From Bari: 6-Day Puglia and Matera Tour with Accomodation

Exploring Puglia and Matera: A Practical, Authentic 6-Day Tour from Bari

Travelers looking to get a real feel for southern Italy’s hidden gems will find this 6-day guided tour from Bari a compelling choice. It offers a balanced mix of coastal beauty, ancient streets, and local flavors—perfect for those who want to see the highlights without the hassle of planning every detail. While it’s packed with visits, the pace remains manageable, and the inclusion of guided tours ensures you won’t miss the intricacies of each place.

What stands out most about this tour are stunning views—whether from a boat in Polignano a Mare or the rooftops of Ostuni—and the chance to taste authentic local products like wine and mozzarella. On the downside, the itinerary’s busy schedule means you’ll spend quite a bit of time on the move, which might be tiring for some. Still, if you’re eager to explore multiple towns in a short time and appreciate expert guides, this trip is a solid option. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy small-group experiences and want a good mix of guided exploration and free time.

Contents hide

1 A Closer Look at the Itinerary and What You’ll Experience

2 What We Loved About This Tour

3 FAQs

4 Final Word

Key Points

Authentic small-group experience limited to 8 participants ensures a personalized feel.
Variety of towns and landscapes, from coastlines to ancient stone streets, offering a well-rounded taste of Puglia.
Comfortable accommodation in Polignano a Mare with breakfast included provides a convenient base.
Focus on local culture with wine tastings and options for mozzarella tasting add authentic flavor.
Balanced schedule with guided tours and free time suits travelers who appreciate structure but also some flexibility.
Price point of approximately $1,897 for six days offers good value considering the guided tours, accommodations, and inclusions.

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A Closer Look at the Itinerary and What You’ll Experience

You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Alberobello.

Day 1: Arrival and Polignano a Mare

Starting from Bari or Brindisi, the tour kicks off with a guided visit to Polignano a Mare, a place famous for its dramatic cliffs and charming white-washed town center. The boat tour in the afternoon is a highlight, offering a chance to see the coast’s stunning views from the water—a truly memorable way to appreciate this seaside marvel. Travelers rave about the “breathtaking scenery” and “the perfect introduction to Puglia.” The relatively relaxed pace on this day makes it a gentle start.

Day 2: Alberobello & Matera

This is the heart of the tour, where you’ll walk among the iconic trulli houses of Alberobello—UNESCO World Heritage sites—with their conical roofs and fairy-tale charm. The guided tour provides insight into these unique structures, which are unlike anything else in Italy. Later, a visit to Matera reveals ancient cave dwellings carved into limestone, some inhabited for thousands of years. It’s a city that feels almost surreal, like walking through a living open-air museum. Expect a 4-hour guided exploration—perfect for history buffs and curious travelers alike.

Day 3: Ostuni and Monopoli

The tour ventures to Ostuni, known as the “White City” for its glowing whitewashed buildings. A guided tour here takes you through narrow alleys and overlooks, providing photo-worthy views. You might find the highlight is a mozzarella tasting—adding a taste of local dairy craftsmanship. Afterward, free time in Monopoli gives you the chance to wander at your own pace, visit local shops, or just relax by the sea.

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Day 4: Beach and Boat Day in Polignano a Mare

On this day, you’ll enjoy a more relaxed pace, taking a boat tour and relaxing at the beach. This is an ideal opportunity to unwind and truly enjoy Puglia’s scenic coast. The combination of boat rides and free time is especially appreciated by travelers wanting a restful day amid beautiful surroundings.

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Day 5: Itria Valley & Wine Tasting

The focus shifts to wine tasting in the Itria Valley, a lush area dotted with vineyards and countryside. This experience offers a taste of regional wines and perhaps a chance to learn about local winemaking traditions. It’s a highlight for food and drink lovers, providing both leisure and cultural insight.

Day 6: Departure

The tour concludes with a final visit back in Bari or Brindisi, depending on your travel plans. It’s a well-rounded trip that leaves you with many memorable views and a deeper understanding of southern Italy’s special charm.

What We Loved About This Tour

The small-group format makes the experience more intimate, allowing guides to tailor explanations and provide personalized attention. The guide’s local expertise shines through, enriching each visit with stories and context you might not find on your own. The beautiful scenery—from cliff-top towns to underground cave dwellings—keeps every day visually engaging.

Another aspect we appreciated was the balanced itinerary—a mixture of guided activities and free time—giving you room to absorb each town’s atmosphere or explore independently. The inclusion of local tastings, like wine and mozzarella, elevates the experience from just sightseeing to truly tasting Puglia.

Practical Considerations

The tour is priced at $1,897.11 per person, which at a glance seems reasonable considering accommodations, guided tours, and activities included. However, the cost does not cover meals or city taxes, so budgeting extra for lunches, souvenirs, or additional tastings is wise. The accommodation in Polignano a Mare is included with breakfast, providing a comfortable base after busy days of exploring.

Transport is arranged for all transfers, keeping the logistics simple. The tour’s limited group size (up to 8 people) means you won’t feel like just another face in a crowd—something many travelers value highly.

Final Thoughts on Value and Suitability

For travelers wanting a comprehensive, well-organized introduction to Puglia and Matera, this tour delivers. It’s especially suited for those who prefer guided experiences but still appreciate some free time to wander and soak in local charm. The scenic views and authentic tastings make it a genuine exploration rather than a rushed checklist.

While it’s a bit on the busy side, that’s part of its charm—covering a lot of ground within a manageable schedule. If you’re comfortable with a moderate pace and want to maximize your time in southern Italy, this tour offers excellent value.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for first-time visitors to Puglia?
Yes, it provides a thorough overview of the region’s main highlights, making it ideal for first-timers eager to get a sense of Puglia’s charm.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes accommodation in Polignano a Mare with breakfast, all transfers, a professional guide, local assistance, guided tours of key sites, and wine tasting in the Itria Valley.

Are there any optional activities?
Yes, mozzarella tasting can be added in Ostuni, and there’s free time in Monopoli to explore on your own.

How much free time is there?
You’ll have around 3 hours in Monopoli and free time in Ostuni and other towns to explore, shop, or relax.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, a hat, swimwear, camera, credit card, biodegradable sunscreen, and cash for extras.

Is this tour suitable for wheelchair users?
No, it’s not recommended for wheelchair users due to the nature of the visits and walking involved.

What’s the best way to prepare for the weather?
Check the forecast before your trip and dress accordingly—layers work well, along with sun protection.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, so plan to enjoy lunches and dinners independently.

When can I cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if plans change unexpectedly.

Final Word

This 6-day guided tour from Bari offers a thorough, authentic taste of Puglia and Matera with a great balance of guided exploration and free time. Expect stunning coastal views, historic towns, and lively local tastings—all in a small-group setting that feels intimate and personalized. It’s a wonderful choice for travelers who want to see key sights without sacrificing comfort or local flavor.

Ideal for first-time visitors eager to cover a lot of ground, or seasoned travelers who appreciate guided insights, this experience delivers a genuine slice of Italy’s southern charm. While it’s a busy schedule, the overall value, scenic beauty, and cultural richness make it a trip to remember—and worth considering if you’re looking for an efficient yet authentic introduction to southern Italy.