Valley D’itria full day tour Cisternino Alberobello and Polignano a Mare

A Full Day Exploring Puglia’s Hidden Gems

If you’re craving a taste of Puglia’s enchanting countryside and coastal beauty, this full-day tour from Lecce might be just what you need. For around $300 per person, you’ll spend approximately eight hours exploring some of the most iconic sights in the Valle d’Itria region. The itinerary includes Alberobello’s UNESCO-listed trulli houses, a delicious four-course lunch at a family-run restaurant, and the stunning seaside town of Polignano a Mare with its sweeping views and charming streets.

What we love about this tour is its blend of culture, scenery, and authentic Italian cuisine — all accessible with the comfort of hotel pickup and a knowledgeable guide. Plus, the small group size (maximum 12 travelers) promises a more personal experience.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour is primarily focused on sightseeing and tasting rather than active exploration, so it’s ideal if you’re looking for a relaxed, guided day rather than a fast-paced adventure. It suits travelers who enjoy historic villages, scenic vistas, and delicious local food—perfect for those wanting a meaningful experience without the hassle of planning logistics.

Key Points

• Authentic encounters with Puglia’s iconic trulli houses in Alberobello
• Delicious four-course Italian meal cooked in front of you at a family-run restaurant
• Stunning coastal views at Polignano a Mare, perfect for photos and strolling
• Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off enhances the overall experience
• Small group size (max 12) ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere
• Expert, multi-lingual guides help bring the region’s stories alive

Exploring Valle d’Itria: A Day of Beauty and Flavor

This tour takes you into the heart of Puglia’s Valle d’Itria, a region celebrated for its unique trulli houses—conical, whitewashed structures with a fairy-tale feel. Starting from Lecce, the drive towards Alberobello offers scenic views that set the tone for the day. Once there, you’ll visit Trullo Sovrano, one of the most famous trulli and a chance to view their intricate construction up close. The local guide will share stories about the history and architecture of these homes that seem to belong to a fairytale.

The highlight of Alberobello is undoubtedly the UNESCO World Heritage designation, which signifies its importance and charm. As you stroll through the streets, you’ll encounter photo-worthy vantage points perfect for capturing the whimsical landscape. The guide’s insights will help you appreciate why these structures are so distinctive and worth preserving.

The Culinary Experience: Four Courses of Italian Tradition

After soaking up Alberobello’s sights, it’s time for a culinary pause at the family-run La Cantina restaurant. The four-course meal promises a traditional Italian feast, cooked in front of you, giving you a taste of genuine regional flavors. This isn’t just a quick lunch; it’s a chance to savor authentic dishes in a cozy setting, often highlighted as a favorite part of the tour.

Reviews praise the excellent food and warm hospitality, with many noting the quality and freshness of the ingredients. It’s an ideal way to replenish your energy and enjoy a relaxed meal in a setting that feels like visiting friends’ home. This lunch, included in the tour price, offers great value considering the quality and portions.

From Village to Coast: Polignano a Mare

Post-lunch, the journey continues to Polignano a Mare, a seaside jewel perched atop dramatic cliffs. The town’s spectacular views of the Adriatic make it a photographer’s paradise. You’ll have time to walk around, explore its narrow streets, and learn about Domenico Modugno, the local singer famous for “Volare,” which adds a touch of cultural richness to this coastal stop.

Many travelers love the picturesque scenery and the chance to enjoy a leisurely stroll along the coast. The guide will share stories about the town’s history and local legends, making your visit both visually and culturally rewarding.

Transportation and Logistics

This tour provides the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, which is a big plus when exploring a region where parking and navigation might be tricky. The transport is by private vehicle, ensuring a comfortable ride and allowing the group to move smoothly between stops.

The group size is limited to 12 travelers, which means you can expect a more intimate atmosphere. This setup allows the guides to give personalized attention and answer questions along the way, making the experience both relaxed and informative.

The meeting point in Lecce is easy to find, and the tour starts at 9:30 am, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Considerations

While the experience is well-rounded, it’s worth noting that lunch is not included in the tour price, so you might want to budget extra for additional snacks or drinks. Also, the tour’s success depends on good weather, as much of the appeal lies in outdoor sightseeing and coastal views.

Authentic Experiences That Shine

The feedback from past travelers underscores the tour’s strengths. One reviewer called the experience “amazing” and praised the “friendly guides and beautiful views.” The guide, Maria, and the driver, Valentin, seem to go out of their way to make the day special, which truly enhances the value.

The opportunity to see Alberobello’s iconic trulli, enjoy a traditional meal, and stroll along the coast at Polignano a Mare makes this tour a well-rounded day trip. It’s particularly suitable for those who appreciate history, architecture, and local cuisine in a relaxed setting.

Who will love this tour?

If you’re after a cultural escape with plenty of photo ops, delicious food, and coastal scenery, this trip delivers in spades. It’s ideal for small groups wanting a personalized experience and for travelers who prefer guided exploration over self-led touring. Whether you’re a history buff, a food lover, or someone who simply wants to enjoy Italy’s scenic side, you’ll find value here.

This tour is also a fantastic choice for those who want to avoid the hassle of planning logistics — with hotel pickup, transport, and a confident guide, you can focus on enjoying the sights.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour offers transport by private vehicle with hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics simple and comfortable.

What’s the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 9:30 am and concluding with a return to the meeting point.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included in the price. However, you will visit a family-run restaurant for a delicious 4-course meal, which many reviews highlight as a memorable part of the day.

How many people are in each group?
The group size is limited to 12 travelers, ensuring a more personal and relaxed experience.

What should I wear?
Dress in smart casual; comfortable shoes are recommended for walking around villages and coastal areas.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather, but if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This Valle d’Itria full-day tour from Lecce combines charming villages, stunning coastal scenery, and authentic Italian cuisine into a well-structured, manageable day. It offers a chance to see Alberobello’s trulli, enjoy a local family meal, and unwind by the sea at Polignano a Mare—all with the ease of guided transportation and small-group intimacy.

If you love history, picturesque views, and tasty food, this tour is a wonderful way to get a taste of Puglia without the stress of planning. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate authentic experiences and want to leave with plenty of memorable photos and stories. Overall, it’s a balanced, value-packed outing that captures the essence of this beautiful Italian region.