Charming Exclusive Customized tours with your real Apulian friend

This private tour experience offers a chance to explore the captivating region of Puglia at your own pace, guided by a local who knows the area intimately. With a flexible itinerary that you can tailor, it promises a blend of iconic sights and hidden gems, all delivered in a comfortable, intimate setting. The reviews speak volumes about the warmth and expertise of the guide, Gabry Fortunato, making this a standout option for travelers seeking authentic, personalized adventures.

What we love most about this tour is the customization—it’s not a cookie-cutter experience but one shaped around your interests and preferences. Plus, the guide’s genuine passion for Puglia shines through, offering not just sightseeing but a true cultural connection. That said, since the tour is private and tailored, it’s best suited for those who value a personalized approach over sticking to rigid schedules. If you’re after a relaxed, authentic, and engaging day with local insights, this could be your perfect match.

One aspect to consider is the price point—at around $464 for a group up to two, it’s an investment, but many reviews highlight the excellent value, especially given the personalized service, flexibility, and depth of knowledge you’ll receive. Keep in mind that the tour includes transportation, stops in major towns, and optional extras like a ride in an Ape Calessino, making it a comprehensive and immersive experience.

This tour best suits travelers who want to see the highlights of Puglia without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. It’s ideal for couples, friends, or small groups looking for a highly tailored, luxurious day out with a local who feels more like a friend than a guide.

Key Points

• Highly Personalized: The tour is completely customized based on your preferred destinations within Puglia, with the guide acting as your “Tour-Angel.”
• Authentic Local Experience: Enjoy genuine interactions with a guide passionate about his region and its traditions.
• Flexible Itinerary: Choose from iconic spots like Alberobello, Ostuni, and Polignano a Mare, or opt for hidden gems and thematic excursions.
• Comfortable Transportation: Travel in a private, modern vehicle suited for small groups, ensuring comfort and flexibility.
• Deep Insights: The guide’s knowledge enhances your visit, revealing the stories behind each site and local traditions.
• Excellent Reviews: Consistently rated 5/5, travelers praise the guide’s friendliness, adaptability, and wealth of regional knowledge.

Exploring Puglia with a Local Touch

This tour is all about experience and authenticity. Instead of rushing through a set list of sights, you’re encouraged to select your favorite spots or themes—whether it’s the fairy-tale trulli of Alberobello, the enchanting white town of Ostuni, or the dramatic cliffs and sea views of Polignano a Mare. The guide, Gabry, is described as friendly, punctual, and deeply proud of his homeland, making every stop richer with stories and local insights.

The itinerary offers an excellent mix of classic and lesser-known sites. For instance, the walk through Alberobello’s UNESCO-listed Trulli district is described as “magnificent,” with plenty of opportunities for memorable photos. The Locorotondo visit highlights one of the “prettiest and most gorgeous villages,” which visitors can explore on foot for around two hours, soaking in its charm and panoramic views over the Itria Valley.

In Ostuni, the “Città Bianca,” travelers can enjoy a relaxed two-hour stroll that captures the town’s stunning whitewashed buildings and panoramic vistas. Many reviews mention the option of a fun ride in an Ape Calessino (a vintage tuk-tuk), which adds a playful, relaxed vibe to the experience, especially when exploring narrow streets or enjoying the sunset.

Additional stops, like Trani’s seaside cathedral or Matera’s famous Sassi, are optional but highly recommended for their unique charm and historical significance. However, the core of this experience is adaptability—the guide will work with your preferences, making sure you see what matters most to you.

The Transport and Group Size

Transportation is a key part of the experience — a private, comfortable car or van (up to 8 people) ensures you’re not cramped and can relax between sites. Many reviews mention the driver’s safety and punctuality, which makes all the difference in a region where scenic drives are part of the journey.

With a maximum of 4 people in the car or a small van for larger groups, the tour maintains an intimate atmosphere. This personal size allows for spontaneous stops, tailored conversations, and a more immersive experience than large bus tours. Travelers consistently mention the comfort and ease of being chauffeured personally, freeing them to focus on the sights and stories.

Duration and Flexibility

The tour ranges from 4 to 10 hours, depending on your preferences. Some travelers opt for a half-day exploration, while others extend to a full day, including optional stops like Castel del Monte or a wine and olive oil tasting. The flexibility in timing and destinations means you control the pace, which is a significant advantage for those with specific interests or limited time.

Most bookings are made about three months in advance, reflecting the popularity and the trust in this service. The tour includes pick-up and drop-off, typically from your hotel, B&B, or local station, making logistics easy and stress-free.

Value and Pricing

At $464.43 for up to 2 people, the cost might seem high initially. However, considering the personalized service, private transportation, and expert guidance, many reviews affirm the superb value. This isn’t just a sightseeing trip but a culinary, cultural, and scenic immersion, tailored precisely to your interests.

The optional extras, such as the Ape Calessino tour of Ostuni, add a touch of fun and uniqueness, which many travelers find worthwhile. Plus, the guide’s insider knowledge often leads to discovering hidden spots and learning stories that you won’t find in guidebooks.

Authentic and Enthusiastic Guide: Gabry Fortunato

A recurring theme in reviews is Gabry’s warmth, knowledge, and flexibility. He’s described as “more like a friend” than a guide, always eager to customize the day according to what you want. Many travelers highlight how he reached out beforehand to discuss their interests and how he made extra efforts to include memorable photo stops or local tastings.

His pride and love for Puglia come through in every story, making the experience feel genuine and heartfelt. The fact that he’s willing to adapt on the fly—whether you want a quiet stroll, a lively lunch, or a scenic drive—ensures everyone leaves with a sense of fulfillment.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re after a personalized, relaxed, and authentic way to explore Puglia’s highlights and hidden corners, this tour is hard to beat. It’s best suited for small groups or couples who appreciate a guide’s local insights and want the freedom to choose what they see. Travelers who enjoy storytelling, good food, and scenic drives will feel right at home.

While the price tag might be higher than larger group tours, the customized experience and quality of guide make it worthwhile. The flexibility and personal touch ensure that you won’t just see Puglia—you’ll get to experience it as a local friend might show you.

This is a fantastic option for those who cherish genuine connections, beautiful vistas, and a deep dive into regional culture. It’s a chance to create lasting memories, learn fascinating stories, and enjoy the region’s best without the rush or compromise.

FAQ

Is this tour customizable?
Yes, the tour is tailored to your interests. You choose three destinations within a 100 km radius, and the guide adapts the itinerary accordingly.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers pickup from your accommodation, private transportation in a comfortable vehicle, and the guide’s services. Entrance fees and food are optional and not included.

How long does the tour last?
It can range from approximately 4 to 10 hours, depending on your preferences and the stops you select.

Can I visit specific towns or sites?
Absolutely. The guide is happy to incorporate your preferred destinations, whether iconic sights or hidden gems.

What additional experiences are available?
Extras like a ride in an Ape Calessino, local tastings, or visits to specific cultural sites can be arranged, often for an extra fee.

Is transportation comfortable and reliable?
Yes, the tour uses private, modern vehicles with drivers known for safety and punctuality, ensuring a smooth journey.

Do I need to book far in advance?
Most bookings are made around 92 days before, especially during peak seasons, to secure availability and personalized planning.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and the flexible, private nature makes it adaptable for families, couples, or friends.

To sum it up, this private, customized tour of Puglia offers a genuine, flexible, and immersive way to experience one of Italy’s most charming regions. With a knowledgeable local guide who treats you more like a friend, you’ll enjoy scenic drives, iconic towns, and flavorful tastings, all at your pace. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a meaningful connection with the land, culture, and people of Puglia—without the rush of larger tours or rigid schedules. If you value authenticity, comfort, and a personal touch, this experience might just become one of your most treasured memories from Italy.