Gallipoli, Italy, offers a surprisingly diverse range of activities that showcase its stunning coastal scenery, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant local culture. Unlike more typical Italian seaside resorts, Gallipoli’s tours focus on experiences that bring you close to nature, the sea, and local traditions. Whether you’re drawn to relaxing boat trips with a glass of local wine or craving the thrill of exploring on a quad bike, Gallipoli has something for every type of traveler. We particularly like the boat tours because they combine scenic views with fun activities like snorkeling and paddleboarding, providing a full day of seaside enjoyment. For instance, the Gallipoli: Boat tour with aperitif, snorkeling, music, and sup offers a relaxed yet lively experience with great reviews—perfect for those who want to combine sightseeing with good food and music.
If you’re planning your trip, you’ll find a wide array of options that can suit different interests—from tranquil sailing excursions to adrenaline-pumping quad rides. We’ve rounded up the top tours below, covering various styles and budgets, to help you find the right fit.
Quick Overview of Gallipoli Tours
Our list features 8 of the best tours in Gallipoli, Italy, highlighting different ways to enjoy this coastal town. These include boat trips with snorkeling and aperitifs, day-long sailing adventures, private boat experiences, and exciting quad bike tours. Each offers a unique perspective on Salento’s stunning coastline and cultural charm. For instance, the Gallipoli: day trips and boat tours with Paguro Tour provides a perfect mix of relaxation and exploration, with stops for swimming and snorkeling. And if you’re after something more active, the Quad bike tour takes you off-road to uncover hidden landscapes.
Now, let’s take a closer look at each of these top-rated Gallipoli experiences.
1. Gallipoli: Boat tour with aperitif, snorkeling, music, and sup
This 3-hour boat tour is a fantastic way to soak up Gallipoli’s maritime beauty without a full day commitment. Starting from Riviera Armando Diaz, it takes you past the Old Town, with the chance to admire it as it recedes into the distance. The excursion then visits Isola di Sant’Andrea and Punta Pizzo, two of the most scenic spots in the region, with a guided tour of the Punta Pizzo Regional Park lasting about 30 minutes.
What makes this tour stand out is its lively, laid-back atmosphere. You’ll enjoy local snacks and excellent wine while listening to music, making it feel more like a celebration than just a sightseeing trip. The highlight is the time spent snorkeling and trying stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), which is perfect for those wanting an active twist to their relaxing day. The tour is highly rated (4.9/5 based on 64 reviews), with many praising its balance of fun and comfort.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who want a quick, fun, and social experience with plenty of swimming, snacks, and music. The relaxed pace and inclusive vibe make it a great value at just $47 per person.
2. Gallipoli: day trips and boat tours with Paguro Tour
This 3.5-hour boat experience takes you around the Island of Sant’Andrea and Punta Pizzo, with multiple stops for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing in the crystal-clear waters. Starting from Riviera Armando Diaz, the tour includes a scenic long-tail boat ride that’s ideal for nature lovers wanting to explore Gallipoli’s marine environment. The tour emphasizes relaxation, with onboard Aperitifs, Coffee, and regional wine, plus a guided tour and hiking options to explore the area on land.
What makes this tour distinctive is its focus on nature and peaceful immersion. Its reviews underscore the fun of snorkeling and capturing moments with a GoPro, making it especially appealing for active travelers who appreciate photography. The price is a reasonable $40, offering significant value considering the time and activities included.
Bottom line: This tour is perfect if you want to combine nature exploration with a leisurely boat ride, especially if you enjoy snorkeling and capturing the scenery on camera.
3. Gallipoli: Quad bike tour to discover Salento as you’ve never seen it before
Offering a 1.5-hour off-road quad biking experience, this tour takes you through hidden landscapes only accessible by quad. Starting from Gallipoli, you’ll be guided by a local expert who shares insights into the area’s geography, flora, and history. The tour covers areas that are otherwise difficult to access by car or foot, revealing breathtaking views and secluded spots that most visitors miss.
What sets this experience apart is its focus on adventure combined with learning about the local environment. The reviews highlight how fun and informative the guide was, with many participants eager to return for another round. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy active outdoor pursuits and want a personalized experience with a small group.
Bottom line: Perfect for adventure seekers and those curious to discover Salento’s lesser-known landscapes in a lively, engaging way.
4. Sailing tour on Salento coast
This 7-hour sailing trip offers a leisurely way to explore the coastline of Gallipoli with a comfortable, well-equipped boat. The tour departs from Marina Yachting Portolano and includes visits to bays and islands that are only accessible by sea. Highlights include swimming in pristine waters, relaxing on deck, and enjoying impeccable service from the crew.
