Taranto offers a fascinating mix of history, cuisine, and coastal charm that makes it an ideal place for exploring through organized tours. Whether you’re a foodie eager to learn how to make oregchiette or a history buff interested in the Marta Archaeological Museum, Taranto’s tours provide authentic experiences that go beyond typical sightseeing. We’re especially fond of the Puglia Cooking Class “Le orecchiette, che pasta!” because it offers hands-on learning in a picturesque country setting, plus the chance to enjoy a multi-course meal of your own making. Plus, the Mozzarella Experience at Masseria Fragnite is perfect for cheese lovers wanting to see how Italy’s famous dairy products are crafted with care.
Taranto’s tours are as diverse as its landscape—from intimate cooking workshops to scenic city rides. With options for private guides, family-friendly activities, and cultural explorations, there’s something here for everyone. To get a sense of what’s available, keep reading as we explore the best 15 tours in Taranto.
1. Puglia Cooking class “Le orecchiette, che pasta!”
At number 1, this small-group countryside cooking class introduces you to Puglia’s most iconic pasta—orecchiette. Hosted in a rustic country home, this experience is led by a local cook who shares traditional techniques and stories about Puglian cuisine. You’ll learn how to craft the ear-shaped pasta, then move on to preparing a full four-course meal featuring seasonal herbs, vegetables, and local specialties. The class promises insights into the Valle di Itria’s culinary traditions and ends with a shared meal paired with regional wines.
What makes this tour stand out are its personable hosts and intimate setting—your small group ensures plenty of hands-on time. Reviewers describe it as “amazing,” with memorable moments like learning the history behind the dishes. For about $75, you get four hours of authentic culinary fun and a delicious meal. It’s best suited for foodies and those eager to experience local life firsthand.
Bottom line: If you love cooking and want an immersive, flavorful experience in a peaceful rural setting, this class delivers real Puglian charm.
2. Mozzarella Experience – Cheese Tour and tastings to Masseria Fragnite
Coming in at number 2, the Mozzarella Experience provides a fascinating look at the art of cheese-making at an authentic Apulian farm. Over roughly 1-3 hours, you’ll visit Masseria Fragnite, where the farm’s passionate team shows you how Mozzarella, Burrata, Caciocavallo, and other regional cheeses are crafted from fresh milk. You can explore the dairy, milk the cows, and watch the skilled cheesemakers at work. The highlight is tasting a variety of cheeses, complemented by cold cuts, jams, and mustards.
This tour is highly recommended for anyone curious about Italy’s cheese traditions or wanting a behind-the-scenes look at farm life. Reviewers love how educational and relaxed the experience is, with one saying, “It’s a real piece of Puglian heritage.” Best of all, at around $41, it offers fantastic value considering the quality of both the tour and tastings. It’s suitable for families, couples, or anyone who appreciates good food and a genuine farm atmosphere.
Bottom line: For a delicious, educational outing that showcases Italy’s cheese craftsmanship, this tour hits the spot.
3. Private Tour of Taranto aboard an Ape Calessino
Number 3 features a 50-minute private city tour aboard a vintage Ape Calessino—the classic Italian three-wheeled vehicle. This guided ride takes you through Taranto’s old town and Umbertino village, highlighting landmarks like the castle, promenade, and Palazzo del Governo. Your guide describes the city’s history, architecture, and key sights as you zip along in style.
Guests appreciate the relaxed pace and personalized attention, with many noting how fun and informative the experience is. One reviewer mentions, “Riding in the tuk-tuk was fun, and the guide was very friendly and knowledgeable.” The price is very accessible at just over $23 per person, making it a great way to cover the city’s highlights in a short time.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who want a quick, fun overview of Taranto’s main sights in a comfortable and memorable way.
4. Masseria Seppunisi Tour – Mozzarella and Burrata experience
At number 4, this 2.5-hour farm tour takes you into the world of artisan cheese-making at Masseria Seppunisi. Located on the Murge plateau, this farm has been family-run for four generations and prides itself on traditional, km0 production. You’ll see the milking of cows, learn about the cheese production process, and taste fresh burrata, mozzarella, and other local cheeses, paired with regional products.
This experience is perfect for those interested in the agriculture and craftsmanship behind Italy’s famous cheeses. Visitors praise the amount of information shared and the quality of the cheese, with one calling it “incredible.” The tour costs around $52 and offers excellent value if you want to combine a farm visit with tasting authentic, high-quality dairy products.
