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.
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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!
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.
Further reading: A Series of Planned Road Trip Itineraries around Puglia, Italy.
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.
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: 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.
With three nights in Bari, yu’re in for a treat. The old town wraps you in its charm, where narrow streets twist through centuries-old buildings, and the hum of local life fills every bustling square.
The Basilica di San Nicola stands tall, while the Castello Svevo looms majestically, guarding the town with its imposing stone walls.
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.
Where to stay in Bari
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.
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.
Three great hotel options in Bari are:
Luxury: iH Grande Albergo delle Nazioni – 5-star seafront hotel with elegant rooms, a rooftop pool, and Adriatic views near the old town.
Mid-Range: Hotel Boston – centrally located hotel with modern rooms and a delicious breakfast buffet.
Budget: B&B La Muraglia – An affordable, charming B&B located near Bari’s old town, with easy access to the city’s historic sites and waterfront.
Alternatively, browse all hotels in Bari on Booking.com.
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.
Alberobello 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.
Where to stay in Alberobello
Most travellers will want to stay in a unique trullo house if they can! Read my review of staying in a trulllo for more information.
Here are three hotel picks in Alberobello:
Luxury: Le Alcove-Luxury Hotel nei Trulli – upscale hotel with beautifully restored trulli accommodations, elegant interiors and premium amenities.
Mid-Range: Trulli Holiday Albergo Diffuso – A unique stay in trulli houses spread throughout the historic centre.
Budget: B&B Villa Grassi – A family-run B&B with cosy rooms nand easy access to Alberobello’s iconic trulli zone.
Or browse all stays in Alberobello on Booking.com.
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 high on a hill, Ostuni gazes out over the rolling countryside and the shimmering Adriatic Sea. The labyrinth of streets in the historic centre is a delightful maze, with whitewashed buildings glowing in the sun and charming shops tucked into every corner.
The Ostuni Cathedral rises majestically, a testament to the town’s rich history, while the air is filled with the mouthwatering promise of local cuisine.
Booking a short walking tour will help to maximise your time here.
Where to stay in Ostuni
Here are three hotel choices in Ostuni.
Luxury: La Sommità Relais & Chateaux – 5-star boutique hotel in a historic building with elegant rooms, a spa, and stunning views of the Adriatic.
Mid-Range: Hotel Monte Sarago – A modern hotel close to the old town, with a rooftop pool, and excellent service.
Budget: Ostuni Palace Hotel – A budget-friendly hotel near the historic centre of Ostuni, with comfortable rooms and easy access to local attractions.
Or browse All accommodation in Ostuni.
Day 8-9: Lecce (driving time: 1.5 hours).
Southward lies Lecce, a city where Baroque grandeur is woven into every corner, earning it the nickname “Florence of the South.”
The Basilica di Santa Croce and the Duomo’s intricately detailed façades dominate the city.
The rhythm of Lecce pulses in its piazzas – Piazza del Duomo and Piazza Sant’Oronzo – where the air hums with life. Be sure to try the local speciality pasticciotto – a custard-filled pastry – at a local café.
Try this Lecce walking tour or this Lecce street food tour – guaranteed to tantalise your taste buds!
Where to stay in Lecce
Here are three options for Lecce:
Luxury: Patria Palace Hotel Lecce – A 5-star hotel in a restored Baroque palace, featuring elegant rooms and a prime location near Piazza del Duomo.
Mid-Range: Risorgimento Resort – A stylish hotel with spacious rooms, a rooftop terrace, and a short walk to Lecce’s main attractions.
Budget: Urban Oasis Hostel – A budget-friendly option with clean, comfortable dorms and private rooms, located close to Lecce’s historic centre.
Or alternatively check out all hotels in Lecce on Booking.com
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.
Where to stay in Otranto
Here are three great hotels in Otranto:
Luxury: Hotel Palazzo Papaleo – A 5-star boutique hotel in the heart of Otranto’s old town. Elegant rooms, a rooftop terrace, and stunning sea views.
Mid-Range: Hotel Vittoria Resort & Spa – A modern hotel with spacious rooms, a wellness centre, and a convenient location near the historic centre.
Budget: Otranto Suites – An affordable guesthouse with a welcoming atmosphere and a great location near Otranto’s historic centre and waterfront.
Use this link to get the best rates today for Otranto on Booking.com.
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.
The narrow streets of Gallipoli’s historic centre wind through whitewashed buildings, quaint shops and busy piazzas.
The Gallipoli Cathedral stands proudly, while the sun-drenched beaches offer a perfect escape. 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.
Where to stay in Gallipoli
Three great options in Gallipoli:
Luxury: Palazzo del Corso – A 5-star hotel in a historic building, with a rooftop pool, and panoramic views of Gallipoli’s harbour.
Mid-Range: Al Pescatore Hotel & Restaurant – A charming hotel in the historic centre, featuring comfortable rooms and an on-site restaurant.
Budget: B&B Gallipoli Vecchia – An affordable and cosy B&B located in the old town, perfect for exploring Gallipoli’s historic streets and nearby beaches.
Use this link to get the best rates today for Gallipoli on Booking.com.
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.
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.
Further reading: Ultimate Puglia Travel Guide.
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.
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.
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.
General Travel Resources:
Booking.com is the best site for hotels with free reservation and cancellations.
Viator and Get Your Guide are the best sites for tours and activities.
Discover Cars is the best comparison site for car rentals.
Trip.com is good for booking flights and packages.
See my Travel Resources page for a full list of helpful booking links.
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Tags: Apulia, Europe, Italy, Itinerary, Puglia, Road Trip
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