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The 15 Best Tours in Polignano A Mare
Polignano a Mare isn’t just a picture-perfect seaside town with dramatic cliffs and colorful houses. It’s a place where your adventures are as stunning as the views, especially when you choose from the many tours and excursions available. Whether you’re seeking a speedboat ride through sea caves, a culinary walk, or a full-day trip to historic towns like Matera, this charming spot offers plenty of ways to experience its magic.
Among our favorites is the Polignano a Mare: Speedboat Cruise to Caves with Aperitif — a lively, scenic cruise that combines breathtaking coastlines with a relaxing Italian aperitif. It’s perfect for those who love the water, caves, and a taste of local flavor.
We’ve scoured the options to bring you the best tours based on reviews, value, and what makes each one special. From short boat rides to full-day cultural trips, there’s something here for every type of traveler.
1. Polignano a Mare: Speedboat Cruise to Caves with Aperitif
This 2-hour speedboat cruise is a top choice for a quick but unforgettable experience. It covers a route starting at Calaponte Marina and visits Cala Paguro, Lama Monachile Beach, Grotta Palazzese, Grotta Ardito, and several other caves. The highlight is the delicious traditional Italian aperitif served onboard, paired with stunning views of Polignano’s coastline.
The boat’s local skipper and crew are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making guests feel safe and entertained. Many reviews mention how exhilarating it is to go into the caves with the boat’s high gear, accompanied by good music and scenic vistas. The chance to swim in crystal-clear waters and enjoy a relaxing sunbathe makes this tour a fantastic value at just under $40 per person.
Bottom Line: If you want a lively, scenic adventure with excellent reviews, this tour hits the mark. It’s ideal for couples and small groups who want a fast-paced, fun experience on the water.
2. Polignano a Mare: Boat Cave Tour with Aperitif
For around $34, this 1.5-hour boat tour offers a more relaxed exploration of the coast’s caves. Starting from three convenient locations, it includes photo stops at Abbazia di San Vito, Grotta Azzurra, Lama Monachile, and Grotta Palazzese, with local snacks and an aperitif on board.
What makes this tour unique is the opportunity to visit all the major caves along Polignano’s coastline, with the guide providing insights into each site. Guests often appreciate the comfortable boat and the ease of pickup from town. While swimming isn’t included here, the trip’s focus on cave exploration and scenic views is well-loved.
Reviews highlight Dominick’s humor and informative commentary, as well as the convenience of the transfer service. It’s a good fit for travelers seeking a value-focused experience that combines sightseeing and local flavors.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those who want a comprehensive cave tour in a relaxed, friendly setting without the rush.
3. Polignano a Mare: Boat Trip, Swim & Cave with Aperitif
This 1.5-hour guided boat tour combines exploration of sea caves, panoramic views, and a swim in Polignano’s blue waters. The route includes stops at Grotta Palazzese, Grotta Ardito, and other caves, with a refreshing prosecco and aperitif served on board.
Unique to this trip is the emphasis on swimming and relaxing, perfect for travelers who want to experience both adventure and leisure. The guide provides a friendly, informative narration, making the trip educational as well as scenic. Many reviews commend the crystal-clear waters and the opportunity to snap photos of Polignano’s dramatic coastline from the water.
Value is high considering the inclusion of refreshments and swimming, making it a popular choice for families and couples alike.
Bottom Line: If your priority is caves, swimming, and scenic views, this tour offers a balanced, enjoyable experience with positive reviews.
4. Polignano a Mare: Boat Cruise with Prosecco
At number 4, this 1.5-hour speedboat experience combines cave exploration, scenic coastal views, and a glass of Prosecco. It departs from Calaponte Marina and visits highlights like Grotta Azzurra, Grotta Palazzese, and Hermit’s rock, with a focus on luxury and comfort.
Guests rave about the comfortable boat, attentive crew, and the thrilling atmosphere of rushing into caves. The inclusion of Prosecco adds a festive touch, making it perfect for celebrating a special occasion or just indulging in a little luxury. The trip’s value for the price of $47 is notable, especially considering the personalized experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers wanting a luxury feel with scenic cave exploring and the option to toast the coast.
5. Polignano a Mare Boat Tour with Prosecco and Taralli
For $41, this 1.5-hour boat tour offers a relaxed cruise with caves, swimming, and a small aperitif of taralli and Prosecco. The expert guide takes you along the cliffs and caves, with stops for swimming under the cliffs.
Most reviews mention the friendly crew and the beautiful scenery. The snacks and Prosecco add a genuine touch of local hospitality. It’s a great option for those who want to combine coastal sightseeing with a light snack and a refreshing swim.
Bottom Line: This tour suits travelers looking for a laid-back, scenic cruise with good drinks and a friendly atmosphere.
6. Polignano a Mare: Catamaran Tour with Aperitif & Local Food
This 2.5-hour catamaran trip offers the chance to sail along the coastline, dip into the Adriatic, and enjoy local appetizers. The fabulous sheer coastline is a highlight, along with the opportunity to stand-up paddleboard or swim. The crew serves Apulian specialties and drinks, making it a leisurely, gourmet experience.
Reviewers praise the scenic sailing, delicious local food, and the relaxed vibe. It’s ideal for those who want a longer, more luxurious cruise with a focus on sea views and regional flavors.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers interested in sailing, local food, and a laid-back luxury experience.
7. Polignano a Mare: Boat Tour with Prosecco and Snacks
This 1.5-hour tour is a quick yet delightful sightseeing cruise with stops at Grotta Palazzese and Cala Paura. It includes Prosecco and taralli, with a focus on scenic cliffs and cave views.
