Bari is a fantastic base for exploring the rich tapestry of Puglia, offering easy access to scenic coastlines, unique architecture, and ancient towns. For those seeking a full-day adventure, Bari’s tours stand out for their mix of history, stunning scenery, and local flavor. Whether you want a relaxed introduction to nearby coastal villages or an in-depth exploration of UNESCO World Heritage sites, Bari has a tour to match your interests. We particularly like the Full Day Tour by Car and Walking among the Apulian Beauties for its personal touch and flexible itinerary, and the Puglia Full-Day Tour for its comprehensive coverage of key highlights like Matera and Castel del Monte.
Quick overview
Our list covers a variety of full-day tours, from small-group private experiences to larger guided excursions. Each offers a different way to discover the region’s highlights—from scenic drives and iconic Trulli houses to UNESCO sites and ancient caves. For more details, check out the Full Day Tour by Car and Walking among the Apulian Beauties, Full-day tour Alberobello & Locorotondo & Polignano a Mare & Bari, and Puglia Full-Day Tour.
1. Full Day Tour by Car and Walking among the Apulian Beauties
For around $94, this full-day tour offers a relaxed way to see Alberobello, Monopoli, and Polignano a Mare with the insight of a local driver—Gianluca—who will provide tips along the way. The tour lasts about 8.5 hours, making it ideal for travelers wanting a well-paced day without feeling rushed. What makes this experience stand out is the combination of driving and walking, allowing you to explore these picturesque towns at your own pace.
The journey begins in Bari, where you’ll meet your driver and head toward Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its trulli—distinctive conical-roof houses that seem straight out of a fairy tale. After about 2 hours wandering through the historic centers, you’ll continue to Monopoli, a charming fishing town with a lively waterfront. You’ll get about 2 hours here to walk the cobbled streets, enjoy the sea views, and absorb the local atmosphere. The day concludes in Polignano a Mare, perched dramatically on cliffs, with free time to explore the streets or grab a gelato.
Bottom line: This tour offers a solid balance of guided insight and free time, perfect for those who want a taste of Apulian life without the crowds. It’s especially good for travelers who value local tips and a flexible itinerary.
2. Full-day tour Alberobello & Locorotondo & Polignano a Mare & Bari
If you’re after a more comprehensive experience, the Full-day tour of Alberobello, Locorotondo, Polignano a Mare, and Bari packs a lot into about 7 hours. Starting from Bari, guides will pick you up either from the port, hotel, or airport, setting you up for a busy day exploring iconic UNESCO sites and charming towns. The tour hits Alberobello, with its world-famous trulli houses, and Locorotondo, a tiny hilltop town with winding streets and whitewashed buildings.
The highlight is definitely Alberobello, where you’ll have about 2 hours to walk among the conical rooftops and learn about their construction. Afterward, the tour includes free time in Polignano a Mare—an ideal spot for a coffee or ice cream while admiring its cliffside setting. The guided elements include a brief walk through Bari’s old town, including the St. Nicholas Basilica, which adds a historical perspective to your day.
This tour is best suited for travelers who want a thorough overview of the region’s highlights without spending more than a day on the road. However, the higher price reflects the inclusive guided experience, making it more expensive than self-guided options.
Bottom line: It’s a good choice for lovers of history, architecture, and scenic coastal towns who want a guided, structured day. Keep in mind the cost, but also the convenience of a guided experience.
3. Puglia Full-Day Tour: Bari, Trulli of Alberobello, Castel del Monte and Sassi of Matera
This small-group tour costs about $345 and covers a lot of ground—ideal if you’re eager for a deep dive into Puglia’s most emblematic sights. The tour combines UNESCO-listed sites like Alberobello and Matera, plus the Castel del Monte, a medieval castle with a unique octagonal shape. It lasts approximately 9 hours, with a focus on architecture, history, and scenic landscapes.
The day begins with a full visit of Castel del Monte, where you’ll learn about its mysterious origins and enjoy panoramic views. Next, you’ll explore Alberobello in depth, walking through its trulli neighborhoods. The highlight here is the detailed exploration of the UNESCO World Heritage site, with enough time to appreciate the conical roofs and local craft shops. Then, the tour heads inland to Matera, famous for its Sassi—homes carved into the limestone rock, dating back thousands of years. You’ll tour the caves and see the rock churches, gaining insight into one of Italy’s most unique settlements.
This tour is well-suited for travelers interested in architecture, ancient cave dwellings, and medieval castles. The small group size (not specified but implied) ensures a more personalized experience, and the inclusion of Castel del Monte adds a distinctive element.
Bottom line: Ideal for history buffs and architecture lovers willing to invest a full day. The itinerary’s depth offers excellent value, especially if you want to see Matera and Castel del Monte in a single trip.
How to Choose the Right Full-Day Tour in Bari
Picking the best tour depends on what you want from your day. If a relaxed, flexible experience with local tips appeals, the Full Day Tour by Car and Walking among the Apulian Beauties is a great fit. For those wanting an in-depth guided trip that hits all the high points, the full-day tour including Alberobello, Locorotondo, and Polignano a Mare offers a structured itinerary. For a comprehensive UNESCO experience with historical depth, the small-group tour to Matera, Castel del Monte, and Alberobello is your best bet.
Consider your budget, how much time you want to spend on the road, and your specific interests—be it scenic coastal towns, ancient caves, or medieval castles. Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season, as these popular excursions tend to fill quickly.
Bari’s full-day tours open up a window into Puglia’s distinctive charm—whether you prefer a leisurely stroll through charming towns or a guided deep dive into UNESCO sights. Each option offers a different way to experience the region’s beauty and history, so think about what excites you most and pick the tour that matches your travel style. With a little planning, you’ll be well on your way to memorable discoveries in southern Italy.