From Brindisi. Ostuni, Alberobello and Polignano a Mare Tour

Exploring Puglia’s Charm: A Detailed Review of the Brindisi, Ostuni, Alberobello, and Polignano a Mare Tour

This particular day trip from Brindisi offers a well-balanced taste of Puglia’s most enchanting towns, guided by a knowledgeable and friendly driver. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, reviews and detailed itineraries provide a clear picture of what to expect. It promises a leisurely yet immersive experience through some of Italy’s most iconic villages, with plenty of opportunities to explore at your own pace.

What really stands out are the breathtaking views, especially in Locorotondo and Polignano a Mare, the unique architecture of the Trulli houses in Alberobello, and the charming labyrinth of white alleys in Ostuni. The tour’s comfortable transport, dedicated guide, and flexible end location make it a practical choice.

However, one consideration is the duration — with around 8 hours packed with sightseeing, it’s quite full, meaning some travelers might prefer more time at each stop if they love slower pacing. This tour is best suited for those who want a rundown of Puglia’s highlights without the hassle of planning and transportation logistics themselves.

Good To Know

• Comfortable transportation with air conditioning ensures a relaxed journey.
• Three iconic villages—Ostuni, Alberobello, and Polignano a Mare—offer diverse experiences from medieval streets to seaside cliffs.
• Flexible end locations allow you to choose whether to return to Brindisi or Lecce.
• Expert guide provides insightful commentary, enriching your understanding of each town.
• Free time at each stop to explore independently, shop, or grab a bite.
• Value for money considering the full-day itinerary, transportation, and guided comments.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Starting Point: Brindisi

The tour kicks off at Via del Mare in Brindisi at 9:45 am, with a small group of no more than 8 travelers. This intimate size fosters a more personalized experience, and the air-conditioned minivan promises comfort on the 8-hour journey. Your driver and guide speak both English and Italian, ensuring clear communication and storytelling.

First Stop: Ostuni—The “White City”

Ostuni is the first destination, roughly a 1 hour 15 minute visit. Known as the “White City”, it’s a city that seems to glow thanks to its whitewashed buildings. The guide will likely share stories about its medieval roots, but much of the charm comes from roaming the narrow alleys, small squares, and staircases that connect the different levels of the old town.

From reviews, many appreciate the free time to wander “la terra,” the old town, where craft shops and small eateries add to the authentic feel. One reviewer noted how the alleys and courtyards resemble an oriental landscape, illustrating how unique this place feels compared to typical Italian towns.

Second Stop: Locorotondo—The “Balcony on the Itria Valley”

Next, the tour takes you to Locorotondo, nicknamed for its spectacular views overlooking the Itria Valley. The town is famous for its circular layout and panoramic vistas, making it a perfect stop for photos and soaking in the scenery.

While the itinerary allows for exploration, what makes Locorotondo special are the spectacular vistas and quaint streets, where you can admire traditional architecture, and perhaps sip an espresso in a local café. Reviewers highlight this town as a “spectacular valley view,” which is exactly what travelers seeking a scenic break will love.

Third Stop: Alberobello—A UNESCO World Heritage Site

The highlight for many is Alberobello, where the entire town is made up of Trulli houses—white, pyramidal structures that look almost fairy-tale-like. You’ll have around 2 hours to explore “Rione Monti” and “Aia Piccola”, the districts filled with craft shops, tiny museums, and some of the most well-preserved Trulli in Italy.

Reviewers emphasize how timeless and surreal the Trulli appear, giving you a sense of stepping back into a different era. As one traveler put it, the experience felt like a journey into a kind of “country in a fairy tale,” with the white structures standing out dramatically against the blue sky. No entrance fee is required, but taking time to wander and photograph these unique homes makes the visit worthwhile.

Final Stop: Polignano a Mare—Cliffside Beauty & Roman Ruins

The last stop is Polignano a Mare, perched dramatically on cliffs overlooking the Adriatic Sea. This is a place you’ll want plenty of time to explore—its winding streets are filled with shops, cafes, and historic sites, including remnants of Roman architecture.

