From Gallipoli or Lecce Province: Ostuni and Alberobello

Travelers seeking an authentic taste of Italy’s Apulia region often find themselves enchanted by its quaint towns and distinctive architecture. This full-day tour from Gallipoli or Lecce offers a well-balanced mix of scenic drives, cultural highlights, and leisure time, all within a cozy, small-group setting. It’s a great way to see two of the most iconic spots in the region without the hassle of arranging transport or navigation.

What we love about this experience is how it combines comfort with authenticity—relaxing in a comfortable air-conditioned van, accompanied by knowledgeable guides, while exploring charming towns. We also appreciate the flexibility, allowing you to depart from a location of your choice, and the chance to enjoy free time at each stop for personal exploration. That said, if you’re looking for a highly guided experience with curated tours at each site, this might feel a bit self-led.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a manageable, efficient way to see Ostuni’s stunning white streets and Alberobello’s legendary trulli. It’s suited for those who enjoy scenic drives, photo opportunities, and learning about regional culture, but might not be perfect for guests with limited mobility or those seeking a fully guided, in-depth tour.

Key Points

• Comfortable small-group experience: Ideal for personalized attention and a relaxed pace.
• Flexible start options: Pick-up from Gallipoli or Lecce and even your own preferred location.
• Authentic towns: Wander through Ostuni’s white alleys and explore Alberobello’s unique trulli.
• Scenic routes: Enjoy the views of the Itria Valley during the drive.
• Authentic local experience: Free time allows for independent exploration and photo moments.
• Knowledgeable guides: Insights into regional culture and history enhance your visit.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-depth Look at the Tour

This tour offers a full 8-hour itinerary packed with memorable sights and cultural insights. Starting at 9:30 a.m. with the option of pick-up from Gallipoli or Lecce, you’ll hop into a comfortable 9-seater minivan. The small size of the group promises an intimate experience, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and get personalized attention from your driver and guide.

The Journey Begins: Scenic Drive and Ostuni

Your first stop is Ostuni, the “White City”, perched on a hilltop and famous for its maze of whitewashed buildings that shimmer under the sun. The approximately 1.5-hour visit gives you plenty of time to wander through the historic streets, snap photos of the picturesque facades, and soak in the panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

From reviews, it’s clear travelers love the charm of Ostuni’s labyrinthine alleys and how the town’s architecture creates a postcard-perfect setting. One traveler noted, “I liked everything,” emphasizing the town’s visual appeal and relaxed vibe. The town’s elevated position also means you’ll be rewarded with excellent vistas, perfect for photography.

The Itria Valley’s Scenic Route

After Ostuni, the tour continues through the scenic landscapes of the Itria Valley, offering glimpses of olive groves and vineyards. The route itself is a highlight, with rolling hills, charming farmhouses, and extensive olive orchards that define the region’s rural beauty. This part of the journey adds a layer of tranquility and authenticity that travelers seeking genuine regional scenery will appreciate.

Alberobello: The Fairy Tale Town of Trulli

Next, the focus shifts to Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its “trulli”—distinctive stone houses with conical roofs. These structures create a fairytale-like setting, and wandering among them is like stepping into a different world. You’ll have around three hours here, enough time for a self-guided exploration, photo sessions, and perhaps a quick snack or local treat.

What sets Alberobello apart is its extraordinary architecture, with many houses dating back centuries. Reviewers mention the town’s captivating charm, with one saying, “You’ll love the photos of the conical roofs and the streets full of trulli.” Whether you’re snapping pictures or just soaking up the atmosphere, this stop is the highlight for many.

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Optional Guided Tours and Local Food

While the main tour provides free time for independent exploration, there’s an option to add a guided tour at an extra cost. Guides are knowledgeable and passionate, offering insights into the history and architecture of both towns. Alternatively, you can explore at your own pace, perhaps visiting small shops or sampling local snacks.

Practical Details and Comfort

The tour includes a professional driver, air-conditioned transport, and bottled water—elements that make the day smooth and comfortable. The duration and timing allow for a relaxed pace, and the small group size means less time waiting and more time discovering.

The Return Journey

After your exploration of Alberobello, you’ll head back to your starting point or your preferred location in Lecce or Gallipoli, completing the approximately 8-hour adventure.

Why This Tour Is a Good Deal

At its core, this experience offers great value. For a full day of scenic drives, visits to two iconic towns, and flexible timing, the cost includes comfortable transport, a professional driver, and the chance to explore independently or with optional guided insights. The reviews underscore its reliability and punctuality—something that can make or break a day trip.

Travelers loved the knowledgeable guides, which enhance the experience with context and stories, making the towns come alive beyond just sightseeing. The intimate group size adds to the overall enjoyment, avoiding the hassle of larger tours and allowing for more personalized interactions.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience best suits travelers who enjoy independent exploration within a guided framework. It’s ideal for those who value comfort, scenic views, and authentic towns rather than highly curated tours. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or solo travelers who want to maximize their time in Apulia without the stress of planning.

If you’re after a relaxed, authentic day that combines stunning landscapes, unique architecture, and regional culture, this tour checks all those boxes. However, if you need accessibility accommodations or a more guided experience, you might want to consider other options.

FAQs

What is the departure time for this tour?
The tour typically starts at 9:30 a.m., but check availability to confirm the exact starting time.

Can I choose my pickup location?
Yes, you can be picked up from Gallipoli, Lecce, or even a location of your choice within the region, which offers flexibility.

How long do we spend in each town?
You’ll have approximately 1.5 hours in Ostuni and around 3 hours in Alberobello, providing enough time for sightseeing and photos.

Is there an option for a guided tour at the sites?
Guided tours are available at an additional cost, and can be arranged separately. The default is self-guided exploration.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes a professional driver, air-conditioned transport, and bottled water. Entrance fees and meals are not included.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
No, it’s not recommended for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to walking involved.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, water, and sunscreen are recommended. A hat is also helpful for outdoor sightseeing.

How long is the total duration of the tour?
The full experience lasts about 8 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and breaks.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift.

Final Thoughts

This tour balances scenic drives, cultural discovery, and free time in two of Apulia’s most iconic towns. Its small-group format, flexible start options, and knowledgeable guides make it an appealing choice for travelers who want both comfort and authenticity. The sightseeing is well-paced, allowing you to enjoy each spot without feeling rushed, while the scenic routes elevate the experience beyond just visiting towns.

If you love exploring charming towns at your own pace, want to learn about regional culture from friendly guides, and appreciate the convenience of organized transport, this tour is a solid pick. It offers a taste of Italy’s unique architecture and scenic beauty, making it a memorable day in the heart of Puglia.

In sum, this experience is most suitable for those seeking a relaxed, culturally enriching day with plenty of photo opportunities and scenic views. It’s perfect for small groups who value comfort, flexibility, and authentic regional charm. The highlights—the whitewashed streets of Ostuni and the conical roofs of Alberobello—are sure to leave a lasting impression, making this a worthwhile addition to any Apulian itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: