Bari isn’t just about pasta and historic sites — it’s also a fantastic base for exploring Puglia’s renowned wines. The region’s unique climate and soil produce some of Italy’s most distinctive reds, whites, and rosés. What makes Bari especially appealing is its proximity to both award-winning wineries and charming villages like Polignano a Mare, where boat tours and local food pairings add flavor to your experience. We particularly love the guided wine museum tour at La Cantina Frrud, because it combines history with tasting—perfect for those who want to learn about the region’s wine heritage while savoring local cheeses and cured meats.
For those looking for a more hands-on experience, the apulian cooking class offers a chance to learn traditional pasta recipes with local guidance. Or, if a scenic boat ride with champagne sounds appealing, the 2-hour private cruise in Polignano a Mare promises a luxurious way to see the coast’s caves and cliffs.
1. Guided tour and tasting at La Cantina Frrud – Wine Museum
At number 1, this guided tour and tasting at La Cantina Frrud stands out for its historical richness. The Frrud Winery project was born just three years ago from the dream of two young men, Paolo and Donato, passionate about recovering a place of local importance. The tour takes you through their Wine Museum, where centuries of tradition are preserved, and includes tastings of three local wines. The experience is approximately 1 to 2 hours, with a focus on pairing wines with cheeses, bread, and focaccia.
Guests consistently praise the authenticity and passion of Paolo, who shares stories of the land and winemaking techniques dating back to the 1500s. This tour is ideal for history lovers and wine connoisseurs interested in authentic, small-scale production. The price of about $58 offers good value given the depth of experience, the quality of wines, and the opportunity to taste traditional local products.
Bottom line: This tour offers a meaningful glimpse into Puglia’s winemaking heritage and is perfect for those who enjoy learning while tasting.
2. Apulian Cooking Class with Aperitif and Wine in Polignano a Mare
Next on our list is the Apulian Cooking Class, which combines food, wine, and culture in a cozy setting. Guided by a local expert, you’ll learn to make orecchiette and cavatelli, two iconic pasta shapes from Puglia, using traditional techniques. The class lasts around 2 hours and includes a tasting of your handmade pasta, regional wines, and a variety of local antipasti.
What makes this experience stand out is the personal touch of a local woman sharing her family recipes. Reviewers mention how Anna Maria, the host, makes everyone feel like part of the family, and the food turns out so delicious that many say they’ll try recreating the dishes at home. It’s a great choice for foodies and those wanting a culture in Puglia’s culinary traditions.
For around $77, you get more than just a cooking lesson—you leave with skills, authentic recipes, and an appreciation for regional wines. Bottom line: This interactive experience is perfect for travelers who want to bring a taste of Italy home.
3. Bari Street food with Wine & food Taster
For a more casual but equally flavorful experience, the Bari street food tour offers a lively walk through the city’s alleys, with tastings of local specialties like orecchiette, house-made ice cream, and granita. Led by a certified guide and III level Sommelier, this tour combines local street food with wine tasting, providing insights into how Puglia’s culinary traditions are woven into daily life.
The itinerary includes a visit to Basilica San Nicola, an essential landmark, plus stops to sample regional delicacies. Reviewers mention how guide Natalia’s knowledge enhances the experience, making it a fun and informative way to get familiar with Bari. It’s suited for travelers who want a quick, authentic taste of the city’s food scene without spending the whole day.
Costing around $119, this tour offers a good value for those interested in food and wine with a social, relaxed atmosphere. Bottom line: Perfect for those who want to combine sightseeing with tasting and learning about local flavors.
4. Wine tasting experience in the Apulian countryside
If you’re interested in wines made from the region’s top DOP grapes, the Countryside Wine Tasting is a standout. Setting off from Bari, you’ll visit a family-run winery less than an hour away, where you’ll stroll among vineyards and olive groves. The tour includes tasting four wines—white, red, rosé, and dessert—paired with local favorites like focaccia, cheeses, and cold cuts.
This tour is ideal for those wanting to experience authentic rural Puglia and learn about the region’s wine production. The winery’s reputation for producing top DOP wines adds credibility, and reviews highlight the personable guide and generous tastings. The cost, around $326, reflects the private, immersive nature of the experience, including transportation.
Bottom line: This is a more premium option for wine lovers eager to explore Puglia’s countryside and produce without the hassle of arranging logistics themselves.
5. Polignano a Mare: Private Cruise with Champagne 2- hours
For those who want a luxurious way to see the coast, the 2-hour private cruise in Polignano a Mare combines breathtaking scenery with the indulgence of champagne. Starting from the historic center, you’ll board an elegant boat to explore caves and coves along the Adriatic.
This tour offers a personalized experience with a captain who knows every twist and turn of the coast. Passengers rave about the comfort of the boat, the skilled navigation into caves, and the chance to sip bubbly while enjoying views that are truly spectacular. It’s ideal for romantic getaways, special celebrations, or anyone wanting to add a touch of luxury.
