Gourmet Puglia
Undiscovered, Value Vacation
- Budget
- Culinary and Cooking
- Off the Beaten Path
- Wine
Day 1: ARRIVE IN BARI, ITALY Welcome to Italy! Check into your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to explore the port city of Bari. Tonight, meet your Tour Director and travel companions.
Day 2: BARI–MARTINA FRANCA Start your Puglia discovery with a guided sightseeing tour of Bari. This seaside city skirting the Adriatic Sea boasts Italy’s longest waterfront and is an interesting maze of alleyways, courtyards, and historical palaces. When strolling through the narrow streets of Bari Vecchia (Old Bari), pause to marvel at the local women preparing typical Apulian orecchiette pasta, made traditionally by hand. (B,D)
Day 3: MARTINA FRANCA Get to know the host town of your Puglia foodie adventure on an orientation tour. Discover local cheese and “Capocollo” ham. Of course, you will have an opportunity to taste some of these traditional delicacies. (B)
Day 4: MARTINA FRANCA-EXCURSION TO ALBEROBELLO On the included half-day excursion to Alberobello, join your local guide for a tour of the town andsee the iconic trulli. These dwellings, dating from as early as the mid-14th century, are made of roughly worked limestone boulders collected from neighboring fields. The rest of your day is at leisure, but consider saving your appetite for this evening’s optional dinner at a local “masseria” (farmhouse) in the Apulian countryside. Enjoy authentic Italian dishes made with ingredients fresh from the farm. (B)
Day 5: MARTINA FRANCA Spend free time to relax or explore Martina Franca on your own or delve into classic Italian customs with an optional excursion to the towns of Altamura and Matera. the former famous for its bread-baking traditions using the ancient method of wood-burning stoves in a city of ancient palaces, churches, and cloisters. ; while Matera is one of the oldest, still inhabited cities in the world, preserving evidence of human settlements since the Paleolithic period in its natural caves carved into the rock. (B)
Day 6: MARTINA FRANCA-EXCURSION TO LECCE One of the highlights of this tour is the included day trip to Lecce. This seaside city enchants visitors with an unmistakable style, boasting monuments dating back to Roman times and, most notably, extraordinary Baroque buildings that proudly bear the characteristic blonde color of the local stone. The city center’s vibrant and bustling atmosphere will entice you with its elegant, timeless alleyways and delicious local delicacies, such as the “Pasticciotto,” made with sweet short pastry and typically filled with a delicious Italian custard. Learn more about regional food by joining the exciting, included cooking class. Learn hands-on how to prepare traditional orecchiette pasta and savor it with other local specialties, paired with local wines, and good company. (B,L)
Day 7: MARTINA FRANCA-EXCURSION TO CISTERNINO AND OSTUNI Learn about olive oil and acquire a taste for different olive oil flavors on the included tour of a local family-owned olive farm. Continue the exploration of local towns with great traditions by spending time in Ostuni, where the ancient citadel was built on top of a hill and fortified by walls. The town is commonly referred to as "the White Town" (“La Citt Bianca” in Italian) for its white walls and its typically white-painted architecture. Quaint medieval alleyways, stunning sea views, exquisite cuisine, and ancient remains, along with a magical atmosphere, are all features of tonight’s optional discovery of Monopoli, which is a great way to bid farewell to Apulia. (B)
Day 8: MARTINA FRANCA Your Puglia vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
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ID: 9150246
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ID: 9150244
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ID: 9150243
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ID: 9150248
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ID: 9150247
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Details Done. Your Job... Fun.
One of the greatest things about a Cosmos escorted tour is the peace of mind it provides. We take care of all the details and include transportation, hotels, professional Tour Directors, sightseeing with knowledgeable Local Guides, and even occasional meals—so you can immerse yourself fully in your travel experience! With Cosmos, you enjoy the benefits and convenience of escorted travel, ample free time to explore your destination the way you want, and longer stays in key cities so that you can immerse yourself in the local culture. You can even personalize your vacation with a great choice of optional activities. Start packing and let Cosmos turn your travel dreams into reality!
Transportation
Spectacular train rides, breathtaking cable-car ascents, cruise ships, scenic day ferries, private first-class motorcoaches (most with free Wi-Fi)—Cosmos offers a wonderful variety of transportation for a memorable travel experience. And with Cosmos, you never have to worry about getting to the ferry on time, buying tickets for the train, or waiting in long lines to take the cable car. Plus, each Europe itinerary lists daily travel distances in kilometers and miles, so you're better informed about your destinations while sitting back and enjoying the ride!
Meals
When it comes to meals, Cosmos strikes a perfect balance. We include some meals (on most vacations) to save you time and money, yet we also leave enough free time so you can sample gastronomic delights on your own. See individual itinerary pages for specifics about which meals are included on your vacation.
