Cycling in the Heart of Puglia
7 nights from €1571
4.4Bike the heel of Italy exploring Trulli villages and coastal landscapes of the Mediterranean
Puglia, tucked between the Adriatic and Ionian Seas, invites cyclists to explore its rugged coastline with clear blue waters and dramatic cliffs. Inland, the countryside is a mix of olive groves, vineyards, and wheat fields, offering endless scenic cycling routes.
In the Itria Valley, you’ll find Puglia's most famous architectural wonder—the trulli. These cone-shaped houses with whitewashed walls and conical roofs create a fairytale-like setting.
And the food! Olive oil is abundant here, showing off the region as one of Italy's premier producers. Along the coast, seafood is the star, while inland, you’ll find hearty pasta dishes like orecchiette with broccoli rabe and rich meat stews that highlight the rustic charm of Puglian cuisine.
But Puglia's charm isn’t just about the scenery and food; it's also full of history and tradition. Every town and village reflects centuries of conquests, trade, and cultural exchange. Here, Byzantine, Norman, and Arab influences come together to create a cultural mix that is uniquely Puglian.
With its beautiful landscapes, delicious food, and rich history, cycling through Puglia offers an unforgettable taste of Italy's southern charm.
Daily Program
Day 1: Putignano
Putignano is a charming town famous for its ancient origins and lively Carnival celebrations. Its old town is a mix of medieval buildings and cozy piazzas. Upon arrival at your first accommodation, you will receive a warm welcome that includes a bike fitting and a full briefing of the tour. Once settled, it's time to sample Apulian wine. This experience is perfect for those eager to explore the world of enology and deepen their understanding of wine through a sensory journey. The tasting features a selection of wines, complemented by a delightful aperitif showcasing the finest Apulian regional specialties. If time permits, consider visiting one of Putignano’s museums where you might learn about the art of mask-making, a big part of the Carnival fun. And of course, don't miss the chance to indulge in some of Puglia's cuisine, featuring hearty pasta dishes.
Day 2: Putignano - Alberobello - Putiganano
21 mi. / 34 km
How about a challenge? Can you bike a single stretch of today's route without laying eyes on a trullo? They're scattered all over the Itria Valley, the very heart of this region. Follow the Apulian Aqueduct cycling route, also known as the “Ciclovia dell’Acquedotto”, toward Alberobello, a UNESCO site, and see for yourself!
Day 3: Putignano - Polignano - Monopoli
31 mi. / 49 km
As you bid farewell to Putignano, you'll leisurely cycle towards the Adriatic coast. Your destination is the town of Polignano a Mare, nestled on the edge of a cliff. Wander through its old town and enjoy breathtaking views from one of its terraces overlooking the sea. Continuing along the coast, you'll arrive at Monopoli, a blend of scenic beauty and history, offering the perfect backdrop for further exploration.
Day 4: Monopoli - Ostuni
28 mi. / 45 km
Today's adventure begins as you cycle through the courtyards and arches of the old town, continuing along shores and little coves, leading to a spectacular sight: a vast expanse dotted with ancient olive trees, some centuries old. Gradually, a white silhouette emerges from the hills: it's Ostuni, renowned as "the white town" for its whitewashed houses and walls. To round off the day, experience the charm of Ostuni with a guided Ape Calessino tour, winding through its alleys and historic sites and providing panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea.
Day 5: Ostuni - Avetrana
40 mi. / 66 km
Today you'll cycle through the Salento countryside, adorned with olive groves and crimson soil, towards medieval towns boasting authentic historic centers. Before arriving at the "temple" dedicated to Primitivo wine, stroll through the winding alleys of Oria, a town dominated by a medieval castle and the kaleidoscopic dome of its cathedral. Continuing along the Primitivo wine route, you'll reach Manduria, where impressive palaces and a 5th-century cathedral await. Primitivo isn't just a superb wine; it's intertwined with the region's history and ranks among Italy's most beloved vintages. Prepare for the final kilometers leading to a beautiful Masseria nestled in the countryside, where you'll spend the night. A delicious dinner is included this evening at your accommodations.
Day 6: Avetrana sea loop
33 mi. / 53 km
Take the opportunity to explore the coastal region within the province of Taranto, known for its unspoiled beauty despite being less frequented by tourists. Discover its endless stretches of golden sandy beaches, renowned for the crystal-clear and pristine waters of the Ionian Sea. Later this afternoon, learn about olive oil beginning with an introduction to how the farm operates, followed by a deep dive into how they produce their olives. You'll learn about different cultivation methods and every step of the process, from growing and harvesting to pressing and bottling. End the visit by tasting some of their 6 different varieties. Cap off the day with another savory dinner at the Masseria.
