Essences of Italy- Within the ’heel’ of Italy’s boot, lies Puglia; with a rugged coastline, crystal blue waters and whitewashed towns. Puglia is one of those must-see destinations. Discover Puglia without the stress of itinerary planning on this nine-day small-group tour from Rome. Visit three UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Castel del Monte, Alberobello, and Matera. Admire the beautiful Baroque architecture of Lecce. Savor the flavors of the regional cuisine and wine. Spend two nights in a traditional “trullo” (a conical, stone-roofed limestone building) in Alberobello. And tour Otranto, the “heel” of Italy, and visit a cathedral renowned for its collection of mosaic scenes.