Picturesque Puglia from Matera to Monopoli- 7 Nights Fly Drive

Sleep in Matera's ancient cave city, then for nights in Monopoli a whitewashed town above sea grottoes on this self-driving exploration of Puglia

Discover the timeless beauty of Southern Italy on this seven-night fly-drive adventure through Puglia and Basilicata. With return UK flights, car hire including insurance and unlimited mileage, and hand-picked four-star accommodation, you'll have the freedom to explore at your own pace. Begin with three nights in remarkable Matera, one of Italy's oldest settlements, where ancient stone dwellings, winding alleyways and dramatic hilltop views create an atmosphere unlike anywhere else in Europe.

Spend your days wandering the UNESCO-listed Sassi districts, discovering historic churches carved into the rock and enjoying authentic regional cuisine. The flexibility of your included hire car allows you to visit charming nearby towns and enjoy the scenic countryside that makes this part of Italy so special. Matera's unique landscape and rich history offer a fascinating introduction to southern Italy.

Continue to the elegant coastal town of Monopoli for four nights in a four-star hotel. Here, whitewashed streets, a picturesque old harbour and Adriatic beaches provide the perfect contrast to Matera's ancient surroundings. Explore nearby gems such as Polignano a Mare, Alberobello and Ostuni, or simply relax by the sea. Combining culture, history, coastal charm and the freedom of independent travel, this fly-drive holiday showcases two of Southern Italy's most captivating destinations.

Fly from the UK to Bari, collect your hire car and drive to your 4-star hotel in Matera (about an hour by road), your home for the next 3 nights on a bed and breakfast basis.

UNAHOTELS MH Matera

Discover a relaxing retreat at UNAHOTELS MH Matera, offering an excellent range of facilities for a comfortable and memorable stay. Unwind in the full-service spa with massages, body treatments and facials, or enjoy the sauna and seasonal outdoor swimming pool. Dining options include five on-site restaurants, with Italian specialities served at La Piazzetta, alongside a café, a bar and a poolside bar. Room service is available during selected hours, while a daily buffet breakfast can be enjoyed for an additional charge. Complimentary Wi-Fi and concierge services add to the convenience.

The hotel’s 131 air-conditioned rooms feature flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, complimentary Wi-Fi, premium bedding and cosy down comforters. Private bathrooms include shower and bath combinations, rainfall showerheads and complimentary toiletries. Business facilities comprise a 24-hour business centre, eight meeting rooms and a conference centre with 500 m² of event space. Additional amenities include a 24-hour reception, dry cleaning and laundry services, and complimentary on-site parking. The hotel is approximately 8.3 km from Matera’s famous Sassi district and the Park of the Rupestrian Churches, with San Giovanni Battista Church around 8.4 km away.

Rock churches and viewpoints.

Matera

Matera, Italy is one of Italy’s most unique and fascinating destinations, renowned for its ancient cave dwellings known as the Sassi di Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited settlements. Located in the southern region of Basilicata, Matera captivates visitors with its historic stone houses, rock-hewn churches, winding alleyways, and spectacular views. The city is approximately 65km from Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport (BRI), the nearest international airport, making it easily accessible for travellers exploring southern Italy. Visitors can discover centuries of history, enjoy authentic local cuisine, and experience a city that has served as the backdrop for numerous films. Combining rich heritage, stunning architecture, and unforgettable scenery, Matera is one of Italy’s most remarkable cultural treasures.

Walk across the ravine. Excursions are not included.

After breakfast, drive to the coast and Monopoli check in to your 4-star hotel for 4 nights.

Porto Giardino - CDSHotels

Porto Giardino - CDSHotels enjoys a beautiful coastal setting in Capitolo, near Monopoli, just 50 metres from a stunning white sandy beach. Set within 20 hectares of pine woodland, the resort features low-rise accommodation arranged in charming buildings, alongside a central building housing many of the main facilities. With two swimming pools, four restaurants including a themed dining option, two bars, a variety of sports facilities, a colourful Nello Land children's area and lively entertainment, the resort offers an ideal All Inclusive holiday for families.

Surrounded by Puglia's spectacular coastline, with secluded coves and crystal-clear turquoise waters, Porto Giardino is perfectly placed for exploring the region's highlights. Discover the historic streets of Monopoli, the picturesque coastal town of Polignano a Mare, and the charming resorts of Savelletri and Fasano. Further afield, explore the famous Castellana Caves, the UNESCO-listed trulli houses of Alberobello, the whitewashed beauty of Ostuni, elegant Martina Franca and the historic old town of Bari.

Explore at your own pace: Lama Monachile cove and old town.

Monopoli

Monopoli is one of Puglia's most enchanting seaside towns, set along Italy's stunning Adriatic coastline. Known for its whitewashed old town, historic harbour and crystal-clear waters, Monopoli perfectly combines authentic Italian charm with coastal relaxation. Wander through narrow cobbled streets lined with cafés and trattorias, explore centuries-old churches and admire the impressive Charles V Castle overlooking the sea. Its prime location makes it an excellent base for visiting nearby highlights such as Polignano a Mare, Alberobello and Ostuni. With beautiful beaches, waterfront dining and a relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere, Monopoli is an ideal destination for experiencing the true character of Southern Italy.

The trulli.

Optional: Boat trip to the sea caves. Excursions are not included.

After breakfast, drive to  Bari airport  for your flight home to the UK.

Origin Trip Start Date Trip End Date Price
Stansted 04/04/27 Sunday 11/04/27 Sunday £869 View
Stansted 07/04/27 Wednesday 14/04/27 Wednesday £839 View
Stansted 11/04/27 Sunday 18/04/27 Sunday £899 View
Stansted 14/04/27 Wednesday 21/04/27 Wednesday £849 View
Stansted 18/04/27 Sunday 25/04/27 Sunday £679 View
Stansted 21/04/27 Wednesday 28/04/27 Wednesday £799 View
Stansted 25/04/27 Sunday 02/05/27 Sunday £799 View
Stansted 28/04/27 Wednesday 05/05/27 Wednesday £699 View
Stansted 02/05/27 Sunday 09/05/27 Sunday £939 View
Stansted 05/05/27 Wednesday 12/05/27 Wednesday £849 View
All monies paid are covered under the ATOL with number 3550.