Polignano a Mare stands out not just for its stunning cliffs and crystal-clear waters but also for its culinary charm. This seaside town boasts a rich tradition of fresh seafood, regional specialties, and vibrant street food, making it a perfect spot for food lovers. We particularly love the Catamaran Tour with Aperitif & Local Food because it combines breathtaking coastal views with a relaxing boat cruise and delicious Apulian bites. Plus, jumping into the Adriatic Sea right after sampling local appetizers is a pretty unbeatable experience.
While all three tours offer a taste of Polignano’s culinary scene, they cover different aspects—whether you want a scenic cruise, a street-food adventure, or a hands-on cooking class. Below, we’ll explore each in detail to help you find the best fit for your travel style.
1. Polignano a Mare: Catamaran Tour with Aperitif & Local Food
This 2.5-hour catamaran trip offers a delightful mix of coastal sightseeing, local cuisine, and water activities. The tour departs from Calaponte Marina and takes you past some of Polignano’s most iconic sights, including Lama Monachile Beach, Grotta Palazzese, and Hermit’s rock. What makes this tour stand out is the combination of breathtaking scenery and culinary treats. On board the Almarano catamaran, you’ll enjoy typical Apulian specialties like fresh seafood, cheese, and regional snacks, all while soaking in spectacular views.
The highlight is the opportunity to dip into the Adriatic Sea, swim in its clear waters, and stand-up paddleboard—adding a fun, active element to your relaxing cruise. The cruise ends with a 50-minute aperitif with drinks and snacks, plus time to relax at Calaponte Marina. The reviews are stellar—earning a 4.9/5 from 249 travelers—who praise the friendly crew, the delicious food, and the unforgettable scenery. Perfect for travelers seeking a combination of adventure, relaxation, and regional flavors.
Bottom line: Ideal for those who want a scenic boat trip that includes swimming, snacks, and a taste of local seafood in a small-group environment.
2. Polignano a Mare: Street Food Tour with Tastings and Wine
If you prefer to explore Polignano through its tastes and stories, this 2.5-hour street food tour is the way to go. Starting at Pugliamare, you’ll walk through the town’s narrow streets with a local guide, tasting regional specialties like focaccia, panzerotto (fried dough with filling), and burrata. The tour includes a panoramic stop on the town’s terrace, where you’ll get a sweeping view of Polignano’s lovely coastline.
What makes this experience special is the informative storytelling about Apulia’s culinary traditions alongside the flavors. Over the course of the tour, you’ll also sample regional wines and cold cuts, making for a well-rounded taste of local food culture. Many travelers mention guides like Guiseppe and Alessandra as enthusiastic and knowledgeable, making the experience both educational and fun. With a 4.9/5 rating from 130 reviews, this tour consistently satisfies visitors who want an authentic, delicious introduction to Polignano’s food scene.
Bottom line: Perfect for foodies who want to learn about local cuisine, enjoy panoramic views, and drink regional wines—all in a relaxed walking setting.
3. Polignano a Mare: Apulian Cooking Class with Food and Drinks
For travelers eager to get hands-on, this 2-hour cooking class offers an authentic taste of home cooking. Held in a traditional house in the historic center, you’ll learn how to make orecchiette pasta, a regional specialty, guided by a knowledgeable local chef. The class is limited in size, fostering an interactive environment where you can ask questions and really get involved.
The experience isn’t just about pasta—your host shares stories about Apulian culinary traditions, and you’ll enjoy a shared meal of your freshly made dishes paired with regional wines and aperitifs. Many reviewers mention how Daniele or Anna-Maria make the experience warm and engaging, turning a cooking lesson into a cultural exchange. The value comes from taking home authentic recipes you can recreate, plus the chance to savor your own cooking.
Bottom line: Ideal for those who want a deep dive into local cooking techniques and enjoy a delicious meal made by your own hands.
How to Choose the Best Food Tour in Polignano a Mare
Picking among these fantastic options depends on your travel style. If you crave scenic views and water-based relaxation, the Catamaran Tour is your best bet. For those who want a rich local food experience combined with stunning vistas, the Street Food Tour offers a relaxed, flavorful walk through the town’s culinary highlights. And if you’re eager to learn and cook regional dishes yourself, the Cooking Class provides a hands-on experience that’s both educational and delicious.
Consider your budget, time, and interest—whether you prefer relaxing on a boat, exploring on foot, or getting your hands dirty in the kitchen. Booking early is wise, especially in high season, as these popular experiences tend to fill up quickly.
Final Thoughts
Polignano a Mare offers a range of authentic food experiences that fit different tastes and travel styles. For a blend of scenery, swimming, and regional bites, the Catamaran Tour is hard to beat. If your goal is a culinary walking tour with local wines, then the Street Food Tour is perfect. And for those who want to learn how to cook traditional Apulian pasta, the Cooking Class provides a memorable hands-on experience.
No matter which you choose, these tours promise a flavorful, authentic slice of Polignano’s rich culinary scene—so book early, and enjoy every bite.
