Otranto is a fantastic place to explore beyond just wandering its historic streets. Its stunning coastline, crystal-clear waters, and charming seaside atmosphere make it a natural choice for memorable tours and experiences. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing boat ride, a cultural exploration, or a scenic hike, Otranto offers options that suit all interests. We especially love the Otranto: Boat Tour with Snorkeling and Local Food Tasting for its combination of sea adventures and regional flavors, and the Private Boat Tour of the Otranto Coast for those seeking exclusivity and personalized service. Both offer a chance to see the coast from a unique perspective while enjoying local specialties.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top eight tours in Otranto, comparing their highlights, what makes each special, and who they’ll be perfect for. From half-day boat trips to full-day cultural excursions, you’ll find detailed insights to help you choose the experience that best matches your travel style.
1. Otranto: Boat Tour with Snorkeling and Local Food Tasting
Discover the coastal beauties of Salento on this 2 to 3-hour boat tour. The highlight is the chance to explore hidden coves and caves, perfect for snapping photos and enjoying the serenity of the Adriatic Sea. The boat stops for snorkeling, allowing you to explore underwater life in the clear waters. What makes this tour stand out is the local food tasting at a scenic stop—think regional cheeses, bread, and local wines, giving you a true taste of Salento’s culinary richness.
The tour offers a choice between northern and southern itineraries, so you can tailor your experience to your preferred coast. The boat is equipped for comfort and snorkeling gear, and the reviews are glowing — with an average of 4.9/5 from 25 reviews. Travelers praise the skipper’s knowledge, the beautiful caves, and the delicious local food. This is a fantastic option for those wanting a relaxed, scenic, and tasty afternoon on the water.
Bottom line: An ideal choice if you want a mix of sea exploration, snorkeling, and regional flavors in a short format.
2. From Gallipoli or surroundings: Lecce and Otranto Tour
If you’re eager to combine cultural sights with scenic drives, this full-day tour from Gallipoli covers Lecce’s Baroque architecture, Otranto’s seaside charm, and the Bauxite Caves. Starting from Gallipoli, the tour takes you through some of Puglia’s most beautiful spots, with scenic views and interesting stops along the way. The highlight is the visit to Lecce, often called the Florence of the South, where you’ll get free time to stroll, take photos, and soak in the ornate facades.
The tour includes a stop at the Bauxite Caves, which are noted for their striking red coloration and the “red lake” inside—an unusual natural phenomenon. The guided tour offers insights into local legends and history, making the experience both educational and visually stunning. With a rating of 4.5/5 from two reviews, this trip appeals to travelers wanting a comprehensive day of sightseeing without the hassle of planning.
Bottom line: Perfect for those who want a guided, all-in-one day trip that combines history, architecture, and natural wonders.
3. 5 hours Otranto, boat tour with snorkeling and aperitif
This 5-hour boat trip offers a more relaxed experience with plenty of time for snorkeling and enjoying regional snacks. Like the shorter tour, it explores coastal coves and hidden beaches, but with more time to linger in beautiful spots. The boat stops for snorkeling in clear waters, and you’ll be served an aperitif featuring local products—think bruschetta, cheeses, and regional wines.
What makes this tour stand out is its generous duration, allowing for a more leisurely pace. The boat’s flexibility means you can choose between northern or southern routes. The reviews are nearly perfect at 4.9/5, with travelers praising the friendly crew, the delicious food, and the calm waters. It’s a good fit if you prefer a slower, more immersive experience that combines sea exploration with tasting regional delicacies.
Bottom line: A great choice if you want more time on the water and to enjoy a relaxed atmosphere with food and snorkeling.
4. Boat: Boat tour with appetizer and drinks included
This 3-hour boat tour is all about savoring Salento’s flavors while cruising along the coast. The boat boasts a large fleet and offers different levels of service and amenities, making it adaptable to your preferences. The highlight is the including of regional appetizers and drinks, giving you a taste of local wines, cheeses, and snacks as you enjoy the scenery.
Guests rave about the comfortable boats and the flexibility of the itinerary, which can be tailored on the spot. This tour is perfect for travelers who want to combine relaxation with gastronomic pleasure. The value for money is high, considering the inclusive drinks and food, and it suits those looking for an easy, comfortable cruise experience.