At about $490, the cost is high but justified if you’re seeking an exclusive, memorable experience. For a more extended adventure, the 4-hour private cruise offers even more time to indulge.
Bottom line: Perfect for couples or small groups wanting a private, elegant way to enjoy the coastline.
6. Bari: Home Cooking Class- Make Cavatelli & Capunti with Wine
This home cooking class offers a hands-on look at Puglian pasta-making, with the added benefit of enjoying a meal with local wine afterward. Over about 3.5 hours, you’ll learn to craft cavatelli and capunti from scratch in a private home, guided by a friendly local host.
Guests praise Christiana, who makes the experience warm and personal, sharing stories and family recipes. The class includes a full meal—antipasti, pasta courses, and dessert—paired with regional wines. The cost of $102 offers excellent value for the depth of culture and the chance to recreate these dishes at home.
This experience is perfect for foodies, cooking enthusiasts, and anyone wanting to connect with local traditions through food. The intimate setting ensures personalized attention and a genuine taste of Puglia.
Bottom line: Great for those who want a memorable, hands-on cooking and tasting experience, especially if you enjoy food as part of your travel.
7. Polignano a Mare: 4-Hour Private Cruise with Champagne
This longer version of the private cruise offers even more time to explore Polignano’s caves and coastlines in style. With a dedicated captain, you’ll cruise past iconic sights like the Blue Grotto, with plenty of opportunities for swimming and sunbathing. Sipping champagne onboard, the experience is ideal for luxury travelers or special occasions.
Reviews mention the boat’s comfort and the captain’s skillful maneuvering, giving each guest a relaxed but impressive experience. The cost is higher at about $1,042, but for those seeking a private, indulgent journey, it’s worth the splurge.
Bottom line: Best suited for couples or small groups celebrating a milestone or seeking a special treat.
8. Trani, Wine Tasting, and Castel Del Monte tour from Bari or Ostuni
This full-day tour combines visits to Trani’s picturesque port, the imposing Castel Del Monte, and a wine tasting at Tormaresca winery. It’s an excellent way to combine history, scenery, and wine, with transportation taken care of. The tour lasts around 9 hours and includes a gourmet lunch, making it suitable for travelers with a full day to spare.
Reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and the beautiful scenery, especially the views from Castel del Monte. The $341 price reflects the comprehensive experience, including entrance fees and tastings. It’s perfect for history buffs and wine lovers who want an all-in-one day trip.
Bottom line: A great choice if you want to see iconic sights and taste well-known local wines without organizing every detail yourself.
9. Alberobello Private Tour: Wine, Food, Trulli & Flavors of Puglia
Discover the fairy-tale Trulli houses on this private tour, which includes a scenic drive, a walking tour, and a wine and food tasting in a local venue. The 5-hour experience allows you to explore one of Italy’s most unique towns and taste regional wines and dishes.
Reviewers love the personalized attention from the guide, and the ability to learn about Trulli architecture and local traditions. The $659 price is on the higher side, but it includes a rundown, private transport, and authentic tastings.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers seeking a private, in-depth look at Puglia’s distinctive Trulli culture combined with wine and food.
10. Wines Tastings and Countryside! from Bari
Finally, the Wines and Countryside tour offers a relaxed, small-group day exploring Puglia’s rural wineries. With a maximum of eight travelers, you’ll visit two wineries, taste regional wines, and sample local snacks like taralli. The convenient pickup and drop-off make it easy for travelers staying in Bari.
Reviews mention the knowledgeable guide and the quality of the wines, which include tastings at a cooperative and a private winery. Costing around $184, it’s a good value for a semi-private experience with plenty of personal attention.
Bottom line: Perfect for wine enthusiasts interested in exploring Puglia’s rural wine scene without the hassle of planning.
How to Choose the Best Wine Tour in Bari
When deciding between these options, consider your priorities: if you’re after deep local history and authentic small-scale wineries, the guided wine museum tour or the countryside wine tasting may suit you best. For a culinary twist, the cooking class offers hands-on fun, while those seeking luxury and scenic views might prefer the private boat cruises or the longer private cruise. Budget-wise, the small-group countryside tour delivers a lot of value, especially if you want a more intimate experience.
Booking early is wise, especially for private cruises or popular tours in high season. Consider your interests, how much time you want to dedicate, and whether you prefer interactive, scenic, or historical experiences.
Final Thoughts
Bari offers a wide array of wine-related experiences to suit every taste. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or someone seeking a luxurious escape, there’s something here. The guided wine museum provides an excellent introduction, while the private boat cruises turn your visit into a truly memorable indulgence. For a more hands-on approach, the cooking class adds local flavor to your trip.
No matter your choice, early booking ensures you won’t miss out on these unique opportunities to enjoy Puglia’s celebrated wines and authentic culture. Dive into these experiences and raise a glass to a trip filled with flavor, history, and beautiful scenery.