The sea terraces are a favorite for visitors, offering some of the most breathtaking views of the coastline. Many reviewers mention how Polignano’s charming maze of alleys and the Roman Via Traiana bridge make it a highlight. It’s the perfect ending to a day filled with visual delights, especially if you’re a fan of seaside scenery.

Return and End Options

After about 1 hour and 15 minutes at Polignano, the tour concludes with a drop-off in either Brindisi or Lecce. This flexibility is an advantage for travelers with different plans or accommodations.

Practical Details and What You’ll Value

Transportation and Group Size

The minivan is air-conditioned, a plus during warmer months, and the small group size ensures plenty of space and personal attention. The driver, who doubles as a guide, speaks both English and Italian, making explanations accessible and engaging.

Timing and Pace

The overall duration is roughly 8 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and free time at each stop. While this is a fairly full day, it balances driving with ample exploration. It’s well-suited for those who want a rundown without the stress of planning individual transport or navigation.

Cost and Value

Priced at $153.62 per person, this tour offers a full-day experience that covers transportation, expert guiding, and multiple key towns. Given the cost of individual entries and transportation if you tried to DIY, the package clearly offers good value, especially considering the convenience and insider knowledge you’ll gain.

Extra Considerations

The tour does not include lunch, so bringing a snack or planning to eat in one of the towns is advisable. Reviewers point out the beautiful scenery and well-organized stops, but also suggest wearing comfortable shoes — some streets are cobbled and hilly.

Authentic Experiences and Unique Insights from Reviews

One reviewer described the guide as well-prepared and very kind, which made the experience even more enjoyable. Another appreciated the beautiful weather, which complemented the stunning views. Several mentioned how much they appreciated the free time at each location to explore, shop, or just absorb the atmosphere at their own pace.

The highlight for many is Polignano a Mare’s cliffs and terraces, which offer some of the most picturesque views in the region. The white houses and narrow alleys of Ostuni, paired with the fairy-tale Trulli houses in Alberobello, create a well-rounded snapshot of Puglia’s diverse charm.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This day trip is perfect for first-time visitors wanting a structured, guided overview of Puglia’s highlights. If you’re looking for a comfortable, hassle-free way to see multiple towns without the stress of self-driving, this tour checks many boxes.

Travelers who love scenic views and authentic architecture will find plenty to admire. It’s also well-suited for those with limited time but who want to maximize their experience in the region. Keep in mind that, with about 8 hours of sightseeing, it’s a fairly energetic day—good for those who enjoy a full schedule.

FAQs

What is the starting point for this tour?
The tour begins at Via del Mare, 3 in Brindisi, at 9:45 am.

Can I choose my end location?
Yes, you can be dropped off either in Brindisi or Lecce, based on your preference.

How long is each stop?
Ostuni is about 1 hour 15 minutes, Alberobello is around 2 hours, and Polignano a Mare is 1 hour 15 minutes. Locorotondo and Alberobello allow some free exploration, while Ostuni and Polignano offer scenic views and photo opportunities.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to eat in one of the towns.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially since many streets are cobbled and have slopes.

How many people typically join the tour?
A maximum of 8 travelers makes for a more personalized experience.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but consider the walking involved and the full-day schedule for younger children.

Is this tour suitable in different seasons?
Yes, but check the weather forecast — sunny days will enhance the views at Polignano and Ostuni.

What language does the guide speak?
The guide speaks both English and Italian, making explanations accessible for most travelers.

Final Thoughts

This tour from Brindisi offers a beautiful blend of scenic vistas, historic architecture, and charming villages, all within a manageable day. If you appreciate stunning views, unique local architecture, and the convenience of guided transport, this experience hits the right notes.

It’s especially valuable for travelers who want to see essential Puglia in one day without the hassle of driving or planning multiple routes. While the schedule is somewhat packed, the flexibility in end locations provides a tailored experience.

This tour presents a fantastic way to capture the essence of Puglia’s diverse towns, making it a worthwhile addition to any Italian itinerary focused on this region’s authentic charm and landscape.