One day in Polignano a Mare

Polignano a Mare is one of southern Italy’s most photogenic towns, with its jagged cliffs, winding alleys, and sparkling sea. This particular experience offers a well-rounded taste of what makes this place special — from its delicious local cuisine to its breathtaking coastline. The tour, offered by PUGLIAMARE SRL, packs a lot into six hours and is designed for travelers eager to see the town’s highlights without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

What really makes this experience stand out are two elements: the expertly guided food tour that introduces you to classic Apulian flavors like panzerotto and focaccia, and the boat trip through the caves, which offers a rare view of Polignano’s rugged coastline from the water. Both of these activities seem to resonate highly with past travelers, especially those who appreciate genuine local insights and stunning scenery.

One potential consideration is the tight schedule. With three major stops—food, a tuk tuk ride, and the boat tour—you’ll want to come hungry and ready to enjoy each segment fully. Also, keep in mind that the tour operates in a group setting, which can be lively but might not suit those seeking complete privacy or a more relaxed pace. All in all, if you’re looking for a comprehensive, engaging way to experience Polignano a Mare, this tour offers excellent value for its price of around $113.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Authentic Local Flavors: Tasting panzerotto and focaccia, along with wine and burrata, makes this a foodie’s delight.
• Expert Guides: Alessandra and other guides are praised for their passion and friendliness, elevating the experience.
• Unique Transportation: The Ape Calessino tuk tuk ride offers access to hidden spots like Cala Sala (Port’Alga).
• Spectacular Coastal Views: The boat tour provides an up-close look at Polignano’s dramatic cliffs and caves, with a swim stop included.
• Flexible and Convenient: The tour includes reserved activities with easy logistics, plus free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Good Value: For around $113, you get a mix of cultural, culinary, and scenic experiences, all guided by knowledgeable locals.

Polignano a Mare is one of those towns that captures your heart with its cliffs, narrow streets, and the shimmering Adriatic. If you’re like me, you want to absorb as much of its character as possible, but without feeling like you’re rushing through a checklist. This tour from PUGLIAMARE SRL offers a structured yet lively way to do just that—covering food, sights, and sea in a single day.

Starting Point: A Warm Welcome at Piazza Caduti di Via Fani

The experience kicks off at 10:15am from their office located at 26 Piazza Caduti di Via Fani. From there, you’re immediately immersed in the lively atmosphere of Polignano, with the guide setting the tone for a day full of flavor and fun.

The Heart of the Tour: The 2.5-Hour Street Food Walk

The first major activity is the Street Food Tour in the old town, lasting about two and a half hours. As someone who loves to taste authentic local dishes, I found this part especially appealing. Walking through the ancient alleys, you’ll explore iconic sights like Chiesa Matrice, Piazza Dell’Orologio, and charming painted phrases on walls—each corner packed with character.

What makes this segment stand out are the delicious tastings—panzerotto, focaccia, burrata, and capocollo. Expect to taste warm, freshly made treats that reflect the true flavors of Puglia. Guides such as Alessandra (who many reviews highlight as passionate and engaging) are great at sharing stories behind each snack, making the experience more than just eating. As one traveler commented, “Alessandra was an amazing tour guide, passionate about her country and customs and food,” transforming simple bites into a cultural journey.

The Tuk Tuk Adventure: Hidden Spots and Scenic Views

Once the food portion wraps up, a vintage Ape Calessino (a classic tuk tuk) awaits to take you to spots that are hard to reach on foot—like Cala Sala, better known as Port’Alga. This ride is a highlight for many, as it offers a fun, breezy way to see the town’s less accessible areas. The guides, such as Gio, are praised for their relaxed vibe and local knowledge, making the ride feel like a friendly outing rather than a touristy rush.

According to reviews, this part of the tour helps you see Polignano from a different perspective, with stops for photos and soaking in the views. It’s a perfect way to balance active exploration with moments of sightseeing.

The Coastal Boat Tour: A Dramatic Sea Perspective

After the tuk tuk ride, the tour proceeds to the boat excursion in San Vito at around 2:00 pm. The boat leaves for an hour and a half and is often cited as the tour’s pièce de résistance. You’ll glide along jagged cliffs, explore sea caves, and enjoy an aperitif on board. The swim stop is an added bonus—many reviewers mention how clear and inviting the water is, ideal for a quick dip.

Domenico, the boat captain, gets high praise for his entertaining narration and skillful navigation. As one traveler put it, “The boat ride was wonderful,” giving a fresh, panoramic view of Polignano’s coastline that photos from land just can’t capture.

Return and Reflection: A Full, Satisfying Day

The tour concludes back at Pugliamare around 4:30 pm, leaving you with a comprehensive taste of Polignano a Mare’s essence. You’ll leave with new friends, plenty of photos, and a belly full of local delicacies.

This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers who want to maximize their day in Polignano with a mix of food, scenery, and local culture. It’s ideal if you enjoy guided tours that balance storytelling and free time. Food lovers will appreciate the authentic tastings, while sea enthusiasts will love the cave boat ride. It’s also excellent for those who prefer a structured day without the hassle of figuring out logistics on their own.

The guides—especially Alessandra—bring warmth and knowledge, making it clear why many reviews mention her enthusiasm. The combination of a delicious food tour, quirky tuk tuk ride, and breathtaking boat cruise offers a well-rounded glimpse into what makes Polignano so special.

Price and Value

At approximately $113.29 per person, this tour offers a lot for the price. You’re paying for multiple experiences—food, transportation, and sea views—and guided insights that make the whole day richer. Considering the inclusion of tastings, guide services, tuk tuk ride, and boat trip, it’s a solid value for travelers looking for a curated, enjoyable day.

If you’re eager to get a genuine feel for Polignano a Mare—its flavors, its views, and its hidden corners—this tour delivers a comprehensive package. The variety of activities keeps the day lively and engaging, especially with guides who are passionate and knowledgeable. It’s perfect for travelers who want a taste of everything in one organized, enjoyable format.

However, keep in mind that the schedule is packed, so come prepared to eat, explore, and relax in succession. If you’re looking for a slow, independent exploration, you might prefer to piece your visit together yourself. But if you want a hassle-free way to experience Polignano’s highlights with expert guidance, this tour hits the mark.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a guided food walk, tastings of local specialties like panzerotto, focaccia, burrata, and wine, an Ape Calessino tuk tuk ride, and a boat tour of the caves with an aperitif and swim stop.

How long does each activity last?
The street food tour takes about 2.5 hours, the tuk tuk ride is relatively brief but scenic, and the boat tour lasts about 1.5 hours.

What are the meeting points and start times?
Meeting is at 10:15 am at the Pugliamare office in Piazza Caduti di Via Fani. Check the specific availability for exact starting times.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most likely, yes. However, the boat swim stop and the walking segments might be less suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues. It’s best to ask the provider directly if you have special needs.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made up to 24 hours in advance, making it flexible for changing travel plans.

What language is the tour conducted in?
Guides speak both Italian and English, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.

Is this tour good value for the price?
Given the combination of food, transportation, scenic views, and guided insights, many reviewers feel it offers excellent value, especially considering the memorable experiences packed into the six hours.

To sum it up, this full-day experience in Polignano a Mare offers a genuine, lively taste of the town’s best features. It’s especially appealing for those who love good food, scenic coastlines, and engaging guides. For a balanced, authentic, and fun-filled day, it stands out as a smart choice for travelers wanting more than just a quick snapshot.