Bottom line: Ideal for food lovers or anyone looking for a laid-back cruise with regional flavors included.
5. Otranto: Albatros Boat Private Tour with Aperitif and Snacks
For those who value privacy and personalized service, this private yacht tour offers the chance to explore either the North or South Coast of Otranto at your own pace. The large sundeck is perfect for relaxing in the sun, with a glass of sparkling wine and light snacks served onboard. This is a 3-hour experience designed to provide intimacy and flexibility.
The private nature of the tour makes it a good choice for romantic getaways, small groups, or travelers who prefer a tailor-made experience. The reviews reflect high satisfaction, with a focus on comfort, scenery, and the personalized service. This tour is best suited for travelers wanting exclusivity and a peaceful day on the water.
Bottom line: Perfect if you want a luxurious, flexible, and intimate experience on the sea with excellent snacks and drinks.
6. Otranto: Boat Tour with Aperitif and Snorkeling Equipment
This 3-hour boat trip focuses on swimming and snorkeling with local skipper guidance. The boat is equipped with snorkeling gear and swimming aids, making it easy to explore the underwater world. The tour includes an aperitif with local products, allowing you to relax and enjoy scenic views while sampling regional snacks.
It’s a straightforward, well-reviewed option (4.9/5), especially good for travelers keen on snorkeling and wanting an easy, enjoyable outing. The itinerary starts from Porto di Otranto and involves swimming stops in the Adriatic’s calm waters, with the option to listen to music via Bluetooth stereo.
Bottom line: A good pick if snorkeling and swimming are your priorities, with a relaxed schedule and local snacks.
7. Otranto walk in the Natural Park to discover the Bauxite Quarry
Looking for an active, scenic adventure? This 3-hour walk takes you through the Otranto-Leuca Natural Park, exploring rock crypts, legends, and the striking “red lake” inside the former bauxite quarry. Starting from Via del Porto, the trek includes a brief safety briefing and leads to fascinating natural and archaeological sites.
Rated for its unique combination of hiking, history, and natural beauty, this experience is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who want more than just sightseeing. The walk includes a regional food picnic and photo stops to capture the landscape and legends.
Bottom line: Best suited for active travelers who want a meaningful outdoor experience with cultural and natural highlights.
8. Private boat tour of the Otranto Coast
If exclusivity and flexibility top your list, this 4-hour private boat tour is hard to beat. Depart from the port of Otranto on the stylish EnjoyingLife motorboat, which combines comfort and elegance. You can customize your itinerary to visit the most evocative coves, with swimming stops that you select together.
The highlight is the personalized experience, with the chance to raise a glass with regional wines and relax in complete privacy. This tour is perfect for romantic couples or small groups seeking a luxurious, private escape. The reviews emphasize the exclusivity, relaxing atmosphere, and personalized service.
Bottom line: For travelers seeking a tailored, indulgent day on the water, this private boat tour offers the most flexibility and comfort.
How to Choose Your Perfect Otranto Tour
Choosing the right tour or experience depends on your interests, budget, and how much time you want to spend. If you love sea adventures combined with local flavors, the Boat Tour with Snorkeling and Food Tasting is a top pick. For a full-day cultural exploration, the Lecce and Otranto Tour offers a comprehensive look at the region’s highlights. If privacy and exclusiveness are your priorities, the Private Yacht Tour or Private Boat Tour will suit you best.
Those wanting active outdoor fun should consider the walk in the Natural Park to see the bauxite quarry up close, offering a change from water-based experiences. For snorkelers or those who just want a simple, relaxing cruise, the Boat Tour with Snorkeling Equipment is a perfect fit. Booking early is advisable, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred date.
Final Thoughts
Otranto offers a range of tours and experiences that suit diverse interests, from scenic boat rides to active outdoor walks. For a short escape, the boat trips with snorkeling and local food tasting provide a delightful combination of nature and regional flavors. If you’re after a more luxurious or private experience, the private yacht or boat tours are unmatched.
For those seeking culture and history, the guided tour to Lecce and the Bauxite Caves is hard to beat. Whatever your preference, booking early will ensure you get the most out of your time in this stunning coastal town. With so many options, you’ll find the perfect way to enjoy the beauty and charm of Otranto for your trip.