Boutique Solo: Southern Italy
The Boot of Italy on the Adriatic Sea
Experience an upgraded style of travel on this Boutique Solo Tour to spectacular Southern Italy. With no more than twelve women, we'll stay in unique luxurious properties, where each traveler has her own room. Understated and extraordinarily beautiful, the lesser visited region of Puglia in the heel of Italy's boot offers stunning views, unusual architecture, and culinary pleasures. We'll stop in fishing villages with spectacular coastal views and admire the stone houses formed from natural grottoes in Matera, whitewashed alleyways in Lecce, and unusual beehive-shaped huts in Alberobello. Between cooking classes, wineries, olive oil tastings, and sipping limoncello, the savory and sweet experience is delightful. If you prefer a smaller group, this captivating tour is for you.
Boutique Solo: Southern Italy
October 13 - October 21, 2027Highlights
- Discover Italian seaside villages on the Adriatic Sea
- Explore unique fairytale huts in Alberobello
- Be amazed by the ancient Cave Dwellings in Matera
- Learn to make Pasta and Burrata Cheese
- Taste the Wine, Olive Oil and Bread of Puglia
- Time to explore personal interests
- Suggestions for things to see and do
- And More... See itinerary for details
Activity
Read more about WTT Activity Levels
- 20% Easy
- 75% Moderate (multiple walking tours on cobbled streets, uneven surfaces and often many steps)
- 5% Strenuous (steep walking and multiple stone stairways in Matera)
Your Responsibilities as a Solo Traveler
As a solo traveler you are responsible for yourself, your possessions, your physical fitness, and all other aspects related to participation in the WTT tour you have chosen. Be sure to read the itinerary closely to better understand the physical requirements necessary for the tour.
WTT tours are not suitable for anyone whose mobility is challenged or compromised. If you struggle with walking, standing or negotiating stairs or if you are in doubt as to your ability to meet the physical activity requirements, you should not sign up for this trip.
Itinerary
Wednesday, 13 October 2027: Arrive Bari, Italy; Welcome Dinner (D)
Schedule your flight into Bari, Italy, to arrive no later than 2:00pm. Most flights from the US connect through larger cities. Make your way to Polignano a Mare and get settled at the hotel. The tour begins at 5:00pm in the lobby of our hotel. We will make introductions and enjoy a Welcome Dinner to get to get better acquainted and discuss our upcoming adventure. Overnight Polignano a Mare - 2 nights
Thursday, 14 October 2027: Burrata Cheese Making; Alberobello Tour with Trulli Huts (B,L,O)
Our day begins with a lesson in learn how to make burrata cheese, a specialty of the Puglia region. We'll see the entire cheese-making process and taste the final product. This afternoon, after lunch together, we explore the little town of Alberobello, known for its unusual trulli huts. The beehive-shaped dwellings are built from limestone and date back to the 14th century. We will wander between the thousands of trulli on a guided walking tour, discovering more about their unique shape, different spires and the religious and mystic symbols that adorn the roofs. Some of these huts are still used as family homes today. Our tour includes a visit to the old town quarter to view the Church de Sant'Antonio, a huge cathedral built in the trulli style. We return to the hotel and the rest of the evening is yours to enjoy as you wish.
Friday, 15 October 2027: Locorotondo Village; Olive Oil Mill; Ostuni Walking Tour; Travel to Lecce (B,O)
Today, as we make our way to Lecce, we will first stop in Locorotondo, a beautiful village located on the top of a hill in the very heart of Valle d’Itria. Locorotonodo is not as well known to tourists and is still considered to be off the beaten path. We'll stretch our legs on a walkabout through the narrow streets packed with Cummerse, typical Apulian narrow dwellings with pitched roofs. We stop in at an olive oil mill that has been active since Roman times. Take in the intense scents and colors as we learn how production techniques have evolved over the centuries before tasting the different types of olive oil. Enjoy a walk through olives groves where some of the trees are thought to be 3,000 years old! This afternoon we make our way to the town of Ostuni, often called "the white city" for it's whitewashed buildings. We'll take a walking tour here in the Old Town area to admire the lovely colored front doors and feel the local charm. Our final destination today is Lecce. We are staying near the historic area, putting the wonders of this historic Baroque city right at your doorstep. Overnight Lecce area - 2 nights
Saturday, 16 October 2027: Walking Tour of Lecce; Pasta Making Class; Free Afternoon (B,L)
Lecce is frequently referred to as "Florence of the South." This slow-paced town and it's winding alleyways make it a perfect escape. Our walking tour will take us to the hidden corners and we'll learn more about the city’s history as we explore the narrow streets. After we've worked up an appetite, it's time discover the pleasure of preparing and savoring fresh pasta. A local chef will provide hands-on instruction and of course we'll enjoy the fruits of our labor over lunch. The rest of the afternoon and evening are yours to relax or explore on your own.
