Vespa scenic tour: Trulli and Countryside with tastings in Itria Valley

If you’re after a way to see some of Italy’s most iconic sights while feeling the wind in your hair and the sun on your face, this Vespa tour through Puglia’s Itria Valley might be just the ticket. It offers a delightful mix of riding through historic villages, discovering UNESCO World Heritage sites, and sampling local flavors—all wrapped up in a roughly 7 to 8-hour adventure. And yes, you get to do it on a Vespa, which makes for an experience that’s as fun as it is scenic.

What we really love about this tour is how it combines authentic local culture with the freedom of riding a Vespa through the breathtaking countryside. You’ll visit the famous trulli of Alberobello—those quirky, cone-shaped houses that are instantly recognizable—and wander the charming white streets of Locorotondo. Plus, the scenic stop at Selva di Fasano promises some fantastic photo ops. On the downside, the price might seem a bit steep for some, but judging by the reviews, many find the experience highly worthwhile, especially given the inclusion of guided visits, tastings, and the Vespa rental.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want to combine adventure, culture, and gastronomy in one day. If you’re comfortable riding a Vespa or willing to learn, and eager to see Puglia’s most picturesque spots, this trip is a great way to do it. Just keep in mind that it’s not suitable for children under 6 or those without a driver’s license, so it’s mainly for adults or responsible teens.

Key Points

• Authentic Vespa experience riding through scenic villages and countryside
• Visit UNESCO-listed Alberobello with a guided tour of the trulli
• Enjoy tastings of local specialties like Panino Pasqualino and regional products
• Stunning photo stops in Selva di Fasano and Locorotondo
• All-inclusive rental with helmets, insurance, and fuel
• Duration of 7 to 8 hours offers a full but manageable day
• Expert guides enhance the experience with local insights
• Flexible start options and careful attention to safety and assistance

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Vespa Trulli and Countryside Tour

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins in Polignano a Mare, a charming town famous for its dramatic cliffs and seaside charm. You can choose between two different starting locations—either Pugliamare or Largo Eroi del Mare. This flexibility makes it easier to fit into your travel plans. After a brief introduction, you’re handed your Vespa, helmet, and insurance, setting the stage for a day of adventure.

The group size appears to be manageable, with reviews mentioning small groups (about six people), which helps keep the experience intimate and personalized. The tour lasts roughly 7 to 8 hours, which includes plenty of time for sightseeing, tastings, and photo stops, but it’s not so long that your legs will tire of riding or your mind will grow bored.

The Scenic Ride Over Cliffs and Countryside

The ride kicks off with a scenic drive along Polignano’s cliffs, offering stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. It’s a gentle warm-up that gets everyone comfortable with the Vespa before heading inland. As you leave the coast behind, the landscape transforms into rolling vineyards, olive groves, and stone farmhouses—classic Puglian scenery that’s a joy to experience on a Vespa.

Alberobello and the Trulli

The highlight for many is Alberobello, a UNESCO site packed with trulli—whitewashed, cone-roofed houses that look like they belong in a fairy tale. A local guide accompanies you here for a detailed visit, helping you understand the history and construction of these unique dwellings. The visit includes a walk through the historic district, where narrow streets wind between the trulli, creating perfect photo opportunities.

A special treat is the tasting of Panino Pasqualino, a local delicacy that can only be enjoyed in this region. Many reviewers love this part, emphasizing the authenticity of the experience. One reviewer notes, “Our guide was excellent and very knowledgeable about the regions we visited,” adding that the guide’s insights made the visit even more memorable.

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Locorotondo: White Houses and Flavors

Next, the tour takes you to Locorotondo, often ranked among Italy’s most beautiful villages. Its whitewashed houses, flower-filled balconies, and winding streets create a postcard-perfect backdrop. Here, you’ll have the chance to enjoy a tasting of local products, enjoying the flavors that make Puglia special. Walking through Locorotondo is like stepping back in time, with its peaceful pace and charming architecture.

Scenic Stop at Selva di Fasano

The journey continues to Selva di Fasano, a scenic rural area offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Itria Valley. This stop is perfect for capturing spectacular photos, with rolling hills and the patchwork of vineyards and olive groves stretching into the distance. It’s a quiet, peaceful spot that emphasizes the natural beauty of the region.

