Charming Exclusive Customized tours with your real Apulian friend

Traveling through Puglia, Italy, often feels like stepping into a postcard — vibrant towns, historic sites, and stunning coastlines that seem almost surreal. This private tour experience promises just that, with the added bonus of a personalized touch. Led by Gabry Fortunato, a local who acts more like a warm, knowledgeable friend than a tour guide, this experience stands out for its flexibility and genuine insight into the region.

What we really love about this tour is how adaptable it is — choosing three spots out of a list of fantastic places means you get to craft your perfect day. Plus, Gabry’s enthusiasm and deep knowledge make the journey informative without feeling like a lecture. On the flip side, the price is a bit higher than standard group tours, but the personalized attention and insider tips often justify the cost. This tour suits those who want a tailored, authentic taste of Puglia, especially if you’re after a more intimate experience than a big-group bus trip.

Key Points

• Highly personalized experience tailored to your interests and pace.
• Expert local guide who acts more like a friend, making the day feel relaxed and genuine.
• Beautiful stops like Alberobello, Locorotondo, Ostuni, Matera, Polignano a Mare, and more, with flexibility to choose your favorites.
• Comfortable private transportation ensuring a smooth, stress-free day.
• Ideal for travelers who value authentic immersion and a flexible itinerary.
• Premium yet worth the investment for a memorable, personalized day in Puglia.

Exploring the Region with Gabry: What’s Included and How It Works

This is a private, customizable tour designed to give you a real taste of Puglia’s most captivating spots. The price, $464.43 for up to two people, includes pickup from your hotel, B&B, station, or port, and private transportation for your group — either a comfortable car or a van, depending on your size. The tour lasts around 4 to 10 hours, giving you plenty of flexibility to spend more or less time at each spot.

What makes this experience special is the level of customization. You’re choosing 3 sites within a 70-mile radius, and Gabry acts as both driver and guide, tailoring the day based on your preferences. Whether you’re after scenic towns, historic sites, or picturesque coastlines, he’s got the local knowledge to help you make the most of your time.

Note: Entrance fees are not included, so you’ll want to budget for optional tickets, but stops in the main towns are free to wander and explore on your own. Also, optional extras like a gondola ride in Ostuni, wine tastings, or a tuk-tuk tour of Ostuni’s historic center can be arranged for an additional fee.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Alberobello – The Trulli Town

Our journey often begins here, with a walk through the famous Rione Monti and Aia Piccola, neighborhoods filled with the iconic trulli houses—those whimsical, cone-shaped dwellings that are UNESCO World Heritage sites. Gabry’s detailed explanations about the architecture and history help bring these unique structures to life, making the experience more than just a photo opportunity.

One reviewer mentioned, “Going to Alberobello and seeing the Trulli houses, it was amazing. Our driver Gabriele was fantastic. He made the experience even more pleasurable and his knowledge and information was great.” The walk is about 2 hours, giving you time to soak it all in while avoiding the rush of a larger tour group.

Locorotondo – A Charming Photo-Stop

Next, you might head to Locorotondo, a town praised for its “prettiest and most gorgeous” vibe, with narrow winding streets and whitewashed buildings. It’s a perfect spot for wandering, taking photos, and enjoying the laid-back atmosphere of the Itria Valley. Tourists love how Gabry’s suggestions for eating local and discovering hidden gems make each stop richer.

One review raves, “He made recommendations for a restaurant with amazing views! He was a great guide and highly recommend him.” Expect about 2 hours here — enough time to explore and maybe grab a quick coffee overlooking the landscape.

Ostuni – The “White City”

Ostuni, the “Città Bianca,” is one of the most visited places in Puglia. Its whitewashed buildings, winding alleys, and panoramic views from the hilltop are breathtaking, especially at sunset. For an extra fee, you might enjoy a fun ride through the historic center in an Ape Calessino (a cute tuk-tuk), which adds a playful touch to your exploration.

