Southern Italy’s Apulia region rewards smart travelers with authentic experiences far from the tourist crowds. The best tours here focus on three main draws: food and wine, historic architecture, and natural wonders.
Standout experiences include intimate tastings at family-run Salento wineries, where you’ll learn wine-making secrets passed down for generations. The fascinating trulli houses of Alberobello (those cone-shaped dwellings you’ve likely seen in photos) come alive with a local guide explaining their unique history. And don’t miss the octagonal Castel del Monte – it’s a masterpiece of medieval architecture that’s even more impressive up close.
My favorite tours combine Baroque church-hopping in Galatina with visits to small producers making olive oil and cheese. The thermal springs of Santa Cesarea Terme offer a relaxing break between cultural stops.
Let’s explore the top-rated tours that showcase the best of Apulia’s hidden treasures.
Key Points
- Apulia offers diverse tours showcasing the region’s rich history, captivating culture, and stunning natural attractions.
- Popular tour experiences include immersive winery visits, guided walks through historic towns, and explorations of UNESCO World Heritage sites.
- Tour highlights focus on Apulia’s unique architectural styles, therapeutic thermal springs, and community-based artisanal workshops.
- Highly-rated tours provide knowledgeable local guides to enhance the cultural and historical significance of the experiences.
- The tours consistently receive positive traveler reviews, indicating strong value and memorable introductions to the Apulian region.
Salento: Winery Tour and Tasting
While Apulia offers a wealth of captivating experiences, the Salento region’s winery tour and tasting stands out as a must-do activity.
Offering a 2-hour immersion in the local wine culture, this tour invites visitors to explore the vineyards and sample a range of authentic Salento wines. Priced at $61.70 per person, the experience promises an intimate, small-group setting, allowing participants to interact directly with knowledgeable guides and winemakers.
Travelers rave about the tour, with a 4.9 rating out of 5 from 37 reviews. Beyond the wine tasting, the tour also includes the opportunity to learn about the region’s rural traditions and the unique terroir that gives Salento wines their distinctive character.
Whether you’re a wine aficionado or simply seeking a deeper connection to Apulian culture, this Salento winery experience delivers an authentic and memorable encounter.
Read our full review: Salento: Winery Tour and Tasting Review
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Walking Tour of Galatina With Pasticciotto Tasting
Galatina, a captivating town in the Salento region, beckons visitors with its historic charm and culinary delights.
One of the best ways to experience this gem is through the Walking Tour of Galatina With Pasticciotto Tasting. This 2-hour tour takes you on a leisurely stroll through the town’s picturesque streets, unveiling its Baroque architecture and rich history.
The highlight of the tour is the opportunity to savor the renowned pasticciotto, a local pastry delicacy. Guests will visit a traditional pasticceria, where they can watch the skilled bakers craft these iconic treats and indulge in a tasting.
The tour is highly rated, with a 4.8 score from 126 reviews, and is priced at €59 per person.
Whether you’re a history buff or a foodie, this walking tour offers a unique and immersive experience, allowing you to discover the essence of Galatina and its beloved pasticciotto.
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Barletta: The Town of the Challenge Private Tour
Barletta, a town steeped in medieval history, beckons visitors with its iconic Challenge of 1503 between 13 Italian and 13 French knights.
The Barletta: The Town of the Challenge Private Tour offers a 2-hour deep dive into this pivotal moment, as well as the town’s other historic gems. Priced at $275.60 for up to 25 participants, the tour is available in Italian and English.
Highlights include exploring the 11th-century Castle, expanded by the Spanish in the 16th century, and the Cellar of the Challenge, historically known as the House of Poison.
Visitors will also tour the Cathedral of Santa Maria Maggiore and see the baroque palace Della Marra, home to paintings by Giuseppe De Nittis, along with the bronze giant Heraclius.
Tickets to the Castle and winery are included, while an optional visit to the De Nittis Picture Gallery is available for an additional fee.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and no upfront payment required, this private tour provides a convenient and immersive way to discover Barletta’s rich history.
Read our full review: Barletta: The Town of the Challenge Private Tour Review
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Trulli and Church Walking Tour in Alberobello
What better way to take in Apulia’s unique architectural heritage than the Trulli and Church Walking Tour in Alberobello? This 2-hour small group tour offers an in-depth exploration of the iconic conical-roofed houses and historic churches that make Alberobello a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
For just $46.28 per person, travelers can discover the fascinating history and construction of the distinctive trulli homes, learning about their significance in Apulian culture.
The tour also includes visits to the 11th-century St. Anthony of Padua Church and the iconic Basilica di Sant’Antonio, providing deeper insight into the region’s rich religious traditions.
With an experienced local guide leading the way, this walking tour promises an immersive and educational experience.
Visitors will leave with a newfound appreciation for Alberobello’s architectural wonders and the unique character that has made it a must-see destination in Apulia.
Read our full review: Trulli and Church Walking Tour in Alberobello Review
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Andria: Castel Del Monte 1.5-Hour Guided Tour
One of the most popular tours in Apulia is the Castel Del Monte 1.5-Hour Guided Tour in Andria. This UNESCO-listed national monument is the most visited in Southern Italy.
