Itria Valley: Polignano, Ostuni and Locorotondo, from Bari

Taking a day to explore Italy’s Itria Valley offers a fantastic way to see three of the region’s most iconic towns without the hassle of driving or figuring out logistics yourself. This guided tour from Bari promises a mix of striking coastlines, whitewashed streets, and charming circular villages, all packed into a manageable 7.5 to 10 hours. From the moment we looked at the itinerary, what stood out was the balance of guided travel with free time, giving us a chance to really absorb the atmosphere of each town.

One of the biggest perks? The comfortable air-conditioned coach makes the long day fly by, and the detailed brochure provided is a handy guide for exploring on your own. However, keep in mind that the tour’s pace is fairly structured, which might feel tight for those wanting to linger longer or explore in greater depth. If you’re eager to soak in authentic Italian culture, enjoy stunning views, and prefer not to worry about transportation, this trip delivers.

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a well-organized day trip that hits the highlights of the Itria Valley, especially if you’re pressed for time or prefer to join a group rather than navigate alone. It’s also a great choice if you’re keen on discovering towns that are a bit tricky to reach on your own, thanks to the included transportation and curated stops.

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation with air conditioning makes for a relaxing journey.
• Self-guided tours give you flexibility to explore each town at your own pace.
• The expert driver ensures smooth logistics and local insights.
• The itinerary covers Polignano a Mare, Ostuni, and Locorotondo, three distinct and picturesque towns.
• Cost offers good value considering transportation, organization, and guided insight.
• Flexible timing allows you to customize your experience depending on your interests.

Deep Dive into the Experience

The Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins from one of two convenient meeting spots in Bari, either the Ex Capolinea 1, 4, Parcheggio retro stazione or an alternative location. From there, you board a comfortable GT bus equipped with air conditioning—especially appreciated on hot days—making the roughly 45-minute drive to Polignano a Mare a breeze.

Having a dedicated driver like Nuzzio or Nunzio, praised for their professionalism and helpfulness in reviews, adds a layer of trust and comfort. They’re not just chauffeurs but also sources of local stories and practical info, which can turn a simple bus ride into a mini-lesson in Apulian life.

Polignano a Mare: The Pearl of the Adriatic

Our first stop is Polignano a Mare, famed for its dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear sea. It’s about 30 km from Bari, which makes it an ideal first destination. You get roughly two hours to wander on your own, and this is a real highlight for many visitors.

This town is famously connected to singer Domenico Modugno, the voice behind “Nel blu dipinto di blu,” and its historic center is teeming with traces of Arab, Byzantine, Spanish, and Norman influences. Reviewers love the impressive cavities carved by the sea into the rocks, which create natural pools and caves perfect for photos or a quick dip if you’re feeling brave. The narrow streets are vibrant and lively, filled with cafes and shops, and the views from the cliffs are truly breathtaking.

One traveler noted, “Daniele, our driver, was very helpful… there was enough time to explore, grab a coffee, and enjoy the scenery.” This suggests a good balance between guided structure and free exploration, allowing you to soak in the town’s charm without feeling rushed.

Ostuni: The White City

Next, after about an hour-long drive, you arrive in Ostuni, known as the “White City” for its stunning, uniformly whitewashed buildings. The town’s elevated position offers sweeping views of the surrounding olive groves and the Adriatic coast beyond.

The core attraction here is the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, a mix of Romanesque and Gothic architecture, with a striking rose window and artful frescoes. From the cathedral, you get access to panoramic terraces—perfect spots for photos and taking in the beauty of the region.

In the lively Piazza della Libertà, surrounded by cafes and restaurants, visitors find a great place to relax and watch local life unfold. Reviewers mention the well-organized nature of the visit, with the brochure providing helpful info and hints. You have about 2.5 hours here, plenty of time for a leisurely walk or a quick bite.

Locorotondo: The Circular Gem

Our final stop is Locorotondo, a UNESCO-recognized village famed for its circular layout and white “cummerse” houses with pitched limestone roofs. This town offers a more intimate vibe, where narrow, winding streets paved with local stone invite exploration.

Locorotondo has been awarded an Orange Flag for its harmonious urban design and walkability. It’s especially loved by those wanting a peek into authentic Apulian village life. Many reviews highlight the beautiful harmony of the town’s architecture and the chance to walk among the historic cottages and elegant portals. You’re given about two hours here—enough for a relaxed amble and perhaps a gelato or local wine.

The Return Journey and Additional Insights

After the exploration, the bus heads back to Polignano a Mare for about an hour to round out the day, giving you a final chance to enjoy the coast before heading back to Bari. The return trip is often praised for its smoothness and the comfort of the coach.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Reviewers consistently mention the professionalism of the driver and the organization of the day as standout features. One said, “My family and I were very pleased with the service,” noting punctuality and helpfulness. The informational brochure also receives praise as a handy resource to deepen your understanding of each town’s history and culture.

The value here is also notable—considering the cost of just a guided tour, transport, and the effort saved, it’s a practical way to see a lot in one day without the stress of driving or planning.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip suits those who want a well-organized, hassle-free day visiting iconic towns in Apulia. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate stunning scenery, authentic towns, and a bit of free time to explore on their own. If you’re on a tight schedule but want to see a good slice of the region’s highlights, this tour hits the mark.

However, if you prefer longer, more immersive experiences or detailed guided tours in each town, you might find the pacing a little brisk. But for most, the balance of guided transport, scenic stops, and free exploring time offers excellent value.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides transportation on a comfortable, air-conditioned GT bus, ensuring a smooth journey between the towns.

Can I explore the towns on my own?
Absolutely. The tour includes free time for self-guided exploration at each stop, guided by an informative brochure.

How long is each stop?
You’ll have about 2 hours in Polignano a Mare, 2.5 hours in Ostuni, and 2 hours in Locorotondo, with some variations depending on the day.

What’s the price?
The tour costs around $67.97 per person, which covers transportation, organization, and the guided itinerary. Food and drinks are not included.

Are there any hidden costs?
Not according to the provided details. You’ll need to budget separately for meals or souvenirs if you wish.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is offered in Italian, which is good to keep in mind if you’re not fluent, although the brochure and signage may help bridge the gap.

Final Thoughts

For travelers eager to see the best of the Itria Valley without the fuss of driving or complicated planning, this guided day trip from Bari offers a thoughtfully curated experience. It combines scenic coastal views, charming whitewashed towns, and authentic village atmospheres—all within a comfortable, well-organized package.

The inclusion of free exploration time, the professionalism of the driver, and the stunning scenery make it an appealing choice for those wanting a taste of Apulia’s highlights in a single day. It’s particularly well-suited for visitors on a time crunch or newcomers wanting an overview of this captivating region.

While it may not satisfy those seeking in-depth guided tours of each town or extended stays, it provides a practical, enjoyable, and value-packed introduction to some of Italy’s most photogenic spots. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or in a group, this trip promises a memorable day of discovery and scenic beauty.