Martina Franca offers a refreshing way to explore Italy’s Puglia region—beyond just sightseeing. It’s a town where history and food come together, making it perfect for immersive experiences. We’re especially fond of the typical Apulian dinner in a garden of an ancient trullo because it combines authentic local flavors with a setting that’s straight out of a fairy tale. If you’re after a memorable meal with genuine hospitality, this dinner in Fabrizio’s garden offers more than just food—it’s a taste of regional life. For wine lovers and those wanting a deep dive into local producers, the Winery Tours in the Itria Valley (like the VIP tasting) stand out for their guided visits and premium tastings. Plus, the olive oil & wine tasting in Valle D’Itria provides a flavorful journey into the region’s best products, perfect for a relaxed, sensory experience.
Whether you prefer a hands-on cooking class, a scenic bike ride, or a refined wine tasting, Martina Franca’s tours blend tradition with local charm. The variety allows you to choose experiences that match your interests and pace, making this a versatile base for exploring Puglia.
Quick Overview
This list covers a variety of tours and experiences in Martina Franca, from authentic dinners in ancient trulli to comprehensive winery visits and tastings. For food lovers, the traditional Apulian dinner in a garden of an ancient trullo offers a cozy, genuine taste of regional cuisine. For wine enthusiasts, there are several options: the premium winery tour with pairings, the classic tasting, and the VIP experience. Olive oil aficionados will appreciate the Valle D’Itria oil & wine tasting, which combines sensory delights with a peaceful setting. For those interested in active pursuits, there’s also a wine & bike tour that pairs cycling with tastings. Finally, for a fun, hands-on experience, consider the walking tour and cooking class, where you learn to prepare authentic Puglian dishes.
1. Typical Apulian dinner in the garden of an ancient Trullo
At number 1 on our list is the Typical Apulian dinner in the garden of an ancient Trullo, which is a perfect choice for those wanting a genuine taste of regional hospitality. This experience typically lasts about 2 hours and can be booked for different times—check availability for your schedule. You’ll dine in a beautifully preserved trullo, an iconic stone building with a conical roof, surrounded by lush gardens. The host, Fabrizio, offers a 5-course menu featuring local, authentic ingredients, complemented by regional wines. The atmosphere is lively and engaging, ideal for travelers eager to connect with locals and learn about Puglia’s culinary traditions. Guests rave about Fabrizio’s passion for his region, highlighting dishes like fava bean puree and tiramisu, which they describe as “absolutely delicious.” The setting, combined with the chance to chat with the host about regional recipes and plants, makes this a memorable cultural experience. The price reflects the quality and intimacy of a small-group dinner, offering excellent value for food lovers and culture seekers alike.
Bottom Line: Perfect for foodies and those who love authentic settings, this dinner offers a genuine taste of Puglia with warm hospitality and regional flavors.
2. Tenute Girolamo: Winery Tour and Premium Tasting in Itria Valley
At number 2, the Winery Tour and Premium Tasting in Itria Valley showcases the region’s top wines paired with a light lunch of cured meats, cheeses, and focaccia. For around 2 hours, you’ll explore the winery’s facilities, including the barrel cellar, and sample four award-winning wines. The guided tour provides insights into winemaking in Puglia, emphasizing the region’s innovation and tradition. This experience is highly rated, with visitors noting the guide’s expertise and the quality of the wines. It’s a great choice for those wanting a detailed look at the wine production process combined with tastings of premium bottles. The setting in the Itria Valley — known for its rolling hills and historic vineyards — adds to the experience. The inclusion of a small meal with local products makes this an ideal half-day activity for wine enthusiasts wanting both education and indulgence.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those serious about wine, this tour balances education, quality, and regional charm at a good price point.
3. Tenute Girolamo: Winery tour and Classic tasting in the Itria Valley
Number 3 on our list offers a shorter, more relaxed experience with a visit to the winery and a tasting of three wines, paired with taralli, olives, and focaccia. Lasting about 1.5 hours, it’s ideal for travelers who want a quick but authentic glimpse into Puglia’s winemaking scene. The guided tour covers key aspects of the winery, and visitors mention the friendly staff and the high quality of the wines. This experience is particularly suited for those with limited time but still eager to taste genuine regional products. The setting in the heart of the Itria Valley underscores the region’s viticultural importance. Guests have described the experience as “a journey through flavors,” making it a good value for a brief but memorable wine tasting.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a quick, authentic introduction to Puglia wines, especially if you want to combine it with other activities in Martina Franca.
4. Valle D’Itria: Oil & Wine Tasting with Aperitivo Pugliese
Number 4 is the Oil & Wine Tasting with Aperitivo Pugliese, a 2-hour experience in a serene setting—either a private olive grove or stone courtyard. You’ll taste local olive oils and wines, learning how to distinguish quality oils while sampling three wines paired with regional delicacies like focaccia and grilled vegetables. Mariano, the host, creates a relaxed atmosphere, often pulling out cushions for sunset views and sharing his regional knowledge. This experience offers both sensory education and a peaceful ambiance, with reviews highlighting the friendliness of Mariano and the high quality of the tastings. It’s ideal for travelers who want to combine food, drink, and scenic beauty in a leisurely afternoon.
