Monopoli, with its charming old town, rugged coastline, and welcoming atmosphere, is a perfect spot for exploring through guided tours. Whether you’re craving a relaxing boat ride along the coast, an authentic street food experience, or a walk through olive groves, Monopoli offers something for every traveler. We particularly love the boat tours for their scenic views and refreshing dips, like the 2.5 Hour Boat Tour to the Polignano a Mare Caves, which combines sightseeing with a taste of local drinks. For those wanting a more cultural and culinary taste of the area, the Walking Street Food Tour provides a delicious, insider look at Monopoli’s flavors and landmarks.
Monopoli’s diverse range of experiences ensures you can find something that matches your pace and interests. Whether you prefer a leisurely boat trip, a hands-on pasta-making class, or a walk through olive groves with wine tasting, this list covers the best options.
1. Monopoli: 2.5 Hour Boat Tour to the Polignano a Mare Caves
Discover the stunning coastline near Monopoli on this guided boat tour of the Polignano a Mare caves. Over 2.5 hours, you’ll sail past Cala Corvino, Porto Alga, and the Grotta degli Innamorati, enjoying panoramic views from the sun deck. The tour includes sampling traditional Apulian drinks and foods, adding a flavorful local touch. The crew is praised for friendliness and generous hospitality, making this a relaxed, fun outing. It’s perfect if you love coastal scenery, swimming, and learning about the caves’ geology and legends. The reviews highlight the fantastic views and the attentive crew, with many calling it “an amazing experience” and recommending it for all ages, especially families with elderly members.
Bottom Line: If you want a mix of scenic beauty, local flavor, and a chance to cool off in crystal waters, this tour is hard to beat.
2. Monopoli: Walking Street Food Tour
For those who prefer exploring on foot and tasting authentic local flavors, this Walking Street Food Tour is a top pick. It lasts 2.5 hours and guides you through Monopoli’s alleys, landmarks, and food stalls with a certified guide. You’ll sample focaccia, cured meats, cheeses, and regional wines, gaining insight into the city’s culinary traditions. The tour also covers landmarks like the Baroque Basilica Cathedral Madonna della Madia and scenic spots offering crystal-clear waters. Guests rave about Alessandra’s enthusiasm and knowledge, noting how personal and engaging the experience feels. It’s ideal if you love food, culture, and want a relaxed way to see the old town.
Bottom Line: Perfect for food lovers and those wanting a taste of everyday Monopoli life, with plenty of delicious bites and local stories.
3. Boat Tour: Polignano a Mare from Monopoli
Come with us to explore the coast in this 3-hour boat tour from Monopoli to Polignano a Mare. The tour includes a typical local aperitif and opportunities to swim or take photos of the famous cliffs and caves. It’s a more intimate experience with a smaller boat, appreciated by guests for the flexibility and personalized attention. Reviewers mention the relaxed atmosphere and beautiful scenery, with some noting the swimming as a highlight. The host, Angelo del Mare, is praised for his hospitality and knowledge. It’s ideal if you enjoy coastal scenery, relaxed cruising, and want a taste of local drinks along the way.
Bottom Line: A great choice for those wanting a personalized, scenic, and laid-back boat trip with swimming if conditions allow.
4. Wooden Gozzo Tour with Aperitif Towards the Beautiful Coast of Polignano
Step aboard a classic wooden gozzo for this 3-hour tour, which offers a taste of traditional Apulian sailing. Departing from Monopoli’s ancient port, you’ll visit caves, cliffside houses, and crystal waters, with plenty of photo opportunities. The boat is well-equipped with comforts, making it a smooth ride. The tour includes an aperitif and stops at iconic spots like Cala Port’Alga, Hermit’s Rock, and Grotta Palazzese. Reviewers highlight the beautiful scenery and the friendly crew, noting how relaxing and picturesque the experience is. It’s perfect if you love sea, caves, and want a quieter, more intimate cruise.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking authentic sailing, scenic caves, and a relaxed vibe.
5. Monopoli: Parco Rurale Guided Tour with Pasta-Making Lab
For a hands-on cultural experience, this Pasta-Making Tour combines history with culinary fun. You’ll visit the Massaria Spina in Monopoli’s Parco Rurale, learning how to make traditional Apulian pasta shapes from scratch. The guide shares insights into local traditions, and the hands-on part is especially popular—many guests say it’s a fun, authentic way to understand regional cuisine. The grounds are stunning, with features like the underground olive press and fortified tower. The reviews emphasize the professional guides and the enjoyable pasta-making experience, praised as a value-packed activity. It’s perfect for foodies or anyone interested in local traditions and cooking.
Bottom Line: A memorable, interactive way to learn about Apulian cuisine and heritage.
6. Monopoli: Parco Rurale Tour with Tasting of 3 Apulian Wines
This wine tasting tour offers a relaxing stroll through the Massaria Spina grounds, complemented by tasting three local wines. Led by a professional sommelier, guests learn about the estate’s architecture and history while sampling excellent wines. The views of the estate and the fortified tower add to the experience, and the tasting itself is often described as generous and educational. It’s ideal if you want a cultural and wine experience in a peaceful rural setting. Reviewers mention that the guide’s knowledge and the beautiful estate make it a worthwhile outing.
