Travelers to Puglia can experience Italy’s best-kept secrets through well-organized tours that cut straight to the region’s highlights. The most worthwhile excursions include boat trips along the dramatic Ionian coast, where limestone cliffs and hidden grottoes create unforgettable seascapes. Small-group tours with local guides stand out for their authenticity, especially when visiting the UNESCO treasures of Matera’s cave dwellings and Alberobello’s iconic trulli houses. For active travelers, kayaking adventures reveal secluded beaches and marine caves that larger tours can’t access. The evening boat tours, complete with local wine and appetizers, offer particular value as they combine sightseeing with memorable social experiences. Let’s explore the top tours that showcase Puglia’s authentic charm.
Key Points
- Puglia offers a variety of tours, including 4-hour boat tours, sunset excursions, customized tours with local guides, kayak/canoe excursions, and private tours in Matera and Alberobello.
- Exclusive private boat tours and personalized experiences provide a more tailored and luxurious option for travelers, with high customer satisfaction and a 100% recommendation rate.
- Most tours are accessible to wheelchair users and accommodate service animals, ensuring inclusivity for all travelers.
- Tours showcase Puglia’s scenic coastline, charming towns, and provide opportunities to experience local culinary specialties.
- Competitive pricing, free cancellation policies, and discounted entrance fees make the tours in Puglia accessible and flexible for travelers.
4-Hour Tour Visiting All the Caves, Swimming Stops, and Aperitif
Offering a captivating 4-hour boat tour along Puglia’s stunning Ionian coast, this experience allows visitors to explore dramatic rocky cliffs, discover hidden coves and caves, and enjoy a refreshing swim in the Grotta del Soffio.
Departing from Torre Vado, the tour features two swimming stops in cliff-side grottoes and coves only accessible by sea. Along the way, an informative crew provides insightful commentary about the area’s history and landscape.
Travelers can also savor local specialties like “friselline” with tomatoes, focaccia, and drinks during the included aperitif.
Accommodating a maximum of 50 guests, the tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with convenient access to public transportation.
With an impressive 4.8/5 rating from 347 reviews and a 96% recommendation rate, this immersive Puglia experience is a must-do for those seeking stunning coastal views, refreshing swims, and a taste of the region’s culinary delights.
Read our full review: 4-Hour Tour Visiting All the Caves, Swimming Stops, and Aperitif Review
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Sunset Excursion
As the sun begins to dip below the horizon, travelers can embark on a captivating sunset excursion along Puglia’s stunning Ionian coast.
This 4-hour activity boasts an impressive 96% recommendation rate from previous participants, who’ve awarded it an outstanding 4.8/5 rating.
Departing from the picturesque Noleggio barche Nettuno in Torre Vado, the excursion takes visitors on a boat journey to explore the region’s beautiful caves and swimming spots.
Along the way, travelers can enjoy complimentary bottled water, sodas, an aperitif with local specialties, fruit, and other refreshments.
The tour accommodates up to 40 participants and is accessible for wheelchair users, strollers, and service animals.
With a convenient 4 PM start time and free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, this sunset excursion offers a flexible and inclusive experience for visitors to Puglia.
Read our full review: Sunset Excursion Review
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Charming Exclusive Customized Tours With Your Real Apulian Friend
Crafting memorable Puglia experiences, these exclusive customized tours with a real Apulian guide offer unparalleled immersion into the region’s charm.
With a 100% recommendation rate from travelers, the tours provide bespoke experiences tailored to each guest’s interests. Whether you seek guided visits to picturesque towns, wine and olive oil tastings, or UNESCO site explorations, the expert local guides ensure a seamless and unforgettable journey.
Offering maximum flexibility, the tours accommodate groups of up to 8 passengers in comfortable vehicles with complimentary WiFi.
Pickup and drop-off services within an 80-mile radius from Bari cater to your convenience. Relax as the experienced guide navigates the roads, allowing you to fully learn about the region’s beauty and traditions.
Backed by exceptional customer reviews, these customized tours promise a truly unique and personalized experience in Puglia.
From discovering your Apulian ancestry to exploring hidden gems, the itineraries can be tailored to your preferences, creating an unforgettable connection with this captivating Italian destination.
Read our full review: Charming Exclusive Customized Tours With Your Real Apulian Friend Review
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Marine Kayak & Canoe Excursion: Santa Cesarea Terme and the Caves
Although the Santa Cesarea Terme and the Caves kayak and canoe excursion explores picturesque coastal caves, it also offers the chance to swim and snorkel in the region’s sulphurous springs.
This private tour is tailored to the skill level and age of the group, with snorkeling equipment provided. Participants will paddle along the scenic coastline, accessing caves that are too small for motorized boats.
The excursion visits the Sulphurous Grotto, Gattulla Grotto, and Fetida Grotto.
