Two Days Tour Including Boat-ride in Polignano

Discovering Polignano a Mare: A Two-Day Coastal Escape with Ease and Authentic Charm

Few trips can boast a perfect blend of scenic beauty, culture, and hassle-free planning quite like this two-day tour in Bari and Polignano a Mare. This experience offers a well-rounded immersion into one of Italy’s most enchanting seaside villages, combining guided walks, boat excursions, and overnight comfort in Bari. The standout feature? Everything is arranged for you—transport, accommodations, and activities—so you can focus on soaking up the views and local flavors.

What I particularly appreciate about this tour is its thoughtful pacing. You get to enjoy a guided stroll through Bari’s historic center, which is a fantastic way to get oriented and understand the city’s layered history. Then, heading to Polignano, you’re treated not just to a charming walk in the old town but also to a serene boat ride along the coastline, revealing hidden sea grottos and dramatic cliffs that are best seen from the water.

A minor consideration is that the tour’s price—around $255 per person—includes most essentials but excludes dinner, so you’ll want to budget for a nice evening meal on your own. Still, the value lies in the inclusive nature of the experience, especially if you prefer not to fuss over transportation or logistics yourself.

This tour hits a sweet spot for travelers seeking a comprehensive, well-guided glimpse into both Bari’s urban charm and Polignano’s stunning coastline, with the bonus of overnight comfort and local tastes. If you’re after a relaxed yet immersive glimpse of Puglia’s coastal treasures, this might just be your ideal escape.

Key Points / Takeaways

• All-Inclusive Convenience: The tour covers transportation, lodging, guided walks, and boat rides, making it a stress-free way to explore.
• Authentic Coastal Views: The boat trip reveals Polignano’s sea grottoes, a highlight for stunning scenery from the water.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Travelers rave about guides like Vito, who are described as informed and helpful.
• Authentic Food Experience: Two included lunches give you a taste of local cuisine, while the overnight in Bari offers a comfortable base.
• Flexible & Comfortable: Small group size (max 8 travelers) means a more personal experience, with air-conditioned transport and cozy accommodations.
• Great for Short Stays: Perfect for travelers with limited time who want a focused, “see and do” experience in Puglia.

Exploring the Charm of Bari and Polignano a Mare in Two Days

I love the way this tour balances the lively city streets with the tranquility of the coast. Starting in Bari, the historic center is a perfect introduction to southern Italy’s layered past. The guided walking tour offers a manageable, intimate look at the city’s piazzas and alleys, with the ease of transportation included, so you don’t have to worry about navigating on your own.

From Bari, the journey takes you to Polignano a Mare, a village so picture-perfect that it seems almost staged. The walk through the old town is charming—narrow lanes, whitewashed buildings, and sea views from every angle. The included lunch here is a bonus, giving you a taste of local flavors, and your guide will likely share insights into the town’s history and contemporary life.

The Coastal Boat Ride: A Highlight You Won’t Forget

One of the most memorable parts of this experience is the boat tour along Polignano’s coastline. You’ll set sail along the cliffs and caves, marveling at the rugged beauty from the sea. The approximately one-hour boat ride is operated with all necessary equipment provided, making it accessible and relaxing. Multiple reviews highlight guides like Vito, who are praised for their local knowledge and friendly approach, making the boat trip informative as well as scenic.

This boat excursion offers a different perspective—that of a vantage point where you can appreciate the natural grandeur of the coast. Many travelers mention how the views of the grottoes and cliffs are truly breathtaking, adding a sense of adventure to the trip.

Overnight in Bari: Rest and Reflection

After a full day of sightseeing and sea air, you’ll settle into a comfortable hotel in Bari, with breakfast included the next morning. Staying overnight in Bari is a sensible choice—it’s a city rich with history and life, perfect for a leisurely evening stroll or a relaxed dinner (though dinner isn’t included). The reviews emphasize the convenience and comfort of the accommodation, with friendly staff and great hot water making for a pleasant stay.

Day Two: More Sights and Flavors

The following morning, you’ll enjoy breakfast before heading back to Polignano for another look around or perhaps a quick dip at the beaches. The tour ends with a traditional lunch, letting you savor local specialties in a relaxed setting, rounding out your coastal adventure.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you enjoy guided excursions that take care of logistics, this tour offers a lot of value. It’s ideal for travelers who prefer to avoid planning each detail and want a hassle-free way to experience Puglia’s top sights. The small group size (max 8 people) ensures a more personal experience, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and absorb local insights.

It’s especially suited for those with limited time who want to maximize their experience—covering city streets, scenic boat rides, and charming villages—without feeling hurried. Food lovers will appreciate the included lunches, and nature enthusiasts will relish the coastal scenery from both land and sea.

However, if you’re someone who prefers independent travel to explore at your own pace or dine at specific places, you might find the all-in-one nature of this tour a bit restrictive.

Price and Value

At roughly $255 per person, the tour isn’t the cheapest option, but it offers good value considering what’s included: transportation, guided tours, boat ride, two lunches, and a hotel overnight. All logistical details are handled, saving you time and stress, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area.

Given the reviews praising guides like Vito for their knowledge and friendliness, you’re also paying for the expert local insight that makes the experience richer. The boat ride alone, with all necessary equipment provided, is a highlight that many travelers find worth the cost.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Book in advance—the small group size means spots fill quickly.
• Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water—especially if visiting in warmer months.
• Prepare for walking—comfortable shoes are a must for exploring Bari and Polignano.
• Consider your dinner plans—dinner isn’t included, so budget accordingly.
• Arrive on time—the tour starts promptly at 8:30 am, with pickup included.

Final Thoughts

This two-day tour offers a well-rounded taste of Puglia’s coastal splendor and urban charm, all while keeping logistics simple. The combination of guided walks, scenic boat rides, and cozy accommodations makes it a compelling choice for travelers wanting a meaningful, low-stress introduction to Bari and Polignano a Mare.

If you’re eager to see stunning coastlines, enjoy authentic meals, and learn from knowledgeable guides, this experience fits the bill. It’s especially suitable for those short on time but craving a genuine taste of southern Italy’s beauty and character.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, all transportation between Bari and Polignano, including the boat ride, is covered, as well as airport or hotel pickup.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat excursion lasts approximately one hour, with all necessary equipment provided for safety and comfort.

Are meals included?
Two lunches are included, giving you a taste of local cuisine. Dinner costs are not included and are up to you to arrange.

What is the accommodation like?
You’ll stay overnight in a hotel in Bari with breakfast included. The reviews describe the location as perfect with friendly staff.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, with small group size making it flexible. It’s best suited for those comfortable walking and on boats.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and water. Optional: camera, swimwear if you want to enjoy beaches nearby.

Is the tour customizable?
The itinerary is fixed, but guides like Vito are known for being helpful and knowledgeable, so don’t hesitate to ask questions.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How much walking is involved?
There’s walking involved in Bari’s historic center and Polignano’s old town, but it’s manageable for most people.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation if canceled at least 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

This well-organized, scenic, and authentic experience offers a compelling glimpse into the beauty of Puglia’s coast and towns, making it an excellent choice for travelers who want a guided, enriching, and memorable short escape.