Day 7: Avetrana - Lecce
34 mi. / 55 km
The last leg of the journey ventures entirely inland, departing from the bustling urban center and heading westward through flat, rural landscapes adorned with dry stone walls, olive groves, and local vineyards. The day concludes in Lecce, where you can discover baroque palaces and churches that gleam with golden hues at sunset.
Day 8: Lecce
Your cycling adventure ends today following breakfast.
*Consider adding a pre-tour adventure in Matera, one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in the world! Don’t miss exploring this unique place, home to the ancient 'Sassi' cave dwellings and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The city of the "Sassi" and a UNESCO World Heritage site, Matera is known for its ancient cave dwellings which are carved into the limestone cliffs. These historic caves, some of which date back to the Paleolithic period, were inhabited until the 1950s and have since been transformed into unique homes, restaurants, and boutique hotels. As you explore Matera, you will also encounter the local canyons, or "gravine," which add to the city's dramatic landscape.
Day 1: Matera
When you arrive at your first accommodation, you'll receive a warm welcome that includes a bike fitting and a detailed tour briefing. Once settled, take some time to discover Matera. Start by visiting the Sassi, where you can step inside one of the ancient cave dwellings to experience how people lived in these unique homes. If you have extra time, a leisurely walk in Murgia Park offers a chance to see more of the fascinating cave churches in the natural landscape. In the evening, head to Belvedere di Murgia Timone and other scenic viewpoints around Matera for breathtaking views of the city and its surroundings. End the day by dining at a local trattoria, where you can sample traditional Basilicata cuisine.
Day 2: Matera - Castellaneta
37 mi / 60 km
Departing from Matera, today's cycling route leads through the picturesque Ravines Regional Park, passing expansive wheat fields and stunning panoramas along the way. You'll also journey through the charming town of Laterza, famed for its bakery treats and beautiful pottery. In the evening, enjoy the serene beauty of Castellaneta's countryside, where traditional farmhouses, nestled in rolling hills, olive groves, and vineyards, give a true taste of rural Puglia. Relax under the wide starry skies and unwind after a day of cycling.
Day 3: Castelleneta - Putignano
34 mi / 55km
After breakfast, continue your journey through the Ravines Regional Park. Pedal over a remarkable stone bridge that spans one of the park's impressive ravines, ensuring a fun start to your day. As you leave the ravines behind, you'll encounter the iconic scenery of Puglia: dry stone walls, ancient Masseria, and trulli—the unique rural houses with conical roofs, built entirely without cement or mortar. Your journey for the day ends in Putignano, a town celebrated for hosting the oldest carnival in Europe.
Hotels
These are sample hotels and may vary by availability. However, all accommodations are carefully selected to highlight the unique cultural and architectural heritage of Puglia. Every effort will be made to ensure you experience a comfortable and memorable stay.
Putignano: Petrantiche
Monopoli: Albergo Diffuso
Ostuni: Laterra Hotel
Avetrana: Masseria Bosco
Lecce: Arco Vecchio
Matera: La Suite Matera
Castellenata: Le Grotte di Sileno
Bikes
Trekking Cube Nature, male and female
- 12-speed, Aluminum Superlite Trekking Cross
- Crankset- Shimano single chainring 44T
- Brakes- Hydraulic disc MT200
- Saddle- Body Geometry
Trekking Puglia Cycle Tours, male
- XL 12 speed, premium aluminum
- Crankset- Shimano single chainring 44T
- Brakes- Hydraulic disc MT200
- Saddle- Body Geometry
Trekking Fuji Traverse, female
- 24-speed, custom built alloy
- Crankset- Shimano Tourney, 48/38/28T w/ chainguard
- Brakes- Tektro M280 mechanical disc
- Saddle- Selle Royale Milo+
Electrically-assisted Atala B-tour, male and female
- Motor- Bosch Active Plus Cruise
- Gear- Shimano Alivio RD-M3100 SGS, Shadow / LT
- Shifters- Shimano Altus SL-M2010 Rapidfire, 9s / LT 9s
- Brakes- Shimano BR-MT200, Rotor SM-RT10 180mm / Clarks brakes
- Battery- Powerpack 400, 6.5 hours
Road Bike Specialized Roubaix
- 11-speed, Shimano 105
- Crankset- Praxis Alba 2D 50/34
- Brakes- Tektro Spyre, flat mount, mechanical disc
- Saddle- Body Geometry Toupé Sport
Accessories
*All bike rentals are subject to availability and include a helmet, front bag, repair kit with mini pump, inner tube, and multitool (on request), bike lock, as well as a water bottle.