Visitors can explore the 16 rooms, octagonal courtyard, and spiral staircase of the castle, which was built by Emperor Frederick II and showcases a unique octagonal design influenced by Islamic, Romanesque, and Gothic styles.
The tour costs £29.56 per person and is available in Spanish, English, and Italian. Shared and private tour options are offered, with a minimum of 4 participants required for the shared tour.
Entrance tickets are included in the shared tour price, while private tour rates cover the group and guide service but not the entrance fee.
Guests will enjoy panoramic views of olive trees and rocky peaks during the 1.5-hour experience.
The tour has an overall rating of 4.7/5 based on 14 reviews, with positive feedback about the guide’s knowledge and the tour experience.
Visitors should come prepared with a water bottle and camera.
Read our full review: Andria: Castel Del Monte 1.5-Hour Guided Tour Review
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Manfredonia: Manfredonia and Daunian Stele Tour
Although less famous than the Castel Del Monte, the Manfredonia and Daunian Stele Tour offers visitors a chance to explore the picturesque coastal town of Manfredonia and marvel at the region’s ancient Daunian stelae.
The tour begins with a stroll through Manfredonia’s historic center, showcasing its charming architecture and vibrant seaside atmosphere. Participants then venture to the nearby archaeological site, where they can examine the impressive Daunian stelae – tall, stone monuments dating back to the 6th century BC.
These enigmatic structures, adorned with intricate carvings, provide a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Daunian people. Throughout the tour, a
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Monte SantAngelo: Guided Walking Tour
Nestled atop the Gargano Peninsula, the historic town of Monte Sant’Angelo beckons visitors to embark on a guided walking tour that unveils its rich cultural and religious heritage.
The 2-hour tour, priced at €250.00 per group, offers an immersive experience led by licensed and knowledgeable guides. Participants can admire the stunning landscapes from the highest point of the Gargano National Park, standing at 843 meters above sea level.
The tour explores the historic center and Quartiere Junno, culminating in a visit to the Sanctuary of San Michele Arcangelo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2011.
Optional supplements include entrance to the Swabian Castle and Baptistery of San Giovanni in Tumba. The tour is available in Italian, English, Spanish, and French, with children under 14 admitted for free.
With a 5/5 rating and highly recommended guides, this walking tour provides excellent value for money and a deeper appreciation of Monte Sant’Angelo’s captivating history.
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Troia: Private Walking Tour With Passionata Cake Tasting
As travelers explore the historic town of Troia, a private walking tour offers an immersive experience that culminates in a delightful Passionata cake tasting.
The tour, lasting approximately 2 hours, provides a guided exploration of Troia’s key landmarks and cultural sites. Visitors can expect to learn about the town’s rich history and architecture, with the tour guide sharing insightful commentary.
The highlight of the experience, however, is the Passionata cake tasting. This local delicacy, known for its unique flavor and texture, is a must-try for those seeking an authentic taste of Apulia.
The private nature of the tour ensures a personalized experience, allowing guests to ask questions and engage with the guide at their own pace.
With a 4.7 rating and starting from $71.98 per person, this tour offers an excellent value for those seeking a comprehensive and immersive introduction to the charming town of Troia.
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Apulia: Santa Cesarea Terme Private Tour
Situated along the Apulian coast, Santa Cesarea Terme beckons travelers with its picturesque seaside charm and therapeutic mineral springs. This private tour allows visitors to enjoy the town’s history and natural wonders.
Highlights include a guided walk through the historic center, where you’ll admire the distinctive Moorish-style architecture and discover the town’s role as a hub for aristocratic vacationers in the early 20th century.
The tour also features a visit to the Grotte Sulfuree, underground caves filled with healing thermal waters. Here, you’ll learn about the town’s long history of thermal treatments and the unique geological features that give the waters their restorative properties.
Afterward, you can opt to relax at one of the town’s thermal spas or enjoy a stroll along the seaside promenade.
With its stunning scenery, rich history, and therapeutic offerings, the Santa Cesarea Terme Private Tour provides an immersive glimpse into this captivating corner of Apulia.
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Vieste: Guided Walking Tour
Vieste’s charming historic center beckons visitors to explore its winding streets and captivating architecture on a guided walking tour.
These 2 to 2.5-hour immersive experiences allow travelers to uncover the town’s rich history and admire its picturesque seaside setting. Led by knowledgeable local guides, the tours showcase Vieste’s medieval landmarks, such as the imposing castle and the iconic Duomo cathedral with its striking Romanesque façade.
As visitors stroll through the narrow alleys and piazzas, they’ll learn about the area’s cultural traditions and witness the vibrant everyday life of the community.
Many tours also include stops at artisanal workshops, where guests can observe skilled craftspeople at work and perhaps even purchase unique souvenirs.
With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from over 86 reviews, these guided walks consistently delight travelers seeking an authentic and memorable introduction to the charming town of Vieste.
Read our full review: Vieste: Guided Walking Tour Review
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Sum Up
Apulia offers a diverse range of tours showcasing its rich history, architecture, and culinary delights. From wine tastings in Salento to guided walks in historic towns, these tours provide an immersive experience of the region’s unique charm and cultural heritage. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient castles, indulging in local pastries, or discovering coastal landscapes, Apulia has a tour to suit every traveler’s interests.