Looking for the perfect two-week Puglia road trip itinerary? On this page you will find a done-for-you planned tour of Puglia, complete with driving instructions and map.
This itinerary is a relaxed 14 day tour which takes you to six towns in Puglia, spending two nights in each town (three nights in Bari). If you are looking for a faster-paced itinerary, try my whistlestop two week Puglia road trip, which takes you to thirteen towns in Puglia over two weeks.
The Puglia (or Apulia) region is one of my favourite regions of Italy and I have explored the region extensively, with my most recent visit being in April 2023. Allow me to guide you on a tour through this stunning Italian region of beauty!
Further reading: A Series of Planned Road Trip Itineraries around Puglia, Italy.
I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through my affiliate links.
Itinerary for Puglia: introduction.
This Puglia road trip itinerary starts and finishes in the city of Bari. I recommend hiring a car from Discover Cars and picking your car up from Bari airport when you arrive.
On this chilled tour of Puglia, you will visit six towns, spending two nights in each town. My faster-paced Puglia road trip is here.
There are technically three nights in Bari, to allow you to catch a late flight if you need to. There is a lot to do in Bari and you could potentially go on a day trip too.
Towns you will visit on this Puglia road trip.
Here is a list of the towns and places you will see on your Puglia road trip:
- Bari: a vibrant coastal city with a charming old town, bustling streets, and a rich cultural heritage. Read more.
- Alberobello: famous for its unique trulli houses and whimsical atmosphere. Read more.
- Ostuni: the ‘White City’, with its dazzling white buildings, winding streets, and views over the Adriatic Sea. Read more.
- Lecce: ‘Florence of the South’, a treasure trove of Baroque architecture, with elegant squares and impressive churches. Read more.
- Otranto: a coastal gem with a charming old town, magnificent cathedral with intricate mosaics, and stunning beaches. Read more.
- Gallipoli: a picturesque town located on a small island, with historic streets, a beautiful seaside promenade and a rich maritime heritage. Read more.
There is also scope for you to visit further towns and attractions by day trip, such as Castel del Monte, Matera and Polignano a Mare.
Further reading: 14 Beautiful Towns in Puglia, Italy.
Puglia road trip: driving map.
I have included driving instructions in my written itinerary below, but if you click on this Google map you can also get detailed step by step instructions from Google. Click the blue star to add it to your maps.
Your two week Puglia road trip itinerary.
For each leg of your Puglia road trip itinerary, I have included a summary of the town you are visiting, a photo of the town, driving instructions from A to B, plus suggestions for where to stay and what to do.
I have included hotel booking links for each town, and I will include them all together at the bottom of the post as well.
You will see tour adverts from Viator after each day of your itinerary. These look like regular adverts, but actually they have been hand-picked by me, and should be relevant to your stay. I’ll also suggest day trip tours at the bottom of the post.
Further reading: Hazel’s Guide to Driving in Puglia, Italy.
Quick summary of this 14 day Puglia road trip:
Here is a high-level list showing each leg of your Puglia road trip itinerary. The links will take you straight to the specific days of your Puglia itinerary below.
- Day 1-3: Bari.
- Day 4-5: Alberobello.
- Day 6-7: Ostuni.
- Day 8-9: Lecce.
- Day 10-11: Otranto.
- Day 12-13: Gallipoli
- Day 14: return to Bari.
Day 1-3: Arrival in Bari – explore the Old Town.
Once you have picked up your rental car from Bari airport and arrived in the city of Bari, take some time to settle in and explore the charming old town, known as Bari Vecchia. Everything you need to know about hiring a car in Puglia.
You have got three nights here and there is plenty to do. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Bari’s old town, where narrow streets wind their way through historic buildings and bustling squares. Visit the revered Basilica di San Nicola and marvel at the imposing Castello Svevo.
Further reading: 24 Amazing Things to do in Bari.
Don’t forget to indulge in the city’s famous street food, such as focaccia and panzerotti, as you take a leisurely stroll along the seafront promenade. Book a walking tour or a pasta experience, or try a street food tour (check out my Bari street food tour review here).
You may also like to consider going on a day trip from Bari. I recommend visiting Castel del Monte, a glorious octagonal castle, the purpose of which still remains a mystery. Another amazing day trip is the Castellana caves. See my guide to the best day trips from Bari for further information.
Further reading: 10 excellent day trips to take from Bari.
How to get from Bari airport to Bari city centre
To drive from Bari Airport to the city centre, follow these directions:
- Leave the airport and head southeast on Via Napoli.
- Continue straight on Via Napoli until you reach the roundabout. Take the second exit onto Viale Ennio, following signs for Bari Centro.
- Continue on Viale Ennio for about 3 km (1.8 miles), then merge onto Strada Provinciale 59/SP59.
- Follow SP59 for about 4 km (2.5 miles) until you reach the roundabout. Take the second exit to stay on SP59.
- Continue on SP59 for about 3 km (1.8 miles), and then take the exit toward Bari Centro/Porto.
- Merge onto Via Napoli and follow the signs for the city centre (Centro Città) or any specific landmarks or attractions you plan to visit.
- Once in the city centre, you can find parking in designated areas or parking lots.
The driving distance from Bari Airport to the city centre is approximately 11 km (6.8 miles), and the journey usually takes around 20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. It’s always a good idea to check for any road closures or traffic updates before your trip.
Where to stay in Bari
For hotels, click here to get the best rates today for Bari on Booking.com.
I recommend staying in the Bari Vecchia area because it is so beautiful. This is the old town, and it is full of charm and history. Here you’ll find quirky guesthouses and boutique hotels that provide easy access to the city’s main attractions, such as the Basilica di San Nicola and the Castello Svevo. However this area can be more expensive than other areas.
Alternatively, you can choose to stay near the seafront, where you’ll find modern hotels offering beautiful views of the Adriatic Sea and convenient access to the beach promenade and lively nightlife.
Other great neighbourhoods include the Murat Quarter, Bari Palese and San Nicola Stadium neighbourhood. Check this Bari article for individual hotel recommendations for each of these areas.
Day 4-5: Alberobello (driving time: 1 hour).
The first stop on your Puglia road trip is a famous and stunning destination. Step into a fairytale as you explore the enchanting town of Alberobello, famous for its unique trulli houses.
Wander through the picturesque streets lined with these whitewashed stone dwellings, many adorned with traditional symbols. Alberobello is a UNESCO World Heritage site with plenty to see and do.
Further reading: Your Ultimate Guide to visiting Alberobello.
You can immerse yourself in the local culture by taking a cooking class where you’ll learn to make orecchiette pasta, a regional speciality, and enjoy the authentic flavours of Puglia.
lberobello can get quite touristy, so you might want to read my guide about the best time to visit Alberobello. I have written several other posts on Alberobello which you might like to read before your trip. There are lots of things to do in Alberobello and some great restaurants too.
How to get from Bari to Alberobello
To get from Bari to Alberobello, you can follow these directions:
- Start by leaving Bari and head south on SS16/E55.
- Continue on SS16/E55 for about 40 km (25 miles) until you reach the town of Monopoli.
- In Monopoli, take the SP237 exit toward Alberobello/Castellana Grotte.
- Merge onto SP237 and continue for about 14 km (8.7 miles) until you reach Alberobello.
The total driving distance from Bari to Alberobello is approximately 56 km (35 miles) and should take around 1 hour, depending on traffic conditions. It’s always a good idea to check for any road closures or traffic updates before your trip. Where to stay in Alberobello
Use this link to get the best rates today for Alberobello on Booking.com
Alberobello offers a unique accommodation experience with its iconic trulli houses, which have been converted into cosy and charming accommodations. Consider staying in one of these traditional trulli, allowing you to immerse yourself in the distinctive atmosphere and architecture of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Further reading: My Stay in a Trulli House in Alberobello (Photos & Review).