While the overall rating is 3.0 out of 5 based on 8 reviews, some travelers noted issues with cancellations and communication. The operator’s response to cancellations was noted, but there was dissatisfaction expressed regarding the refund process.
Read our full review: Marine Kayak & Canoe Excursion: Santa Cesarea Terme and the Caves Review
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Full Day Private Tour of the Rising Sun Coast
The Full Day Private Tour of the Rising Sun Coast allows visitors to explore the picturesque landscapes and charming villages along the Puglia coastline. Priced from $21.40 per person, this private tour is operated by Experience&Events and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of the experience.
Booking confirmation is received within 48 hours, subject to availability, and the Reserve Now and Pay Later option is available. The tour includes a brunch and pickup from a small tasting meeting point in Matino, with the tour ending back at the same location.
The tour operates during the summer months, with set schedules on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Sundays. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly and allows service animals.
With a 5-star rating based on a single review, this private tour provides a personalized way to discover the beauty of Puglia’s Rising Sun Coast.
Read our full review: Full Day Private Tour of the Rising Sun Coast Review
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Guided Tour on the Path of the Cipolliane
Travelers embark on a guided journey along the captivating Path of the Cipolliane in Puglia, Italy. The tour provides a comprehensive experience, including dinner, private transportation, and gratuities.
Participants meet at the municipal parking in Via A. Vespucci, 31, Marina di Novaglie, and the tour ends at Il Ciolo in Gagliano del Capo.
The tour operates on Mondays and Thursdays from 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM, with confirmed start times communicated by the local provider. The tour is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers and isn’t wheelchair accessible.
It’s also not recommended for those with back problems, pregnant individuals, or those with heart conditions or serious medical issues, though most travelers can participate.
Confirmation for the tour is received at booking, unless it’s within 2 days of travel, in which case it’s provided within 48 hours, subject to availability.
The guide will be easily identifiable in technical clothing with the business symbol.
Read our full review: Guided Tour on the Path of the Cipolliane Review
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Sea Kayaking Excursion: Santa Cesarea Terme and the Sulfur Caves
For those seeking a more aquatic adventure in Puglia, the Sea Kayaking Excursion in Santa Cesarea Terme offers the chance to explore the region’s stunning coves and sulfur caves.
This private guided tour provides a safe and personalized experience, with kayaks and snorkeling gear included. Participants can navigate the serene waters, discovering hidden caves and coves along the way.
The guided nature of the tour ensures visitors can fully immerse themselves without worrying about directions or safety. Moderate physical fitness is required, but the tour is wheelchair accessible and welcomes infants.
Priced at £51.41 per person, the excursion offers excellent value with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
With only two reviews, this tour may be less well-known, but it promises a unique opportunity to uncover Puglia’s natural wonders from a new perspective.
Read our full review: Sea Kayaking Excursion: Santa Cesarea Terme and the Sulfur Caves Review
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Private Tour in Matera and Alberobello Unesco Wonders
A private tour in Matera and Alberobello offers travelers the opportunity to explore two UNESCO-designated wonders in Puglia. Priced from $428.01 per group (up to 4) or $535.01 for larger groups, the tour includes private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle with Wi-Fi, parking fees, meals, and gratuities.
Travelers can expect pickup at their accommodation, if possible, with vehicle options ranging from a private car to a van or bus. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is stroller-friendly and near public transportation, with infants required to sit on laps.
Most travelers can participate, and confirmation is received within 48 hours, subject to availability. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience starts, allowing for flexibility.
The tour also provides a discounted entrance fee of 3 EUR instead of 5 EUR for the cave dwelling house in Matera.
Read our full review: Private Tour in Matera and Alberobello Unesco Wonders Review
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Exclusive Private Tour From San Foca – S. Andrea by Boat 2.5 Hours!
Departing from the picturesque port of San Foca, this exclusive private boat tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the stunning coastline leading to the charming town of S. Andrea.
Spanning 2.5 hours, the tour is recommended by 100% of travelers and boasts an impressive 5.0 overall rating based on 14 reviews.
Priced at $502.91 for up to 7 participants, this tour provides a personalized experience with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Travelers can take advantage of the Reserve Now and Pay Later option, and the Lowest Price Guarantee ensures you’re getting the best deal.
The tour includes fuel surcharge, gratuities, and parking fees, though it’s not wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps.
Service animals are allowed, and most travelers can participate.
As a private tour, only your group will be on the boat, allowing you to fully learn about the breathtaking scenery along the way.
Read our full review: Exclusive Private Tour From San Foca – S. Andrea by Boat 2.5 Hours! Review
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Recap
Puglia offers a diverse range of tours that cater to various interests. From exploring caves and swimming in crystal-clear waters to kayaking along the coastline and discovering UNESCO World Heritage sites, there’s something for all. Visitors can also enjoy exclusive and customized tours with local guides, allowing them to experience the region’s charm and culture firsthand. With so many options, travelers are sure to find the perfect tour to suit their needs and preferences.