Puglia & Matera

The Puglia and Matera self-drive adventure invites you to explore two of Italy’s most captivating regions at your own pace. Begin your 7-night holiday in Puglia, a land of endless olive groves, baroque towns, and beautiful Adriatic coastline.

Stay in charming B&Bs that offer a warm local welcome and a taste of traditional Italian hospitality. Drive through picturesque destinations such as Ostuni, the White City, and Lecce, known as the Florence of the South. Then make your way to Matera, one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world, where ancient cave dwellings known as the “Sassi” create a landscape like no other.

Your included economy car gives you the freedom to explore hidden beaches, vineyards, and hilltop villages off the main tourist trail. With flights and accommodation already arranged, all you need to do is enjoy the open road and experience the soul of Southern Italy.

• Flights from the UK
• 7 nights bed and breakfast accommodation
• Economy car rental for the duration
• Unlimited mileage and insurance
• 24-hour roadside assistance
• Maps and driving itinerary suggestions

This 7-night self-drive journey through Puglia and Matera is available from 1 March 2026, a time when spring begins to colour the Italian countryside in vibrant greens and wildflowers. It’s the perfect season to travel, with mild weather, fewer crowds, and long sunny days ideal for exploring scenic villages and historic sites. Early spring offers comfortable temperatures for walking through ancient streets, enjoying al fresco dining, and taking coastal drives without the summer rush.

From March through early June, travellers can experience the true beauty of Southern Italy with peaceful towns, open vineyards, and seasonal festivals celebrating food and tradition. If you prefer warmer weather and longer evenings, late summer and early autumn (September to October) provide another great window, when the sea remains warm and the light softens over the trulli and olive groves.

Flights depart from London Heathrow, with car collection available at either Bari or Brindisi Airport. Both routes provide easy access to the highlights of Puglia and the unforgettable landscape of Matera. This flexible package allows you to enjoy Italy your way — drive at your own pace, stop wherever you wish, and experience the natural and cultural richness that make Southern Italy such an inspiring destination.