San Vito is a fantastic base for exploring the stunning coast of Apulia. Its proximity to Polignano a Mare and other scenic spots makes it a perfect starting point for memorable tours. I especially like the boat trips, which offer a chance to get close to the sea’s dramatic caves, and the vintage rides that give a quirky, up-close view of the town. Plus, the local food scenes, like the artisanal tiramisu, add a delicious touch to any excursion.
If you’re trying to decide how to spend your time, you’ll find a good mix of sea adventures, land-based rides, and cultural explorations. Each experience offers something unique, whether it’s the intimacy of a boat tour or the fun of cruising in a vintage Piaggio Ape. For a well-rounded taste of Polignano and its coast, check out these top three tours.
Below, you’ll find a quick overview of the types of tours on offer: a boat trip through the caves with an aperitif, a vintage Piaggio Ape ride around the town, and a longer boat experience that includes tasting artisanal tiramisu. Each caters to different interests and schedules, so whether you want a quick glimpse or a more immersive experience, there’s something here for you.
1. Polignano a Mare: Tour of Barca Tra Grotte with Aperitivo
At number one, this boat tour of Polignano a Mare’s caves combines scenic exploration with a relaxing aperitif. The tour lasts about 1.5 hours and costs around $40 per person, making it one of the most accessible ways to see the coast from the water. The journey starts at Via S. Vito, 342, where you’ll hop into a small boat designed for close-up views of the seaside caves and natural formations that are only accessible by boat.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of guided visits to iconic caves, like Grotta Palazzese and Grotta Ardito, with a laid-back social experience — an aperitif of prosecco and Apulian tarallini. The guide shares interesting stories about the caves’ history and legends, making it both educational and fun. The itinerary also includes stops at Cala Paguro, Lama Monachile Beach, and the Hermit’s Rock, offering plenty of opportunities for photos, swimming, and simply absorbing the scenery. Guests often comment on the exclusivity and intimacy of the small boat trips, which feel like a personal adventure.
This tour is perfect for travelers who love the sea, want a short but memorable experience, and enjoy a good drink after the exploring. The reviews highlight its accessibility and the stunning views, with a 4.8/5 rating based on 16 reviews.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a compact, scenic, and relaxing way to see Polignano’s caves, this tour delivers. It’s ideal for those short on time but eager to experience the sea’s beauty.
2. Discover Polignano a Mare: Ride in a vintage Piaggio Ape Calessino
For about 30 minutes to an hour, this vintage Piaggio Ape Calessino ride offers a charming, slow-paced way to explore the town’s most evocative spots. While the review scores aren’t listed, what makes this tour appealing is its quirky, open-air vehicle that takes you from Port’alga to the Abbey of San Vito and ends at the statue of Domenico Modugno.
During the ride, you’ll experience Polignano a Mare from coast to coast, passing by picturesque fishing villages and scenic viewpoints. It’s a fun alternative to walking, especially if you want to cover more ground without tiring out. The open-air nature of the Ape means you get an intimate feel for the town’s atmosphere, with plenty of chances to take photos and ask questions. The tour emphasizes discovering the town’s beauty without the rush, making it perfect for first-time visitors or those simply wanting a relaxed, fun experience.
This tour caters well to travelers seeking something offbeat and memorable, especially if they appreciate vintage vehicles and local charm. It’s a quick way to get a broad overview without the commitment of a full day.
Bottom Line: For a light-hearted, memorable introduction to Polignano a Mare, this vintage ride is hard to beat. It’s a great choice if you prefer a short, fun, and personal exploration.
3. Polignano by Boat: Caves, Relaxation & Artisanal Tiramisu Tasting
This 2-hour boat tour offers a luxurious blend of sightseeing, tasting, and relaxing on the water. Departing from Carmy Polignano Tour on Boat By Rosmely, it explores Polignano’s most famous caves, including Grotta dell’Arcivescovado and Grotta Palazzese. The highlight is a special artisanal tiramisu created exclusively for this experience, paired with a tasting onboard that tells culinary stories of Apulia.
What makes this experience stand out is the focus on culinary delights combined with scenic exploration. Guests can enjoy swimming in the clearest coves, ideal for cooling off after a few cave visits. The boat itself is described as comfortable and well-kept, providing a relaxed environment far from the rush of larger tours. The guide offers insights into the caves’ geology and history, making it a rich experience for those who love a mix of art, nature, and food.
Reviews note the exclusivity of the tasting and the quality of the boat, making it a premium choice. The tour also includes a variety of stops, such as Lama Monachile Beach, Ponte Borbonico, and Pigeons Cave. The itinerary is packed with both sightseeing and tasting, including free time for photos, snacks, and coffee tastings onboard.
Bottom Line: If you crave a refined, intimate experience that combines sea caves and gourmet treats, this tour offers excellent value and memorable moments.
How to Choose
When deciding among these tours, consider your schedule, interests, and how much time you want to spend exploring. If your goal is a quick, scenic boat trip to see the caves with a drink in hand, the first tour (Polignano a Mare: Tour of Barca Tra Grotte with Aperitivo) is the most straightforward. For a fun and quirky land-based experience, the vintage Piaggio ride (Discover Polignano a Mare in a vintage Piaggio Ape Calessino) offers a quick, charming overview. Meanwhile, if you want a more immersive, relaxed day on the water with tastings, the longer boat trip with tiramisu (Polignano by Boat: Caves, Relaxation & Artisanal Tiramisu Tasting) is the best choice.
Think about your budget, how much time you have, and whether you prefer land or sea adventures. Booking early is recommended, especially in high season, as these tours tend to fill up quickly.
In summary, San Vito offers a diverse range of tours that showcase the area’s natural beauty, local culture, and delicious food. For a quick scenic escape, the boat caves tour offers excellent value. If you’re after something fun and different, the Piaggio Ape ride provides a memorable experience. And for those seeking a luxurious, sensory adventure, the artisanal tiramisu boat tour delivers the full package. Whichever you choose, booking ahead ensures you won’t miss out on these fantastic experiences.