Bottom Line: Perfect for wine enthusiasts and those wanting a serene, educational experience.
7. Parco Rurale Monopoli: Guided Tour + Tasting 3 EVO Oils
This olive oil tasting combines a gentle walk with a guided tasting of three extra virgin olive oils. You’ll explore the Massaria Spina and learn how olive oil is made, with plenty of tasting opportunities. The review highlights the friendly guide and the tasty oils, making it a quick and delicious introduction to olive oil production. It’s suited for travelers interested in food, agriculture, and regional traditions but short on time.
Bottom Line: Great for a quick, educational taste of Apulian olive oil culture.
8. Boat Tour from Monopoli to Polignano a Mare
A full-day adventure, this boat tour takes you from Monopoli to Polignano a Mare, with stops for swimming and photos. It includes an aperitif and the chance to experience the coast from the water, with a focus on legendary sites like the Hermit’s Rock. Reviewers mention the relaxed and scenic nature of the trip, perfect for families or anyone wanting a full day on the sea. The swimming breaks are particularly appreciated.
Bottom Line: A great option for a full-day, relaxed coastal experience with plenty of time for swimming and sightseeing.
9. 2 Hours SUP Rental – Delivered to You Ready to Use
If you prefer exploring at your own pace, this SUP rental offers a flexible way to enjoy the water. Delivery makes it easy to set up on your schedule. Many reviewers commend the friendly team and the quality equipment, and a lesson is available if needed. It’s suitable for all fitness levels, and many say it’s a fun way to see the coast from a different perspective.
Bottom Line: For those seeking independence on the water, this is a simple, enjoyable option.
10. Boat Tour Polignano a Mare with Swim Stop and Aperitiv
This 2-hour boat trip is perfect if you want a quick, scenic cruise with a swimming break and drinks. It covers the famous caves and includes a relaxing aperitif on board. Reviewers mention the music and the beautiful views, making it a lively, casual outing.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers wanting a short, scenic trip with time to swim and relax.
11. Monopoli: Parco Rurale Tour with Apulian Food Tasting
This tour offers a culinary and historical walk through the Masseria Spina grounds, with tasting opportunities of local cheeses, sweets, and more. It’s highly praised for the friendly guide Elena and the quality of the food. It’s great if you want to combine cultural insights with regional flavors.
Bottom Line: For food lovers seeking an authentic taste and a bit of history, this tour hits the mark.
12. Boat tour in Monopoli of 1.30h
This shorter boat tour offers a quick coastal cruise with swimming, music, and a photo stop. Ideal for travelers with limited time, it’s praised for being friendly and relaxing. The view of Monopoli’s castle and walls from the water makes it a memorable experience.
Bottom Line: A quick but enjoyable way to see Monopoli from the water.
13. Monopoli-Polignano: Sunset Boat Tour on a Traditional Wooden Boat
Experience the magic of sunset on this 4-hour tour. Boarding the Leonardo I, a restored wooden vessel, you’ll enjoy relaxing music, drinks, and spectacular views. The sunset over the sea makes it a romantic choice, and the caves and coastline are captivating. Reviewers love the laid-back atmosphere and the beautiful scenery.
Bottom Line: Best for couples or anyone seeking a peaceful, scenic sunset experience at sea.
14. Gozzo Tour Along the Coast of Monopoli
This quick 30-minute Gozzo tour is a superb introduction to Monopoli’s coastline. With spectacular coves and caves, it’s a great choice for a short, scenic ride. The friendly guide and easy pace make it suitable for all ages.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you want a brief but scenic boat experience.
15. My Wave Tour Monopoli Polignano a Mare
For an active yet comfortable day, My Wave Tour combines boat cruising with opportunities to jump from the upper deck and relax on leather sunbeds. It offers scenic views and plenty of space to move around. Reviewers note the friendly atmosphere and the beautiful waters.
Bottom Line: Suited for travelers who want a relaxed but slightly more active boat experience.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting a tour in Monopoli, consider your interests and pace. For example, if you love scenic boat rides and swimming, the Boat Tour: Polignano a Mare from Monopoli or Sunset Boat Tour offer relaxed, picturesque experiences. If you’re a food lover, the Walking Street Food Tour provides authentic bites and local stories. For those interested in culture, the Pasta-Making Lab combines history with cooking.
Budget, time, and physical fitness are also key. Shorter options like the 1.5-hour Gozzo Tour are great for limited schedules, while full-day excursions suit travelers wanting depth. Booking early during peak season ensures availability, especially for popular boat trips.
In summary, whether you’re after an exhilarating sea adventure, a culinary discovery, or a cultural walk, Monopoli’s diverse tour options won’t disappoint. For a scenic escape, the boat tours are hard to beat, especially the Wooden Gozzo Tour, which blends tradition with comfort. If food and local life appeal more, the Street Food Tour offers a delicious insider’s perspective.
Whatever you choose, booking in advance is always wise. Monopoli’s tours promise authentic experiences, beautiful scenery, and some well-deserved relaxation—so pick what suits your style and enjoy every moment.