Itria Valley: Polignano, Ostuni and Locorotondo, From Bari

The Itria Valley, a picturesque region in Puglia, offers a captivating tour that showcases three of its most enchanting towns – Polignano a Mare, Ostuni, and Locorotondo. This comprehensive day trip from Bari promises an immersive experience, allowing visitors to explore the unique architectural styles, charming streets, and local culinary delights that make this corner of Italy truly special. With comfortable transportation and self-guided explorations, this tour provides an ideal way to discover the rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty that define the Itria Valley.

Key Points

• A 7.5-to-10-hour tour of the Itria Valley, including visits to the picturesque towns of Polignano a Mare, Ostuni, and Locorotondo.
• Polignano a Mare, known as the "Pearl of the Adriatic," offers self-guided exploration of its historic center and dramatic limestone cliffs.
• Ostuni, the "White City," features a Romanesque-Gothic cathedral and panoramic viewpoints of the surrounding countryside.
• Locorotondo, renowned for its circular architecture and DOC white wine production, is known for its charming, flower-adorned streets.
• The tour departs from two starting points in Bari and includes transportation via air-conditioned GT bus between the three locations.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Itria Valley: Polignano, Ostuni, and Locorotondo tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of some of the most charming and historically significant destinations in southern Italy.

Discover the charming and historically significant destinations of southern Italy’s Itria Valley on this comprehensive tour.

Priced from $65.12 per person, the tour lasts 7.5 to 10 hours, providing ample time for self-guided explorations of each location.

Flexible booking options and a generous 24-hour cancellation policy add convenience.

Transportation is via air-conditioned GT bus, and informative brochures are provided.

Based on 35 reviews, the tour earns a 4.3/5 rating, with praise for the guide’s expertise and the insightful location notes.

Itinerary

Travelers have two convenient starting points to choose from – Parcheggio retro stazione or Camera di Commercio, Industria, Artigianato e Agricoltura.

The tour begins with a 2-hour self-guided exploration of Polignano a Mare, known as the Pearl of the Adriatic for its historic center and stunning coastal scenery.

Next, participants spend 2.5 hours discovering the whitewashed houses and Romanesque-Gothic cathedral of Ostuni, the White City.

The final stop is Locorotondo, where visitors have 2 hours to admire the town’s circular architecture and cummerse houses, recognized for its historic center’s harmony.

Transportation by air-conditioned GT bus is provided between locations.

Highlights of Polignano a Mare

Renowned as the Pearl of the Adriatic, Polignano a Mare captivates visitors with its historic center steeped in Arab, Byzantine, Spanish, and Norman influences.

Perched atop dramatic limestone cliffs, the town offers breathtaking views of the crystal-clear Adriatic Sea and its picturesque beaches. Visitors can explore the charming old town with its winding alleys, whitewashed buildings, and quaint shops and cafes.

One of the must-visit sites is the iconic Lama Monachile beach, known for its natural arch formation carved into the cliffs.

Polignano a Mare’s unique blend of history, natural beauty, and coastal charm make it a highlight of the Itria Valley tour.

Highlights of Ostuni

Ostuni, aptly nicknamed the "White City," captivates visitors with its whitewashed houses, stunning panoramic views, and the impressive Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta – a breathtaking Romanesque-Gothic architectural masterpiece.

This historic city offers a unique blend of charm and history, inviting exploration:

• The winding streets and alleyways of the old town provide a picturesque backdrop, with the gleaming white buildings creating a serene and captivating atmosphere.

• The Cathedral, with its striking facade and ornate interior, stands as a testament to the city’s rich cultural heritage.

• Panoramic viewpoints offer breathtaking vistas of the surrounding countryside, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the beauty of Ostuni.

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Highlights of Locorotondo

Locorotondo, a picturesque town in the Itria Valley, is renowned for its circular architecture and cummerse houses, which have earned it the prestigious Orange Flag award for the harmony and usability of its historic center.

Visitors can explore the narrow, winding streets, admiring the whitewashed buildings and charming balconies adorned with flowers. The town center features a distinctive circular layout, with houses arranged in a concentric pattern.

Locorotondo is also known for its production of DOC white wines, which can be sampled in local cellars and restaurants, offering a delightful complement to the town’s architectural beauty.

Transportation and Support

The tour includes Gt bus transportation with air conditioning, ensuring a comfortable journey between the various destinations.

Travelers are provided with an informational brochure to gain insights on each location, enhancing their overall experience.

Plus, the tour offers 24-hour support for travelers, allowing them to address any questions or concerns that may arise during the excursion.

The combination of reliable transportation, informative resources, and dedicated support ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience for all participants throughout the Itria Valley exploration.

• Gt bus transportation with air conditioning

• Informational brochure provided for insights on each location

• 24-hour support for travelers

Customer Reviews

The tour’s overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars based on 35 reviews reflects the generally positive feedback from participants.

Travelers praised the organization and communication from the guide, Francesco, as well as the informative notes provided.

However, some expressed concerns regarding discrepancies between the advertised guide and time allocation at each location.

Despite these minor issues, the tour appears to offer a comprehensive exploration of the Itria Valley region, allowing visitors to experience the historic and architectural highlights of Polignano a Mare, Ostuni, and Locorotondo.

Getting to the Starting Points

Reaching the starting points for the Itria Valley tour is a straightforward process.

The tour offers two convenient departure locations:

• Parcheggio retro stazione (the parking lot behind the train station) – an ideal option for those arriving by train or bus.

• Camera di Commercio, Industria, Artigianato e Agricoltura (the Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Crafts and Agriculture) – centrally located and easily accessible for those staying in Bari.

The tour bus, equipped with air conditioning, will depart from whichever starting point you choose, ensuring a comfortable and efficient journey to explore the charming towns of the Itria Valley.

Ask Away

Is There an Option to Customize the Tour?

The tour offers a set itinerary, but there may be opportunities to customize the experience. Travelers should consult with the tour operator to discuss any specific requests or modifications to the standard program.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Travelers are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, it’s recommended to check with the tour operator in advance, as some may have restrictions or suggest buying refreshments locally to support the visited communities.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

The tour operator does not currently offer any discounts for seniors or students. However, the overall pricing of $65.12 per person is considered reasonable for the extensive itinerary and transportation provided. It’s best to inquire directly for any potential promotions or special offers.

How Often Do the Buses Run Between the Locations?

The buses are scheduled to transport travelers between the tour locations at set intervals, though the exact frequency is not specified. Travelers should expect transportation to be provided seamlessly throughout the self-guided tours at each destination.

What Happens if I Miss the Return Bus at the End of the Tour?

If a traveler misses the return bus at the end of the tour, the tour operator provides 24-hour support to assist them in arranging alternate transportation back to the original departure point or their accommodation, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience.

Final Words

The Itria Valley tour from Bari offers an immersive exploration of three captivating towns, each with its own distinct charm. From the dramatic cliffs of Polignano a Mare to the whitewashed streets of Ostuni and the unique circular architecture of Locorotondo, this 7.5 to 10-hour journey provides a well-rounded experience, with comfortable transportation ensuring a memorable day. Whether seeking history, architecture, or local wine, this tour delivers an unforgettable glimpse into the beauty of southern Italy.

You can check availability for your dates here: