The Puglia region of Italy is a captivating destination, renowned for its charming towns and rich cultural heritage. This guided tour from Lecce offers an immersive exploration of three standout destinations: Ostuni, Alberobello, and Polignano a Mare. Travelers can expect to discover the unique architectural features of these towns, from the whitewashed buildings of Ostuni to the UNESCO-listed Trulli houses in Alberobello. With a knowledgeable driver providing insights throughout the journey, this small-group tour promises a personalized and convenient way to uncover the highlights of this captivating region. But what secrets do these towns hold, and what hidden gems might visitors uncover along the way?
Key Points
- This small group tour from Lecce explores the charming towns of Ostuni, Alberobello, and Polignano a Mare in the Puglia region.
- The tour provides a personalized experience with a professional driver, hotel pickup/drop-off, and highlights the unique architectural and cultural heritage of the destinations.
- Itinerary includes 75-minute stops in each town, with an optional 45-minute lunch break in Alberobello, the UNESCO World Heritage site known for its distinctive Trulli houses.
- Visitors can explore the historical centers, whitewashed buildings, maze-like alleyways, and enjoy panoramic views in the towns.
- The tour may present challenges for individuals with limited mobility due to the uneven terrain, stairs, and cobblestone streets in the destinations.
Tour Overview
This tour offers a chance to explore the charming towns of Ostuni, Alberobello, and Polignano a Mare, known for their unique architectural and cultural heritage.
Over the course of 8 hours, you will be transported from Lecce to visit these three destinations, with ample time for sightseeing, shopping, and an optional lunch in Alberobello.
The tour is limited to a small group of 8 people, ensuring a personalized experience.
Highlights include the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Alberobello and its iconic Trulli houses, the picturesque coastal town of Polignano a Mare, and the whitewashed buildings of Ostuni.
With hotel pickup and drop-off, and a professional driver providing historical insights, this tour is a convenient and immersive way to discover the Puglia region.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Lecce.
Pickup and Itinerary
The tour begins with pickup from your hotel or accommodation in Lecce, a 50-minute drive to the first destination.
From there, the itinerary unfolds, allowing ample time to explore the charming centers of Ostuni, Alberobello, and Polignano a Mare.
You’ll spend 75 minutes exploring Ostuni, followed by 75 minutes in Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its distinctive trulli houses.
An optional 45-minute lunch break in Alberobello is available for an extra fee.
The final stop is Polignano a Mare, where you’ll have 75 minutes to wander and shop.
The tour then returns to Lecce, a 70-minute drive from Polignano a Mare.
Exploring Ostuni
Visitors first explore the charming historical center of Ostuni, strolling along its whitewashed buildings and medieval streets.
The city, known as the ‘White City,’ is perched atop a hill overlooking the Adriatic Sea. Guests wander through the maze-like alleyways, admiring the unique architecture and stopping to browse the local shops and boutiques.
The Ostuni Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic and Romanesque styles, is a must-see landmark. Travelers can also enjoy the panoramic views from the city’s walls and squares.
With its picturesque setting and rich history, Ostuni offers a delightful introduction to the region’s traditional culture and charm.
Discovering Alberobello
Next, travelers venture to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Alberobello, a charming town renowned for its unique conical-roofed houses called Trulli.
These ancient stone structures, with their whitewashed walls and distinctive pinnacle tops, create a truly captivating and well-preserved historic center.
Visitors can wander through the maze-like streets, marveling at the distinctive architecture and stopping to browse the local shops and artisan workshops showcasing traditional Puglian crafts.
The tour provides ample time to explore Alberobello at leisure, allowing travelers to soak in the town’s timeless ambiance and unique character.
Whether it’s admiring the Trulli, discovering local artisanal products, or simply soaking up the laid-back atmosphere, Alberobello offers a delightful and memorable experience.
More Great Tours NearbyOptional Lunch in Alberobello
After exploring the charming Trulli houses, visitors have the option to enjoy a local lunch in Alberobello, indulging in the flavors of traditional Puglian cuisine.
This 45-minute stop allows travelers to refuel and further enjoy the town’s authentic culinary culture. The lunch is an optional extra fee, giving guests the flexibility to choose whether they’d like to participate.
It’s a great way to sample regional dishes and specialties while surrounded by the unique architectural landscape of Alberobello. Whether it’s a simple yet delicious pasta dish, fresh seafood, or a sampling of local cheeses and meats, this midday meal is a highlight of the tour for many visitors.
