Alberobello & Matera Tour with Tasting and Guide – from Bari

If you’re planning to visit southern Italy, especially the Puglia region, you’ve probably come across Alberobello and Matera as must-see highlights. This tour offers a full-day experience, taking you from Bari to these two iconic locations with guided insights, tastings of local products, and some free time to soak it all in. While we haven’t done this specific trip ourselves, reviews and the itinerary paint a pretty clear picture of what you can expect—good and not-so-good.

What we like about this tour? First, the knowledgeable guides who are locals, and second, the opportunity to taste authentic Apulian fare that adds flavor to the experience. On the flip side, a potential snag is the large group size, which can make some parts feel rushed or noisy. This trip probably suits travelers who appreciate guided itineraries, cultural sights, and a bit of culinary indulgence, but if you’re after a more relaxed pace or private experience, it might be worth exploring other options.

Key Points

• Great for first-timers eager to see Alberobello’s trulli and Matera’s Sassi with expert guidance.
• Includes tastings of local taralli, sweets, oils, and wines, giving you a taste of authentic Apulia.
• Group size can be large (up to 100 travelers), which might affect comfort and the ability to hear guides clearly.
• Good value considering transportation, guided tours, tastings, and free time all bundled into one price.
• Not ideal for travelers with mobility issues due to walking on cobbled streets and exploring uneven terrain.
• Offers flexibility in free time to explore and buy souvenirs in both locations.

Starting the Day: A Smooth Beginning

The tour kicks off at 8:30 am from Bari’s Piazza Eroi del Mare, a convenient location near public transportation. From there, you’ll hop into an air-conditioned vehicle, which is a relief given the long day ahead. The drive to Alberobello takes roughly an hour or so, giving you some time to settle in and get your bearings before plunging into the sightseeing.

A big perk here is the transportation included—no worries about parking or navigating unfamiliar roads. You’ll be traveling in a comfortable bus, with parking fees covered, so the focus stays on the sights and stories rather than logistics.

Alberobello: The Trulli Town

Once in Alberobello, your guide will take you on about 1.5 hours of walking through the old town. The highlight, of course, is the trulli—those iconic limestone dwellings with conical roofs that look like fairy-tale creations. We appreciated guides who are local, with many reviews mentioning their deep knowledge and honest approach, including discussing less glamorous aspects of the area’s history.

One reviewer says, “The guides were very knowledgeable as they’ve lived in the areas all their lives,” which really helps bring the stories to life. You’ll walk along cobbled streets, peering into artisan workshops, and learning about how these structures were originally built as quick, inexpensive homes.

After the tour, it’s time for the tasting session of typical Apulian products—salty and sweet taralli, local wines, bitters, and extra virgin olive oil. The tasting adds a delicious, authentic layer to your visit, allowing you to savor regional flavors. Many reviewers mention the quality and variety of the tastings as a highlight, saying it’s “great value for money” and a perfect way to experience local cuisine.

Following this, you have some free time to wander on your own. This is your chance to explore the artisan workshops, maybe pick up some souvenirs, or simply soak in the whimsical sights of trulli clustering together. Some travelers noted that their guided segment felt a bit rushed, but the free time helps balance that out.

Transition to Matera: A City of Wonders

After a couple of hours in Alberobello, you’ll hop back into the bus for the roughly 1.5-hour drive to Matera. The journey is quick and comfortable, and it’s exciting to think about the contrasts between the two locations—Alberobello’s storybook trulli versus Matera’s ancient cave dwellings.

Matera is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its Sassi—rock-cut dwellings that have been inhabited for thousands of years. The city’s atmosphere is unlike anywhere else in Italy; walking through its winding, cobblestone streets feels like stepping back in time.

Your guide will lead you on a 1.5-hour tour through part of the Sassi, pointing out hidden corners, ancient rock churches, and explaining the city’s cultural significance. As one reviewer pointed out, “The guides are very knowledgeable and eager to share stories, making the visit truly engaging.” You can expect to see rock churches and enjoy spectacular views, capturing the rugged beauty of this ancient city.

The tour also includes optional visits, such as the Casa Grotta del Vicinato (for a small additional fee), which some may find enlightening to see how locals once lived.

You’ll have some free time to explore further, enjoy local dishes, or hunt for souvenirs. Many find that Matera’s unique atmosphere makes for memorable photos and quiet moments away from the busy tourist spots.

Practical Details and Considerations

This tour is priced at $129.95 per person, which covers transportation, guided tours, tastings, parking, and an informative brochure. It’s a solid deal considering all that’s included, especially if you value guided insights and the convenience of an organized day trip.

The group size can be large, with up to 100 travelers, which might make it feel a bit hectic—some reviews mention that guides struggled to manage such volumes or that participants couldn’t hear instructions clearly. If you prefer a more intimate experience, this could be a drawback, but for many, the value and ease outweigh this concern.

The tour is designed for most travelers, but be aware that mobility issues could pose challenges—walking on cobblestone streets and uneven terrain is common in both Alberobello and Matera.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

This guided day trip delivers a comprehensive glance at two of southern Italy’s most compelling sights. You’ll love the expert guides who are passionate and knowledgeable, making history and culture come alive. The tastings provide a tasty, authentic touch that elevates the experience beyond just sightseeing. And the included transportation and free time to explore make it practical for travelers who want a structured yet flexible day.

However, if you’re someone who prefers small groups, personalized attention, or a slower pace, you might find the large group size and busy schedule less appealing. Plus, if mobility is a concern, some parts of the tour could be challenging.

In the end, this tour offers a balanced blend of history, culture, gastronomy, and scenic views—perfect for first-time visitors eager to see the best of Puglia with ease.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, the tour is generally suitable for travelers comfortable walking and standing for periods. Just consider the terrain and pace.

What is included in the price?
Transportation, air-conditioned vehicle, a brochure, audio guides in five languages, parking fees, and tastings of local products are included. The Casa Grotta visit costs extra.

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 10 hours, starting at 8:30 am and returning to Bari at the end of the day.

Can I explore Alberobello and Matera on my own?
Yes. The guided tours are about 1.5 hours each, but after that, you have free time to explore independently.

Is there any lunch included?
No, the tour does not include lunch, but you’ll have time to enjoy local cuisine during your free time in both locations.

Are the tours accessible for people with mobility issues?
Potentially not, as both locations involve walking on cobbled streets and uneven terrain.

What language are the guides speaking?
Guides provide commentary in five different languages, accessible via audio guide devices.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

All in all, this tour offers a solid, well-organized way to see Alberobello and Matera with the added bonus of tasting local specialties. It’s best suited for those who enjoy guided experiences and want the convenience of a day packed with sights and stories.