Reviews note the comfort of the boat and the informative narration, along with nice drinks and photos. It’s a good choice for travelers who want a short, scenic trip with some culinary treats.
Bottom Line: Suitable for those seeking a short, scenic cruise with light refreshments.
8. Polignano a Mare: Street Food Tour with Tastings and Wine
For a culinary deep dive, this 2.5-hour walking tour is perfect. It takes you through Polignano’s streets, tasting focaccia, Panzerotto, burrata, cold cuts, and regional wine. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll learn about the city’s food culture while enjoying panoramic terraces.
Reviewers highlight the delicious food, friendly guide, and relaxed pace. It’s best suited for foodies and culture lovers wanting a more immersive experience.
Bottom Line: If you love local cuisine and want to learn about Polignano’s culinary traditions, this tour is a tasty investment.
9. Monopoli/Bari/Polignano: Matera & Alberobello Full-Day Trip
This 9-hour guided tour takes you beyond Polignano to see UNESCO World Heritage sites in Matera and Alberobello. It includes comfortable transportation from Bari and Polignano, with walking tours and free time.
Reviewers mention the amazing sights of Matera’s Sassi and quaint trulli houses in Alberobello. It’s suitable for history buffs and culture seekers who want an all-in-one day trip.
Bottom Line: A solid choice for those wanting a full-day cultural experience outside the town, with excellent reviews.
10. Polignano Sea Caves: Boat Tour with Snorkeling & Aperitif
This 1.5-hour tour is a favorite for adventurers. It explores hidden caves, includes snorkeling in crystal waters, and offers an aperitif onboard. Departing from two locations, the tour emphasizes exploring the caves and enjoying the underwater scenery.
Guests love the snorkeling opportunities and the informative guides. Some mention the water can be cold, so bring your wetsuit if you’re sensitive.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers who want a combination of cave exploration and snorkeling.
11. Polignano a Mare: Boat Tour with Aperitif
A longer 2-4 hour cruise, this tour takes you around Polignano’s coastline with stops at caves and hidden coves. You’ll enjoy a traditional Italian aperitivo and the chance to swim in the clear waters.
Reviews mention the enchanting coastline views and friendly crew. It’s ideal for those who want a flexible, leisurely experience with plenty of photo opportunities.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers wanting a longer, relaxed boat experience with food and swimming.
12. Polignano a Mare Caves and Grottos Tour by Boat with Spritz
This 2-hour tour is focused on visiting the famous caves and grottos with a refreshing spritz. It starts from Fronte Mare Giuliani and includes visits to significant caves like Grotta Palazzese and Grotta Ardito.
Reviewers rave about the magnificent landscapes, friendly guides, and the chance to float into the caves. It’s ideal for those short on time but wanting a scenic, relaxing experience.
Bottom Line: A solid short option for cave lovers and scenery seekers.
13. Polignano a Mare: Tuk-Tuk Tour Along the Coast
This 40-minute tuk-tuk ride offers a fun, quick tour of Polignano’s cliffs, coves, and beaches. Driven by a friendly local guide, you’ll enjoy panoramic views and learn about the town’s architecture and history.
Reviewers appreciate the personalized attention and photo stops at key viewpoints. It’s great for short sightseeing or first-time visitors.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a quick overview with easy transport.
14. Polignano a Mare: Apulian Cooking Class with Food and Drinks
This 2-hour hands-on cooking class lets you learn to make orecchiette pasta in a traditional home setting. You enjoy your freshly-made meal along with regional drinks afterward.
Reviews highlight the enthusiastic host Daniele, the fun atmosphere, and delicious food. It’s perfect if you want a cultural, culinary experience you can recreate at home.
Bottom Line: A must for food lovers wanting authentic cooking and hands-on fun.
15. Polignano: Coastline Tour With Prosecco And Taralli & Swim
This 2-hour cruise hits many highlights: main grottos, swimming in clear waters, and a toast with Prosecco. It features stunning views of the town and a chance to relax on board.
Guests enjoy the beautiful spots like Hermit’s rock, and reviews praise the contact with nature and local snacks. It’s great for short trips and those seeking a scenic, refreshing escape.
Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers who want a short, scenic, and refreshing boat ride with a casual vibe.
How to Choose Your Perfect Tour
When deciding which tour suits you best, think about your budget, time, and interests. If you love water, caves, and a lively atmosphere, the Speedboat Cruise with Aperitif offers a quick, fun adventure. For those wanting a more relaxed exploration, the Boat Cave Tour with Aperitif or the Boat with Prosecco might be ideal.
If your focus is on culinary experiences, the Street Food Tour or Cooking Class will deepen your appreciation of local flavors. For full-day excursions, the Matera and Alberobello trip provides a comprehensive cultural outing.
Consider seasonality too; summer offers perfect weather for boat trips and swimming, while spring or fall might be better for shorter or cultural walks. Booking early is wise, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred time.
Final Thoughts
Polignano a Mare offers a diverse range of tours that cater to water lovers, foodies, and culture seekers alike. Whether you opt for the vibrant speedboat cruise, the culinary street food tour, or the full-day journey to ancient towns, each experience promises a memorable slice of southern Italy’s charm.
For travelers chasing adrenaline, the sea caves and snorkeling adventures are unbeatable. If you prefer a leisurely day with local flavors, the food and wine tours won’t disappoint. And for families or first-timers, shorter, scenic routes like the Tuk-Tuk tour or short boat rides are perfect.
Whatever your interests, booking your tour early will ensure you don’t miss out on the unique sights of Polignano a Mare. With these options, you’re all set to make the most of your time in this stunning coastal town.
