The 20 best experiences to have in Puglia

Horseback riding on the beach in Porto Cesareo is a relaxing experience that will allow you to admire the beautiful beaches of Salento. During the excursion you will be able to bathe while riding your horse.

The horseback ride is scheduled to start in the morning (duration 2 hours and 30 minutes) or in the afternoon (duration 1 hour). The morning ride includes a breakfast at the stables before leaving, and the afternoon ride does not go all the way to the beach.

You will be provided with all the equipment you need to ride a horse, including helmet. The price is inclusive of insurance.

Recommended clothing includes closed shoes and long pants.

Until Oct. 30, you will not be able to go to the beach with horses even during the 2-hour, 30-minute tour due to a beach season ordinance.

For the Salento boat excursion from Gallipoli with aperitif you will have a choice of 3 different tours, all lasting about 3 hours.

South Versant Tour - Punta Pizzo

You will explore the Island of Sant'Andrea, a unique island in Salento reachable only by sea, beloved by snorkeling lovers. Punta Pizzo is another must-see place, with golden beaches and crystal clear waters, perfect for children to play safely.

North Coast Tour - Porto Selvaggio

You will explore the northern coastline of Gallipoli, passing by the famous split mountain, the Quattro Colonne, Santa Maria al Bagno and Santa Caterina, until you reach the picturesque Torre Uluzzo Bay. Porto Selvaggio Park is renowned for its distinctive landscape, with high cliffs overlooking the sea, bays and coves.

Sunset Tour

During this sunset tour, the fleet gathers near the island, offering a spectacle of the fiery red sun slowly disappearing behind the sea, mingling with the sky. During the excursion, you will be treated to an aperitif of Salento appetizers accompanied by a drink.

Depending on weather conditions and the skipper's decisions, the stops may change.

Discover St. Andrew's Island starting from Gallipoli with a boat excursion.

For this experience you will have a choice of:

• Morning excursion
• Afternoon excursion

For each of these excursions, the itinerary includes:

• departure from the port of Gallipoli
• Island of St. Andrew and swim stop to swim surrounded by fish
• Punta Pizzo bay with a stop to swim in the blue waters of this natural oasis
• return skirting Punta Suina with typical aperitif served on board

During the morning excursion, the boat staff will serve you both an aperitif and a typical fish dish.

During the excursion you will be guided by a skipper who can satisfy all your curiosity about the place.

On the boat there is snorkeling equipment, to admire the seabed, and a sunshade awning to relax in the shade if necessary.

The use of sunscreen, not on board, is recommended to protect yourself from the sun.

Get ready to explore Salento's most fascinating caves aboard a 10-meter gozzo or a 7-meter gozzo with bathroom stops.

Departing from Castro's Porto Vecchio, the itinerary includes three main stops, namely Grotta Palombara, with its striking triangular entrance, Grotta Azzurra and Grotta Zinzulusa, known for its stalactites ("zinzuli") hanging from its ceiling. Finally, on the return trip to Castro, there will be a bathroom stop at Porto Miggiano and nearby Santa Cesarea Terme.

The excursion is organized on a shared basis and lasts 2 hours. Depending on weather conditions and the skipper's decisions, the stops may vary.

Maximum capacity: 12 people.

Embark on a dinghy excursion to discover the most beautiful locations in Salento.

Departing from the port of Otranto, you can choose from 3 different tours:

Bay of Turks excursion (2 hours).

From Otranto, you will sail along the Grotta Monaca to reach the striking Baia del Mulino d'Acqua, with the Sfondata and delle Conchiglie caves. A bathing stop is planned.

Excursion to the Faraglioni of Torre Sant'Andrea (4 hours)

The excursion starts from Otranto visiting the Baia del Mulino d'Acqua and caves, Baia Imperia, Baia Morrone and Baia dei Turchi. Afterwards, it continues along Alimini Bay and Frassanito Locality to Torre Sant'Andrea with its stacks. Two bathroom stops are planned.

Excursion to the Zinzulusa Caves (4 hours).

From the harbor you will skirt the Serpent's Tower and the old oil lighthouse, then head to Orte Bay, Sant'Emiliano Bay and Porto Badisco. During the tour you will visit Grotta delle Rose, Grotta della Fraula and Santa Cesarea Terme. A bathroom stop is planned.

On board the boat there is a sunshade awning to protect you from the sun and a freshwater shower to rinse off after swimming in the sea.

If you are on vacation in Gallipoli and want to explore its ancient walls by cruising along the Salento coast, get ready for a boat excursion that will introduce you to all the hidden beauties of the city while you enjoy an aperitif on board based on typical products.

During the navigation you will skirt the Spiaggia della Purità beach, in the old town center, and the Island of Sant'Andrea, where an offshore stop will be scheduled. Here you will be offered an aperitif on board accompanied by music to experience the excursion in total tranquility.

You will also be able to capture the best moments of the experience in the waters of Gallipoli with a GoPro provided by the crew.

The excursion is organized on a shared basis and has a duration of 3 hours. Depending on weather conditions and skipper's decisions, the stops may change.

Three boats are available, each carrying up to 11 people on board.

Explore Polignano a Mare aboard a sailboat on an unforgettable group excursion.

Departing from the port of Monopoli, you will set sail north to discover the coastline and caves that lie hidden beneath Polignano a Mare.

The gentle progress of the sailboat on the crystal clear waters will lull you and listening to the wind caressing the sails you can relax for a boat trip unlike any other.

The itinerary, determined by the captain according to the weather conditions, will take you to visit the most beautiful caves, coves and beaches in the area, such as Grotta Azzurra, Grotta Palazzese, Grotta dell'Eremita, Lama Monachile and Cala Eremita.

In addition, you can dive into the clear waters populated with colorful fish and admire the seabed by snorkeling.

Finally, you will be offered a tasty aperitif on board based on typical local products.

Throughout the experience you will be accompanied by a skipper who can answer your questions and tell you pleasant trivia about the caves.

A unique excursion aboard a vintage gozzo to discover the beautiful caves of Polignano a Mare.

Starting from Cala Ponte Marina you will sail south along the coast of Polignano a Mare passing by Grotta delle Rondinelle, Grotta Palazzese and Grotta Ardito.

You will then make a stop at the Scoglio dell'Eremita and on this occasion you will be offered refreshments of local products to be consumed on board the boat. Also, during the stop you can take a swim in the "blue painted blue" and enjoy the relaxation of these crystal clear waters.

You will then resume sailing north to return to Cala Ponte Marina.

Throughout the excursion, which lasts about 2 hours, you will be accompanied by an experienced skipper who will be able to tell you the best facts about the area and the caves.

Among the various times offered, you can choose the last run of 18:00 or 19:00 to make the exit during sunset.

To ensure the safety of passengers, in case of bad weather the itinerary may vary at the discretion of the captain.

Immerse yourself in this wonderful area of Fasano in the province of Brindisi by walking through the Apulian countryside and coastal dune area.

The experience begins with an introduction where you will learn about the itinerary and be provided with the necessary equipment for the walk.

Leaving the riding stables you will be immersed in the greenery of Apulian nature including olive and fig trees that will accompany you throughout the walk.

The equestrian guide will accompany you throughout the experience answering any questions you may have about everything around you during the experience.

The 1 hour and 30 minute walk includes a landscape section and a beach section.

Explore Puglia's most fascinating caves with this private or group boat tour, ideal for visiting Polignano a Mare, the fantastic waters of the Adriatic Sea and its picturesque bays.

You'll have the opportunity to swim, enjoy both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, and visit some of the area's most striking sights, including the "Grotta Palazzese," the "Grotta dell'amore," the Archbishop's Cave, Domenico Modugno's Statue, Lama Monachile, the Red Bull Balcony, Ardito Cave, Favale Cave and many more.

The excursion lasts 1 1/2 hours and you can choose between the shared and exclusive option.

Maximum capacity: 6 people for the private tour, 13 people for the group tour.

Boat excursion to the caves of Polignano a Mare with skipper and aperitif served on board.

Departing from San Vito, you will head out to discover Polignano a Mare from a new point of view. You will admire the grandeur of this town overlooking the sea and the beauty of its caves.

The itinerary includes:

• Grotta Palazzese, which houses an exclusive restaurant inside
• Lama Monachile, a famous natural inlet with a pebble beach
• Hermit Island
• Lovers' Cave
• Ardito Cave

During the excursion you will have the opportunity to stop for a swim in the sea among the crystal clear waters of the area.

On board you will be offered a flute of prosecco, typical Apulian taralli, water and fresh soft drinks. There will be music on board the boat for dancing and having fun together.

You will be able to choose from 3 possible options with the same itinerary:

• Excursion shared with other participants: 1 1/2 hours
• Private excursion with exclusive boat: 1 1/2 hours
• Private excursion with exclusive boat: 3 hours

Departing from the Port of San Vito, you will sail south to explore the coast until you reach Polignano a Mare. This town, beautiful when visited by land, offers an unprecedented spectacle when viewed from the sea.

Its houses, built sheer above the sea, hide at their base, majestic caves, which are visible only from the sea.

During this excursion, aboard a small boat, you will be able to get close to caves such as Grotta dell'Ermita, Grotta dei Colombi and Grotta Palazzese, and thanks to the skipper's stories you will learn all their secrets.

In addition, there will be a stop to swim in the sea and approach the caves by swimming.

Finally, before returning, you will be offered refreshments with Apulian taralli and an alcoholic or non-alcoholic drink.

With the same itinerary, you can choose from 2 types of tours:

• Group tour, in which you will share the boat with other participants. It is available for groups of up to 10 people.
• Private tour, in which you will have the whole boat in exlcusive. It is available for groups of up to 6 people.

Horseback riding by the sea in Vieste is also suitable for those who have never ridden a horse before, and you can choose from three different tours:

Afternoon

The afternoon tour takes place in the hills. Departure is set at 3:00 pm, 4:00 pm and 5:00 pm. The scheduled duration is about 1 hour.