According to reviews, Gabry’s local tips made the visit special: “He even took us to a great coastal lunch spot for fantastic seafood,” which shows he’s eager to enhance your experience beyond just sightseeing.

Optional Stops: Matera, Polignano a Mare, and More

The tour offers the option to visit Matera, famous for its ancient Sassi cave dwellings, or Polignano a Mare, renowned for its dramatic cliffs and seaside charm. These stops require longer durations (up to 4 hours for Castel del Monte or Matera), allowing you to get a real sense of each place’s unique appeal.

The “Imperial Puglia” and Foodie Experiences

Gabry also offers themed itineraries, such as following the footsteps of Emperor Frederick II or indulging in local flavors like burrata, extra-virgin olive oil, and regional wines. These add depth and flavor to your journey, making it memorable beyond just sightseeing.

What Travelers Say: Authentic and Punctual Guides Make the Difference

The glowing reviews consistently highlight Gabry’s friendliness, knowledge, and flexibility. One guest admired how he “reached out beforehand to see if we had questions,” emphasizing his proactive and caring approach. Many mention how Gabry’s guidance made the experience feel like exploring with a friend rather than a stranger, which adds a layer of comfort and fun.

Reviewers also repeatedly mention Gabry’s ability to customize the day. “He tailored our day,” says one, “we never felt rushed, and he gave us options.” That kind of flexibility is hard to find on standard tours and is perfect if you want to focus more on certain towns or experiences.

The Value for Money and Overall Experience

At just under $500, this private tour isn’t the cheapest option out there. But when you consider the exclusivity, personalized attention, and the opportunity to see some of Puglia’s most beautiful spots at your own pace, many find it to be worth the investment. The reviews speak volumes about the quality of the guide and the overall experience, with many calling it “the best day” they’ve had exploring Italy.

It’s ideal for travelers who prioritize comfort, flexibility, and local insights over purely budget options. If you’re coming with a partner or a small group who appreciates tailored experiences, this tour offers a great way to truly connect with the region.

Practical Tips & Considerations

• Booking in advance is highly recommended, as the experience is popular — most travelers book about 3 months out.
• Price covers the guide and private transportation; plan to bring extra for entrance fees, meals, and optional extras.
• Duration is flexible, but expect around 4 to 10 hours, depending on your chosen sites.
• Accessibility isn’t specified, so if you have mobility concerns, it’s worth confirming with Gabry beforehand.
• Weather affects the experience — check the forecast, as most of the tour involves outdoor walking and sightseeing.

FAQ

Can I customize which towns to visit?
Yes, you choose three places within 70 miles, and Gabry will tailor the itinerary based on your preferences, ensuring you see what interests you most.

Is there a set schedule or is it flexible?
The tour is very flexible. You can decide how long to spend at each stop, and Gabry will adapt along the way to make sure you get the most out of your day.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance tickets are not included, but many main sites are free to wander. You might want to budget extra for any optional tickets like the Ape Calessino ride or specific attractions.

How is transportation arranged?
You’ll travel in a private, comfortable car or van, depending on your group size, ensuring a smooth, quiet ride with plenty of room for everyone.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
The description doesn’t specify family-friendly features, so if traveling with children, consider their comfort with walking and outdoor sightseeing. The flexibility and relaxed pace could suit families well.

What’s the price point relative to the experience?
At $464 for two, the price is on the higher side but reflects the private, tailored nature of the tour, with a local guide dedicated to your interests and comfort.

Final Thoughts

This private, customized Puglia tour offers a rare chance to explore Italy’s heel with a genuine local who feels more like a friend than a guide. The ability to pick your favorite towns and experiences means you’ll get a deeply personal perspective on this enchanting region. The consistent rave reviews about Gabry’s knowledge, friendliness, and flexibility suggest you’ll be in very good hands, making your trip memorable and authentic.

Ideal for couples, small groups, or those wanting a more intimate exploration of Puglia’s most beautiful spots, this tour delivers both comfort and authenticity. If you’re looking for a way to experience Puglia that’s tailored to your interests, this could be just the thing for your Italian adventure.