From Bari: Visit Polignano a Mare with street food tour

Discover the Charm of Polignano a Mare with a Food-focused Tour from Bari

This full-day tour takes you from the bustling city of Bari to the stunning seaside town of Polignano a Mare, famous for its dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and as the birthplace of the legendary Domenico Modugno. For approximately nine hours, you’ll enjoy a carefully curated experience that combines cultural sights with authentic street food tastings. The tour, priced at around $115.68 per person, is designed for those eager to indulge in local flavors and explore this picture-perfect town with a knowledgeable guide, typically Alessandra or Giuseppe, who make the experience both educational and fun.

What we love most about this experience? First, the quality of the food tastings is impressive—focaccia, panzerotto, and the special coffee created by Mario Campanella are all memorable highlights. Second, the seaside setting, especially while enjoying a glass of local wine and a platter of burrata and capocollo, makes this a wonderfully relaxing way to spend a day. The only thing to consider is that the tour starts early and involves some walking and free time, so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with a full schedule and a bit of exertion.

If you’re a lover of good food, scenic views, and small-group exploration, this tour fits the bill perfectly. It’s especially ideal for those who want a guided introduction to Polignano’s culinary riches combined with a taste of soulful Italian coastal life.

Key Points

• Authentic local cuisine: Includes focaccia, panzerotto, special coffee, and local wine.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable, friendly guides like Alessandra or Giuseppe enhance the experience.
• Beautiful scenery: Stunning views of Polignano a Mare’s cliffs and sea from the town’s vantage points.
• Flexible options: Extra services like boat tours, SUP, and gig tours are available for those wanting more.
• Value for money: For roughly $115, you get a full day of sightseeing, tastings, and cultural insights.
• Great for food lovers: The focus on regional specialties makes it especially appealing to culinary travelers.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Departure and Journey from Bari

Your day begins bright and early at 8:00 am when you’ll gather in Bari for this full-day excursion. The comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle ensures a smooth and cool ride as you head toward one of Italy’s most charming coastal towns. The approximately 1-hour drive is a chance to get into the relaxed pace of southern Italy, maybe even catch some scenic glimpses of the Apulian countryside through the window.

Arrival and the Street Food Tour

Arriving in Polignano a Mare around 9:00 am, the real fun begins at 10:30 am with a guided street food tour. Your local guide (notably Alessandra, according to reviews) will lead you through the winding alleys and panoramic viewpoints, sharing stories about the town’s history and the origins of its culinary traditions.

This is no rushed tasting session. Instead, it’s a deliberate exploration of regional flavors, each accompanied by insightful commentary. The tour is intimate, with a maximum of 30 travelers, ensuring you can ask questions and savor each stop without feeling lost in a crowd.

Highlights of Food Tastings

One of the tour’s standout features is the emphasis on local specialties:

• Special Coffee: Created by Mario Campanella, this unique coffee variant is a must-try, loved worldwide, and a perfect energizer for the day.
• Focaccia: Known as the queen of Apulian street foods, this soft, flavorful bread is a staple that you’ll find fresh and delicious.
• Panzerotto: A traditional favorite, this warm pastry filled with mozzarella and tomato sauce can be customized with other fillings, making it a versatile snack.
• Wine and Charcuterie: Enjoy a glass of local wine paired with burrata and capocollo while taking in views of the sea—a memorable moment for many travelers, as noted in reviews.

Free Time and Optional Extras

After the tasting session, you’ll have till about 1:00 pm for lunch and shopping. This is your opportunity to explore at your own pace. Many travelers appreciate the freedom to wander, pick up souvenirs, or sit at a café and soak in the scenery.

For those interested in extending their experience, optional activities are available, such as boat tours of the Polignano caves, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), or a quirky Ape Car tour—all offering extra-cost add-ons for a deeper adventure.

Return to Bari

The tour wraps up with a return trip at 5:00 pm, giving you a full day of exploration without feeling rushed. The comfortable vehicle and friendly guides make the journey back pleasant and relaxed.

The Experience’s Strengths

Authentic Food & Cultural Insights: This tour’s real charm lies in the quality and authenticity of the tastings. We loved the way each snack and drink was tied to local traditions, making this more than just a quick food walk — it’s a genuine taste of Polignano’s soul.

Scenic Beauty & Panoramic Views: The town’s cliffs and sea vistas are breathtaking. During the walk, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to pause and admire the views, especially while enjoying your wine and burrata platter.

Knowledgeable Guides: Based on reviews, guides like Alessandra and Giuseppe are praised for their friendliness and depth of knowledge. They make the experience engaging and leave you with stories and tips to remember.

Possible Drawbacks or Considerations

The main consideration is the early start and full schedule. If you’re a slow starter or prefer more leisurely mornings, this might feel rushed. Also, the tour’s focus on food and scenery means you’ll need to be comfortable with walking and standing for periods. It’s not suitable for travelers who prefer a more relaxed or leisurely pace without scheduled stops.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is best suited for food lovers, scenic seekers, and those eager for a guided peek into Polignano a Mare’s authentic flavors. It’s particularly appealing to travelers who enjoy tasting regional dishes, sipping local wines, and exploring charming towns with knowledgeable guides. If your goal is to have an immersive, well-rounded introduction to Polignano’s culinary and cultural charms, this tour hits the mark.

The Sum Up

For those looking to combine Italy’s best coastal views with genuinely local culinary delights, this tour offers a well-balanced and enjoyable package. The combination of delicious tastings, expert guides, and the stunning scenery of Polignano a Mare ensures a memorable experience that’s well worth the price. It’s a fantastic choice if you want a taste of authentic Apulian life, away from the more touristy corridors.

This tour appeals most to foodies, photo lovers, and anyone who appreciates a guided, small-group experience with plenty of opportunities to indulge in Italy’s famed flavors. Whether you’re visiting Bari for a day or are in the region for longer, this outing guarantees a flavorful slice of Puglia’s coastline.

FAQ

What time does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at 9:00 am from Bari and returns around 5:00 pm, including travel, sightseeing, and free time.

Is transportation included?
Yes, an air-conditioned vehicle takes you from Bari to Polignano a Mare and back, ensuring comfort throughout the day.

How long is the walking involved?
You’ll walk through Polignano a Mare’s streets, enjoying scenic views and stops. The total tour duration is about nine hours.

What food is included in the tastings?
The tour features focaccia, panzerotto, special coffee, and a wine and charcuterie platter with burrata and capocollo.

Are extra activities available?
Yes, options like boat tours, SUP, or gig tours are available at additional costs, allowing you to extend your experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, but considerations about walking and standing should be taken into account. It’s best for those comfortable with a full day of activity.

How many people typically join?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 30 travelers, creating an intimate and friendly group setting.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book about 84 days ahead to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons.

This street food and scenic exploration of Polignano a Mare from Bari offers a genuine taste of southern Italy’s coast, combining culinary delights with natural beauty — a perfect day out for authentic Italian lovers.