The itinerary emphasizes relaxation and scenic cruising, with a safety briefing at the start and ample time for swimming and sunbathing. Guests mention the courteous staff and beautiful views as key positives. The tour’s length allows for plenty of downtime and sightseeing without feeling rushed.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers seeking a day of peaceful sailing, with plenty of opportunities to swim and enjoy the sea breeze. The value lies in the combination of comfort and scenery.
5. Gallipoli: Sailing boat excursion
This 7-hour sailing experience offers a chance to see Salento’s coast from the deck of a sailing boat, with a focus on scenic views, swimming, and snorkeling. The trip begins at Lungomare Marconi and includes a scenic route to Isola di Sant’Andrea, where you can enjoy the crystal waters. A key feature is the opportunity to admire the sunset at Lido Pizzo, making it an especially romantic choice.
The onboard aperitif and relaxing atmosphere make this tour appealing for those wanting a serene, immersive experience on the water. It’s a good option if you prefer sailing over motoryacht or powerboat trips, offering a more authentic maritime experience.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who enjoy sailing and want to experience Salento’s sea in a relaxed, elegant way, especially during sunset.
6. Gallipoli: private boat day trips with Sasa Tours
For those who want complete privacy, this customizable 3.5-hour private boat trip is a standout. Starting from Riviera Armando Diaz, your skipper will take you to Lido San Giovanni, Punta Pizzo, and Sant’Andrea Island, with snorkeling, swimming, and music on board. The entire experience is tailored to your group’s preferences, with a maximum of 9 people.
What makes this tour a top choice is its personalized approach. Guests rave about the attention to detail and the delicious local aperitif served onboard. The private setting allows for a more intimate experience, ideal for celebrating special occasions or just enjoying time with family and friends. The skipper is experienced and attentive to your needs, ensuring a stress-free day.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers seeking privacy and a customized adventure on the water, offering excellent value for a memorable, exclusive experience.
7. Gallipoli: sailing excursions
This 6-hour sailing trip aboard the Dufour 43 GL is perfect for those wanting a small-group, luxurious sailing experience. Departing from Assonautica Gallipoli, you’ll enjoy sightseeing from the water, with options to stop at scenic points for swimming and relaxing on deck. The focus here is on quality sailing, with a professional guide ensuring a smooth, enjoyable day.
The brand-new boat and culinary experiences onboard make it stand out. Guests appreciate the professionalism of the crew and the chance to feel the joy of sailing in a less crowded setting. It’s a great option for travelers who want a more refined experience without sacrificing fun or scenery.
Bottom line: Ideal if you’re looking for a luxury sailing day with a touch of sophistication and top-notch service.
8. QUAD TOUR in Gallipoli! Discover Salento like you’ve never seen it before!
This 2.5-hour quad bike tour is a dynamic way to see Salento’s landscapes. Starting from Gallipoli, it takes you through countryside, coastlines, and historic sites—all while learning about local history and tasting traditional products. The tour emphasizes knowledge sharing and interactive discovery, making it more than just a ride.
The reviews highlight how fun and informative the experience is, with participants loving the guides’ expertise. It’s suitable for travelers who prefer active sightseeing and want to tackle terrain that’s inaccessible by car. The small group size ensures a personalized experience with plenty of opportunities for photos and tastings.
Bottom line: A perfect choice for adventure lovers who want to combine history, nature, and local flavors into a memorable 2.5-hour ride.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Gallipoli
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, time availability, and interests. For a quick taste of the sea with music and snorkeling, the Boat tour with aperitif is excellent. If exploring hidden landscapes is your priority, the Quad bike tour is unbeatable. For a luxury sailing experience, the Dufour trip offers elegance and comfort. Private tours like those with Sasa Tours are perfect for travelers seeking customization and privacy.
Remember to book early, especially in peak summer months, as these tours tend to fill quickly. Check the availability directly on each experience page, and consider the weather conditions—some tours, like sailing trips, are weather-dependent.
Final Thoughts
Gallipoli offers a versatile lineup of tours that suit a range of interests—from relaxing boat trips to active off-road adventures. For those after a balanced mix of sightseeing, swimming, and local flavor, the Boat tour with aperitif and Paguro Tour’s day trip stand out. If you want to explore Salento’s landscapes in a fun, energetic way, the Quad bike tour is a top pick.
Whether you’re seeking leisure, adventure, or luxury, Gallipoli’s tours deliver memorable experiences that make the most of this beautiful coastal region. Be sure to pick what fits your style and book early—these adventures are popular for a reason.