Day 6-7: Ostuni (driving time: 30 minutes).
No Puglia road trip itinerary would be complete without a visit to Ostuni, also known as the White City. There are several white cities in Puglia (for example Cisternino and Locorotondo both in the Itria valley) but Ostuni is the most famous.
Perched on a hilltop, the town offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the Adriatic Sea. Explore the labyrinthine streets of the historic centre, adorned with whitewashed buildings and charming shops. Marvel at the stunning Ostuni Cathedral and enjoy the renowned cuisine of the region in one of the many local restaurants. Booking a short walking tour will help to maximise your time here.
How to drive from Alberobello to Ostuni
To drive from Alberobello to Ostuni, follow these directions:
- Start your journey in Alberobello and head north on SP 77, also known as Strada Provinciale Alberobello-Martina Franca.
- Stay on SP 77 for about 14 km (8.7 miles) until you reach Martina Franca.
- In Martina Franca, follow signs for “Ostuni” and take the SP 581.
- Continue on SP 581 for about 20 km (12.4 miles) until you reach Ostuni.
- As you approach Ostuni, follow signs for the city centre or the historic centre (Centro Storico) where you can find parking and explore the charming streets.
The driving distance from Alberobello to Ostuni is approximately 30 km (18.6 miles), and the journey usually takes around 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. It’s always a good idea to check for any road closures or traffic updates before your trip. Enjoy the scenic drive and the enchanting atmosphere of Ostuni!
Where to stay in Ostuni
Use this link to get the best rates today for Ostuni on Booking.com
Consider staying in the picturesque historic centre, where you can find charming boutique hotels and bed and breakfasts. There are also traditional guesthouses known as “masserie,” providing an authentic and memorable stay in this beautiful white-washed city.
Day 8-9: Lecce (driving time: 1.5 hours).
Head south to Lecce, a city renowned for its magnificent Baroque architecture. Discover the architectural marvels of the city often referred to as the “Florence of the South.” Admire the intricate baroque details of the Basilica di Santa Croce and the ornate façade of the Duomo.
Stroll through the Piazza del Duomo and the Piazza Sant’Oronzo, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of the city. Don’t miss the opportunity to savour the delectable pasticciotto, a traditional pastry filled with custard, at a local café.
Try this Lecce walking tour or this Lecce street food tour – guaranteed to tantalise your taste buds!
How to drive from Ostuni to Lecce
To drive from Ostuni to Lecce on your Puglia road trip, follow these directions:
- Start your journey in Ostuni and head south on SS16, also known as the Strada Statale 16 Adriatica.
- Stay on SS16 for about 72 km (44.7 miles) until you reach Brindisi.
- In Brindisi, follow signs for “Lecce” and take the SS379.
- Continue on SS379 for about 38 km (23.6 miles) until you reach Lecce.
- As you approach Lecce, follow signs for the city centre (Centro) or any specific landmarks or attractions you plan to visit.
- Once in Lecce, you can find parking in designated areas or parking lots near the city centre.
The driving distance from Ostuni to Lecce is approximately 110 km (68.4 miles), and the journey usually takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
Where to stay in Lecce
Use this link to get the best rates today for Lecce on Booking.com.
Consider staying in the historic centre (Centro Storico) to be close to the city’s main attractions. There are charming boutique hotels, guesthouses, and bed and breakfasts that showcase the unique architecture and atmosphere of this baroque wonderland.
Day 10-11: Otranto (driving time: 1 hour).
Next on your Puglia road trip is a scenic coastal drive to Otranto, a picturesque coastal town known for its crystal-clear waters and rich historical heritage.
Explore the magnificent Otranto Cathedral, home to intricate mosaic floors that tell captivating stories (these mosaics feature in my 30 must-see sights in Puglia post). Wander through the enchanting streets of the old town, perusing charming shops and enjoying the views of the Adriatic Sea. Relax on the beautiful beaches and enjoy the fresh seafood delicacies that the town is renowned for.
There are also some amazing hiking trails to be experienced in Otranto.
How to drive from Lecce to Otranto
To drive from Lecce to Otranto, follow these directions:
- Start your journey in Lecce and head east on SS16, also known as the Strada Statale 16 Adriatica.
- Stay on SS16 for about 34 km (21 miles) until you reach the town of Cavallino.
- In Cavallino, follow signs for “Otranto” and continue on SS16.
- Continue on SS16 for about 28 km (17 miles) until you reach Otranto.
- As you approach Otranto, follow signs for the city centre or any specific landmarks or attractions you plan to visit.
- Once in Otranto, you can find parking in designated areas or parking lots near the city centre.
The driving distance from Lecce to Otranto is approximately 45 km (28 miles), and the journey usually takes around one hour, depending on traffic conditions.
Where to stay in Otranto
Use this link to get the best rates today for Otranto on Booking.com.
Consider staying in one of the charming hotels or bed and breakfasts near the historic centre or along the picturesque waterfront, allowing you to soak in the stunning views and enjoy easy access to the town’s attractions and beautiful beaches. Puglia beach reading suggestions.
Day 12-13: Gallipoli (driving time: 1.5 hours).
Drive along the coast to Gallipoli, a coastal gem known for its historic centre located on a small island.
Lose yourself in the narrow streets of the historic centre, where whitewashed buildings, quaint shops, and lively piazzas create a magical ambiance. Visit the splendid Gallipoli Cathedral and bask in the sun on the stunning beaches. Indulge in the mouthwatering seafood cuisine at one of the traditional restaurants overlooking the turquoise waters.
A walking tour with a local is a great way to see the sights.
How to drive from Otranto to Gallipoli
To drive from Otranto to Gallipoli, follow these directions:
- Start your journey in Otranto and head west on SP366, also known as the Strada Provinciale Otranto-Gallipoli.
- Stay on SP366 for about 44 km (27 miles) until you reach Maglie.
- In Maglie, continue straight on SP48, also known as the Strada Provinciale Maglie-Gallipoli.
- Stay on SP48 for approximately 46 km (28.5 miles) until you reach Gallipoli.
- As you approach Gallipoli, follow signs for the city centre or any specific landmarks or attractions you plan to visit.
- Once in Gallipoli, you can find parking in designated areas or parking lots near the city centre.
The driving distance from Otranto to Gallipoli is approximately 90 km (56 miles), and the journey usually takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. It’s always a good idea to check for any road closures or traffic updates before your trip. Enjoy the scenic drive and the coastal beauty of Gallipoli!
Where to stay in Gallipoli
Use this link to get the best rates today for Gallipoli on Booking.com.
Consider staying in the historic centre of Gallipoli, known as the “Old Town” or “Centro Storico,” where you can find charming boutique hotels, guesthouses, and bed and breakfasts. Many have a close proximity to the stunning beaches and vibrant atmosphere of this coastal town.
Day 14: Return to Bari (driving time: 2 hours).
On the final day of your Puglia road trip, make your way back to Bari, where you started your journey. Take some time to explore any sights you may have missed on your first day, indulge in some last-minute shopping, or simply relax in one of the city’s cosy cafes.
How to drive from Gallipoli to Bari
To drive from Gallipoli to Bari, you can follow these directions:
- Start by leaving Gallipoli and head northeast on SS101.
- Continue on SS101 for approximately 60 km (37 miles) until you reach the city of Brindisi.
- In Brindisi, take the SS16/E55 exit toward Bari/Taranto.
- Merge onto SS16/E55 and continue for about 120 km (75 miles) until you reach Bari.
