Potenza might not be the first Italian city that comes to mind, but this lively provincial capital offers some surprisingly engaging tour options that reveal its natural beauty and local flavors. Whether you’re into outdoor adventures or cultural experiences, Potenza has a lot to offer. We especially love the LA BOCCA DEL VULCANO tour for its blend of storytelling, local products, and sensory discovery, making it a fantastic way to connect with Basilicata’s land and traditions. If snow and mountain scenery are more your style, the guided snowshoe hikes deserve a look—they turn winter landscapes into a playground for outdoor lovers. Below, you’ll find a curated list of the best tours in Potenza, each offering a different flavor of this beautiful region.
These tours cover a range of interests, from cultural journeys into Rionero to outdoor winter adventures on Monte Arioso and in the Pollino National Park. Whether you want to savor local wines, conquer mountain trails, or enjoy peaceful snowy woods, there’s something here to inspire your trip.
1. LA BOCCA DEL VULCANO
At number one, the LA BOCCA DEL VULCANO tour stands out for its rich storytelling and sensory immersion. This two-hour experience isn’t just about tasting local wines; it’s a heartfelt journey through the history, culture, and dreams of Basilicata. The tour takes you through Rionero, a town famous for the Aglianico grape—considered one of Italy’s most treasured wines. The guide, Alessandro, manages to blend scientific facts with personal stories, creating an experience that feels both educational and intimate. The tour includes a taste of regional products, making it perfect for food lovers eager to explore authentic flavors.
What makes this tour unique is its focus on emotional connection and local pride. Reviews highlight Alessandro’s professionalism and the immersive quality of the experience: “Esperienza unica Grazie ad Alessandro che ci ha spiegato con molto professionalità tutto il tour.” Priced at just $28 per person, it offers fantastic value, especially for those who want an engaging introduction to Basilicata’s land and wine. Bottom Line: This is an excellent choice for travelers interested in culture, local food, and stories that bring the region alive.
2. Potenza: Guided Mountain Walking Tour with Snowshoes
Number two on our list is the Potenza: Guided Mountain Walking Tour with Snowshoes. This 3.5-hour adventure takes you to Monte Arioso in the Lucan Apennines National Park, where snow transforms the landscape into a winter wonderland. The tour includes a ride up via chairlift or a snowshoe trek directly to Monte Pierfaone, allowing you to experience the snow-covered woods and mountain peaks firsthand. Your official guide will lead you along scenic paths that are particularly quiet and peaceful during the winter months.
This tour is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts or anyone wanting to experience the raw beauty of Potenza’s mountain scenery. The highlight is reaching the summit of Monte Arioso, where panoramic views make the effort worthwhile. The snowshoeing is suitable for beginners and experienced hikers alike, and the guide’s local knowledge adds context to the stunning vistas. For a manageable yet invigorating outdoor activity, this tour combines exercise with breathtaking scenery. Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers who want a scenic winter escape without complicated logistics.
3. Snowshoeing in the Pollino National Park
Third on our list is Snowshoeing in the Pollino National Park. This 2.5-hour tour offers a delightful winter outing in Basilicata’s largest national park. For $56.94 per person, you’ll explore snow-laden trails amid ancient pines and rugged landscapes, all while wearing the fun and practical snowshoes. The tour emphasizes enjoyment and relaxation, making it perfect for families or those new to snowshoeing.
Participants love the peaceful atmosphere of the snowy woods, where silence and snow create a sense of calm. The guide will lead you along paths that reveal the park’s remarkable natural features, with opportunities for photos and quiet reflection. The experience balances light physical activity with the chance to truly unwind in nature’s quiet embrace. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy Basilicata’s winter scenery without needing advanced skills or equipment. Bottom Line: Best suited for those seeking a stress-free outdoor experience immersed in nature.
How to Choose the Right Tour for You
When deciding which of these tours is best, think about your interests, fitness level, and how much time you want to spend outdoors. If you’re eager to learn about local culture and wine, the LA BOCCA DEL VULCANO offers an engaging, sensory-rich experience. For outdoor activity lovers, the guided snowshoe hikes—whether around Monte Arioso or in Pollino—are perfect for experiencing Basilicata’s winter landscapes firsthand. If you’re traveling with family or just want a peaceful walk in snow, the Pollino snowshoe tour provides a relaxed atmosphere with plenty of scenery.
Booking early is recommended, especially for outdoor excursions in winter, to secure your preferred times. Consider your physical activity level—these mountain and snowshoe tours require moderate effort but are suitable for most travelers in good health. For a more cultural experience, the wine and storytelling tour delivers a memorable taste of Basilicata’s soul.
Final Thoughts
Potenza offers a variety of tours that showcase both its natural beauty and cultural richness. For a heartfelt introduction to local traditions and flavors, LA BOCCA DEL VULCANO is hard to beat. If winter scenery calls to you, the guided snowshoe hikes, whether in Monte Arioso or Pollino, promise peaceful, scenic adventures suited for all skill levels.
Whether you’re drawn to tasting regional wines, conquering mountain trails, or simply enjoying the quiet snowy woods, these tours provide meaningful ways to experience Basilicata. Planning ahead and booking early can ensure you don’t miss out on these memorable experiences. Each of these options offers a different lens on Potenza—choose the one that best fits your travel style and get ready for a rewarding journey through Italy’s lesser-known gem.
