Putignano might be small, but it punches well above its weight when it comes to authentic experiences. Known for its lively festivals and charming streets, the town also offers unique hands-on tours that give you a taste of local tradition. We particularly love the opportunity to make and taste still warm mozzarella—nothing beats learning how to craft cheese just like the locals do—plus, the chance to create your own pizza or sample regional wines. These experiences provide a genuine connection to Apulian life and are perfect whether you’re a foodie, a wine lover, or just curious about rural Italian craftsmanship. For a memorable full-day outing, check out the wine tasting and winery tours to explore the region’s acclaimed vintages.
Below, we’ve put together a list of the best tours in Putignano, each offering something special—whether it’s cheese making, pizza crafting, or wine tasting. Here’s what you can look forward to.
1. Putignano: Make and taste still warm mozzarella
At number one, this cheese-making experience takes you directly to a working cow farm, where you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at rural Apulian life. The tour lasts around 2 hours and includes a visit to the dairy farm, where you’ll learn all about cows, cheese production, and traditional methods. The highlight is making your own fresh mozzarella from freshly milked milk—an activity that’s as tactile as it is tasty. You get to take home your cheese, which makes this a perfect souvenir.
The farm also offers a generous tasting of various cheeses, both fresh and aged, which pairs beautifully with regional wines and bread. The guide is knowledgeable and passionate, sharing insights into the rural tradition that remains vital in Italy’s farming communities. This tour ranks high for its intimacy and authenticity, making it ideal for cheese lovers or families eager to experience farm life firsthand. The only potential drawback is that it’s a short, focused experience—perfect if you want a quick, engaging taste of local cheese crafts.
Bottom Line: A hands-on, authentic cheese-making tour that’s great for foodies and curious travelers alike—especially if you want to enjoy freshly made mozzarella. Book early, as spots can fill quickly.
2. Putignano: Make and Taste Gourmet Pizza
Number two on our list is a pizza-making class set in a historic cellar-turned-restaurant, giving your culinary adventure a touch of old-world charm. Over 2 hours, you’ll learn how to prepare pizza dough from scratch, stretch it by hand, and top it with high-quality ingredients before baking it to perfection. The experience is led by a renowned pizza chef who guides you through each step, sharing tips and tricks that elevate your pizza-making skills.
What makes this tour stand out is the opportunity to create a gourmet pizza that you can enjoy with a refreshing drink in a cozy, atmospheric setting. The ingredients are top-notch, and the hands-on nature ensures you’ll leave with both a full belly and new skills. The setting, a converted cellar, adds a special note of history and charm. While the focus is on pizza, the emphasis on quality and craftsmanship makes this a satisfying experience for foodies.
Bottom Line: A fun, interactive way to learn the art of pizza making in a unique setting—perfect for friends, couples, or anyone wanting a delicious, hands-on experience. Reserve ahead to secure your spot.
3. Wine tasting and winery tours
Number three is a full-day wine tasting experience that takes you through some of Apulia’s most renowned wineries. For around $65 per person, you’ll enjoy guided tours of vineyards and production facilities, learning about the region’s wine history and methods. The tastings include a variety of regional wines—reds, whites, and perhaps a rosé—all paired with local snacks.
What makes this tour particularly appealing is the opportunity to sample wines directly from the source, accompanied by insights from knowledgeable guides. The wineries are carefully selected for their quality and authenticity, making this a perfect choice for wine lovers wanting to deepen their appreciation for Apulian vintages. The tour runs all day, providing ample time to relax and savor each tasting.
Some visitors note that the tour is straightforward but lacks the elaborate scenery of more touristy wine regions—yet the focus on genuine, excellent wine makes it worthwhile. This tour suits those who appreciate wine’s complexity and want a comprehensive look at the region’s vineyards.
Bottom Line: An affordable, full-day wine experience ideal for wine enthusiasts eager to taste regional specialties and learn about local methods—just don’t expect a flashy winery tour, but rather real craftsmanship.
How to Choose Your Perfect Tour
When deciding between these experiences, consider your interests and schedule. If you’re a cheese aficionado or want a quick, authentic taste of rural life, the Mozzarella-making tour is perfect. For a fun, hands-on culinary activity, the Gourmet pizza class offers a relaxed yet delicious experience. Last but not least, if wine is more your style, the Wine tasting and winery tour provides a full day of regional vino exploration.
Think about your budget, the amount of time you want to dedicate, and whether you prefer cheese, pizza, or wine. Booking early is recommended, especially for the popular cheese and pizza experiences, which tend to fill up fast.
Final Thoughts
Putignano offers a rich mix of hands-on culinary experiences and regional tastings that genuinely showcase the local traditions. Whether you prefer crafting your own mozzarella, baking gourmet pizza, or tasting the region’s best wines, there’s something here for every curious traveler. For a quick, memorable activity, the cheese-making tour is hard to beat. If you’re visiting with food-loving friends or family, the pizza class provides a fun and flavorful bonding experience. And for those who want a more relaxed, wine-focused day, the winery tour offers a taste of Apulia’s acclaimed vineyards.
To make the most of your trip, consider your interests and schedule when choosing a tour. Booking in advance ensures you won’t miss out on these authentic, memorable experiences. Putignano’s tours are more than just activities—they’re a chance to connect with the region’s traditions and flavors in a personal way.