Visiting Polignano a Mare
Following the exploration of Alberobello, the tour then takes travelers to the coastal town of Polignano a Mare, renowned for its picturesque old town and dramatic seaside cliffs. Visitors will have 75 minutes to freely explore this charming destination.
The historic center with its whitewashed buildings, narrow alleyways, and lively piazzas.
The famous Lama Monachile, a stunning beach tucked into a rocky cove with crystal-clear waters.
Numerous boutiques, artisan shops, and cafes perfect for shopping and dining.
Panoramic views from the town’s clifftops, offering breathtaking vistas of the Adriatic Sea.
After soaking in the atmosphere of Polignano a Mare, the tour will depart for the return journey to Lecce.
Transportation and Inclusions
The tour is conducted by a professional driver who provides historical information to participants throughout the journey.
Transportation is provided via a comfortable minivan, and hotel pickup and drop-off in Lecce are included in the tour package. This ensures a hassle-free experience for travelers, allowing them to focus on exploring the charming towns without worrying about logistics.
The tour also includes visits to the highlights of each destination, such as the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Alberobello and its historic center of Trulli houses.
However, food, drinks, and accommodations aren’t included, so you will need to budget for these additional expenses.
Mobility Considerations
While the tour offers an engaging exploration of southern Italy’s picturesque towns, it may not be suitable for individuals with significant mobility limitations. The destinations involve navigating uneven terrain, stairs, and cobblestone streets, which could present challenges for those with limited mobility or use of assistive devices. Potential participants should carefully consider their physical capabilities before booking this tour to ensure they can fully participate and enjoy the experience.
The tour may pose difficulties for those with:
- Limited walking ability
- Difficulty navigating stairs or inclines
- Reliance on wheelchairs or walkers
- Concerns about uneven or cobblestone surfaces
Individuals with mobility concerns are advised to discuss their specific needs with the tour operator to determine if this excursion is suitable for them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?
The tour itinerary can’t be customized, as it’s a pre-designed group tour with a fixed schedule. However, travelers may have the option to explore the towns independently during the free time allotted in the itinerary.
Is There a Minimum Number of Participants Required?
The tour has a small group size, limited to 8 participants. There is no minimum number of participants required to run the tour. The small group size allows for a more personalized experience.
Do You Provide Child Seats or Booster Seats?
Yes, the tour provider offers child seats and booster seats for children upon request. Parents or guardians are responsible for ensuring their child is properly secured during the tour in accordance with local safety regulations.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Guests are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, the tour doesn’t include a lunch stop, so guests should plan accordingly. Purchasing lunch in Alberobello is an optional extra fee.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
The tour duration can be extended, but this would require an additional fee. Travelers should contact the tour operator to inquire about extending the tour length and the associated costs. The standard tour duration is 8 hours.
Recap
This tour offers an immersive exploration of Puglia’s charming towns.
Travelers can discover the unique architecture, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and local culture of Ostuni, Alberobello, and Polignano a Mare.
The small-group format ensures a personalized experience, with a driver providing insights throughout the tour, making it a convenient way to explore the highlights of this captivating region.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Tours in Lecce
More Tour Reviews in Lecce
- Lecce: Taranto and Manduria Winery Tour with Wine Tasting
- Lecce: Baroque Architecture and Underground Walking Tour
- Lecce Home Cooking Class: Craft Orecchiette & Savor Wine
- CAVES LEUCA TOUR WITH SKIPPER 3 HOURS
- Lecce: Baroque Walking Tour with Personal Shopper
- Corso di Pizzica : ballo tipico salentino con degustazione
Not for you? Here's more nearby things to do in Lecce we have reviewed
- Lecce: Taranto and Manduria Winery Tour with Wine Tasting
- Lecce: Baroque Architecture and Underground Walking Tour
- Lecce Home Cooking Class: Craft Orecchiette & Savor Wine
- CAVES LEUCA TOUR WITH SKIPPER 3 HOURS
- Lecce: Baroque Walking Tour with Personal Shopper
- Corso di Pizzica : ballo tipico salentino con degustazione
- Lecce: Guided Street Food Walking Tour with Food and Wine
- Lecce: Alberobello, Locorotondo, Ostuni & Apulian Brunch
- Unusual Lecce: Stories, Alleys, and Stone Lace
- Lecce: Tour Salento coast to coast
- Lecce: Traditional Pasta Cooking Class with Wine
- Lecce: Guided Sightseeing Walking Tour