Urban Art Retreat Puglia
What makes this journey special
A creative journey through Puglia, combining painting workshops with cultural experiences, traditional craftsmanship and Mediterranean living. Guided by artist Jasmin Dobrovsky, explore Monopoli, Alberobello and Lecce through acrylic, watercolour and ink, while discovering Pumo ceramics in Grottaglie and the sculptural tradition of Pietra Leccese. Local cuisine, artisan encounters and relaxed moments by the Adriatic create an inspiring retreat shaped by creativity, tradition and la dolce vita.
Next dates
Days
Journey character
CULTURE
FOOD
NATURE
RELAXATION
ACTIVITY
The journey at a glance
Regions
Puglia
Group size
6 to 16 travelers
Travel style
small-group, creative escape, cultural immersion, Mediterranean living
Language
German
Accommodation type
b&b
Transport
public and private
Starting point
Monopoli
End point
Monopoli
The Hidden Moments
- An acrylic painting workshop inspired by Puglia’s centuries-old olive trees
- A watercolour session overlooking the ancient harbour of Monopoli
- A visit to a ceramic workshop in Puglia’s renowned ceramics town of Grottaglie
- A hands-on stone-carving workshop exploring the centuries-old tradition of Pietra Leccese
- A watercolour workshop capturing the iconic Trulli of Alberobello
THE ITINERARY
The journey, day by day
Day overview
Arrive individually in Monopoli, with an optional transfer from Bari Airport. In the afternoon, meet artist Jasmin Dobrovsky and your fellow Urban Art Retreat participants over a Welcome Aperitivo before beginning the first acrylic workshop with the topic of “Olive”. The day ends with a relaxed dinner together.
Day overview
After breakfast, explore the historic centre of Monopoli on foot, discovering its whitewashed streets and ancient harbour. Continue with a watercolour workshop inspired by “The Ancient Harbour of Monopoli”, followed by free time for lunch or further exploration. In the afternoon, return to the canvas for the second part of the “Olive” acrylic workshop before enjoying dinner together.
Day overview
Today takes you into the heart of Puglia’s artistic and architectural heritage. Travel by private transfer to Grottaglie, known for its long ceramic tradition, and visit a traditional local workshop before enjoying some free time. Continue to Alberobello, where the famous trulli become the subject of a watercolour workshop.
Day overview
Begin the day with a creative workshop dedicated to “Colourful pumi ceramics”, one of Puglia’s most distinctive decorative traditions. The afternoon is yours to enjoy as you wish, with the option of lunch and a visit to nearby Polignano a Mare. Later, come together for a hands-on cooking class before sharing dinner.
Day overview
After breakfast, take the train to Lecce, the elegant Baroque city of southern Puglia. Discover its historic centre on foot before enjoying some free time. In the afternoon, turn to one of the region’s characteristic materials in the “Pietra Leccese” stone-carving workshop, followed by a final dinner together.
What’s included
in this journey
In a carefully selected b&b
11 meals
5 breakfasts, 5 dinners, 1 aperitivo
2 excursions
To Grottaglie, Alberobello and Lecce
Personal travel guidance
Small-group support throughout the journey
8 creative workshops
Including all necessary materials, and visits to local artisans
1 creative Goodie Bag
To take home
Transport
Public transport and private transfers throughout the journey
What is not included
- Travel arrangements to/from Italy
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses
- Tips
- Meals and services not specified
Download all the information about the journey here
Your Urban Art Retreat in Puglia starts here!
Urban Art Retreat Puglia
EUR 1.890,00*
*Price per person in double room.
Single room possible at extra charge of a total of EUR 200,00.
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What our travellers say
”Every journey leaves a story behind. We’re still collecting some of those shared by our travellers — stories of people met, places discovered and flavours remembered. Perhaps yours will be among them.
Good to know, frequently asked
Where does the journey start and end?
The Urban Art Retreat begins and ends in Monopoli, where the group meets and stays throughout the retreat. Transfers from and to Bari Airport can be arranged on request, making arrival and departure convenient.
What interests does this journey focus on?
This Urban Art Retreat combines painting, traditional craftsmanship and Mediterranean culture. Guided by artist Jasmin Dobrovsky, you will explore Puglia through acrylic, watercolour and ink while discovering the region’s distinctive colours, landscapes, architecture and artistic traditions.
Do I need to have previous artistic experience?
Not at all. The workshops are suitable for different levels of experience, from beginners to more experienced artists. Curiosity, openness and a willingness to experiment are much more important than technical expertise.
What art techniques will we explore?
The programme includes acrylic, watercolour and ink, with each workshop inspired by a different aspect of Puglia. From centuries-old olive trees and the harbour of Monopoli to the Trulli of Alberobello, the places we visit become part of the creative process.
How much time will I spend painting?
The retreat includes eight creative workshops and visits to local artisans, balanced with excursions, cultural experiences, meals and free time. The programme is designed to give you plenty of time to create while also leaving space to explore Puglia and enjoy the Mediterranean atmosphere.
How physically demanding is the art retreat?
This is an easy-paced retreat, but a reasonable level of fitness is recommended. You should be comfortable walking through historic town centres, including on cobbled streets, steps and uneven surfaces. Comfortable walking shoes are essential.
How much free time will I have?
The programme combines creative workshops and organised excursions with time to enjoy Monopoli and the surroundings at your own pace. There is room to wander through the historic centre, sit by the sea, enjoy a coffee or simply embrace some dolce far niente.
How will we get around during the retreat?
The retreat combines public transport with private transfers, depending on the destination and itinerary. This allows us to experience Puglia in a more local way while travelling comfortably between the different places we visit.
Can I join the art retreat as a solo traveller?
Absolutely. Solo travellers are very welcome. You can either share a double room or, subject to availability, book a room for single use at the applicable supplement.
What kind of accommodation can I expect?
We stay in a carefully selected b&b in Monopoli, chosen for its character, comfort and location. It provides a welcoming base from which to explore the town, the coast and the surrounding region.
Can I join the art retreat if I’m accompanying someone but don’t want to take part in the art workshops?
Absolutely. You are very welcome to join the Urban Art Retreat as an accompanying guest, even if you don’t take part in the art workshops. We offer a special option including accommodation, meals, excursions and everything else included in the programme – except the art workshops. While your partner or friend is getting creative, you can enjoy some dolce far niente or explore the surroundings at your own pace.
SEEN ALONG THE WAY
Memories from past journeys
STORIES AND PEOPLE
Discover the places & stories behind this journey

Seven Generations of Lemon Growing on the Amalfi Coast

From the Forests of Monferrato to the Table

Painting Emotions: Art, Colours & the Strength Within
