Alberobello, Monopoli & Polignano: Small Group Day Trip by Car

Summary

Trulli houses, coastal towns and local stories in Puglia

You’ll taste fresh focaccia in Alberobello’s winding lanes, soak up sea breezes in Monopoli’s old port, and hear local stories over gelato in Polignano a Mare. With friendly drivers guiding you but never rushing you, this small group day trip lets you experience Puglia at your own pace — with plenty of time for wandering and quiet moments.

What’s the experience like?

“If you get lost in Alberobello, just follow the smell of focaccia,” Gianluca grinned as we climbed out of the van. He wasn’t kidding — there was this warm, herby bread scent drifting through the little lanes between the trulli. We’d left Bari just after breakfast, eight of us crammed together but somehow it felt more like a family road trip than a tour. Gianluca pointed out olive groves and explained why the stones here are stacked instead of mortared — something about earthquakes and old traditions. I kept running my hand along the rough white walls; they’re cooler than you’d think, almost chalky.

In Alberobello, it’s easy to wander off — every alley looks like a postcard but also kind of lived-in. I tried to say “trullo” properly and an old man selling postcards laughed (in a nice way). The sun hit hard by noon, so we ducked into a café for lemon granita before heading back to meet the group. Monopoli came next: narrow streets, laundry flapping above us, and that salty breeze from the Adriatic. Our driver Francesco gave us tips on where to find the best panzerotti (he was right — still thinking about that gooey cheese). There’s something about sitting on an old stone wall with your lunch and watching kids chase pigeons that makes you feel like maybe you belong here.

Polignano a Mare was our last stop. The cliffs really do drop straight into blue water — but honestly what I remember is hearing Domenico Modugno’s “Volare” playing somewhere as we walked through town. Our guide Marco said he grew up nearby and pointed out his favorite gelato shop (I went pistachio). The whole day felt loose and unhurried; nobody rushed us or herded us around with flags. Just small stories, sea air, and enough time to get lost or sit quietly if you wanted. And yeah, free WiFi in the van meant I could send photos home before we even got back to Bari.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Alberobello, Monopoli, and Polignano a Mare

• Meet at the designated meeting place
• Travel to Alberobello by car
• Visit the Trulli of Alberobello
• Return to meeting point with driver
• Travel to Monopoli
• Explore Monopoli historic center and sea
• Return to meeting point with driver
• Travel to Polignano a Mare
• Explore Polignano a Mare historic center
• Return to meeting point with driver
• Travel back to Bari

Top questions

How many people are on this Puglia day trip?

The tour is not private and can host up to 8 participants.

Is pickup included for this Alberobello, Monopoli & Polignano tour?

The tour starts from a designated meeting place indicated on the site; hotel pickup is not mentioned.

Are guides or drivers included during the day trip?

A local driver accompanies you throughout the tour and shares historical insights and recommendations.

How much free time do we get in each town?

You’re left free to explore each town at your own pace after being dropped off by the driver.

Is there WiFi available during the drive?

Yes, free WiFi is available onboard the vehicle throughout the day trip.

Are entry fees or meals included?

No entry fees or meals are mentioned as included; food is at your own expense.

What are the main stops on this Puglia day trip?

The tour visits Alberobello (trulli houses), Monopoli (historic center), and Polignano a Mare (seaside town).

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes, it is suitable for all physical fitness levels according to the information provided.

What’s included

Your day includes comfortable transport by air-conditioned vehicle with free WiFi onboard plus local drivers who share stories and tips along the way. You’ll have plenty of freedom to explore Alberobello’s trulli houses, stroll through Monopoli’s historic center by the sea, and wander Polignano a Mare at your own pace before returning to Bari together.