The total driving distance from Gallipoli to Bari is approximately 180 km (112 miles) and should take around 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
Airport hotels in Bari
If you need a room very close to the airport for a quick layover, I recommend the B&B AIRPORT BARI DELUXE28. It’s a 20 minute walk to the terminal, or a 2 minute taxi ride. The location instructions are easy to follow and they provide a continental breakfast in the room, plus some communal breakfast services too. I always use this airport hotel, it feels safe and is quiet despite being next to the airport.
For other Bari airport hotels, click this link to see current deals near the airport on Booking.com.
Bid farewell to the enchanting region of Puglia, cherishing the memories of its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and warm hospitality.
Further reading: Ultimate Puglia Travel Guide.
A note about driving instructions.
Please note that driving times are approximate and can vary depending on traffic and road conditions. It’s always a good idea to check the latest route information and plan accordingly.
Please also note that when I say “about”, I mean “approximately” (I’m British!)
You can find hints and tips for driving in on your Puglia road trip in my article about how to get to Alberobello.
In summary: your Puglia road trip.
In summary, here is a list showing each leg of your Puglia road trip itinerary. The links will take you straight to the specific days of your Puglia itinerary above.
- Day 1-3: Bari.
- Day 4-5: Alberobello.
- Day 6-7: Ostuni.
- Day 8-9: Lecce.
- Day 10-11: Otranto.
- Day 12-13: Gallipoli
- Day 14 :return to Bari.
Here ends your Puglia road trip!
I hope you have enjoyed this 14 day Puglia road trip itinerary. If the pace is a bit slow for your liking, you could always add some further stops to suit your preference. See my faster 2 week Puglia road trip where you will stay in most places for just one night each.
Other road trip itineraries in Puglia.
I have published a set of done-for-you road trip itineraries for Puglia, which I will list below.
My itineraries come in 7 day, 10 day and 14 day versions, but of course you can amend them to suit your own preferences. They all contain driving instructions, maps and suggestions for things to do and places to stay.
Puglia road trip itineraries:
- 2 week Puglia itinerary (fast-paced)
- 2 week Puglia itinerary (slower-paced)
- 10 day Puglia itinerary (fast-paced)
- 10 day Puglia itinerary (slower-paced)
- 7 day Puglia itinerary (fast paced)
- 7 day Puglia itinerary (slower-paced)
- Guide to all itineraries in one place.
Quick hotel links for Puglia.
Here are your hotel booking links again, all in one place for convenience. These links will get you the best rate on Booking.com today. Feel free to use them just for checking prices, even if you are not ready to book anything yet.
Book hotels in Alberobello | Book hotels in Bari | Book hotels in Gallipoli | Book hotels in Lecce | Book hotels in Ostuni | Book hotels in Otranto | See all hotels in Puglia.
Hotels by map.
If you prefer to see hotels by location, use this map to see where the hotels are in each region. If you click the map, it will take you to Booking.com where you can check availability.
Booking.comDay trips and tours in Puglia.
As your Puglia road trip involves two or more nights in each town, you may wish to explore the surrounding areas. See my post day trips from Bari for more information and directions, or check out the organised tours listed below.
I always use Viator for my tour bookings, but you can probably find the same tours on Get Your Guide too. Some of the tours offer local pickup, which would give you a break from driving, or you can meet at the designated meeting point.
1.Street food tour of Bari with Do Eat Better. Hands down my favourite food tour in Puglia. Read my full review first, and make sure you arrive hungry!
2. Boat tour of the Polignano a Mare caves – if you have the opportunity, you must see the caves of Polignano. This is a small group tour with a badge of excellence.
3. The Best of Lecce Walking Tour and Pasticciotto Tasting – Lecce is known as the Florence of the South and it is truly beautiful. See all the sights and try the local pastries!
4. Private walking tour of Bari with a professional guide – There is so much more to Bari than people think. Using a professional guide means you don’t miss anything.
5. Matera tour from Bari – Matera is a UNESCO listed ancient city just outside the Puglia border, and well worth a visit. More info on Matera in 10 best day trips from Bari.
6. Primitivo and negroamaro wine tour from Lecce – visit a winery and sample the excellent wines produced in the Puglia region. Includes lunch and hotel pickup from Lecce.
Further reading: Guide to wine in Puglia + best wineries in Puglia.
7. Salento full day tour from Lecce – your Puglia road trip does not include Salento, but by booking this tour you can visit 4 Salento towns in one day! 5 star rated.
Solo travellers
For solo travellers, be aware that many tours in Puglia seem to have a minimum two-person rule, which can be frustrating. However I find that by contacting tour operators directly, it is often possible to arrange bookings for one person, so always email them and check.
FAQs about a road trip itinerary for Puglia.
For transparency, these FAQs are the same ones for all of of my Puglia itinerary posts.
Q: How long does a typical Puglia road trip last?
A: A typical Puglia road trip can range from 7 to 14 days, depending on the number of destinations and the pace of your travel. It allows you to explore the highlights of the region at a comfortable pace. In this post I have recommended a relaxed 14 day itinerary, and I also have a faster-paced version here.
Further reading: A Series of Planned Road Trip Itineraries around Puglia, Italy.
Q: What are the must-visit destinations on a Puglia road trip?
A: Some must-visit towns on a Puglia road trip include Bari, Alberobello, Ostuni, Lecce, and Otranto. These places offer a mix of historical sites, charming towns, stunning coastal scenery, and culinary delights. The above itinerary for Puglia contains all of the above towns. Other popular towns include Santa Maria di Leuca, Polignano a Mare and Otranto.
In terms of tourist attractions, the most popular ones include Castel del Monte, Gargano National Park, Grotta della Poesia and Monte Sant Angelo. There are several UNESCO heritage sites in Puglia. The Gargano Peninsula does not feature in this trip itinerary, but you could always switch things around to suit your preference.
Further reading: Must See Sights: The 30 Best Places to Visit in Puglia.
Q: Is it necessary to rent a car for a Puglia road trip?
A: Renting a car is highly recommended for a Puglia road trip (southern Italy) as it provides the flexibility to explore the region at your own pace and reach the more remote areas. It allows you to visit multiple destinations and access the beautiful countryside and coastal areas with ease. I always use Discover Cars which is a brilliant car comparison site.
Further reading: Ultimate Guide to Renting a Car in Puglia, Italy.
Q: What is the best time of year for a Puglia road trip?
A: The best time for a Puglia road trip is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is pleasant, and tourist crowds are smaller. The summer months can be hot and crowded, especially along the coastal areas.
Related reading: The Best Time to Visit Alberobello.
A: The roads in Puglia are generally well-maintained and easy to navigate. However, some smaller towns and historic centres may have narrow streets or limited parking options. It’s advisable to have a GPS or a reliable map and be cautious while driving in busy city centres.
Further reading: Hazel’s Guide to Driving in Puglia, Italy.
Q: Are there tolls on the highways in Puglia?
A: Yes, there are tolls on some highways in Puglia. The main toll road in the region is the A14, which connects major cities like Bari and Taranto. Be prepared with some cash or a credit card for toll payments if you want to travel this route. This 14 day Puglia road trip does not include any toll roads.
Q: Can I find accommodations easily along the Puglia road trip route?
A: Yes, there are plenty of accommodation options along this Puglia road trip route, including hotels, guesthouses, agriturismi (farm stays), and bed and breakfasts. It’s advisable to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. In this 14 day Puglia itinerary, I have given you some hotel booking links.
Further reading: My Stay in a Trulli House in Alberobello (Photos & Review).
Q: What are some recommended local dishes to try during my Puglia road trip?
A: Some recommended local dishes to try during your Puglia road trip include orecchiette pasta, burrata cheese, seafood specialties, taralli (savoury snacks), and traditional desserts like pasticciotto. Don’t forget to try the region’s famous olive oil and wines.
