Discovering the Apulian beauties Lecce and Ostuni

If you’re looking to get a taste of Italy’s southern soul, this tour combining Ostuni and Lecce might be exactly what you need. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, the detailed itinerary and reviews suggest it’s an engaging way to see two of Puglia’s most captivating towns without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. It offers a blend of striking landscapes, impressive architecture, and cultural insights—all in just over eight hours.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the transportation is comfy and air-conditioned, making the long drives pleasant even on warm days, which are common in Italy’s south. Second, you’ll have the chance to explore both towns at your own pace, thanks to free time at each stop. That said, the tour’s one possible downside is the staircases in Lecce, which can be tricky for those with mobility issues.

If you enjoy combining scenic drives with cultural sightseeing—and you’re okay with walking and some stairs—this tour suits travelers who appreciate a well-organized day without the stress of navigation. It’s especially good for those wanting a taste of Salento’s beauty and history in a single day.

Key Points

• Comfortable transport with air conditioning and Wi-Fi, making the journey relaxed.
• Two iconic towns: Ostuni’s whitewashed charm and Lecce’s baroque splendor.
• Flexible exploration time at each stop, allowing personal discovery.
• Knowledgeable guides add context and local tips to enhance the experience.
• Moderate walking — especially stairs in Lecce — so consider your mobility.
• Good value for around $120, given the included transportation, free time, and scenic views.

An Honest Look at the Tour

This tour offers a practical way to see some of Puglia’s highlights, especially if you’re short on time but want more than just a quick glance. Starting from Bari, the journey to Ostuni takes about an hour, giving you a quick but comfortable drive. Once you arrive, you’re free to wander Ostuni’s famous white-painted streets, which we loved for their bright, welcoming vibe. The views from the hilltop are particularly striking—think sweeping countryside and glimpses of the sea in the distance.

The free exploration time at Ostuni, about an hour and a half, is enough to soak in the atmosphere, take photos, or grab a quick coffee. The guide stays with the group, but you’re encouraged to venture out at your own pace. As one reviewer noted, “Ostuni is an experience that immerses you completely in the authentic beauty of a historic Italian town.” Just be aware that the streets are often cobbled and hilly, so comfortable shoes are a must.

After Ostuni, the group reconvenes and heads to Lecce, a drive that takes roughly 50 minutes. Once in Lecce, the focus shifts to its famous Baroque architecture, which has earned it the nickname “Florence of the South.” Here, your free time—about three hours—gives you plenty of opportunity to stroll through narrow alleys, admire ornate buildings, and soak up the lively, artistic atmosphere.

From the reviews, it’s clear that many travelers appreciated the expert guidance. One said, “The tour guide was very helpful,” which can make a big difference when navigating unfamiliar towns. The guided aspect, combined with free time, provides a nice balance—enough structure to keep things on track but space for personal exploration.

The Practicalities: What’s Included and What to Consider

The tour’s cost of about $120 per person represents good value, especially considering the comfortable transportation and Wi-Fi during the drive. The group size is limited to a maximum of eight travelers, fostering a more intimate experience, and the vehicle is air-conditioned, crucial for Italy’s warm days. The meeting point is conveniently located in Bari at Via Nicola de Giosa, 75, and the day starts at 9:00 am.

What’s not included? Tips, so if you’re happy with the service, a small gratuity is always appreciated. You’ll want to bring comfortable shoes for walking, and be prepared for some stairs—particularly in Lecce—so those with mobility challenges should consider this.

One thing to keep in mind is the flexibility of the schedule. The itinerary is pretty tight, with around an hour in Ostuni, a drive, then three hours in Lecce, and finally the return trip. So, if you prefer a more leisurely, unstructured exploration, this might feel a little rushed. But for those who want a structured yet flexible overview of these iconic towns, it hits the sweet spot.

What the Experience Feels Like

The journey itself is quite scenic, with the drive through the Salento countryside offering glimpses of olive groves and vineyards. Once in Ostuni, you’ll love the way the whitewashed buildings reflect sunlight, creating a picture-perfect scene. You can wander the maze-like streets, photograph the charming facades, and enjoy the panoramic views from the hilltop.

In Lecce, the highlight is definitely the architecture—ornate facades, intricate stonework, and lively plazas give the city a distinctive artistic character. The free exploration means you can chase your own interests, whether it’s visiting a church, grabbing a gelato, or simply strolling through the bustling streets. Expect to climb some stairs, which one reviewer pointed out, so be prepared if mobility is a concern.

The guide’s helpfulness is often praised, especially in providing context and local tips. Despite the short rain shower that interrupted one traveler’s trip, the overall experience received positive comments, with one saying, “We had a great time without climbing all the way down to the base of the city,” highlighting the flexibility of the itinerary.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

If you’re someone who appreciates well-organized day trips that combine scenic beauty with cultural sights, this tour is a solid choice. It’s perfect for first-time visitors to Puglia wanting a quick overview of two of its most iconic towns. Since the tour involves some walking and stairs, travelers with mobility issues should weigh this carefully.

Families with older children might enjoy the mix of sightseeing and relaxed pacing, but younger children might find the walking a bit tiring. Solo travelers and couples will find it a good balance of guided insights and personal exploration.

It’s especially suitable for people who value professional guides and want to maximize their time in the region without the stress of driving or planning logistics themselves.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded experience of Ostuni and Lecce for around $120, making it a worthwhile option for those eager to see Puglia’s highlights in a day. The combination of scenic drives, free exploration time, and knowledgeable guides makes it appealing for travelers who want to absorb the local atmosphere without a rigid schedule.

While it’s not a tour for those seeking an extremely leisurely pace or accessibility for all mobility levels, it’s a genuine and engaging way to connect with Salento’s charm and character. If stunning views, impressive architecture, and expert guidance sound appealing, this trip could be just what you need.

FAQs

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes air-conditioned vehicle transportation with Wi-Fi, making the journey comfortable and connected.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Via Nicola de Giosa, 75, in Bari and returns to the same meeting point at the end of the day.

What is the duration of the tour?
The whole experience lasts about 8 hours and 30 minutes, starting at 9:00 am.

How much free time do I get in each town?
You’ll have approximately 1.5 hours in Ostuni and 3 hours in Lecce to explore at your own pace.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues should consider the stairs in Lecce, which may pose a challenge.

What’s not included?
Tips are not included, so tips for guides and drivers are appreciated but optional.

Is this tour suitable for gluten-intolerant persons?
No, gluten intolerant persons cannot participate, as specified in the additional info.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

Is the guide knowledgeable and helpful?
Based on reviews, guides are very helpful and provide valuable insights that enhance the experience.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring comfortable shoes, a camera, water, and any essentials for walking and enjoying the towns.

If you’re eager to see the iconic white city and the artistic heart of Salento, this tour offers a lovely way to do it without overextending yourself. Just be sure to wear comfortable shoes and enjoy the stunning views and architecture that make Ostuni and Lecce so special.