Exploring the Hidden Gems of Southern Italy Itinerary

Start your day with a scenic hike in the Pollino National Park, located just a short drive from Valsinni. Take in the breathtaking views of the mountains and explore the diverse flora and fauna of the region. After your hike, enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature.

Visit the nearby Sassi di Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its ancient cave dwellings. Explore the narrow streets and marvel at the unique architecture. For a snack, stop by Panificio Sant'Agostino for some freshly baked bread and pastries.

Return to Valsinni and unwind with a glass of local wine at Enoteca del Borgo. Pair your wine with a selection of regional cheeses and cured meats for a delightful evening of relaxation.

Visit the Museo di Valsinni, a small museum that showcases the history and art of Valsinni. Learn about the village's rich cultural heritage and admire the collection of local artwork. Grab a quick coffee and pastry at Bar del Castello before continuing your exploration.

Take a scenic drive to the town of Alberobello in Apulia, known for its unique trulli houses. Explore the narrow streets and visit the Trullo Sovrano, a trullo house turned museum. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Trattoria Terra Madre, where you can savor traditional Apulian cuisine.

Return to Valsinni and spend the evening at Osteria del Borgo, a cozy restaurant known for its warm atmosphere and delicious homemade dishes. Indulge in a hearty dinner of regional specialties before retiring for the night.

Embark on a wine tasting tour at Cantine del Notaio, a renowned winery in Valsinni. Learn about the winemaking process and sample a variety of local wines. Pair your wine with some bruschetta and olives for a delightful morning.

After a morning of wine tasting, unwind at Terme di Latronico, a nearby thermal spa. Relax in the natural hot springs and indulge in a rejuvenating spa treatment. For a light lunch, visit La Locanda delle Donne Monache and enjoy a selection of Mediterranean dishes.

Enjoy a leisurely dinner at Ristorante La Pergola, a charming restaurant with a panoramic terrace overlooking the countryside. Savor the flavors of Basilicata as you watch the sunset over Valsinni.

Immerse yourself in the culinary traditions of Basilicata with a cooking class at Agriturismo Masseria Cardillo. Learn how to make traditional dishes like orecchiette pasta and lamb stew. Enjoy the fruits of your labor with a delicious lunch.

Take a leisurely walk through the olive groves surrounding Valsinni and learn about the olive oil production process at Frantoio Oleario Giuseppe Trisolini. Sample different varieties of olive oil and purchase some to take home as a souvenir.

Indulge in a gourmet dinner at Ristorante Antichi Sapori, a Michelin-starred restaurant known for its innovative cuisine. Experience a culinary journey through the flavors of Basilicata with a tasting menu paired with local wines.

Take a day trip to the nearby city of Matera and start your day with a visit to the Matera Cathedral. Admire the stunning architecture of the cathedral and explore the historic center of Matera.

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Trattoria Lucana, a cozy restaurant that serves traditional Lucanian dishes. Afterward, visit the Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario, a preserved cave dwelling that offers a glimpse into the daily life of Matera's past inhabitants.

Return to Valsinni and spend the evening at Caffè della Piazza, a lively café in the heart of the village. Enjoy aperitivo and mingle with the locals before heading to Pizzeria La Lanterna for a delicious wood-fired pizza dinner.

Head to the nearby coastal town of Maratea and start your day with a visit to Statue of Christ the Redeemer, a towering statue that offers panoramic views of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Take a leisurely walk along the promenade and enjoy the fresh sea breeze.

For lunch, visit Trattoria da Cesare, a family-run restaurant that specializes in fresh seafood dishes. Afterward, relax on one of the beautiful beaches in Maratea and soak up the sun.

Enjoy a seafood dinner at Ristorante La Taverna del Marinaio, a charming restaurant located by the marina. Indulge in a variety of seafood delicacies and savor the flavors of the Mediterranean.

Visit the Castello di Melfi, a medieval castle located in the town of Melfi. Explore the castle's impressive architecture and learn about its historical significance. Grab a quick bite at Panificio Melfi before continuing your journey.

Explore the ancient ruins of Pompeii, a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers a fascinating glimpse into the daily life of a Roman city. Wander through the well-preserved streets and marvel at the archaeological wonders.

Return to Valsinni and enjoy a leisurely dinner at Trattoria La Locanda del Borgo, a cozy restaurant that serves traditional Italian dishes with a modern twist. Savor the flavors of the region and relax in the warm ambiance.

Embark on a wine tasting tour at Cantina di Venosa, a prestigious winery in Venosa. Learn about the local grape varieties and sample a selection of fine wines. Pair your wine with some local cheeses and cured meats for a delightful morning.

Visit the archaeological site of Castel del Monte, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its unique octagonal shape. Explore the castle's interior and learn about its historical significance. For a snack, stop by Bar del Castello and enjoy a gelato.

Return to Valsinni and enjoy a traditional dinner at Trattoria del Borgo, a charming restaurant that specializes in rustic Italian cuisine. Indulge in homemade pasta and regional specialties before calling it a night.

Spend the morning relaxing at Lido di Policoro, a beautiful beach located on the Ionian Coast. Soak up the sun, take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters, and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings.

After a morning of relaxation, visit the Archaeological Park of Metapontum, an ancient Greek colony with well-preserved ruins. Explore the archaeological site and learn about the history of the region. For a light lunch, visit Beach Bar Metaponto and enjoy a seafood salad.

Return to Valsinni and spend the evening at Trattoria Terra dei Sassi, a cozy restaurant that serves traditional Basilicata cuisine. Indulge in a hearty dinner of local specialties and savor the authentic flavors of the region.

Visit Frantoio Oleario Santoro, a family-owned olive oil mill in Valsinni. Take a tour of the mill and learn about the olive oil production process. Sample different varieties of olive oil and purchase some to take home.

Explore the picturesque countryside surrounding Valsinni and visit the Castle of Montalbano Jonico, a medieval castle that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the castle's courtyard.

Return to Valsinni and spend the evening at Ristorante Il Borgo, a charming restaurant located in the heart of the village. Indulge in a gourmet dinner of regional specialties and savor the flavors of Basilicata.

Visit the Metaponto Archaeological Museum, located in the town of Metaponto. Explore the museum's collection of ancient artifacts and learn about the history of the region. Grab a quick coffee and pastry at Caffè del Corso before continuing your exploration.

Take a leisurely drive to the town of Pisticci, known for its historic center and charming architecture. Explore the narrow streets and visit the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore, a beautiful example of Romanesque architecture. Enjoy a traditional lunch at Trattoria Pisticcese.

Return to Valsinni and spend the evening at Osteria del Borgo, a cozy restaurant that serves traditional Basilicata cuisine. Indulge in a hearty dinner of regional specialties and savor the authentic flavors of the region.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Caffè della Piazza, a lively café in the heart of Valsinni. Savor a cappuccino and indulge in a freshly baked croissant. Take a final stroll through the village and soak up the charm of Valsinni.

Depart from Valsinni with fond memories of your time in this hidden gem of Southern Italy.