Sunset

The sunset tour takes place in the hills. Departure is set at 6:30 pm. Expected duration is about 1 1/2 hours.

Sunrise

The sunrise tour is the only one that goes all the way to the beach by the sea. Departure is set for 5:00 a.m., return to the stables for 7:30 a.m. Once back you can enjoy a breakfast of bread and tomato, cold cuts and cheese. The expected duration is about 3 hours.

Only the sunrise walk is conducted at the waterfront. Comfortable clothing, closed shoes and long pants are recommended. You will be provided with all riding equipment, including helmet (mandatory).

Experience an adventure in Puglia with a quad bike excursion in the Gargano. You will be accompanied by an experienced guide with a choice of two alternative routes of different durations:

With aperitif (2 1/2 hours)

The experience will take you along a fascinating route between dirt sections in the woods and scenic roads. You will stop at the beautiful Zaiana Bay, admiring the seascape, and then finish with a relaxing aperitif of your choice. The duration of the experience is about 2 1/2 hours.

With lunch (6 hours)

This adventurous hike will take you through evocative forest trails, immersing you in unspoiled nature. With a stop at the Sgarazza farm, you will enjoy a delicious lunch and enjoy panoramic views of the Gulf of Manfredonia. The duration of the experience is about 6 hours.

Regardless of which tour you choose, the quad bike excursion in the Gargano will provide you with an adventurous and exciting experience in the Gargano.

The group boat excursion to Vieste Sea Caves will take you to discover the beautiful Gargano coastline.

The group tour departs from Vieste with two daily trips to Baia delle Zagare. You will visit the most striking bays and beaches, some not accessible from the main road. Descriptions of points of interest are provided in Italian and English during navigation. A stop of about 40 minutes is planned at the Bay of Seagulls.

This exclusive tour is taken aboard an inflatable boat with a skipper included who will guide you along the Gargano coastline. Embark on this excursion and experience an adventure in Vieste's Sea Caves in excellent company.

Maximum capacity: 120 people for the group tour, 15 people for the private tour.

Daily excursion departing from Vieste aboard a Turkish yacht with skipper, aperitif and lunch on board.

The excursion will depart from the port of Vieste and, depending on weather conditions and the captain's decisions, you will travel along the Gargano coastline to discover the most beautiful caves and beaches in the area.

During the day you will make stops where you will have the opportunity to swim in the sea among the crystal clear Apulian waters.

What's special about this boat is that it features, on board, a kitchen where fresh dishes made from local products will be prepared. In fact, you will be served an aperitif and a multi-course lunch including wine and water. Other drinks, alcoholic and non-alcoholic, may be purchased on board.

It is possible, by advance request only, to have a vegetarian or gluten-free menu.

For the more curious, the staff can offer explanations and cultural nods related to the traditions of the area.

Also included in the price are insurance and membership in the organizing association.

Finally, there will also be the opportunity to purchase, on board, the autographed book, "The Emotions, the keystone," whose author, Elisabetta Monaco, will be on board with you during the outing as the owner of the boat.

Embark on a boat adventure among crystal clear waters and breathtaking scenery in the Gargano. This experience can take place in three different modes:

Dawn Breakfast (max. 6 people).

A sunrise sea trip will give you a truly unique experience as the sun rises on the horizon. Aboard the Albachiara, you will explore the coast, stop for a refreshing swim and enjoy a rich breakfast accompanied by freshly brewed coffee.

Aperitivo Al Tramonto (max. 9 people)

You will embark on a boat excursion as the sun sets, enveloped by the waters and lights of twilight. You will be treated to a delicious apericena with drinks on board.

Day At Sea (max. 9 people)

Experience the excitement by boat among crystal clear waters, fantastic coves and breathtaking views. On board the Albachiara you will visit the entire coastline with various swim stops accompanied by an aperip lunch, prosecco and seasonal fruit.

Choose the tour you prefer and get ready to experience a unique moment on the Gargano coast while swimming among its coves. Depending on weather conditions and skipper's decisions, stops may be subject to change.

Discover the caves of the Gargano with a skippered boat excursion and included aperitif.

Departing from the port of Vieste, you will pass by the islet of S. Eufemia and the peninsula of San Francesco to the Pizzomunno monolith, which owes its name to the legend of the fisherman Pizzomunno and his beloved mermaid Cristalda.

You will then skirt Scialara beach and Portonuovo beach to arrive at the San Felice Arch, where the entrance to the Campana piccola cave is visible, and the Testa del Gargano.

Along the crossing, you can admire high white cliffs overhanging the sea with gorse, cysts and pine trees jutting out over the blue waters and picturesque beaches such as San Felice Bay, Campi Bay, Porto Greco Bay, Pugnochiuso Bay, Pergola Bay, Vignanotica Bay and Zagare Bay.

You will also have the opportunity to dive into the sea, thanks to some stops at the most striking points of this trip.

Finally, before returning, you will enjoy an excellent aperitif of local products, offered by the boat's staff.

Throughout the trip, you will be accompanied by a skipper who will be able to tell you delicious anecdotes about this particular area of Puglia.