Italian cuisine at a family-style restaurant in the characteristic district of Trastevere. This lively area is just what one imagines Italy to be like, with tiny cobblestone streets and music-filled trattorias at every corner.

Rome - Pompeii - Sorrento - Dinner in Hotel

In the morning, you are off to Sorrento. You’ll stop along the way for a tour of Pompeii.

Imagine…a city perfectly preserved as it was on that fateful day 2,000 years ago, when ash and lava literally stopped it in its tracks. You’ll see the tragic fossils of people attempting to escape along with children and dogs.

After visiting Pompeii, you’ll continue to Sorrento and you’ll have some free time to enjoy before dinner in your hotel tonight.

Capri - Sorrento - Dinner Out

In the morning, you will take a ferry to the world’s most enchanting island, Capri.  You will enjoy a private boat tour around the island (weather permitting). We’ll cruise by the magnificent Faraglioni, Capri’s iconic rock formations which tower above the Mediterranean Sea.

Later, you will visit one of the lesser known but equally beautiful sea caves, the Grotta Bianca. Following this visit, you’ll have free time to explore the island on your own or take advantage of a special optional excursion with your tour leader.

In the afternoon you return to Sorrento where you can relax before heading out for dinner at a local restaurant.

Sorrento - Matera - Bari - Dinner Out

In the morning, you will leave Sorrento by bus and head over to Bari, the capital of the beautiful region of Puglia and the heel of the “Italian boot”. First, you will stop in Matera, a city like no other and one of the oldest in the world. Discovering Matera is like living in the past – you’ll feel like you’re stepping into a nativity scene; for this reason, it is also known as “the second Bethlehem” and was the setting for Mel Gibson's “The Passion of the Christ”. Known for its unique architecture, which is characterized by cave dwellings carved into the sides of a ravine, Matera was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993, and it is now one of the most popular tourist destinations in Italy. You’ll have some free time on your own to explore and have lunch.

In the afternoon, you will continue your journey to Bari and check into your hotel and this evening, you will enjoy dinner out in a local restaurant with fine wines.

*Please be sure to wear comfortable sneakers today as there will be uneven surfaces and many steps*

Bari - City Sightseeing

In the morning, you will explore the city of Bari. Your tour starts from the Swabian Castle (outside visit), and continues towards the famous “Orecchiette Street”, where guests will be able to enjoy watching ladies making homemade pasta.

Next, you will have a quick visit to the Cathedral and then the Basilica of St Nicholas, built over the tomb of Saint Nicholas.

In the afternoon, you will have a little taste of a specialty of Bari – focaccia: a specialty bread with ancient origins.  After your tour, you’ll have some free time to enjoy a drink or coffee on your own.

In the evening, you’ll be able to enjoy a dinner on your own – be sure to try the orecchiette pasta with broccoli rabe, a specialty in the Puglia Region.

Bari - Alberobello - City Sightseeing - Lecce - Dinner Out

This morning, you’ll say goodbye to Bari and travel to Lecce but first you’ll stop in one of the most unique cities in Italy: Alberobello. This town is known for its distinctive small conical houses made from dry stone, called “Trulli” and has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its unique architecture and cultural significance.

Alberobello is divided into two districts: Aia Piccola, where every Trullo is still a home, and Rione Monti, where every Trullo is a souvenir shop. Your guided tour will take place in Aia Piccola, where guests will be able to explore the inhabited district, and to visit one of the biggest Trulli (today a museum) called Trullo Sovrano.

Next, you’ll climb the hill in Rione Monti, to visit the Trullo-shaped church dedicated to St. Antonio, and from there you’ll have some time to shop.

Next stop will be Lecce, also known as the “Florence of the South.” This charming town in Puglia is known for its baroque buildings, churches, palaces, and museums.

Tonight, you’ll enjoy a dinner out at a local restaurant.

Lecce City Tour

Today you’ll enjoy a tour of this charming city. The tour will begin in front of one of the gates of the city, “Porta Napoli”. Then you’ll visit the Duomo Square, the most beautiful square in the city. Acting as the religious center of town, Piazza Duomo is home to some of the most ornately decorated Baroque buildings in Lecce.

You’ll continue to the Basilica of Santa Croce, the most important symbol of the Baroque city, and end in the main square where the Roman Age Amphitheater is located (Piazza Sant’Oronzo).

You’ll have some free time to explore – be sure to try the local pastry called “Pasticciotto” (a shortcrust pastry from Puglia filled with a silky, lemon-scented custard) or the renowned “Caffè Leccese” (iced coffee with almond liqueur).

This afternoon and evening will be free for you to enjoy as you please. This amazing city has many options – be sure to ask your tour leader for some restaurant recommendations.

Lecce - Otranto - Olive Oil Tasting

In the morning, you will venture to another charming town in Puglia – Otranto. This town is situated on the Adriatic coast and offers stunning views of the sea and the surrounding countryside. Otranto is famous for its beautiful beaches, historic architecture, and amazing cuisine.

You will walk around the Otranto Ancient Walls, which were built in the 13th century and are a popular tourist destination and offer stunning views of the city and the Adriatic Sea.

In the afternoon, you will visit the Cathedral, dedicated to the Annunciation of the Virgin Mary, with a stunning mosaic floor dating back to the 12th century.  You’ll have some free time to explore and enjoy a gelato.

On your way back to Lecce, you will stop at a farm for an olive oil tasting, and the region of Puglia is widely known for its high-quality olive oil. You will have a brief introduction to the different types of olive oil and then you will learn how to properly taste the olive oil.

This evening is yours to enjoy dinner on your own.

Flight Home - Brindisi - Rome - USA

In the morning, you will head to Brindisi airport for your flight home.

While you say “arrivederci” to Italy, you will surely be taking home a piece of it with you….and maybe some wine too! Arrivederci Italia!

Inclusions

  • Centrally Located 4 & 5 star Hotels
  • More Motorcoach Legroom
  • Airport Transfers at Scheduled Times
  • Full Breakfast Daily
  • 7 Dinners
  • Olive Oil Tasting
  • Wireless Headsets To Hear Your Tour Guide Clearly
  • Travel Wallet, Baggage Tags and Travel Documents Included
  • Baggage Handling Throughout (Except at Airports)
  • Hotel Taxes, City Taxes, Hotel Service Charges and all Tips For Hotel and Restaurant Personnel
  • Professional Tour Directors and Licensed Local Guides
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi On Our Buses
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Dates & Rates

Depart - Return Per Person
in a Double
Solo
Traveler
Apr 2 - Apr 13 $4,695 $5,945
Apr 16 - Apr 27 $4,795 $6,045
Apr 23 - May 4 $4,895 $6,145
Apr 30 - May 11 $4,995 $6,245
May 14 - May 25 $5,050 $6,300
May 28 - Jun 8 $5,050 $6,300
Jun 4 - Jun 15 $5,150 $6,400
Jun 11 - Jun 22 $5,150 $6,400
Jun 18 - Jun 29 $5,150 $6,400
Jun 25 - Jul 6 $4,995 $6,245
Jul 9 - Jul 20 $4,895 $6,145
Jul 30 - Aug 10 $4,895 $6,145
Sep 3 - Sep 14 $5,195 $6,445
Sep 10 - Sep 21 $5,195 $6,445
Sep 24 - Oct 5 $5,050 $6,300
Oct 1 - Oct 12 $4,850 $6,100
Oct 8 - Oct 19 $4,795 $6,045
Oct 15 - Oct 26 $4,595 $5,845

Triple room deduct $300 per person from the Double rate.
Kids under 12 sharing with 2 adults deduct $1000 from the Double Rate.

Hotel Info

Overnight Stays: Rome (3 nights), Sorrento (2), Bari (2), Lecce (3)
Also Visiting: Pompeii, Capri, Matera, Alberobello, Otranto
Hotel NH Vittorio Veneto ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆

The NH Collection Roma Vittorio Veneto hotel is located in the heart of Rome. Near the city’s most popular street, Via Veneto, stylish street edged with high-end boutiques, elegant restaurants and pavement cafés, it is within walking distance of Rome’s most famous sights, including the Spanish Steps, the Trevi Fountain, Villa Borghese Park and  Piazza del Popolo. The building was once a Vatican-owned convent, but a 2009 refurbishment has given it plenty of contemporary style.

Rome

Hotel Hilton Sorrento Palace ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆

Overlooking the coastline, Hilton Sorrento Palace is home to magical views of the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius. Relaxation, excitement, beauty – experience it all at our idyllic Sorrento hotel. 

Breathe in the scent of glorious citrus groves while you lie next to six outdoor pools. Savor a cocktail or light bites at the poolside bar, or gaze out over the Bay of Naples from your room’s private balcony.

Sorrento

Grande Albergo Delle Nazioni ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

In the Levantine city, which combines history, spirituality and modernity, a bridge between East and West, was born Grande Albergo delle Nazioni on the central waterfront Nazario Sauro. First and only 5 star hotel in town, it is the new destination of luxury.

Situated in one of the most chic and lively areas of the Apulian capital, not far from the Basilica of San Nicola, Grande Albergo delle Nazioni redefines the Bari waterfront, reviving the legendary hotel with an original restyling that combines its fascinating and glorious past with the latest trends in contemporary luxury lifestyle.

The Grande Albergo delle Nazioni is a new reference point for the city, with an accommodation that offers a strong scenic impact spread over six floors and topped by a spectacular terrace overlooking the sea with its panoramic swimming pool.

Bari

Grand Hotel di Lecce

Grand Hotel Lecce is a 4 star hotel located only ten minutes from the city centre and just a minute from the railway station. A refined building, characterized by an elegant atmosphere, stained glass in Art Nouveau, crystal chandeliers and cantilever roof in wrought iron. Suitable both for business and leisure travelers and completely renovated in 2012, which has returned stuccoes and the iconography of Baroque inspiration to their ancient splendor.