Sunday, 17 October 2027: Otranto Walking Tour; Winery Tour and Tasting; Travel to Matera (B,O)
Today we make our way to Matera making a few stops along the way. The town of Otranto is known for its old-world charm and its lovely locale at the very edge of the heel of the boot! Surrounded by crystal-clear waters, this is one of the most lovely coastal villages on the Adriatic Sea. A walking tour here will take us past the remarkable cathedral that features a rose window and ornate mosaic flooring, and the imposing castle, robust towers and the thick perimeter walls that have fortified this ancient city. We make our way to Manduria, the land of Primitivo wine, a big, bold dry red wine. We'll stop at a local winery to taste and learn about the native grape varietals. We then travel to the incredible town of Matera, perhaps Italy's oldest city renowned for its extensive cave dwellings district. Overnight Matera - 2 nights
Monday, 18 October 2027: Sassi Cave Walking Tour; Altamura Bread Tasting (B,O)
Wear your comfortable shoes today as we explore the intriguing cave dwellings of Sassi di Matera. There are more than 3,000 stone houses formed from natural grottoes and tufo cliffs, some dating as far back as the 8th century. Our guide will lead us through a labyrinth of many staircases and alleyways that cut through limestone ravines. Today, the dwellings are undergoing extensive restoration. We plan to visit Casa Grotto di Vico Solitario, a small museum that shows a typically furnished cave dwelling complete with household items as well as Chiesa Rupestre, a fascinating church built in a cave. This afternoon we continue onward to Altamura. This medieval town is famous for its bread and focaccia so of course we will indulge as we taste the typical homemade Apulian bread from one of the oldest ovens in the town! We return to Matera where the rest of the evening is yours to enjoy as you wish.
Tuesday, 19 October 2027: Free Morning; Travel to Bari; City Walking Tour (B,L)
This morning is yours to enjoy as you wish. Before leaving town, we will enjoy lunch together. Our adventure continues to the port city of Bari where upon arrival, we'll embark on a walking tour of the maze-like Old Town as we wait for our hotel rooms to be readied. Be on the lookout for Italian women who are often spotted making pasta outside of their homes; their specialty is orecchiette. The capital of Puglia and one of southern Italy's most prominent cities, Bari combines seaside charm and historical appeal. Overnight Bari - 2 nights
Wednesday, 20 October 2027: Boat Ride; Farewell Dinner (B,D)
We take to the blue waters of the Adriatic Sea this morning as we board a boat to take us to some of the most enchanting caves on the Adriatic. We can see the imposing lighthouse of Bari and maybe spot dolphins that often come up close to the boat. If sea conditions allow, we can even take a dip in the crystal-clear waters. This afternoon is yours to enjoy as you wish. Perhaps indulge in one more gelato or limoncello or a great big bowl of pasta. We regroup this evening for our Farewell Dinner to reminisce about our wonderful discoveries in this unique part of Italy.
Thursday, 21 October 2027: Return Home from Bari, Italy (B)
Sadly our tour of the Italian Puglia region has come to an end. Schedule your return flight at your convenience. Based on the departure time you provide WTT, your Tour Leader can assist with organizing travelers into small groups so you can ride-share to the airport if you wish. The cost is not included in the tour.
Boutique Solo: Southern Italy
October 13 - October 21, 2027Pricing
Room Share
Not AvailbleSingle Room
$8,357.00Non-Members
ADD $100.00Status of this Tour
Trip Full, Accepting Standbys
Tour Pricing Includes
- All meals and activities expressly listed in the itinerary, PLUS...
