Looking for the perfect 10 day Puglia itinerary for your next Italy road trip? On this page you will find a done-for-you planned tour of Puglia (south Italy) complete with driving instructions and map.

A narrow rural road with a tall, leaning tree and triangular road signs on the right evokes the charming landscapes of Alberobello, Puglia. A car is partially visible on the left, framed by a blue sky and grassy fields in the background.
Puglia road near Salento.
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The Puglia (or Apulia) region is one of my favourite regions of Italy, and I last visited in April 2023.

10 day Puglia Itinerary: 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.

Note: This is a whistlestop tour with just one night in each town, but you can customise your Puglia itinerary as you see fit. I have a slower-paced 10 day Puglia itinerary which might suit you better if you prefer more a relaxed pace.

Further reading: A Series of Planned Road Trip Itineraries around Puglia, Italy.

Towns you will visit on this Puglia itinerary.

On this fast-paced tour of Puglia, you will visit 9 towns, including one which is just over the border in Basilicata (the UNESCO listed town of Matera).

Here is a list of the towns and places you will see on this Puglia itinerary:

  1. Bari: a vibrant coastal city with a charming old town, bustling streets, and a rich cultural heritage.
  2. Alberobello: famous for its unique trulli houses and whimsical atmosphere.
  3. Ostuni: the ‘White City’, with its dazzling white buildings, winding streets, and views over the Adriatic Sea.
  4. Lecce: ‘Florence of the South’, a treasure trove of Baroque architecture, with elegant squares and impressive churches.
  5. Otranto: a coastal gem with a charming old town, magnificent cathedral with intricate mosaics, and stunning beaches.
  6. Gallipoli: a picturesque town located on a small island, with historic streets, a beautiful seaside promenade and a rich maritime heritage.
  7. Santa Maria di Leuca: a coastal town nestled at the southern tip of the Salento Peninsula, with breathtaking views and a famous lighthouse.
  8. Polignano a mare: a stunning clifftop town with coastal scenery, charming old town, and the famous Grotta Palazzese restaurant.
  9. Matera: a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its ancient cave dwellings in Basilicata.

Further reading: 14 Beautiful Towns in Puglia, Italy.

Puglia itinerary: driving map

I have included driving instructions in my written Puglia 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 your 10 day Puglia itinerary:

In summary, here is a list showing each day of your itinerary in Puglia. The links will take you straight to the specific day of your Puglia itinerary below.

Puglia itinerary day 1: arrival in Bari.

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. Read more about how to rent a car in Puglia.

Wander through Bari’s narrow streets, visit the Basilica di San Nicola, and soak up the lively atmosphere. Book a walking tour or a pasta experience. Explore the charming old town of Bari and visit the Basilica di San Nicola and Castello Svevo. Take a stroll along the seafront promenade and indulge in delicious street food. Local street food favourites include focaccia and panzerotti, for a true taste of Bari.

Person in a black coat and hat stands smiling in front of a stone wall with a view of a marina, boats, and cityscape in the background.
Bari harbour
People walk in front of a historic stone church with a large rose window and a wooden door under a blue sky.
Cattedrale di San Sabino

Where to stay in Bari

Here are three hotel options for Bari:

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.

Puglia itinerary day 2: Alberobello (driving time: 1 hour).

The first stop on your Puglia itinerary is a drive to the Itria Valley and Alberobello, known for its iconic trulli houses. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site, visit the Trullo Sovrano, and learn about the unique architecture.

Wander through the enchanting streets (either on your own or as part of an Alberobello walking tour) and soak in the magical atmosphere.

A collage of Alberobello, Italy showcases its iconic trulli houses, a charming church, and a bicycle adorned with flowers. Captured are local culinary delights and someone taking a selfie, perfectly encapsulating the vibrant experience of exploring things to do in Alberobello.
My collage of photos of 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.

Further reading: How to Get to Alberobello by Plane, Train, Bus and Car.

Where to stay in Alberobello

Alberobello offers a unique accommodation experience with its iconic trulli houses, which have been converted into cosy and charming accommodations.