Sights & Sounds
Our packages include guided sightseeing and scenic highlights that reveal the best of each destination. See the must-see sites with knowledgeable Local Guides who will bring each destination to life. Inside visits and special features are included in each tour description.
Sweet Dreams
After a day of traveling, you want to relax at a comfortable, clean, and attractive hotel. We select hotels with the best guestrooms, service, and food for the money, so you can rest easy knowing we've checked everything out before your check in. See individual itineraries for hotels.
Friends in Local Places
At the heart of every great Cosmos tour are the friendly, knowledgeable folks who show you around and help you maximize your free time. We go to incredible lengths to find the most professional Tour Directors and Local Guides. With commentary delivered in English, our Tour Directors are multilingual so they can navigate the world with ease and give you the richest experience possible.
Explore Your Way
No one enjoys a vacation where every second is spent on a schedule. We build free time into every Cosmos vacation, so you can eat, shop, and explore the way you want. Your Tour Director can offer suggestions for things to see and do—or you can join one of our many outstanding optional excursions. Whether you’re into art, music, food, wine, or history, we give you the freedom to truly personalize your trip with optional excursions that are meaningful to you. Best of all, you can make your selections, and even prepay for most of them, in advance online.
Trusted, Tried & True
With nearly a century of escorting travelers around the world, the Globus family of brands has perfected the art of travel planning. Our global network of travel partners and suppliers keeps us up to date on any and all travel guidelines, protocols, safety measures, and local laws in each destination. All you need to know is where you want to go!
Cosmos Cares
We’re dedicated to protecting the places we visit. By using environmentally-friendly motorcoaches and partnering with preservation and sustainability initiatives, we’re helping ensure the world’s icons will be here to thrill travelers for generations to come.
A Century of Dedication. A Century of Discovery.
From humble beginnings on the shores of Lake Lugano, the Globus family of brands (Globus, Cosmos and Avalon Waterways) was born from a single rowboat and a bold vision – to share the wonders of the world with others. What began as a local operation has grown into a global journey, still guided by the same values of connection, care, and curiosity.
As a Swiss family-owned company, our legacy is deeply personal – built on trust, tradition, and a passion for travel that has been passed down through generations. For nearly 100 years, we’ve empowered travelers to connect with cultures, explore responsibly, and appreciate the rich traditions that shape our shared human experience.
Lighting the Path to a Better Tomorrow
With every trip, we’re not only opening minds – we’re opening hearts. That’s the mission of the Lighthouse Project: Our commitment to making a positive impact by reducing our footprint and giving back to the people, places, and planet we visit.
From preserving endangered wildlife to supporting women’s livelihoods in Cambodia, and from protecting national parks to partnering with sustainable travel pioneers, we are proud to support organizations that shine a light on a brighter future.
Connecting with the World. And One Another.
Travel has the power to unite us. Through each trip, we seek to not only show you the world – but help you experience your place in it. By creating moments of wonder, awareness, and shared purpose, we nurture empathy across cultures and continents.
The more we go, the more we grow. And the more we connect – the more we care.
We Invented Carpooling
Each Cosmos motorcoach features plush, reclining seats with headrests, individual air-conditioning vents, and extra legroom. A high-fidelity sound system delivers interesting and informative Tour Director commentary directly to your seat. Our custom of daily seat rotation gives everyone the opportunity to take in the views from a variety of vantage points throughout the trip!
Experienced & Professional Drivers
Cosmos drivers are dedicated to sharing the world’s great destinations with our guests. From the major highways to the off-the-beaten-path roadways, your driver is highly skilled, knowledgeable, friendly, and helpful through every mile. Your driver takes pride in maintaining a safe, clean, and comfortable coach to make traveling with us a true pleasure. With courteous help in boarding and disembarking, along with careful baggage handling, all you need to do is sit back and enjoy the view. We’re proud to say that our guests consistently give the highest praise to our heroes behind the wheel!
Free Wi-Fi Onboard
Our state-of-the-art motorcoaches offer free Wi-Fi in North America and Europe, as well as video monitors. Stay connected with family and friends with quality wireless Internet connection and browse online to learn even more about your new destinations.
Note: Free connectivity features browsing only; downloading is not available. Some tour departures may not offer this service. Unfortunately, details regarding signal coverage are unavailable prior to touring. Some geographical areas do not have Wi-Fi service coverage; on these occasions free Wi-Fi service is not available.
Fewer Passengers = Extra Comfort
Your comfort is our first priority. With the average number of just 36 guests on a Cosmos motorcoach, you’re invited to stretch your legs, relax, and enjoy the ride with the extra space you deserve!
Our Commitment To Clean
As a part of our commitment to your health and well-being, we practice enhanced cleaning procedures on our Motorcoaches and other vehicles throughout every trip, including additional daily disinfecting procedures that go above and beyond our already strict health and safety procedures. Our clean and comfortable motorcoaches are equipped with state-of-the-art air filters that continuously purify the cabin air as well as provide comfortable climate control and ventilation. For the comfort and consideration of all passengers, our motorcoaches are non-smoking. However, there are ample opportunities for smoking breaks during frequent stops along the way if you wish.
Sustainable Travel
The Globus family of brands is committed to reducing transportation-related energy use and greenhouse gas emissions. Our modern motorcoaches feature the latest technology in emission control and reduction with an average of seven times more energy and fuel efficiency than single-occupancy automobiles. Plus, our coaches can travel distances of over 200 passenger miles per gallon! Exploring in the comfort of our motorcoaches helps reduce emissions and traffic for a smoother experience and healthier planet.
Onboard Restrooms
Motorcoaches in Europe and North America are equipped with an emergency restroom. For transfers and sightseeing in London, this amenity is not available. We use the term “emergency restroom” because this amenity is not intended for use in lieu of the restrooms at your hotel or frequent comfort stops throughout the day.
Details Done. Your Job... Fun.
One of the greatest things about a Cosmos escorted tour is the peace of mind it provides. We take care of all the details and include transportation, hotels, professional Tour Directors, sightseeing with knowledgeable Local Guides, and even occasional meals—so you can immerse yourself fully in your travel experience! With Cosmos, you enjoy the benefits and convenience of escorted travel, ample free time to explore your destination the way you want, and longer stays in key cities so that you can immerse yourself in the local culture. You can even personalize your vacation with a great choice of optional activities. Start packing and let Cosmos turn your travel dreams into reality!
Transportation
Spectacular train rides, breathtaking cable-car ascents, cruise ships, scenic day ferries, private first-class motorcoaches (most with free Wi-Fi)—Cosmos offers a wonderful variety of transportation for a memorable travel experience. And with Cosmos, you never have to worry about getting to the ferry on time, buying tickets for the train, or waiting in long lines to take the cable car. Plus, each Europe itinerary lists daily travel distances in kilometers and miles, so you're better informed about your destinations while sitting back and enjoying the ride!
Meals
When it comes to meals, Cosmos strikes a perfect balance. We include some meals (on most vacations) to save you time and money, yet we also leave enough free time so you can sample gastronomic delights on your own. See individual itinerary pages for specifics about which meals are included on your vacation.
Sights & Sounds
Our packages include guided sightseeing and scenic highlights that reveal the best of each destination. See the must-see sites with knowledgeable Local Guides who will bring each destination to life. Inside visits and special features are included in each tour description.
Sweet Dreams
After a day of traveling, you want to relax at a comfortable, clean, and attractive hotel. We select hotels with the best guestrooms, service, and food for the money, so you can rest easy knowing we've checked everything out before your check in. See individual itineraries for hotels.
Friends in Local Places
At the heart of every great Cosmos tour are the friendly, knowledgeable folks who show you around and help you maximize your free time. We go to incredible lengths to find the most professional Tour Directors and Local Guides. With commentary delivered in English, our Tour Directors are multilingual so they can navigate the world with ease and give you the richest experience possible.
Explore Your Way
No one enjoys a vacation where every second is spent on a schedule. We build free time into every Cosmos vacation, so you can eat, shop, and explore the way you want. Your Tour Director can offer suggestions for things to see and do—or you can join one of our many outstanding optional excursions. Whether you’re into art, music, food, wine, or history, we give you the freedom to truly personalize your trip with optional excursions that are meaningful to you. Best of all, you can make your selections, and even prepay for most of them, in advance online.
Trusted, Tried & True
With nearly a century of escorting travelers around the world, the Globus family of brands has perfected the art of travel planning. Our global network of travel partners and suppliers keeps us up to date on any and all travel guidelines, protocols, safety measures, and local laws in each destination. All you need to know is where you want to go!
Cosmos Cares
We’re dedicated to protecting the places we visit. By using environmentally-friendly motorcoaches and partnering with preservation and sustainability initiatives, we’re helping ensure the world’s icons will be here to thrill travelers for generations to come.
A Century of Dedication. A Century of Discovery.
From humble beginnings on the shores of Lake Lugano, the Globus family of brands (Globus, Cosmos and Avalon Waterways) was born from a single rowboat and a bold vision – to share the wonders of the world with others. What began as a local operation has grown into a global journey, still guided by the same values of connection, care, and curiosity.
As a Swiss family-owned company, our legacy is deeply personal – built on trust, tradition, and a passion for travel that has been passed down through generations. For nearly 100 years, we’ve empowered travelers to connect with cultures, explore responsibly, and appreciate the rich traditions that shape our shared human experience.