Return and Reflection

After a full day, your Vespa ride takes you back to Polignano a Mare. Many reviewers mention leaving with “a heart full of emotions,” grateful for the opportunity to see and taste some of Puglia’s best in a way that’s both active and relaxed. The tour ends at the same location you started, making logistics straightforward.

Values and Practicalities

Price and Value

At around $103 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive experience. Your fee includes Vespa rental, helmets, insurance, fuel, and guided visits, plus tastings—everything needed for a worry-free day. Given the inclusion of local expert guides and the access to UNESCO sites, most find the price justified.

Tour Duration and Group Size

The 7-8 hour structure balances sightseeing and relaxation, making it suitable for a full but not exhausting day. Small group sizes enhance the experience, allowing for personalized attention and more room for questions and interaction. The tour’s flexibility with starting points and the option for additional transfers or hotel pickup (upon request) adds to its convenience.

What to Bring and Restrictions

You must have a driver’s license to ride the Vespa—no exceptions. The tour advises you to bring it along, along with comfortable clothing suitable for riding. Large luggage isn’t permitted, and alcohol and drugs are strictly off-limits, ensuring safety for everyone.

Weather Considerations

While the reviews mention some rain, many still found the experience memorable. Being prepared for weather variations—especially in spring or fall—is wise, as rain can dampen the ride but also adds a bit of adventure.

Authentic Experiences That Stand Out

The knowledgeable guides are frequently praised, often called “excellent and very helpful,” which makes a significant difference in understanding local culture and history. The combination of guided tours, scenic drives, and tastings means you’re not just riding but truly engaging with Puglia’s traditions.

The scenic stops, especially at Selva di Fasano and Locorotondo, elevate the experience from a simple sightseeing trip to a memorable immersion in Italy’s scenic and culinary heritage. The tastings, particularly of regional products and local specialties like Pasqualino, give you a taste of what makes this region unique.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This Vespa tour suits travelers who want an active, engaging way to explore Puglia’s iconic villages and landscapes. It’s ideal if you’re comfortable on a scooter or willing to learn, eager to combine sightseeing with local flavors, and enjoy a bit of adventure. It’s a fantastic choice for those who like small-group experiences, personalized guides, and scenic photo opportunities.

However, it’s not suitable for children under 6, or for anyone without a valid driver’s license or who isn’t comfortable riding a scooter. If you prefer a more relaxed, less mobile experience, you might seek other ways to explore, but if you’re looking for fun, authentic, and scenic, this tour ticks many boxes.

FAQ

Do I need a driver’s license?
Yes, you must have a valid driver’s license to ride the Vespa on this tour.

Are helmets and insurance included?
Absolutely. Helmets and insurance are included in the rental, ensuring safety and peace of mind.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts about 7 to 8 hours, including sightseeing, tastings, and photo stops.

What are the start and end points?
You can start from either Pugliamare or Largo Eroi del Mare, with the tour ending back at the starting point.

Can I join if I’ve never ridden a Vespa before?
Many reviewers mention assistance and help from guides, making it suitable for beginners willing to learn.

What should I bring?
Bring your driver’s license, comfortable clothing, and perhaps a camera for all the photo ops.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, not suitable for children under 6 or drivers under 16 years old.

Is there an option for hotel pickup?
Pickup is not included but can be arranged upon request.

What if it rains?
Heavy rain might be inconvenient, but many find the experience still worthwhile. Be prepared with weather-appropriate gear.

Final Thoughts

This Vespa tour through the heart of Puglia offers a genuinely enjoyable way to combine scenic beauty, cultural insight, and local flavors in a single day. With knowledgeable guides, stunning stops, and the thrill of riding a Vespa, it’s well-suited for those looking for a lively and authentic experience. The inclusion of tastings and visits to UNESCO sites makes it more than just a scenic ride—it’s a well-rounded immersion into the charm of the Itria Valley.

Whether you’re a seasoned scooter rider or a curious first-timer, this experience provides a unique perspective on Puglia’s landscape and traditions. It’s especially perfect for travelers who value hands-on adventures and want to create memorable stories from their trip.

In the end, if you’re ready for a lively, picturesque, and flavor-filled day on two wheels, this Vespa tour is definitely worth considering. Just keep your license handy, and prepare for a delightful ride through Italy’s beautiful south.

You can check availability for your dates here: