From Lecce: Alberobello, Ostuni & Locorotondo with Aperitif

Travelers seeking a well-rounded day out in Puglia will find this small-group tour from Lecce a solid choice. It offers a blend of UNESCO-listed architecture, charming villages, and off-the-beaten-path sights, all with plenty of local flavor and authentic touches. We appreciate how it combines guided exploration with enough time to wander, shop, or simply soak up the scenery — all in a comfortable, intimate setting.

Two standout features are the chance to stroll through Alberobello’s iconic trulli and enjoy a delicious regional aperitivo in a family-run setting. The tour also offers an option for self-guided audio or guided commentary, which is particularly helpful if you like learning about your surroundings at your own pace. A potential limitation is the full day’s itinerary, which leaves little time for lingering — if you prefer slow, unstructured days, you might find it a bit fast-paced.

This experience suits travelers who want a curated taste of Puglia’s highlights without the hassle of organizing transport or guides themselves. It’s perfect for those who appreciate local food, stunning scenery, and small-group intimacy, making it a great choice for couples, friends, or solo travelers craving an immersive day out.

Key Points

• Small-group tour guarantees personalized attention and a more relaxed experience
• UNESCO World Heritage Site: Alberobello’s trulli are truly unique and photogenic
• Authentic local food and wine: Enjoy a reserved table for regional specialties in Alberobello
• Flexible exploration options: Choose between guided or self-guided audio tours
• Authentic hidden treasures: Discover a rock-carved site linked to ancient olive oil production
• Ideal for active travelers who want to see the highlights without feeling rushed

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

The Journey Begins from Lecce

The tour departs at approximately 8:45 AM, starting with a scenic drive through Puglia’s hilly countryside. The air-conditioned minivan, seating up to eight, ensures a comfortable ride, and the small group size fosters a friendly, less hurried atmosphere. Travelers often appreciate the personal touch from the driver, who doubles as a local guide — as one reviewer put it, “Great driver, Luca! Thank you for a good day!”

Alberobello: The Trulli Capital

Our first major stop is Alberobello, famous worldwide for its conical-roofed trulli — whitewashed stone huts that look like something out of a fairy tale. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this village’s architecture is unlike anything else in Italy, and wandering its alleys feels like stepping into another world.

You have about two hours here, which allows for a good exploration. We loved the way the tour encourages you to step inside some of the trulli — many of which still function as homes or shops, giving an authentic feel. The experience of walking through these white, whimsical structures is both charming and educational.

After exploring, the group gathers for a regional, handmade meal in a family-run artisan shop. The meal features local specialties like cheeses, cured meats, bread, and a glass of regional wine. One reviewer notes, “The aperitivo was absolutely delicious,” and it’s a highlight to enjoy regional flavors in a setting that feels welcoming and genuine.

Hidden Treasures Near Alberobello

Just outside the main attractions, there’s a chance to visit a rock-carved site—a historic area where ancient communities carved into the stone for olive oil production, once powered by donkeys. This lesser-known spot offers a glimpse into Puglia’s traditional rural life and is a perfect example of how the tour combines popular sights with hidden gems.

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Locorotondo: A Circular Wonder

Next, the tour takes you to Locorotondo, often considered one of Italy’s most beautiful villages. Known for its white “cummerse” houses and panoramic views over the Itria Valley, this village feels like a postcard. We loved the leisurely atmosphere here — a chance to stroll, shop for local crafts, or just enjoy the scenery.

A short walk along the alleys reveals charming corners and secret viewpoints. The town’s connection to wine making is notable too; Locorotondo is renowned for its white wine, making it the perfect stop for those interested in regional wines or tasting local produce.

Ostuni: The White City

The final major stop is Ostuni, famously called the “White City” for its whitewashed buildings that reflect the sun and give the town a luminous glow. The labyrinth of narrow streets and quirky alleys is perfect for aimless wandering, shopping for local crafts, or relaxing in piazzas with an artisan gelato.

Ostuni’s aerial views from higher vantage points are spectacular and give you a real sense of the town’s position on the hill. During your hour here, you can explore independently or relax at a café, soaking up the vibrant atmosphere.

Flexibility and Comfort

The tour offers two exploration options: guided with a local expert or self-guided with multilingual audio guides. The latter provides flexibility and a more independent pace, while the guided option enriches the experience with storytelling and historical context.

Transportation is in a new, air-conditioned minivan, which many reviews mention as a comfortable way to cover the distance between sites. The total duration is about eight hours, which is enough to see the key sights without feeling overly rushed.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

• UNESCO World Heritage Site: Alberobello’s trulli are a must-see for their architectural uniqueness and cultural significance.
• Authentic regional food and wine: The included aperitivo isn’t just a snack — it’s an immersive experience in Puglian culinary traditions.
• Hidden treasures: Visiting a rock-carved site linked to ancient olive oil production adds a layer of authentic history that many travelers miss.
• Small group size: With up to 8 travelers, the experience remains intimate, allowing for personalized attention and easy interaction.

What Could Be Better?

While the day is well-organized, some might find the schedule a bit tight, especially if they enjoy lingering in places. The tour’s emphasis on sightseeing means you won’t get hours for shopping or relaxing, but if you’re after a broad overview, it’s ideal.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a guided or self-guided cultural and scenic outing without the stress of planning. It’s great for those who enjoy historic sights, local food, and scenic views. If you’re someone who appreciates authentic experiences in small groups, this tour offers a good balance of structure and freedom.

It’s not ideal if you’re looking for a very leisurely, unstructured day or if mobility issues limit walking through narrow, uneven streets. But for active travelers eager to explore Puglia’s treasures in a day, it’s a strong choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes a pickup and drop-off service in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.

What’s included in the tour?
You get transportation, a 2-hour guided tour in Alberobello (if you choose guided option), digital audioguide, entry to a rock-carved site, and a reserved table for regional aperitivo.

Can I choose guided or self-guided exploration?
Absolutely. You can opt for a guided experience with a local expert or enjoy self-guided visits with the multilingual audioguide.

How long do we stay at each stop?
Expect about 2 hours in Alberobello, an hour in Ostuni, and a half-hour in Locorotondo, with some flexibility depending on your pace.

Is food included?
Yes, a regional, handmade aperitivo is included in Alberobello, featuring local cheeses, meats, bread, and regional wine.

Are there any hidden costs?
All major costs are included, but personal shopping or additional meals are not. Everything listed in the itinerary is covered.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Since the tour involves walking through old villages and uneven streets, it may not be suitable for all mobility impairments.

This tour offers a well-rounded taste of Puglia, blending UNESCO heritage, picturesque villages, and genuine local flavors in a single day. The small-group format means you’ll get personalized attention, making it easier to ask questions and enjoy a relaxed pace. The inclusion of regional specialties, both in food and wine, makes it more than just sightseeing — it’s an authentic culinary and cultural experience.

Perfect for travelers who want to avoid the hassle of organizing their own transport and guides, and for those eager to discover both the popular sights and lesser-known gems. Just be ready for a full day, and pack comfortable shoes — the cobbled streets and scenic viewpoints demand them.

If you love exploring Italy’s charming small towns with a local touch, this tour is a strong choice — especially if you’re keen on capturing great photos, tasting regional delicacies, and learning a little about Puglia’s traditional craftsmanship.

You can check availability for your dates here: