From Lecce Province: Ostuni, Monopoli and Polignano a Mare

Navigating the coast of southern Italy, this day trip from Lecce offers a taste of authentic Puglia: from the White City of Ostuni to the dramatic cliffs of Polignano a Mare. This tour, organized by Salentoinmovimento, packs in three destinations that are tough to beat for their scenic beauty and character. While it’s a busy day, the stops are well-paced, offering a good balance of sightseeing and leisure time.

What I particularly like about this experience is how it captures the essence of Puglia’s most photogenic spots without rushing through them. The guide’s insights help you appreciate the simple beauty of Ostuni’s labyrinth of whitewashed streets, and the views from Polignano’s cliffs are genuinely breathtaking—perfect for snapping memorable photos. Another highlight is the opportunity to stroll through Monopoli’s historic center, where pastel-colored houses and fishing boats create a sleepy seaside charm.

A potential drawback is the duration. With about 8 hours packed with travel and sightseeing, it’s a quick overview rather than an in-depth exploration. For those craving a leisurely pace and more time at each stop, this might feel a bit rushed. Also, since the tour is not suitable for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users, be prepared for some walking and uneven surfaces. Still, for a practical snapshot of southern Italy’s highlights, this trip offers excellent value—especially with the included transportation and water.

Key points / Takeaways

• Stunning coastal views: From Polignano a Mare’s cliffs to the scenic Itria Valley seen from Ostuni, the vistas are a highlight.
• Authentic towns: You’ll love wandering through Ostuni’s maze of white alleys and Monopoli’s pastel-hued streets.
• Well-organized itinerary: The stops are thoughtfully timed, balancing sightseeing and free time.
• Comfortable transport: The air-conditioned van makes long drives more pleasant, especially in warm weather.
• Local insights: Guides provide useful tips, like the best spots for photos and local specialties to try.
• Limited time at each stop: Expect a brisk but fulfilling visit—perfect for those wanting a quick overview rather than deep dives.

Exploring Ostuni: The White City

Your day begins with a drive inland to Ostuni, famously called the “White City”. The name fits because nearly every building in the historic center is painted bright white, creating a striking contrast against the blue sky. As you wander through its narrow, winding alleys, the atmosphere feels almost cinematic. Many reviews mention how the views from Ostuni’s scenic squares overlook the rolling countryside of the Itria Valley—a panorama that’s worth the climb.

The Ostuni Cathedral, perched on a hilltop, is a highlight worth visiting for its elegant façade and the panoramic views it offers. Tour guides often share stories about the city’s history and architecture, enriching your walk. After a bit of exploring, there’s time to enjoy a coffee or gelato, or simply take in the atmosphere of the lively squares. A tip I picked up from reviews is to wear comfortable shoes because the cobbled streets can be uneven and steep.

Monopoli: The Seaside Gem

Next, you’ll head to Monopoli, a picture-perfect fishing port with a long history. Its harbor area is filled with small boats, and the pastel-colored houses along the waterfront seem to spill into the sea. The historic center, with its baroque churches and lively squares, invites wandering. Many visitors comment on how the town feels authentic and less touristy than some other coastal spots, making it ideal for a relaxed stroll.

You’ll have about 75 minutes here, so it’s enough to explore the main sights, snap photos, and maybe pick up a souvenir from a local shop. Several reviews praise the scenic views from the promenade and the chance to enjoy a leisurely lunch in a traditional trattoria. The atmosphere here is laid-back and charming, perfect for soaking up local life.

Polignano a Mare: Cliffside Wonder

The final stop is Polignano a Mare, famous for its dramatic cliffs and caves overlooking the Adriatic. Walking through the town’s narrow alleys, you’ll notice flowered balconies and poetic graffiti on the walls—adding to its quirky charm. The Lama Monachile beach is the iconic image most visitors seek: a small cove framed by towering cliffs, perfect for photos and just a few steps from the town center.

The views from the cliffs are genuinely spectacular, with reviews often mentioning how the sea seems to tumble into the caves below. You’ll have about two hours here, giving enough time to walk around, take photos, and possibly sample some of the renowned artisanal ice cream or coffee. The experience is a feast for the senses, and many find it to be the highlight of the trip.

The Logistics: How It All Comes Together

The entire day is structured with pick-up from designated locations in Lecce province, making it convenient. The journey includes about 1 hour of travel to Ostuni, with subsequent drives between destinations lasting around 40, 20, and 90 minutes respectively, making the day flow smoothly. The total duration is approximately 8 hours, which is quite reasonable given the rich sights packed into it.

Transport is by air-conditioned van, which keeps everyone comfortable, especially during the warm summer months. The group tends to be moderate-sized—small enough for a personal feel but large enough to be lively. The guide, who speaks both English and Italian, provides helpful commentary, and water bottles are included, so you stay hydrated.

Cost and Value

Pricing is not explicitly listed here, but considering the included transportation, guide, and water, this tour offers good value for travelers wanting a structured overview of the region’s highlights. Entrance fees are not included, so if you’re keen on exploring the interiors of churches or museums, budget accordingly. For many, the convenience of having a professional driver and a well-planned itinerary outweighs the additional costs of entrance tickets or meals.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a taste of southern Italy’s most photogenic spots without the hassle of planning transfers and logistics. It’s perfect for those who enjoy scenic walks and picture-taking, but it’s less suited for visitors with mobility issues. If you’re short on time but eager to see Ostuni, Monopoli, and Polignano in one day, it’s an efficient way to do so.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

Travelers seeking a convenient, scenic overview of some of Puglia’s most iconic towns will find this tour worthwhile. It offers a good balance of guided insights and free exploration, with plenty of opportunities for photos and relaxed strolling. The stops are well-selected, capturing both the coast and the countryside, making it a well-rounded taste of this enchanting region.

If you’re after an immersive experience with ample free time, this might feel a bit quick. But for those wanting a practical introduction to Puglia’s highlights, it delivers excellent value, especially with the included transport and water. Plus, the stunning views at each stop are likely to leave you with plenty of memorable images to take home.

In short, whether you’re a first-time visitor or looking to see the region’s best in a single day, this trip from Lecce is a reliable choice for a day full of scenic beauty and charming towns.

FAQ

How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts around 8 hours, including driving, sightseeing, and free time in each town.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the trip is in an air-conditioned van, helping make the long drives more pleasant.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, but there are opportunities to buy food and drinks during free time at each town.

Can I customize the itinerary?
This is a set group tour; modifications are unlikely, but the schedule is designed to balance sightseeing and leisure.

Is this suitable for families?
Yes, but keep in mind the walking involved and that it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a hat, a camera, and a water bottle are recommended.

How do I book?
You can reserve your spot with flexible payment options, including booking now and paying later, by contacting the tour provider.

This detailed look at the Lecce province day trip highlights its strengths as an efficient way to experience Puglia’s most photogenic and charming towns—perfect for those wanting a scenic taste of Italy’s southeastern coast.