Late April through May and September through October hit the sweet spot - warm but not scorching, and crowds thin out after summer. If you're booking boat tours to the caves or coastal trips, check before you go for seasonal schedules, as some operators adjust in winter months.

Private boat tours and guided excursions in smaller towns can fill up during peak season (June-August), so booking a week or two ahead gives you solid options. Outside summer, you usually have more flexibility, but confirm directly with operators.

Yes. The region's best experiences - boat trips into sea caves, the sanctuary at Monte Sant'Angelo, the backstory of towns like Bovino and Lucera - come alive with someone who knows the place. Most visitors here book private or small-group tours rather than larger coach trips.

Bari is the main hub with airport and train connections. From there, private transfers work for point-to-point travel, and many tours include pickup. Walking tours cover town centers well, but renting a car gives you freedom if you're staying a week or more.

Private boat tours usually cover transport and skipper; walking tours cover the guide and their expertise; customizable excursions depend on what you arrange with your operator. Check what's included - some tours add snorkeling or meals, others don't.

Boat tours work well for older kids and families comfortable on water; walking tours suit all ages depending on terrain and pace. Check accessibility details before booking, especially for the mountainside sanctuary at Monte Sant'Angelo or the historic cobbled streets.