Bottom line: For cheese lovers and those curious about rural Apulian production, this tour offers an enriching experience.
5. Private tour by Tuk Tuk of the Ostuni medieval quarter
Number 5 is a 30-minute private tuk-tuk ride through the medieval white town of Ostuni. Your driver, who knows Ostuni like the back of their hand, will take you through narrow streets, explaining the city’s history and architecture. The tour includes stops at the Duomo di Santa Maria Assunta, Piazza Della Liberta, and a panoramic photo stop at the Ostuni Palace Spa with breathtaking views of the sea and olive groves.
Reviewers say it’s an excellent way to quickly see Ostuni’s highlights and get personalized stories from your guide. Priced at around $40, it’s a fun, easy option for travelers short on time but wanting a memorable overview of this iconic “white city.”
Bottom line: Perfect for visitors who want a quick, scenic introduction to Ostuni’s charming streets.
6. Private guided tour in Ostuni: exploring the panoramic historical centre
For about $87, this guided walk offers an in-depth exploration of Ostuni’s old town. Led by a licensed guide, you’ll visit the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, walk along ancient city walls, and learn about Ostuni’s origins and architecture. The guide shares insights into the Baroque buildings and panoramic views of the olive groves and coast.
Guests often comment on the guide’s expertise and personal approach, making the experience both educational and enjoyable. It’s ideal for history enthusiasts or those wanting a comprehensive understanding of the “white city”.
Bottom line: Suitable for travelers who want a detailed, personalized tour that covers Ostuni’s history, architecture, and scenic viewpoints.
7. Ostuni DOC winetour and tasting
Number 7 combines vineyard visits with wine tasting in a 2-hour tour immersed in olive groves. Led by a knowledgeable host, you’ll explore Ottavianello, Impigno, and Francavidda vines, learning about the region’s distinctive grape varieties. The tour includes tasting local wines paired with regional bites, and a visit to a medieval hypogeum.
Reviewers highlight how Ilaria’s expertise makes the experience both educational and enjoyable. Priced at around $89, it’s a well-balanced tour for wine enthusiasts interested in regional varieties and traditional winemaking.
Bottom line: A great choice for wine lovers eager to learn about Puglia’s unique vineyards and taste authentic regional wines.
8. Chef Service Ostuni, Cisternino, Ceglie, Fasano
Number 8 offers a personal chef experience in your accommodation, with prices around $116 for a 4.5-hour gourmet meal. The service allows you to choose from predefined menus or customize dishes for dietary needs like vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free. Chefs Marianna and Valeria prepare multiple courses right in your holiday house, bringing regional flavors directly to you.
Customers rave about how the service turned their stay into a true culinary experience, with one saying, “Our family of 7 enjoyed a fantastic, accommodating meal for a big celebration.” This is perfect for travelers who want to indulge without leaving their villa or villa-like accommodation.
Bottom line: For private, high-quality dining in your holiday home, this chef service offers a memorable, stress-free experience.
9. Private Wine Tour from Ostuni with Lunch including Alberobello and Locorotondo
Number 9 is a full-day private tour combining wine tasting, sightseeing, and local dining. You’ll visit a historic 16th-century masseria, sample wines from Ottavianello and Impigno, and enjoy a farm-to-table lunch. Afterwards, explore Locorotondo’s charming streets, then marvel at the UNESCO World Heritage site of Alberobello with its iconic trulli.
Guests love the relaxed pace and personalized attention, with reviews citing the “knowledgeable guide” and “delicious food and wine.” The tour, at around $196, provides great value for a comprehensive day of culture, cuisine, and stunning scenery.
Bottom line: Ideal for those wanting to combine wine, history, and cuisine in a flexible, private setting.
10. Locorotondo, Alberobello, Martina Franca departing from Taranto
This 3-4 hour guided trip offers a taste of Valle d’Itria’s best villages. You’ll visit Locorotondo’s rounded streets, explore Alberobello’s iconic trulli, and stroll through Martina Franca’s Baroque center. The tours are praised for their scenic drives and efficient itinerary, allowing you to see the highlights without feeling rushed.
