Puglia, with its whitewashed towns, rolling olive groves, and shimmering Adriatic coastline, is set to captivate travellers in 2026 as Explore Worldwide highlights this region as part of its European Early Bird Sale. Travellers booking between 4 and 25 September 2025 can save 20% on all Europe departures, including three immersive itineraries in Italy’s heel.
This corner of southern Italy offers the kind of authentic, slower-paced travel Australians and New Zealanders are increasingly seeking. Whether walking through Matera’s ancient cave dwellings, cycling along quiet country roads lined with centuries-old olive trees, or learning to make orecchiette pasta with a local family, Puglia invites travellers to savour every moment.
“What makes Puglia so special is its balance of activity, culture, and connection,” said Ben Ittensohn, Explore Worldwide’s Regional Director for Australia and New Zealand. “Whether it’s cycling past trulli-dotted hillsides, walking the trails of Alta Murgia, or sharing a home-cooked meal with a local family, every moment feels genuinely immersive. It’s no surprise we’re seeing more Australians and New Zealanders choosing these types of experiences, with demand for walking and cycling trips growing strongly, particularly in the shoulder seasons.”
Travellers are increasingly discovering the appeal of exploring Europe beyond the busy summer months, with Explore reporting that 69% of bookings from Australia and New Zealand in 2025 were for departures outside the June to August peak. Italy is leading this trend, with off-peak bookings up 14% year-on-year, while active holidays such as walking and cycling tours have grown by 31% and 11% respectively.
Travelling in spring and autumn allows for milder weather, fewer crowds, and the opportunity for more intimate local experiences. In Puglia, that could mean cycling along the Adriatic coast on the Cycle Puglia itinerary, stopping at family-run vineyards for a tasting before riding through quiet country roads lined with centuries-old olive trees. For those who prefer to explore on foot, A Taste of Italy – Walking in Puglia blends gentle walks through the Alta Murgia National Park with hands-on experiences like harvesting vegetables in a local garden and learning to make orecchiette pasta with husband-and-wife duo Nina and Peppino.
The Highlights of Puglia tour offers a perfect introduction for first-time visitors. Travellers can wander through Matera’s UNESCO-listed Sassi caves, explore the baroque architecture of Lecce, and discover the unique trulli houses of Alberobello. Every itinerary pairs authentic cultural moments with opportunities to savour the region’s celebrated food and wine, creating experiences that are active, memorable, and deeply connected to the places visited.
As interest in Europe shows no signs of slowing, booking early allows travellers to secure their preferred itinerary and travel dates for 2026, making the most of the standout experiences available in both peak and shoulder seasons.
*Sale excludes exclusive & private groups.
THE TRIPS
Here are three ways to experience Puglia with Explore in 2026. Each small-group tour is guided by a local expert and designed to create authentic, memorable moments.
*Prices in AUD
A Taste of Italy – Walking in Puglia
7 nights | WAS from $3,650 per person – NOW from $2,920 per person
Calling all Italy lovers, this tour of Puglia combines superb local cuisine with easy rambles amongst rolling landscapes. Explore the ancient Sassi quarter and the gorge of Matera and visit the conical trulli houses of the Itria Valley. Along the way, see how local cheeses, bread, olive oil and wines are produced – and enjoy some taste testing, of course.
7 nights | WAS from $3,870 per person – NOW from $3,096 per person
Discover the heel of Italy on this cycling tour through the hill towns, farmlands and coastline of sun-soaked Puglia. From ancient Troglodyte settlements to whitewashed ancient dwellings, see Puglia’s historic sites on leisurely and moderate rides through sweeping countryside. Along the way, sample Pugliese cuisine, tasting cheeses from a local ‘caseificio’ , produce from a family-run bakery and tipples at local vineyards.
7 nights | WAS from $3,980 per person – NOW from $3,184 per person
This itinerary brings together Puglia’s best-known experiences, from wandering the ancient streets of Matera to exploring the baroque beauty of Lecce, often called the “Florence of the South.” Along the way, travellers can taste regional wines and dine on farm-to-table cuisine that reflects the region’s deep culinary heritage.
View all Europe Early Bird trips now on sale with Explore Worldwide: www.exploreworldwide.com.au/offers/current-offers/early-bird-sale
Phone: 1300 439 756
Full terms and conditions can be found on the Explore website.
This article is brought to you by Explore Worldwide.
