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Things to do in Apulia

Our most recommended things to do in Apulia

Matera: Guided Tour of Sassi di Matera

1. Matera: Guided Tour of Sassi di Matera

Embark on a day out in Sassi and explore the ancient neighbourhoods with a live guide. See a series of grottoes carved out of limestone and marvel at the Sasso Barisano and the Sasso Caveoso. Your tour will begin at the meeting point in Via Alessandro Volta. From here, your expert guide will lead you to the Church of San Francesco, situated in the historic centre of the city. Next, you’ll continue along a panoramic road comprised of narrow streets and winding alleys. After arriving at the Rupestre Church of Sant'Antonio Abate, you’ll find a pleasant surprise waiting inside: a classic example of the traditional culture of this remarkable city. Afterwards, you’ll move on to visit a typical Matera cave-house before continuing along Via Madonna delle Virtù and Porta Pistoia "Pert P’stèl" to conclude your cultural adventure.

Polignano a Mare: Speedboat Cruise to Caves with Aperitif

2. Polignano a Mare: Speedboat Cruise to Caves with Aperitif

Embark on a relaxing cruise along the coast of Polignano a Mare. Sail on a 6.5-meter speedboat to some of the best caves in the area and choose between a private and a group experience. Meet the local skipper and crew in the Cala Ponte Marina and set sail for the caves. Admire these natural features only accessible by boat. Cruise past 11 km of coastline and take in views of the city from a unique perspective. During the cruise, stop at the best places for swimming and dive straight into the crystal-clear water. Alternatively, stay dry on the boat and soak up the sun rays or enjoy a traditional Italian aperitif on board. At the end of your experience, return to the Carla Ponte Marina

Polignano a Mare: Boat Cave Tour with Aperitif

3. Polignano a Mare: Boat Cave Tour with Aperitif

Set sail along a stretch of the Adriatic Sea from Polignano a Mare to admire the coastal caves by sea. Stop to peek into sea grottoes like Grotta Azzurra, Grotta Piana, Cala Paura, and more. Take a dip in hidden coves with the floatation devices provided and enjoy an aperitif onboard. Explore the many caves that dot the coast of Polignano a Mare on a relaxing boat tour. Enjoy an aperitif, make frequent stops to swim in the crystal-clear waters, and soak up the dramatic views of the coast. Set sail from the small port of San Vito and begin your tour of the main caves, including Grotta Palazzese, Grotta Santa Caterina, Grotta Chiari di Luna, Grotta delle Rondinelle, Cala Paura/Grottone, Grotta Azzurra, Grotta Piana, and more. Stop for a swimming break in one of the most beautiful places on Polignano's coast and indulge in a delicious Prosecco-based aperitif during the cruise. Soak up the sunshine on deck or relax under a parasol. Take advantage of the ladders and floats for both adults and children. At the end of the tour, return to the departure point.

Polignano a Mare: Boat Cave Tour with Aperitif

4. Polignano a Mare: Boat Cave Tour with Aperitif

Grotta delle Rondinelle, grotta Azzurra, grotta Ardito, grotta Palazzese. Discover the most hidden secrets with this exclusive and thrilling cruise along the Polignano a Mare coast. Meet the skipper and crew at the "Cala Ponte Marina" tourist port and sail along the 12 km of coast, admire the city from the water and discover these natural wonders accessible only by sea. Stop at the most scenic spots to swim, immerse yourself in the crystal-clear waters, or relax on the boat while sunbathing. If you wish, enjoy a traditional Italian aperitif on board. Experience an unforgettable adventure and admire the caves and the city from a unique perspective.

Polignano a Mare: Boat Trip, Swim & Cave with Aperitif

5. Polignano a Mare: Boat Trip, Swim & Cave with Aperitif

Experience a wonderful day at sea on a guided boat trip departing from Polignano a Mare. Visit the coast, coves, and sea caves, take a refreshing dip in the ocean and savor a small aperitif. Choose from a shared or private option based on whether you prefer privacy or the chance to meet others. As you hop on board, be greeted by the staff, who will provide you with towels, snorkeling equipment, and personalized glasses. Discover the magnificent coast of Polignano and see the statue dedicated to Domenico Modugno. Next, make your way to the beautiful bay of Lama Monachile. Explore the Palazzese Grotto and see the Island of the Hermit (San Paolo Island), before taking a dip in the pristine waters of Apulia. After a refreshing swim, toast with a complimentary prosecco and Apulian taralli on the way back to Polignano a Mare.