Reviewers appreciate the helpful guides and the picturesque villages, with one saying, “It’s a great way to see three towns in one short trip.” Priced at about $142, it’s perfect for travelers with limited time but a desire for authentic local sights.
Bottom line: Perfect for a quick but comprehensive look at the Valle d’Itria region’s charm.
11. Boat fishing, boat tours, boat party
Number 11 offers a 5-hour boat trip with options for fishing, swimming, or just relaxing. You might even spot dolphins, and the trips can include private charters or parties. One reviewer mentions, “Nicola was very accommodating, and we did some great fishing and swimming,” highlighting the flexibility and fun of this experience.
This tour is great for those wanting a leisurely day at sea, enjoying the coast from a different perspective. It costs about $18, making it an affordable way to combine relaxation and adventure on the water.
Bottom line: Excellent for travelers wanting a laid-back, scenic boat outing with chances for fishing or swimming.
12. e-bike tour in the plain of the secular olive trees of Ostuni
Number 12 is an e-bike adventure through the massive olive grove surrounding Ostuni. Over 3 hours, you’ll visit an ancient farm, learn about olive cultivation, and taste local products. Reviewers say, “Rocco was an amazing guide, knowledgeable and friendly,” highlighting the educational aspect combined with scenery.
This tour is suited for active travelers who want to see the olive trees up close and learn about olive oil production. The cost is about $138, offering a good balance of activity and insight.
Bottom line: A perfect choice for those who enjoy cycling and want a deeper connection to Puglia’s olive oil heritage.
13. I segreti di una pasta perfetta con Dora
This pasta workshop features mom Dora, who teaches you the secrets to making perfect orecchiette. Over approximately 1.5 hours, you’ll learn to prepare the dough, shape the pasta, and enjoy an aperitif with local products. One reviewer calls it “a wonderful experience,” praising the authentic atmosphere and personal attention.
Suitable for couples or small groups, the $65 class offers a hands-on way to bring home a piece of Puglia’s culinary tradition. It’s especially popular among those wanting a fun, interactive experience that ends with a delicious meal.
Bottom line: Ideal for foodies eager to learn pasta-making from a local expert.
14. Cooking Class in your accommodation: Fresh handmade pasta
Number 14 is a private, in-home cooking class where chefs prepare three types of fresh pasta like orecchiette and more. Spend around four hours with your hosts, learning techniques and then enjoying the homemade dishes. Reviewers mention that “it was a fun family activity” and appreciate the “professional, friendly” service.
This experience is perfect if you prefer a personalized, private setting and want to bring authentic skills back home. The price is about $142 per person, which is reasonable considering the personalized approach.
Bottom line: Best for travelers who want a custom, private culinary experience at their own property.
15. Marta Archaeological Museum Taranto tour: very impressive great gold artifacts
Rounding out the list, this 2-hour guided tour of the Marta Archaeological Museum showcases Italy’s top collection of ancient artifacts. Highlights include Roman jewelry, statues, and mosaics, especially the Gold of Taranto jewelry pieces. Visitors praise the guide’s passion and knowledge, making complex artifacts accessible and fascinating.
This tour is a must for anyone interested in archaeology and ancient art, and at around $296, it offers a comprehensive look at Taranto’s prehistoric and classical treasures. It’s perfect for history buffs or those wanting a relaxed, focused museum experience.
Bottom line: An excellent option for art and history lovers seeking an in-depth look at Taranto’s archaeological treasures.
How to Choose Your Perfect Tour in Taranto
When selecting among these options, consider your budget, interests, and schedule. Food lovers might prioritize the Puglia Cooking class, while history enthusiasts could favor the Marta Museum tour. If you’re short on time, the private city tour or Ostuni tuk-tuk are excellent for quick overviews.
For those craving a full day of exploration, combine wine tasting with visits to historic towns—perfect for a relaxed, immersive experience. Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the cheese tasting, while active visitors can enjoy the e-bike or boat tours for a more physical adventure.
Booking early is advisable, especially for popular experiences like the cooking classes or private guided tours, to ensure availability and the best times.
From culinary adventures to cultural explorations, Taranto offers an impressive variety of tours to enrich your visit. Whether you’re seeking to master pasta, taste handcrafted cheese, or explore scenic villages, these carefully selected experiences guarantee a memorable trip. For a relaxed, authentic way to discover this beautiful region, pick your favorite and enjoy every moment.