Lighting the Path to a Better Tomorrow
With every trip, we’re not only opening minds – we’re opening hearts. That’s the mission of the Lighthouse Project: Our commitment to making a positive impact by reducing our footprint and giving back to the people, places, and planet we visit.
From preserving endangered wildlife to supporting women’s livelihoods in Cambodia, and from protecting national parks to partnering with sustainable travel pioneers, we are proud to support organizations that shine a light on a brighter future.
Connecting with the World. And One Another.
Travel has the power to unite us. Through each trip, we seek to not only show you the world – but help you experience your place in it. By creating moments of wonder, awareness, and shared purpose, we nurture empathy across cultures and continents.
The more we go, the more we grow. And the more we connect – the more we care.
We Invented Carpooling
Each Cosmos motorcoach features plush, reclining seats with headrests, individual air-conditioning vents, and extra legroom. A high-fidelity sound system delivers interesting and informative Tour Director commentary directly to your seat. Our custom of daily seat rotation gives everyone the opportunity to take in the views from a variety of vantage points throughout the trip!
Experienced & Professional Drivers
Cosmos drivers are dedicated to sharing the world’s great destinations with our guests. From the major highways to the off-the-beaten-path roadways, your driver is highly skilled, knowledgeable, friendly, and helpful through every mile. Your driver takes pride in maintaining a safe, clean, and comfortable coach to make traveling with us a true pleasure. With courteous help in boarding and disembarking, along with careful baggage handling, all you need to do is sit back and enjoy the view. We’re proud to say that our guests consistently give the highest praise to our heroes behind the wheel!
Free Wi-Fi Onboard
Our state-of-the-art motorcoaches offer free Wi-Fi in North America and Europe, as well as video monitors. Stay connected with family and friends with quality wireless Internet connection and browse online to learn even more about your new destinations.
Note: Free connectivity features browsing only; downloading is not available. Some tour departures may not offer this service. Unfortunately, details regarding signal coverage are unavailable prior to touring. Some geographical areas do not have Wi-Fi service coverage; on these occasions free Wi-Fi service is not available.
Fewer Passengers = Extra Comfort
Your comfort is our first priority. With the average number of just 36 guests on a Cosmos motorcoach, you’re invited to stretch your legs, relax, and enjoy the ride with the extra space you deserve!
Our Commitment To Clean
As a part of our commitment to your health and well-being, we practice enhanced cleaning procedures on our Motorcoaches and other vehicles throughout every trip, including additional daily disinfecting procedures that go above and beyond our already strict health and safety procedures. Our clean and comfortable motorcoaches are equipped with state-of-the-art air filters that continuously purify the cabin air as well as provide comfortable climate control and ventilation. For the comfort and consideration of all passengers, our motorcoaches are non-smoking. However, there are ample opportunities for smoking breaks during frequent stops along the way if you wish.
Sustainable Travel
The Globus family of brands is committed to reducing transportation-related energy use and greenhouse gas emissions. Our modern motorcoaches feature the latest technology in emission control and reduction with an average of seven times more energy and fuel efficiency than single-occupancy automobiles. Plus, our coaches can travel distances of over 200 passenger miles per gallon! Exploring in the comfort of our motorcoaches helps reduce emissions and traffic for a smoother experience and healthier planet.
Onboard Restrooms
Motorcoaches in Europe and North America are equipped with an emergency restroom. For transfers and sightseeing in London, this amenity is not available. We use the term “emergency restroom” because this amenity is not intended for use in lieu of the restrooms at your hotel or frequent comfort stops throughout the day.
About Cosmos
Dreaming of a once in a lifetime getaway is inspiring, but planning every detail can quickly feel overwhelming. Sorting through endless research, coordinating flights, hotels, ground transportation, and excursions, all while staying within budget, can take the excitement out of the experience. That is where Cosmos comes in.
Cosmos guided tours give travelers the fun without the frustration by connecting them to the world in an affordable and effortless way. With value focused itineraries, comfortable hotels, expert Tour Directors, and a balance of included sightseeing and free time, Cosmos makes global travel accessible for anyone with a passion to explore.
About Cosmos
Dreaming of a once in a lifetime getaway is inspiring, but planning every detail can quickly feel overwhelming. Sorting through endless research, coordinating flights, hotels, ground transportation, and excursions, all while staying within budget, can take the excitement out of the experience. That is where Cosmos comes in.
Cosmos guided tours give travelers the fun without the frustration by connecting them to the world in an affordable and effortless way. With value focused itineraries, comfortable hotels, expert Tour Directors, and a balance of included sightseeing and free time, Cosmos makes global travel accessible for anyone with a passion to explore.