- All tipping of local guides
- WTT Tour Director to enhance the individual & group experience
- Travel Dollar credits (a benefit of WTT membership) toward future travel with WTT
Not Included In The Price
- Airfare or other transportation to and from the tour
- Airport Transfers
- Meals and activities not specified in the itinerary
- Beverages other than coffee, tea & still water unless otherwise noted
- Any personal expenses or expenditures
- Any pre- or post- tour arrangements
- Passport or EITAS fees
- Any gratuities for the WTT Tour Director
- Trip Cancellation / Trip Interruption Insurance
- Mandatory Emergency Medical / Evacuation Insurance
Payment Dates -and- Cancellation Terms for This Tour
You have 3 days to cancel and receive a refund. Thereafter, the amount required at time of reservation is non-refundable and the following cancellation penalties will be enforced.
Friday, 19 Feb 2027: Last day $750 deposit can be converted to a credit for use on a new reservation; thereafter the deposit is forfeited.
Friday, 19 Feb 2027: Interim Payment of $750 due; Non-refundable upon receipt. A total of $1,500 is forfeited if traveler cancels after this date.
Monday, 7 Jun 2027: Balance Due. Cancellation after this date but before Saturday, 14 Aug 2027 results in a cancellation penalty of 75% of your Total Tour Cost.
Saturday, 14 Aug 2027: Cancellation on or after this date results in a cancellation penalty of 100% of your Total Tour Cost.
Using Parked Credits: If traveler cancels during the 3-day cancel without penalty period, used credits will be re-parked with the original expiration date(s). Thereafter, cancellation will result in forfeiture of the total amount of parked credits used. If applicable, additional cancellation penalties will be assessed based on date of cancellation.
To Cancel: Should you need to cancel after your space on this tour is confirmed, you must use the Cancellation Form. Cancellation penalties are based on the date we receive your cancellation form. No other method of communicating a cancellation will be accepted.
Insurance Reminder
Standard health insurance plans often do not cover medical emergencies in other countries. As a solo traveler, insurance is essential to provide support and care coordination in the event of a medical emergency. It must cover air-evacuation from the destination as a result of a medical emergency during the trip.
Suggested companies for Emergency Medical/Evacuation Insurance are: Allianz Travel Insurance and World Nomads.
Trip Cancellation / Trip Interruption Insurance is not included in the cost of the tour. It is your responsibility to determine the amount and type of coverage you require to recoup some or all of your travel investment, whether you cancel, are unable to complete the tour, or the tour cannot operate. Section 4.0 of WTT Terms & Conditions explains what will happen to your payments in the unlikely event that your tour cannot operate. You can purchase travel insurance from any provider you choose. To get an idea of rates, please go to NTA Travel Protection Plan (Enter 206063 for the "Tour Operator Location #") or TravelGuard.
Boutique Solo: Southern Italy
October 13 - October 21, 2027Flights, Transfers & Lodging
Documents Required for this Tour
Passport: Travelers are required to have a valid passport. Most countries require your passport to be valid up to six months after your RETURN date, and have at least two consecutive blank pages.
VISA: US Citizens do not need a Visa to enter Italy. All other passport holders should check with the Country's Embassy website to determine if they need a VISA. VISA requirements are based on your country of residence.
New Online Registration Requirements: All US and Canadian citizens traveling to EU Schengen member countries and/or the UK are now required to register electronically prior to travel.
EU - European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS)
Arrival & Departure Information
Travelers will make their own air arrangements as follows:
Arrival Airport: BRI - Bari, Italy (Bari/Palese Int'l/Karol Wojtyła Int'l Airport)
Arrival Date: Wednesday, October 13. Arrive no later than 2:00pm.
Arrival Transfer: Not included. Take local transportation. An optional private transfer is available for purchase. Additional information will be provided in Final Travel Instructions.
Departure Airport: BRI - Bari, Italy (Bari/Palese Int'l/Karol Wojtyła Int'l Airport)
Departure Date: Thursday, October 21st. Depart at your convenience.
Departure Transfer: Not Included. The WTT Tour Leader will organize ride-sharing to the airport based on departure times.
When to Book Your Air
Once you have booked your flights (or other transportation arrangements), use the Travel Arrangements Form to send WTT your flight details. Use the same form to update your information should it change.
Airport Transfer Information
When arrival transfers are not included: WTT will provide suggestions to get to the hotel in your Final Travel Instructions about 2-3 weeks before the start of the tour. You'll also be able to see who else is arriving at the same time if you want to coordinate ride-sharing to the hotel.
This tour has the option to purchase a private arrival transfer. See "Optionals for this Tour."
Don't Worry. We're Expecting You: One of the reasons we ask for your travel arrangements is so we know when you're arriving and can approximate when you should be at the hotel. Your Final Travel Instructions will have instructions on what to do and who to contact if your flight is delayed.
