21 Days of Exploring Puglia, Sicily, and Sardinia Itinerary

Begin your day with a visit to the Gargano National Park (Parco Nazionale del Gargano). This vast park offers diverse landscapes, from forests to coastal cliffs. Enjoy a morning hike or simply take in the natural beauty of this protected area.

After exploring the park, head to San Giovanni Rotondo, known for its religious significance as the home of Padre Pio. Visit the sanctuary and learn about his life and miracles.

Dine at Osteria del Tempo Perso, where you can savor traditional Apulian dishes in a charming setting that reflects the region's rich culinary heritage.

Travel to Matera and start your day with a visit to the Sassi di Matera. These ancient cave dwellings are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offer a fascinating glimpse into early human settlements.

Continue exploring Matera by visiting the Madonna delle Virtù Church (Chiesa di Madonna delle Virtù). This rock-hewn church is part of Matera's unique architectural landscape and provides insight into its religious history.

Enjoy dinner at Ristorante Il Melograno, where you can taste local specialties made from fresh, regional ingredients.

Begin your exploration of Lecce with a visit to the Lecce Cathedral (Duomo di Lecce). This baroque masterpiece is one of Lecce's most important landmarks, featuring intricate facades and stunning interiors.

Stroll through Lecce's historic center and visit the Lecce Roman Amphitheatre (Anfiteatro Romano di Lecce). This ancient structure offers insights into Roman entertainment and architecture.

Conclude your day with dinner at Ristorante Porta Nova, which offers delicious cuisine paired with beautiful views of Lecce.

Start your day with a visit to the Trulli of Alberobello World Heritage Site (Trulli di Alberobello). These unique limestone dwellings with conical roofs are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offer a fascinating glimpse into traditional Apulian architecture.

After exploring the trulli, head to the nearby Trullo Sovrano. This is the largest trullo in Alberobello and serves as a museum showcasing the history and construction of these unique structures.

For dinner, enjoy a meal at Antichi Sapori, where you can savor authentic Apulian dishes made from locally sourced ingredients.

Begin your day in Ostuni, known as the 'White City,' with a visit to its historic center. Wander through the narrow streets and admire the whitewashed buildings that give this town its nickname.

Visit the Church of Saint Irene (Chiesa di Sant'Irene) in Lecce. This baroque church is dedicated to Saint Irene, one of Lecce's patron saints, and features beautiful frescoes and intricate architecture.

Dine at Ristorante La Vela d'Oro, where you can enjoy delicious seafood dishes while taking in views of the Adriatic Sea.

Travel to Taranto and start your day with a visit to the Taranto Grand Tour. This comprehensive tour will take you through Taranto's rich history, including its ancient Greek origins and medieval architecture.

Explore more of Taranto by visiting its Archaeological Museum, which houses an impressive collection of artifacts from various periods of history.

Enjoy dinner at Le Giare Ristorante, known for its elegant atmosphere and exquisite Italian cuisine.

Begin your day with a leisurely stroll along Polignano a Mare's picturesque coastline. The town is famous for its dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear waters.

Take some time to relax on one of Polignano's beautiful beaches or explore its charming old town filled with quaint shops and cafes.

Conclude your stay in Puglia with dinner at Al Trabucco da Mimi, where you can enjoy fresh seafood while overlooking the stunning Adriatic Sea.

Arrive in Sicily and start your exploration in Palermo. Begin with a visit to the Palermo Cathedral (Cattedrale di Palermo). This stunning cathedral showcases a mix of architectural styles, reflecting the city's diverse history.

Head to the Massimo Opera House (Teatro Massimo) for an afternoon tour. This grand opera house is one of the largest in Europe and offers guided tours that provide insights into its history and architecture.

For dinner, indulge in Sicilian cuisine at Antica Focacceria San Francesco, a historic eatery known for its traditional dishes and charming ambiance.

Travel to Agrigento and start your day with a visit to the Valley of the Temples (Valle dei Templi). This archaeological site is one of Sicily's most famous landmarks, featuring well-preserved ancient Greek temples.

Continue your exploration by visiting the Agrigento Archaeological Museum (Museo Archeologico Regionale "Pietro Griffo"). The museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts from the ancient city of Akragas.

Dine at Duomo, where you can enjoy gourmet Sicilian cuisine in an elegant setting.

Begin your day in Syracuse with a visit to the Syracuse Cathedral (Duomo di Siracusa). This impressive cathedral is built on the remains of an ancient Greek temple and features stunning baroque architecture.

