Full-day tour Alberobello & Locorotondo & Polignano a Mare & Bari

Exploring Puglia can feel a bit overwhelming when you first look at the options—especially if you’re trying to get a taste of several towns in one day. This full-day tour from Bari promises a whirlwind trip through some of the region’s most iconic spots, and from what we’ve seen, it’s a solid choice for travelers wanting a well-rounded experience without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

Two things we really like about this tour are its comprehensive itinerary—covering everything from historic Bari to the famous trulli of Alberobello—and the inclusion of local tastings in a traditional trullo, which adds a genuine flavor of regional life. The tour’s private transport and WiFi on board also make the whole day smoother and more comfortable, especially if you’re traveling with a group or family.

One consideration to keep in mind is that the price might feel a bit steep at $347.28 per person, especially when you’re on a budget, but it reflects the private transportation and curated experience. Also, the tour is quite packed, so if you prefer a leisurely pace or more time at each stop, this might feel rushed.

This experience works best for travelers who want to see multiple highlights in a single day, enjoy cultural sights, and don’t mind a busy schedule. It’s also quite suitable for first-time visitors to Puglia who want an overview without the stress of self-driving or organizing multiple tickets.

Key Points

• All-in-one day: Covers Bari, Locorotondo, Alberobello, and Polignano a Mare efficiently.
• Cultural and scenic highlights: Includes a guided tour of Bari’s old town, UNESCO-listed trulli, and seaside views.
• Local tastings: Offers a unique experience in an authentic trullo with taralli, liquors, and olive oil tasting.
• Comfort and convenience: Private, air-conditioned transport with WiFi and snacks.
• Time management: You get roughly 30 minutes at Bari and Locorotondo, 2 hours in Alberobello, and an hour in Polignano a Mare—good for a quick yet fulfilling visit.
• Potential rush: The tight schedule might mean less time for spontaneous exploring or relaxing.

What to Expect from the Tour

Starting Point: Bari

The tour kicks off with a pick-up from your hotel, the port, or the airport—whichever suits your travel plans. The guide will take you on a guided walk around Bari’s old town, giving you a taste of the city’s history and architecture. You’ll get to peek inside the Basilica of Saint Nicholas, which is an important site for many visitors. The visit is brief—about 30 minutes—but it’s a useful overview before heading out to the countryside.

Exploring Locorotondo

Next, you’ll visit Locorotondo, a tiny but charming village famed for its circular layout and whitewashed buildings. The guided tour here is brief but offers a chance to soak in the quiet beauty of this lesser-known gem. It’s one of those places where the real draw is the atmosphere—narrow streets, gentle views, and a sense of stepping back in time.

Alberobello: The UNESCO Highlight

The highlight of the day is definitely Alberobello, home to the iconic trulli houses. These conical-roof structures are instantly recognizable and have been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996. During the two-hour visit, you’ll stroll through the historic center, marvel at the architecture, and learn why these structures have survived for centuries.

What’s especially nice is that the tour includes a stop in a traditional trullo—dating back to 1700 A.D.—where you’ll experience tasting local goodies like taralli, liquors, and extra-vergine olive oil. This part of the tour offers a genuine taste of Apulian tradition, which many reviews praise as a memorable element.

Polignano a Mare: A Seaside Escape

After Alberobello, the bus heads to Polignano a Mare, a seaside town perched dramatically above cliffs. Here, you’ll have about an hour of free time—perfect for grabbing a coffee or ice cream and snapping photos of the stunning coastline. The views from this spot are a highlight, and many find it a peaceful break from the busier sightseeing.

Transportation and Comfort

One of the real pluses of this tour is the private, air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi—especially helpful if you want to stay connected or share your experience on social media. The group size is limited to your booking, which allows for a more personalized experience.

While the tour is generally well-reviewed for its comfort, one traveler was initially caught off guard that water wasn’t provided—something that can be easily remedied in the future, hopefully. Snacks are included, adding a nice touch, but you should plan to bring any additional drinks you might want, particularly in hot weather.

The Value and Overall Impression

At about $347 per person, this tour isn’t the cheapest option around, but it offers a lot of value in terms of convenience and coverage. If you’re eager to tick off multiple destinations in one day without the hassle of planning transport or tickets, this is a good pick. The guided tours at each stop help you get more from your visit, and the tastings give it a local flavor you can’t get just by wandering around on your own.

From reviews, it’s clear that many travelers love the stunning views—especially in Polignano a Mare—and the overall vibe of Alberobello. One reviewer called it “a highly recommended tour,” though they did mention a surprise about the lack of water—something to keep in mind if hydration is a concern.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This is a solid choice if you want a full, diverse taste of Puglia’s highlights in one day, especially if you prefer guided visits and some local tasting included. It’s suitable for those who don’t mind a busy schedule and want the ease of private transport. If you’re traveling with friends or a family who enjoy cultural sights and scenic views, this tour offers a blend of both without the hassle of self-driving.

However, if you prefer more time at each location to explore at your own pace or are on a tight budget, you might want to consider a more flexible or less expensive option.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, guides will pick you up from your hotel, port, or airport in Bari or nearby.

How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, covering multiple towns and sights.

Are tickets included for the main sights?
Yes, admission tickets to Alberobello are included, but the other stops like Bari, Locorotondo, and Polignano a Mare are free to explore or walk through.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While not specifically marketed as family-focused, the short visits and scenic stops make it manageable for most travelers. Always consider your children’s comfort with bus travel and walking.

What’s the main highlight of the tour?
Most travelers agree it’s the trulli of Alberobello and the panoramic views in Polignano a Mare.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance.

How about weather considerations?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor weather, a different date or full refund will be offered.

Is food included?
No, lunch is not included, but snacks and tastings are provided.

Can I customize this tour?
Since it’s operated as a private experience, you may be able to discuss adjustments directly with the provider.

What makes this tour worth the cost?
Aside from the sightseeing, the curated experience, private transport, and tasting stops add value, especially if you want a smooth, guided overview of Puglia’s highlights.

If you’re curious about other ways to explore Polignano a Mare or nearby caves, there are additional tours to consider. But for a broad, manageable day covering key sights, this tour from Bari delivers an enjoyable, well-organized experience.