Bottom Line: Great for lovers of olive oil and wine, plus those seeking a peaceful, authentic setting to relax and learn.
5. Tenute Girolamo: Winery Tour and VIP Tasting in Itria Valley
Number 5 offers a VIP experience with an extensive 3-hour tour that includes vineyard walks and tastings of 7 carefully curated wines, paired with a light lunch. This premium experience is designed for serious enthusiasts who want to go beyond the basics. The tour covers the largest vineyard in the Itria Valley, with knowledgeable guides explaining every step of the winemaking process. Guests rave about the quality of the wines and the exclusivity of the tour, which provides a deeper appreciation of regional excellence. The setting’s exclusivity and the quality of the wines make this a premium choice, excellent for special occasions or avid wine lovers wanting a comprehensive experience.
Bottom Line: For those wanting an in-depth, personalized wine experience in a luxurious setting, this VIP tour is hard to beat.
6. Martina Franca: Walking Tour and Cooking Class with Wine
Number 6 combines sightseeing with hands-on cuisine at a cozy home near Alberobello. Over about 3 hours, you’ll walk through Martina Franca’s charming streets and bustling markets, then learn to prepare a classic Puglian dish during a cooking class. The instructor guides you through selecting fresh ingredients, cooking from scratch, and enjoying your creation with a glass of local wine. Reviews highlight the friendly hosts, the quality of the ingredients, and the fun of making authentic dishes in a small-group setting. This tour is perfect for foodies who want to get their hands dirty and understand the region’s culinary traditions firsthand.
Bottom Line: An engaging, well-rounded experience for those who want to explore local markets, learn to cook, and enjoy regional wines.
7. Tenute Girolamo: Wine & Bike Tour in the Itria Valley
Number 7 offers a unique combination of exercise and indulgence—a 4-hour bike tour through the vineyards, with guided visits and tastings of 7 wines. Starting at Tenute Girolamo, the route takes you through scenic countryside, with stops at different vineyard sites for tastings paired with regional delicacies. The guided tour of the winery and barrel room enriches the experience, giving insight into traditional and modern winemaking techniques. Cyclists will enjoy the leisurely pace and stunning views, making it a memorable way to see the landscape. Reviews praise the balance of active exploration and tasting, especially for those who appreciate outdoor activities with gourmet rewards.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers who want to combine cycling with high-quality tastings in one of Italy’s most picturesque regions.
8. Valle d’Itria: Monet-Inspired Picnic in Olive Grove
Number 8 is the Monet-Inspired Picnic in Olive Grove, a 2.5-hour experience perfect for lovers of art and nature. Set in a private olive grove, this experience features a beautifully arranged picnic inspired by Monet’s paintings, with regional dishes and local wines. Guests relax under the shade of ancient olive trees, surrounded by the tranquil landscape of Valle d’Itria. The experience can be personalized, including vegan options, ensuring it suits a variety of dietary preferences. Reviewers mention the peaceful setting, delicious food, and the chance to unwind in style. It’s especially suited for travelers seeking a leisurely, scenic outdoor activity that combines food, art, and nature.
Bottom Line: Perfect for romantic outings or those wanting a serene, picturesque meal experience amid olive trees.
9. Tenute Girolamo: Winery Tour and Deluxe Tasting in the Itria Valley
Rounding out our list is the Winery Tour and Deluxe Tasting, a 2-hour experience featuring five wines paired with a light meal of cold cuts, cheeses, and focaccia. The guided visit includes a walk through the winery, barrel cellar, and detailed explanations of the production process. The deluxe tasting emphasizes quality wines, making it an excellent option for those who want a comprehensive, flavorful experience without a lengthy commitment. Visitors highlight the charm of the setting and the high quality of the wines paired with regional specialties.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers who want an in-depth tasting experience with a focus on regional excellence in a manageable time frame.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Martina Franca
When deciding between these options, consider your interests and trip priorities. If authentic regional food is your passion, the Ancient Trullo dinner or the cooking class offer hands-on immersion. For wine lovers, the various winery tours provide different levels of depth—from the quick classic tasting to the VIP experience. Olive oil fans should not miss the oil & wine tasting, while active travelers might prefer the bike and wine tour for combining exercise with flavor. Budget, time, and physical activity levels are key factors—most tours are around 2-3 hours and cater to different preferences. Booking early is recommended, especially for premium experiences and during peak season, to ensure availability.
Final thoughts
Martina Franca’s tours and experiences span the spectrum from culinary delights to scenic adventures. For a full immersion into Puglia’s gastronomy, the dinner in a Trullo and cooking class are top choices. Wine aficionados will appreciate the variety—from the premium VIP tour to the scenic bike ride. Meanwhile, the olive oil and wine tasting offers a peaceful, sensory journey that pairs wonderfully with the region’s idyllic landscape.
No matter your style, these tours provide a genuine and memorable way to enjoy Martina Franca and its surroundings. Be sure to plan ahead and book early—these experiences tend to fill up fast, especially in the warm months. Have fun exploring Puglia’s flavors and scenery, one authentic experience at a time.