Lodging / Hotels
Polignano a Mare: Borgobianco Resort & Spa
Lecce: Mercure President Hotel
Matera: La Suite Matera - Italy
Bari: Movenpick Hotel Bari
Whenever possible, we choose hotels that are near the city center and/or where there are things to do and places to eat within walking distance of the hotel. When the chosen hotel is not within walking distance of much, transportation options, at the traveler's expense, are typically available.
International Tours: Please be aware that hotels outside the US may have smaller room sizes, may involve steps to enter the hotel and may not have air conditioning. While WTT strives to find hotels that are similar to US standards, we cannot guarantee it.
In the unlikely event WTT is unable to provide the hotel accommodation(s) listed, for whatever reason, WTT will substitute similar quality accommodation(s) at no additional cost to the traveler.
Want to Arrive a Day Early?
Worried about possible flight delays? Consider arriving one day before the official tour start date. Many of our travelers choose this optional service. Your pre-tour package includes:
- The room (standard check-in times apply)
- Breakfast the following morning
- Optional activity suggestions prior to tour
- $525.00 Single Occupancy
Early Arrival Hotel: This tour uses the same hotel used on the first night of the tour.
Optional Purchases For This Tour
In addition to the Early Arrival Optional Package - available on all WTT tours - this tour offers the following optional purchases.
- Private Arrival Transfer $194pp
CANCELLATION TERMS: Cancellation of Optional Purchases, which become part of your Total Tour Cost, are subject to the same cancellation terms as the main tour.
Boutique Solo: Southern Italy
October 13 - October 21, 2027Destination Information
What do others say about this tour and traveling with WTT?
How Active is this Tour?
- 20% Easy
- 75% Moderate (multiple walking tours on cobbled streets, uneven surfaces and often many steps)
- 5% Strenuous (steep walking and multiple stone stairways in Matera)
Your Responsibilities as a Solo Traveler
As a solo traveler you are responsible for yourself, your possessions, your physical fitness, and all other aspects related to participation in the WTT tour you have chosen. Be sure to read the itinerary closely to better understand the physical requirements necessary for the tour.
WTT tours are not suitable for anyone whose mobility is challenged or compromised. If you struggle with walking, standing or negotiating stairs or if you are in doubt as to your ability to meet the physical activity requirements, you should not sign up for this trip.
What is the Group Size?
You will be introduced to the WTT Tour Leader when you receive your Final Travel Instructions, about 2-3 weeks before the tour begins.
Learn about your fellow travelers after final payment by visiting MyWTT.
What meals are included and how are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Each day of the itinerary lists the included meals for that day (B,L,D,O=Other). When a meal is not included, the WTT Tour Leader will have suggestions for where to eat.
You do not have to dine alone unless it is your personal choice. You'll most likely be dining with new acquaintances you've made, or you can join the Tour Leader.
Dietary Restrictions on International Tours: WTT has limited to no control over food selections or variety from meal-to-meal, especially at hotels. While we do our best to accommodate dietary restrictions and ensure variety of options, we cannot guarantee either.
What clothing and items should I pack for this trip?
In general the temperature, rainfall and humidity levels vary based on the time of the year. We suggest you monitor weather apps leading up to the time you depart for the most current information.
For This Trip You May Want—
- Shoes that are comfortable for walking
- Clothing that layers easily
- Refillable water bottle
- Smart-casual wear if you'd like to dress up a bit for dinners
- Swimsuit and cover-up
Good Packing Habits—
- Bring what you need to get a good night's sleep, such as ear plugs, white noise generator, sleeping aids, etc. Unfamiliar noises of all types can disrupt your rest.
- Pack a limited amount of comfortable, casual clothing that layer and coordinate. Your fellow travelers will not mind or even notice – seeing you in the same clothing.
- Bring only two pairs of everyday shoes: one pair of well-broken-in walking shoes, and a second pair that could do double-duty as a walking shoe or a slightly dressy shoe.
- Pare down your beauty regimen to the bare minimum and always pack travel-sized toiletries.
- Pack medication in your carry-on and pack only as much as needed for the duration of your tour plus a few extra days as a precaution.
What are the luggage restrictions for this tour?
On every WTT tour, our policies regarding luggage restrictions are driven by the physical space limitations of the vehicles we use, the requirement that all travelers be able to manage their own belongings without assistance.
