Ostuni, Locorotondo & Polignano: Private or Semi-Private Tour

Embark on an engaging day trip from Bari that takes you through three of Puglia’s most charming towns: Ostuni, Locorotondo, and Polignano a Mare. For $196.04 per person, this 7 to 8-hour private or semi-private tour offers a personalized experience without the crowds of large group buses. With pickup options, guided walking tours, and free time at each stop, it’s ideal for travelers seeking both structure and leisure.

While the tour provides plenty of highlights and the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle and private driver, it also balances sightseeing with flexibility. A key strength of this experience is the quality of the guides—praised for their knowledge and friendly approach—making each town’s history and character come alive. This tour is especially fitting for those who want to see several towns in one day, enjoy local architecture, and have some independence for meals and exploration.

Key Points

• Visit three iconic towns in one day: Ostuni, Locorotondo, and Polignano a Mare, with guided walking tours at each stop.
• Comfortable transportation: Travel in a private, air-conditioned vehicle with a private driver.
• Flexible free time: Enjoy free time in Locorotondo for lunch and in Polignano a Mare for sightseeing or relaxing at the beach.
• Expert guides: Guides are noted for their knowledgeable, friendly approach, enriching the experience.
• Price and booking: Costs $196.04 per person and is usually booked 81 days in advance.
• Duration and logistics: This 7 to 8-hour tour begins at Basilica San Nicola in Bari and ends back at the same meeting point.

From Bari to the “White City” of Ostuni

The tour begins with a pickup at Basilica San Nicola in Bari, or a meeting point if preferred. The first stop is Ostuni, famously called the “white city” for its striking whitewashed buildings. Upon arrival, a 2-hour guided walking tour explores this hilltop town, giving visitors a chance to admire its narrow streets and vibrant atmosphere.

The highlight here is the Romanesque Cathedral, which features Italy’s largest rose window. The guide leads you through Ostuni’s charming alleys, sharing stories about its history and architecture, making the walk both informative and visually delightful. The free time afterward allows for independent exploration or shopping, with no entrance fees involved.

Discovering Locorotondo’s Architectural Elegance

Next, the journey continues to Locorotondo, one of Italy’s “most beautiful villages”. Here, a private walking tour showcases the town’s distinct circular layout and elegant white stone houses. The church of St. George and the chapel of St. Nicholas with its fascinating pictorial series are among the key sites visited.

Tour participants are given 1 hour of free time for lunch, though meals are not included in the tour price. This allows visitors to enjoy local eateries or pick up snacks from charming shops. Locorotondo’s peaceful ambiance and beautiful vistas make it a perfect spot for photos and leisurely strolling.

Polignano a Mare and the Lama Monachile Beach

The final stop is Polignano a Mare, renowned for its stunning seaside views and famous beach “Lama Monachile”. Here, guests receive 1 hour of free time to explore independently. Options include a walk along the cliffside promenade, browsing local craft shops, or simply relaxing by the water.

The town’s dramatic sea caves and rocky coastline offer fantastic photo opportunities. Visitors can choose to enjoy lunch on their own or relax by the beach, making this a versatile ending to the day.

Seamless Transportation Between Towns

Throughout the tour, travel is smooth and climate-controlled in a private vehicle driven by a friendly, professional driver. This setup ensures minimal fatigue and maximum comfort, allowing the focus to stay on sightseeing. The vehicle’s spaciousness and air conditioning are often praised, especially in the warmer months.

The tour is designed to balance guided insights with free time, giving travelers a taste of each location’s unique character without feeling rushed. The guides are known for their knowledgeable, friendly manner, and some reviews highlight their willingness to pay for coffee, pastries, or extra local tips, enhancing the experience.

The Guide’s Role and Personal Touches

Many reviews emphasize the expertise and friendliness of the guides. Guides like Enza, Caterina, and Eugenio are praised for their passion, storytelling skills, and willingness to go beyond standard narration. Some guides even pay for small treats like coffee, which adds a personal touch to the day.

Plus, the driver’s professionalism and communication skills earn high marks. Guests appreciate the patience and extra requests accommodated, making the tour accessible and enjoyable for older travelers or those with specific interests.

Practical Considerations and Booking Details

The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off options, although it can also start at a designated meeting point in Bari. The duration of 7 to 8 hours makes it a full but comfortable day trip, suitable for most travelers with moderate mobility.

Booking generally occurs about 81 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. The tour is non-refundable, so planning ahead is advised. The price of $196.04 per person offers good value considering the private transportation, guided walks, and the exclusive nature of the experience.

What Sets This Tour Apart

This experience distinguishes itself with its private setting, allowing for a more personalized approach compared to larger group tours. The combination of guided walks and free time offers flexibility—guests can follow the guide’s lead or explore independently at each stop.

The tour’s focus on three key towns in one day makes it an efficient way to experience diverse landscapes, architecture, and seaside scenery. Its high reviews for knowledgeable guides, good value, and comfortable transport speak to its quality.

Potential Limitations and Considerations

The tour does not include lunch or beach stops for swimming, so travelers should plan accordingly. The non-refundable policy requires certainty in booking, and some reviews suggest that vehicle choices depend on early requests, although the tour provider strives to meet guest needs.

The timing at each site is structured but allows for personal exploration. However, travelers should be prepared for a full day of sightseeing, with some walking involved, especially in the towns’ historic centers.

Final Thoughts on the Ostuni, Locorotondo & Polignano Tour

This private tour offers a rich taste of Puglia’s iconic towns in a single day, with expert guides, comfortable transportation, and customizable free time. It’s best suited for those who want to see multiple towns without the hassle of coordinating logistics or large crowds.

The moderate price point and positive reviews about the guides’ friendliness and knowledge make it a solid choice for travelers seeking an authentic, relaxed experience. It particularly appeals to those who appreciate scenic views, charming architecture, and local culture in a well-organized format.

While it doesn’t cover every detail like meals or beach activities, it provides a rundown of some of Puglia’s most visually stunning and historically interesting sites, all within a manageable timeframe.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, starting from Bari and returning to the same meeting point.

What is included in the price?
The price covers private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, a private driver, and guided walking tours at each town. Free time at Locorotondo and Polignano a Mare is also provided.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, but there is 1 hour of free time in Locorotondo for meals, and visitors can choose to eat on their own in Polignano a Mare.

Can I customize the stops or timings?
The tour has a set itinerary but offers flexibility in free time for meals and exploration. Specific vehicle requests are communicated in advance, but last-minute changes may be limited.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and reviews highlight accessibility for older adults. The moderate walking and comfortable vehicle make it suitable for a range of mobility levels.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Basilica San Nicola in Bari or a designated meeting point and concludes back at the same location.

Are guides experienced?
Yes, guides are praised for their knowledge, friendly demeanor, and willingness to share stories and recommendations beyond standard narration.

Is this a private or semi-private experience?
It can be booked as a private or semi-private tour, ensuring your group enjoys a personalized experience without large crowds.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made around 81 days in advance, which is recommended for securing preferred dates.

What makes this tour a good choice?
Its combination of guided sightseeing and free time, comfortable transport, and positive reviews on guide expertise and value make it an appealing option for those wanting a well-rounded day trip in Puglia.