Explore more of Syracuse by visiting the Ear of Dionysius (Orecchio di Dionisio), a limestone cave known for its unique acoustics and historical significance.

Enjoy dinner at Ristorante Don Camillo, where you can savor delicious seafood dishes while overlooking the picturesque harbor.

Travel to Taormina and start your day with a visit to Taormina Piazza Duomo. This charming square is home to Taormina's main cathedral and offers beautiful views of Mount Etna.

Continue exploring Taormina by visiting the ancient Greek Theatre, which provides breathtaking views of both Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea. Take your time to wander through this historic site and imagine its past grandeur.

Conclude your day with dinner at Trattoria da Nino, known for its warm hospitality and delicious Sicilian cuisine.

Start your day with an adventurous visit to Mt. Etna (Monte Etna). As Europe's highest and most active volcano, Mount Etna offers a unique experience with its lunar landscapes and panoramic views. You can take a guided tour or hike up to the craters.

After exploring Mount Etna, head to the Gambino Winery (Vini Gambino) for an afternoon of wine tasting. This winery is located on the slopes of Mount Etna and offers a variety of wines made from local grapes. Enjoy a guided tour of the vineyard followed by a tasting session.

For dinner, visit La Capinera, where you can enjoy gourmet Sicilian dishes paired with stunning views of the sea.

Begin your day in Catania with a visit to Via Etnea. This bustling street is lined with shops, cafes, and historic buildings, making it perfect for a morning stroll.

Head over to the Church of the Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani (Chiesa della Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani). This ancient church showcases Norman-Arab architecture and provides insight into Catania's diverse cultural heritage.

Fud Bottega Sicula is your dinner destination for tonight. Known for its innovative take on traditional Sicilian cuisine, this restaurant offers a lively atmosphere and delicious food.

Nicolaci di Villadorata Palace (Palazzo Nicolaci di Villadorata) is your first stop in Noto. This baroque palace is renowned for its ornate balconies and richly decorated interiors.

Church of Santa Chiara (Chiesa di Santa Chiara) awaits you next. This beautiful church features stunning frescoes and offers panoramic views from its rooftop terrace.

Il Consiglio di Sicilia will be your dining spot for tonight. Enjoy traditional Sicilian dishes made from fresh local ingredients in an elegant setting.

Arrive in Sardinia and start your exploration in Cagliari. Begin with a visit to the historic Castello district, where you can wander through narrow streets and admire medieval architecture.

Head to the National Archaeological Museum of Cagliari. This museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts from Sardinia's ancient past, including Nuragic bronze statuettes and Roman relics.

For dinner, enjoy a meal at The Red Onion, known for its delicious local cuisine and welcoming atmosphere.

Travel to Alghero and start your day with a visit to the Neptune's Grotto. This stunning sea cave is accessible by boat or a scenic stairway carved into the cliffs.

After exploring the grotto, take a leisurely stroll along Alghero's picturesque waterfront. The town is known for its Catalan influences and charming old town.

Dine at Padrone's Pizza, where you can enjoy delicious pizza made with fresh local ingredients.

Begin your day with an adventure in the Gennargentu National Park. This vast park offers diverse landscapes, from rugged mountains to lush forests. Enjoy hiking or simply take in the natural beauty of this protected area.

Visit one of the traditional villages within the park to experience Sardinian culture firsthand. You can learn about local crafts, taste traditional foods, and interact with friendly locals.

For dinner, head to The Corner Pub, where you can relax with hearty meals and a cozy atmosphere.

Start your day on Costa Smeralda, known for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters. Spend your morning relaxing on one of the beautiful beaches or taking a swim in the turquoise sea.

Explore Porto Cervo, the heart of Costa Smeralda. This luxurious resort town offers high-end shopping, elegant cafes, and beautiful marina views.

Conclude your day with dinner at The General Denver Hotel Restaurant & Tavern, where you can enjoy exquisite dishes while overlooking the scenic coastline.

Begin your final day in Sardinia with a visit to the charming town of Bosa. Stroll along the colorful houses lining the Temo River and explore the medieval Castle of Serravalle, which offers panoramic views of the town and surrounding countryside.

Head to the nearby beach of Porto Alabe for a relaxing afternoon by the sea. Enjoy swimming in the clear waters or simply bask in the sun while taking in the beautiful coastal scenery.

For your farewell dinner, dine at The Rusty Keg Tavern, where you can savor delicious local dishes and reflect on your memorable journey through Puglia, Sicily, and Sardinia.