Further reading:
- 78 Delicious Pugliese Dishes to Try in South Italy
- A Street Food Tour in Bari
- 15 Best Alberobello restaurants, cafes, pizzerias, bakeries and wine bars.
- Guide to wine from Puglia + best wineries.
Q: Are there any specific driving rules or regulations to be aware of on a Puglia road trip?
A: It’s important to adhere to the general driving rules in southern Italy, including carrying a valid driver’s licence, having insurance coverage, and wearing seat belts. Speed limits and parking regulations should be followed, and it’s essential to be cautious while driving in busy city centres and watch out for ZTL (limited traffic zone) areas.
Q: Are there any additional tips for a Puglia road trip?
A: It’s advisable to have a basic understanding of Italian phrases and road signs, carry a detailed map or GPS device, and have emergency contact numbers. Also, be prepared to embrace the relaxed pace of life in Puglia, enjoy the scenic drives, and take your time to enjoy the local culture and cuisine.
Travel advice for your Puglia road trip.
For more in depth travel advice for your trip to the Puglia region of Italy, please see my main Puglia Travel Guide. This guide contains information on things like currency, weather, best time to visit Puglia, tourist seasons, safety and general travel advice for the region.
It also contains a list of every Puglia post I have published, all in one place.
Further reading: Ultimate Puglia Travel Guide.
Climate and tourist seasons in Puglia
Puglia enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot summers. Tourist season peaks in summer, while spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. The longest beach season lasts from May to September, with daytime temperatures ranging from 18-25°C (64-77°F) and nighttime temperatures around 15-20°C (59-68°F).
Winters are mild, ranging from 7-14°C (45-57°F), and snow is rare but possible in higher areas. Rainfall is moderate throughout the year, with autumn experiencing the heaviest precipitation. Many hotels in Puglia close during the winter months (November to February), and rates may be higher due to limited availability, so it’s best to check with individual hotels for winter hours of operation.
Getting around in Puglia
Puglia offers great opportunities for exploration by car, which is the preferred choice for many tourists. Renting a car from Discover Cars at Bari airport allows you to easily navigate the region and visit multiple destinations in a day. See my Ultimate Guide to Renting a Car in Puglia, Italy for more advice.
Further reading: Hazel’s Guide to Driving in Puglia, Italy.
Alternatively, train travel provides an affordable option, although it may not be as accessible as driving. The main railway connects major towns in Puglia, while buses offer regular services between cities and towns.
Boat trips along the picturesque coastline, visiting charming fishing villages and impressive harbor towns like Gallipoli and Otranto, offer an even more scenic experience.
Further reading: 14 Beautiful Towns in Puglia, Italy.
Currency in Italy
Currency in Italy is the Euro (€ EUR), available in both paper notes and coins. Coins range from 5 cents to 500 euros. Credit cards are widely used. Italy has ATMs called ‘Bancomat,’ similar to those in the UK or USA, providing convenient cash access. Cash is generally preferred, although some places accept card payments. Banks operate from 08:30 to 13:00 and 15:00 to 16:00, Monday to Friday.
- Reserve your Puglia Hotel early, before they sell out.
- Remember to pack decent sunscreen and a packable sun hat.
- There are many Puglia tours you can book (no payment required up front).
- This is the best quick-dry sand-repellent beach towel.
- Packing cubes are a traveller’s best friend. I recommend these ones.
- Going hiking? These are the best hiking socks.
- If you need a rental car, book one at Discover Cars and pick it up at the airport.
- Need something to read on the beach? 10 Books and novels set in Puglia.
Below is a list of some of my Puglia travel guides which may interest you.
Puglia road trip – pin for later.
If you enjoyed this Puglia road trip post, feel free to use the below images to pin the post to your Pinterest account for reading later.
Travelling soon? Check my 20 Must-Have Travel Essentials post before you go.
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Tags: Apulia, Europe, Italy, Itinerary, Puglia, Road Trip
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