Lecce

Hotel Imperiale Rome ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆

Stroll the city’s main historical attractions– a haven of statues, fountains and centuries-old buildings– or retire to your suite where contemporary interiors are combined with original architectural features. The 4 star historic Hotel built in 1895, with its sublime International restaurant and a locally inspired Spa allows you to spend your afternoons in pure indulgence, just steps away from the cultural heart of Rome.

Rome

Hotel Sina Bernini Bristol ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Built in the late 1800's in a palace in the heart of Rome, and recently renovated, the hotel Bernini Bristol offers the glamour of a bygone era along with the most modern appurtenances and amenities. Its ample salons are enchanting with their period furnishings and tapestries, as are its rooms marked by a refined atmosphere and comfortable elegance.

Rome

Hotel Parco dei Principi ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

The exclusive Parco dei Principi 5 star hotel stands on one of the most charming and unspoiled stretches of the Sorrentine Peninsula, set on a cliff overlooking the magnificent Gulf of Naples, in the heart of Sorrento. Guests will enjoy the private beach and the charming sea-water swimming pool set in the prestigious and elegant gardens.

Sorrento

Air Info

Airfares are unpredictable and impossible to estimate at time of brochure printing. Your airfare can range anywhere from approximately $1,000 to $1,900 depending on your departure city. Additionally, current departure tax and fuel surcharges are approximately $650 per person and are subject to change.

Your exact airfare will be advised within 3 business days of booking your tour. You are under no obligation to accept Perillo's air schedule and quote. However, payment for tickets issued by Perillo Tours is due with "final payment."

Airfares DO include your roundtrip airport transfer in Italy at scheduled times, provided you arrive and depart on scheduled tour dates. If you wish to arrive earlier or extend your stay, airport transfers are not included.

Book Early

We strongly recommend you BOOK EARLY as lowest airfares are on a first-come, first-serve basis. Plus, more availability on the most convenient flights and best seats.

Affordable Upgrades

When you purchase your Coach ticket through Perillo Tours, you can upgrade to "Premium Economy" on select flights starting at $550 each way. For ultimate comfort enjoy Business Class/First Class for a surcharge of as little as $4,000 per person.

Security Measures

The Transportation Security Administration requires all passengers to provide the exact name as it appears on the government-issued passport, passport number, expiration date, date of birth and gender when making airline reservations. This information will be requested at time of booking for all flight arrangements made through Perillo Tours.

CRITICALLY IMPORTANT: Name corrections are subject to change fees, so please have your passport in-hand when calling us for flight reservations.

Arranging your own air?

Roundtrip airport transfers are provided at scheduled times if you arrive and depart the same day as the tour begins and ends. Click here for the schedule.

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Optional Tour Add-Ons

Add-On
Price (in EUR)

Duration: 4 hrs
City: Rome

Immerse yourself in history as you explore the charming town and behold the magnificent Villa d'Este, a masterpiece of the Italian Garden and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Marvel at its breathtaking array of fountains, grottoes, and captivating water displays accompanied by music. After this enchanting experience, return to Rome, enriched by the beauty and splendor of Italy's cultural heritage.

Duration: 1.5 hrs
City: Rome

Step into the captivating world of Renaissance Rome on our immersive walking tour, where we'll discover iconic landmarks like Bernini's Fountains, the majestic Spanish Steps, and the legendary Trevi Fountain—be sure to toss a coin and make a wish! (Note: On Monday mornings, the Trevi Fountain may be without water, as maintenance personnel collect coins.) Marvel at the grandeur of the Piazza of the Pantheon and immerse yourself in the lively ambiance of the renowned Piazza Navona. Join us as we embark on this fascinating journey through history and art, uncovering the splendors of Rome's Renaissance treasures.

Duration: 1.5 hrs
City: Rome

Indulge in the ultimate panoramic experience of Rome from the open upper deck of a double-decker bus. Revel in unparalleled views of the city's iconic landmarks and majestic architecture as you soak in the beauty of Rome from a unique vantage point.

Duration: 6 hrs
City: Capri

Experience the enchanting Isle of Capri in the company of a knowledgeable local guide on a full-day journey via open taxis. Delve into the island's authentic charm as your guide unveils its hidden gems, offering insights that only a resident could provide. Immerse yourself in the rich history and breathtaking natural wonders of Capri, from its storied past to its captivating landscapes. Indulge in a delightful lunch, included as part of your memorable excursion. Discover the essence of Capri through the eyes of a true insider, ensuring an unforgettable adventure filled with exploration and discovery. Lunch is included.

You can find out more about our Italy tours and talk with other passengers on our Perillo Tours Travelers Facebook page.

format_quote Testimonials

My husband and I had the most fantastic tour of Rome and Tuscany through Perillo Tours. This tour took us to many of the most popular places to go and I would book it again in a heartbeat and tell everybody that I know what a great vacation Perillo tours did for us.

Mr. P.D.

I have never enjoyed a vacation as much as this one to Hawaii. I loved the beauty and to be able to learn so much Hawaiian Traditions and Cousin Bert was the best throughout out our vacation. We are honored to have Bert our new cousin in Hawaii. Our days were action packed and so very fun. We will return. Aloha And Mahalo.

Mr. T.K.