Polignano a Mare: Catamaran Tour with Aperitif & Local Food

6. Polignano a Mare: Catamaran Tour with Aperitif & Local Food

At the beginning of the tour it is possible to admire the splendid Lama Monachile with its characteristic Bourbon bridge and the splendid location of the Red Bull Cliff Diving competition. The catamaran then continues sailing near the historic center of Polignano a Mare, where it is possible to observe its caves under it, the rock of the Hermit (islet of San Paolo) and cala Portalga. Afterwards we sail towards a stop on the beaches between Polignano a Mare and Monopoli to be able to swim and taste the typical Apulian aperitif. During the stop you can use the paddle boards on board

Matera: Guided Walking Tour

7. Matera: Guided Walking Tour

You will meet a local tour guide in the main square, Piazza Vittorio Veneto, where you'll begin your walking tour admiring the landscape of the historic center from unique viewpoints. Then the tour will lead you through the historic center, covering topics of Matera history on the way. Matera is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has been chosen as the 2019 European Capital of Culture, an important acknowledgment for its history and beauty which has been carved in stone.  Walking among the "Sassi" (the ancient neighborhoods of Sasso Barisano e Sasso Caveoso), you will discover the cave houses and churches carved in the rock, as well as the newly restored Cathedral. From the Cathedral which is built on a high point of the hill, you will enjoy enchanting views over the historic center and of Murgia Materana Park, an area characterized by hills and Mediterranean vegetation.  Over the course of 2 hours, you will be completely immersed in a magical unique land, seeing all of the major sights of Matera.

Alberobello: Walking Tour with Food Tasting and Aperitif

8. Alberobello: Walking Tour with Food Tasting and Aperitif

Enjoy a pleasant tour with aperitif through Alberobello. Try a pleasant walk in Alberobello that is just what you need to get to know the city and its secular splendor and heritage! Together with a guide, discover the different ways to enjoy the Apulian aperitif, all accompanied by high-quality products. During the tour you will taste different versions of the aperitivo: Apulian wine: Italy is the homeland of wine and around Alberobello there are many wineries that have their own premises and styles of production. This tour presents a selection of the best labels among the Apulian wineries. Apulian cheeses: in the setting of a unique location, you will taste the best typical cheeses and dairy products and learn about their organoleptic characteristics, the preparation techniques, which make them so exquisite. Platters of cured meats and pickles: the stage includes a wide choice of cured meats, gourmet "bruschetta" and "sottoli", vegetable preserves prepared with extra virgin olive oil. Explore the city center with our Alberobello walking tour: discover the magnificence of one of the most fascinating cities in the world and its centuries-old heritage, with a pleasant relaxed walk among the Trulli

Lecce: Baroque Architecture and Underground Walking Tour

9. Lecce: Baroque Architecture and Underground Walking Tour

The tour starts with a visit to the majestic Santa Croce Church, the jewel in the crown of Lecce’s Baroque architecture. From here, explore the nearby Piazza Sant’Oronzo, the former market square where you can find the Old Town Hall, the Roman Column, and the remains of a huge Roman amphitheater. Continue the tour with a walk through the Corso Vittorio Emanuele, which boasts a stunning Baroque palazzi and the recently restored Sant’Irene Church. Arrive at the breathtaking Piazza Duomo next, one of the most critically praised buildings in Italy. See the Archbishop’s Residence, the Seminary, the Bell Tower, and the cathedral. Finally, visit the underground Jewish Museum and discover the town’s fascinating Jewish history.

Lecce: Walking Tour

10. Lecce: Walking Tour

Immerse yourself in the Baroque architecture of Lecce on this guided walking tour. Discover the art and culture of the city's churches, antique buildings, and papier-machè masterpieces. Your tour begins from Sant'Oronzo square, where you will find a Roman Amphitheater which was first discovered at the beginning of the 20th Century. The itinerary goes on to the historic center, which is rich with churches and old buildings decorated by Baroque Art. During the tour, it will be possible to look at papier-machè artisans at work. This kind of art belongs to Lecce from the 17th Century, when it was conceived to decorate churches, back when the paper was the only material available. It continues to adorn the houses and the churches of this magical city thanks to old masters and young people.

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What people are saying about Apulia

Overall rating

4.7 / 5

based on 4,864 reviews

Versailles was beautiful

The guide was fantastic and very interesting - very capable of answering all of our questions and giving such engaging talks! Made us feel very safe whilst cycling in an unknown area, and showed us the prettiest and most interesting of views. Food fantastic! I love Focaccia. Was our favourite thing to do whilst in Italy, and if we go back we would absolutely do it again!!

Teresa is amazing! She gave us such unforgottable impressionen of Bari. Happy 3 hours with her and a professional knowledge of the city! TERESA is the best!

A comfortable ride around the countryside with Stefano explaining about his country and the towns we were visiting. A fantastic day!

Our guide Stella was knowledable and very interesting. We both have learnt a lot and it made our stay special.

This tour was great. We had so much fun. Charlotte that was our guide. She was funny and helpful.