Pedals:
The bikes will have flat pedals. Should you need pedals other than those provided (flat pedals), please let us know in advance. Any variation regarding pedals communicated at the briefing will have an additional cost of 30€.
Bike Protection:
Bike protection can be purchased at the time of booking. You can read more about that HERE.
Surface and terrain
Cycling surfaces vary from smooth coastal roads offering scenic views and flat terrain to rural routes with asphalt, gravel, or packed dirt paths, featuring gentle hills and rolling landscapes. The tour follows mainly secondary, low traffic, countryside roads. You can find traffic and narrow streets once entering and exiting towns.
How to get there
Tour start-
Nearest airport: Bari (BRI)
Upon arrival: Transfer to Putignano via private taxi, shuttle service, or regional trains and buses.
Tour end-
Nearest airport: Brindisi (BDS)
Upon departure: Transfer from Lecce via private taxi, shuttle service, or regional trains and buses.
*For those opting for the Matera pre-tour extension, the most convenient airport is Bari. We recommend booking a transfer from Bari to Matera for an easier journey.
Reviews
- ★★★★★ Cathy
Puglia bike tour
We enjoyed this tour but some of the roads were very rough and we were in traffic more than expected. The last two days were very rough roads with a lot of trash on both sides of the roads. Loved Ostuni and Lecce!
- ★★★★★ TG
Lovely time in Puglia
The bike tour was wonderful. The scenery spectacular. Most of the accommodations better than expected.
- What was the date of your tour?
- September 2025
- How many tours have you completed?
- This was my firdt
- Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
- As expected
- Who is this tour suitable for?
- First-time bike tourists, Solo travelers, Families with teens
- Do you recommend this tour?
- Yes
- ★★★★★ Tina
Italy countryside ride
Really enjoyed the rides through olive orchards and the hotel hosts were spectacular....shout out to Stephano in Putignano! The add-ons were wonderful ..wine tasting, olive oil tasting, Ostuni little car tour; very informed and enthusiastic. presenters. Please consider having all bikes include fenders as weather is unpredictable and many of the roads are sandy.
- What was the date of your tour?
- September 2025
- How many tours have you completed?
- 2
- Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
- As expected
- Who is this tour suitable for?
- Solo travelers, Families with teens
- Do you recommend this tour?
- Yes
- ★★★★★ Elizabeth Blanchford
Perfect Trip and Exactly what I was looking for!
This trip was perfect in so many ways. The logistics were amazing from the great hotels to the perfect mileage on the bike each day. I appreciated the level of support that was just enough and not too much given I wanted the time to myself without too much engagement with the company. The bike was wonderful and the routes were full of beauty and adventure. I also really loved the time of year at the end of the season when things were quiet..including the roads! The team at biketours.com made the planning easy and they listened to exactly what I wanted out of the trip...interesting hotels and experiences. I can't say enough positive things about the experience. I will definitely be back for another trip!
- What was the date of your tour?
- October 2024
- How many tours have you completed?
- 0
- Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
- As expected
- Who is this tour suitable for?
- First-time bike tourists, Solo travelers, Families with teens
- Do you recommend this tour?
- Yes
- ★★★★★ Kenneth Waldhauser
Amazing cycling in Puglia
We enjoyed the six days of cycling through the heart of Puglia. The local cycling group took great care of us. Our e-bikes were perfect: comfortable and easily powerful enough for this trip. We had great weather which made our travel very enjoyable. Accommodation was excellent. Great rooms and breakfasts. The ability to stop along the many rural paths and explore other towns in route was great. The nav app was good for points of interest, restaurants and the route was definitely off the beaten path and safe. The additional organic wine tasting ( exceptional), tuk tuk tour in Ostuni and olive oil tasting were fun and informative. Only small drawbacks were the nav device with satellite lagged inside the high ways of the old cities. The device worked great on my phone so we used both. Sometimes we saw trash on the roadside of some of the trails but mostly we just soaked in the amazing harvest of the olives, the groves, stone walls and in areas the vast vineyards and amazing stone farm houses including Trulli. The Trulli homes were actually better outside of the tourist areas. The app info of the route, elevation gain/loss was really helpful as you knew what was coming ahead. We swam in both the Adriatic and Ionian seas. App showed us which beaches- helpful. Also fun meeting other cyclists at hotels along the way and getting great info on other cycling adventures. This was our first but won’t be our last! Also recommend renting a pannier each- helps for extra gear. Our bikes had suspension which was essential and worked great on our bikes. This route overall great towns, countryside and we thought six days was perfect length. Ending in Lecce was great and we added another day to rest and explore,
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