Apulia is a region that offers more than just stunning coastlines and delicious food. It’s a place where you can get hands-on with local traditions, whether that’s making mozzarella on a family farm, tasting wines in a family-owned cellar, or hunting for rare truffles in the woods. What makes these experiences stand out is their focus on authenticity—they connect you directly to the people, the land, and the culinary heritage of Puglia. One of our favorite tours is the Puglia: Mozzarella Experience at a Apulian Farm, because nothing beats learning cheese-making from locals while surrounded by rolling countryside.
Apulia is a treasure trove for unique, locally-driven tours. Whether you’re into food, wine, history, or outdoor adventures, there’s something to match your interests. On this list, you’ll find options like cheese-making, wine tasting, exploring medieval castles, truffle hunting, and even cooking classes. Each offers a different way to connect with the region’s traditions and natural beauty. Now, let’s take a closer look at each.
1. Puglia: Mozzarella Experience at a Apulian Farm
Set on a family-run farm in Puglia, this Mozzarella Experience is a delightful way to see the cheese-making process firsthand. For around $57 per person, you spend roughly two hours immersed in authentic Italian farm life. The tour begins with a detailed demonstration by cheese-maker Rocco, who shares his 25 years of experience making mozzarella, burrata, and other fresh cheeses. You learn how the curds are stretched and shaped, getting an up-close look at the craft.
What makes this tour special is the combination of education and tasting. You’ll enjoy farm-fresh products right from the source—fresh mozzarella, cured meats, and bread—paired with local wine and water. The farm is home to cows, calves, and other farm animals, giving you a sense of rural life in Puglia. Reviewers rave about Daniela, the guide, who is both passionate and knowledgeable. Many mention the fun atmosphere created by Piero and Rocco, making cheese-making seem almost magical. This tour is ideal for cheese lovers and families alike.
Bottom Line: A fun, educational experience that offers a genuine taste of Puglia’s dairy traditions, with excellent value for money.
2. Salento: Winery Tour and Tasting
For wine enthusiasts, the Salento Winery Tour and Tasting is a perfect half-day outing. Priced at just $36 per person, it lasts about 1.5 hours and takes you inside a family-owned winery in the lush countryside of Salento. You’ll start with a guided visit to the wine cellar, where the guide explains the process of wine production from grape to bottle. Then, you’ll taste three different wines, complemented by traditional Taralli crackers.
What sets this experience apart is the personal touch of a small-scale operation and the opportunity to hear the secrets of Italian winemaking directly from the owner. Visitors mention Beatrice as an engaging guide who makes the story of the wines come alive. The winery’s oak barrels in the cellar and the surrounding vineyards add to the authentic flavor of this tour.
Bottom Line: A cost-effective way to enjoy top-quality wines in a relaxed setting, perfect for those wanting a taste of local life without a long day’s commitment.
3. Andria: Castel Del Monte 1.5-Hour Guided Tour
The Castel del Monte is one of Italy’s most recognizable landmarks—and this guided tour offers a deep dive into its history, architecture, and the genius of Emperor Frederick II. For about $40, you’ll spend 1.5 hours exploring this UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its octagonal shape and blend of Islamic, Romanesque, and Gothic influences.
Your guide brings the castle’s history to life, telling stories about Frederick’s reign and the castle’s purpose. The panoramic views from the top reveal a landscape of olive groves and rocky hills, grounding you in the region’s natural beauty. The castle’s unique design and historical significance make it a must-see for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts.
A reviewer noted the detailed insights about Frederick II and the castle’s architecture, which enriched their understanding of the monument’s importance. This tour suits visitors interested in history, medieval architecture, or UNESCO sites.
Bottom Line: An engaging, educational experience that reveals the architectural and historical intrigue of one of Italy’s most distinctive castles.
4. Truffle Hunting Tour with Tasting
For a truly sensory experience, the Truffle Hunting Tour offers a day in the woods combined with a refined tasting session. Priced upon inquiry, this full-day outing typically begins in Fasano, where you’ll join a local expert and their trained dog for a truffle hunt in the forests of Puglia.
What makes this tour special is its immersive nature—walking through wild landscapes while learning about the tradition of truffle hunting. After the hunt, you’ll enjoy a gourmet tasting of truffle-based dishes, paired with regional wines. The tour emphasizes the natural, authentic process and the cultural importance of truffles in Puglia. Due to its full-day format, it’s perfect for adventurous eaters and nature lovers.
Reviewers highlight the “cozy, natural vibe” and the thrill of finding truffles, combined with the chance to taste exquisite local flavors. This experience is best suited for active travelers who appreciate outdoor pursuits and are prepared for a full day.
Bottom Line: A memorable, hands-on experience for foodies and outdoor enthusiasts eager to connect with Puglia’s truffle tradition.
5. Let’s Cook at Ciculina!
Finally, if you love cooking or want to learn regional recipes, Let’s Cook at Ciculina! offers a two-hour class in a scenic countryside setting. You’ll pick ingredients from their gardens, learn how to prepare traditional dishes, and enjoy your creations with local wine and olive oil.
This hands-on experience is perfect for those who want to take a piece of Puglia home—literally—with recipes and skills. Participants rave about learning how to cook regional specialties and the friendly, welcoming atmosphere. The tour highlights fresh, seasonal ingredients, and the cooking takes place in an authentic rural setting.
Bottom Line: An engaging, practical experience ideal for food lovers who want to go beyond tasting and learn how to recreate Puglia’s classic dishes.
How to Choose the Right Tour
Think about your interests, time, and budget. If cheese fascinates you, the Mozzarella Experience offers a memorable, hands-on activity. For wine lovers, the Salento winery tour is a delight. History buffs should consider the Castel del Monte tour, while outdoor adventurers will enjoy the truffle hunting. Cooking enthusiasts will love the Ciculina class.
Booking early is recommended, especially for popular tours like the cheese experience and truffle hunting, which fill up quickly. Consider your activity level and interests—are you more into tasting, exploring history, or hands-on cooking?
Apulia offers a broad selection of tours that can satisfy a variety of interests. From crafting cheese on a family farm to uncovering medieval secrets in Castel del Monte, there’s a rich tapestry of experiences waiting for you. Whether you prefer a relaxed wine tasting or an active truffle hunt, these tours deliver authentic insights and tasty memories. For a truly rewarding trip, pick your favorite, plan ahead, and enjoy the flavors and stories of Puglia.