- It is best to travel as lightly as possible. Most travelers regret when they have packed too much.
- You may bring one suitcase plus a carry-on should bag or daypack.
- We recommend your suitcase be no larger than 26 inches high as measured from the FLOOR to the top of the retracted handle to make it easy for you to handle yourself. The small or medium-size in a 3-piece luggage set easily meets this requirement and should be plenty roomy for this length of trip.
- You are responsible for managing your own belongings. We expect you to take your belongings from the coach to your room and to bring it back to the coach on days we change hotels. We do not provide luggage pulls; they are not safe and are inconvenient.
- Steps exist at most hotel entrances. On occasion the coach must unload passengers and luggage some distance from the hotel entrance.
What are the phone and internet recommendations for this tour?
- You should understand what your current cell phone plan includes in terms of data and minutes. Some, like certain T-Mobile plans, include an international package.
- Contact your cell phone service provider before departing about adding an international calling plan. Most carriers have flat daily rates which will allow your US-based phone to be functional upon arrival in a foreign country.
- Managing data while traveling internationally is important. Using WiFi when available and communicating through apps like What's App help you manage data usage while traveling.
- Learn how to make an international call BEFORE you leave. Consult your cell provider and check out the website www.HowtoCallAbroad.com.
What are the electricity requirements for this tour?
Europe operates on 220V or 230V, which differs from most of North America. Most of today's electronics (laptops, phone chargers etc.) are multi-voltage and will work worldwide automatically without a transformer, but will require a standard European plug adapter. Do not bring any heating appliances (curling iron, flat iron, etc) unless they are specifically rated as multi-voltage.
How much money should I bring on this tour?
Only you can determine the optimum amount of cash to take on tour. When budgeting for out-of-pocket expenses, there are several aspects to consider: whether the country your are visiting is a cash-based society, the number of meals you are responsible for, your individual shopping interests and habits, and tipping responsibilities.
- Italy's official currency is the Euro.
- Debit cards can be useful for cash advances. ATMs are typically the best way of obtaining cash as they are found in most airports and big cities and tourist areas. Be judicious about where you use your debit card to minimize fees on cash withdrawals. ATMS of major banks will often give much better exchange rates than currency-exchange kiosks.
- If using a debit card, it is good practice to limit the amount of cash available in the account and simply transfer money from another account if you need more at any point on tour. Always use caution when withdrawing money.
- Many travelers choose to exchange USD into local currency in advance (through their bank or AAA) so they have cash upon arrival.
- Be sure to keep smaller denominations of cash on hand for taxis, small purchases, splitting restaurant bills, etc.
- Notify your credit card issuer that you will be traveling and provide dates of travel.
- Credit cards are widely accepted in most destinations. Many cards charge a foreign-transaction fee. Be sure to investigate your card of choice as there are many credit cards that impose no foreign transaction fees and are better for international travel.
- If a merchant gives you the choice between making your transaction in USD or the local currency, always choose the local currency, to avoid dynamic currency conversion which includes a conversion fee.
What are the tipping guidelines for this tour?
- We suggest you read up on tipping culture in the various places you will be visiting so you can show your appreciation for any personal service provided with an appropriate gratuity.
- You may want to tip your WTT Tour Director for an outstanding job. The amount is entirely a personal preference. If you'd like a guideline, consider $9-$12 per day.
Can I transfer my deposit to another tour?
To get off this tour and register for another tour, you must follow these steps - in the order shown:
2) WAIT before submitting your new reservation! You must receive the Cancellation Confirmation email before submitting your new reservation. This can take up to 2 business days. The Cancellation Confirmation email will list the amount of parked credits from this tour that are now available to use on a new reservation.
3) COMPLETE the new Reservation Form and USE the parked credits towards your deposit on the new tour.
Note: If you used Parked Credits to pay the deposit on this tour, these credits cannot be used a second time and are not eligible to be transferred.
What happens if I need to cancel this tour?
Boutique Solo: Southern Italy
October 13 - October 21, 2027STANDBY REQUEST FORM
1)There is no obligation to take the tour if you submit a standby request. 2)If an opening occurs, WTT will email you based on the room-type available. 3)WTT membership is not required to go on standby, however we do notify our members ahead of non-members.

Our Promise to You
It doesn’t matter which tour you choose.
You’ll find your people and make memories that last a lifetime.

