Polignano a Mare is a perfect base for exploring some of southern Italy’s most captivating sights. Its dramatic cliffs, charming streets, and seaside charm make it a hub for memorable day trips. We especially love the full-day trip to Matera and Alberobello because it combines UNESCO World Heritage sites with the comfort of a climate-controlled bus and a guided experience. It’s ideal for travelers who want to enjoy history while enjoying easy transportation and free time for lunch and shopping.
If you prefer a shorter but lively adventure, the boat tour from Bari to Polignano a Mare offers a relaxed day with sea caves, scenic views, and plenty of free time to explore at your own pace. Both tours showcase different sides of Polignano a Mare—one focusing on cultural highlights, the other on seaside beauty—so choosing between them depends on your interests and schedule.
Below, we’ve put together a detailed look at these two top full-day tours. Whether you’re into ancient cave dwellings or dramatic coastal vistas, this guide will help you decide.
1. Monopoli/Bari/Polignano: Matera & Alberobello Full-Day Trip
This full-day trip to Matera and Alberobello is perfect for travelers wanting an in-depth cultural experience. It starts with comfortable transportation from Bari or Polignano a Mare, in a climate-controlled minivan, making the long day easier. The tour’s highlight is the visit to Matera, the European Capital of Culture in 2019, renowned for its ancient cave dwellings called Sassi. The guided tour includes a walk through the Sassi and a visit to a Casa Grotta, which shows how people have lived in this stone landscape for centuries.
Afterward, you’ll have free time for lunch or shopping in Alberobello, famous for its trulli—whitewashed stone huts with conical roofs. The tour is well-rated (4.7/5 from 185 reviews), with many travelers praising the seamless logistics and engaging guides. It’s especially suited for those eager to see iconic UNESCO sites without the hassle of planning logistics.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a comprehensive day combining history, culture, and leisurely exploring, ideal for travelers who want a full immersion with minimal stress.
2. From Bari: Full-day tour to Polignano a Mare, boat ride, and free time
This shorter, more relaxed option is perfect if you’re looking to experience Polignano a Mare’s scenic seaside charms with an exciting boat tour. Departing from Largo Eroi del Mare, the trip includes a 30-minute transfer to Polignano’s historic center, giving you a chance to explore at your own pace. The real highlight is the 1.5-hour boat ride with San Vito Sailing, which takes you along the cliffs, past sea caves, and offers stunning photo opportunities.
After the boat tour, there’s more free time for sightseeing or relaxing in the town’s cafes. The total tour lasts about 6 hours, making it a great fit for travelers with a tighter schedule. Reviewers, rating it 4.4/5 from 90 reviews, appreciate the combination of guided exploration and independent discovery.
Bottom Line: This tour is excellent for seashell collectors, photo enthusiasts, or anyone who loves combining seaside scenery with a relaxed pace and a memorable boat experience.
How to Choose Between These Tours
When deciding between these two options, consider what matters most to you. If you’re fascinated by ancient cave dwellings and iconic UNESCO sites, the Matera & Alberobello trip offers a full culture with guided insights. For those craving coastal beauty and sea adventures, the boat ride from Bari to Polignano provides a more relaxed day with stunning views and a fun sea cave experience.
Budget-conscious travelers might prefer the shorter tour, while history lovers and culture seekers will value the extensive sightseeing and guided walks of the full-day trip. Think about your fitness level too—if walking through caves and hilly towns is a concern, the shorter boat tour might be better.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred time and avoid disappointment. Both tours include free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, offering some flexibility if your plans change.
In summary, Polignano a Mare offers fantastic options for full-day adventures. The cultural deep-dive to Matera and Alberobello is perfect for history aficionados, while the scenic boat ride showcases the stunning coastline from a different angle. For travelers wanting a balanced mix of sightseeing and relaxation, these tours deliver authentic experiences that showcase the best of this corner of Italy.
No matter which you choose, these trips will leave you with memorable stories and stunning photos—so don’t wait too long to book. The sooner, the better, especially in high season, to ensure your spot on these popular excursions.