Most travellers will want to stay in a trullo 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.

Puglia itinerary day 3: Ostuni (driving time: 40 minutes).

No Puglia 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) but Ostuni is the most famous.

Depart Alberobello and drive to Ostuni to see the beautiful mix of whitewashed buildings and baroque architecture. Explore the narrow alleys, book a short walking tour, visit the impressive Ostuni Cathedral, and admire panoramic views from its hilltop location.

The view captures a historic town with white buildings cascading down a hillside under a clear blue sky, embodying the charm of one of the best places to stay in Puglia.
Ostuni, Puglia

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.

Puglia itinerary day 4: Lecce (driving time: 1 hour).

Head south to Lecce, a city renowned for its magnificent Baroque architecture. Marvel at the intricate details of the Basilica di Santa Croce and the Piazza del Duomo. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and lively street life of this cultural hub.

Nestled in the heart of Puglia, the ancient Roman amphitheater in Lecce boasts stone seating surrounded by historic buildings, all under a vibrant blue sky.
Lecce, Puglia

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 enjoy 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!

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

Puglia itinerary day 5: Otranto (driving time: 1 hour).

Next on your Puglia itinerary 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.

Nestled in a coastal town, with a sandy beach, clear blue water, and historic buildings under a clear sky, it's no wonder this gem is among the best places to stay in Puglia.
Otranto

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.

Puglia itinerary day 6: Gallipoli (driving time: 1 hour).

Drive along the coast to Gallipoli, a coastal gem known for its historic centre located on a small island.

On a sandy beach in Puglia, people sunbathe and swim in the turquoise waters under a bright blue sky with scattered clouds. The charming white buildings of Gallipoli grace the background, adding to the picturesque scene.
Gallipoli, Puglia

In the heart of Gallipoli’s historic centre, narrow streets twist and turn between whitewashed facades, where tiny shops spill over with trinkets and sunlit piazzas hum with local chatter.

The Gallipoli Cathedral rises in quiet splendor, its intricate details a reflection of the town’s layered history.

Down by the shore, Spiaggia della Purità gleams with soft golden sand. Along the waterfront, the aroma of freshly caught seafood drifts from traditional trattorias.

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.

Puglia itinerary day 7: Santa Maria di Leuca (driving time: 1 hour).

Your Puglia itinerary will now take you all the way to the southernmost tip of the Salento Peninsula, where there is a famous coastal road and lighthouse.

A white lighthouse stands on a coastal cliff with buildings nearby, overlooking a blue sea under a clear sky. A winding road leads towards the lighthouse.
Santa Maria di Leuca lighthouse, Castrignano del Capo, Apulia region, Italy

The drive south to Santa Maria di Leuca feels like venturing to the edge of Italy’s heel, where two seas intertwine.

Baroque facades in the town’s historic heart tell their stories through intricate stonework, while the iconic lighthouse rises against a backdrop of endless coastal panoramas.

A private tour of Santa Maria di Leuca can help you maximise your time here.

Where to stay in Santa Maria di Leuca

Here are three hotel options in Santa Maria di Leuca:

Luxury: Hotel Terminal – A seafront hotel offering spacious rooms, a pool, and private beach access with stunning views of the Ionian Sea.

Mid-Range: Montirò Hotel – A stylish eco-friendly hotel surrounded by nature, featuring modern rooms and a relaxing outdoor pool.

Budget: Albergo Del Santuario – A simple, budget-friendly hotel located near the iconic basilica, offering basic amenities and excellent views.

Use this link to get the best rates today for Santa Maria di Leuca on Booking.com.

Puglia itinerary day 8: Polignano a Mare (driving time: 2 hours).

Drive north back along the coast to Polignano a Mare, a charming town perched on limestone cliffs. Explore its historic centre, walk along the stunning seafront, and visit the famous Grotta Palazzese, a restaurant set in a cave overlooking the sea.

Nestled in Polignano a Mare, this coastal town features stone buildings perched on cliffs overlooking a turquoise sea, where people are swimming.
Polignano a Mare, Puglia

There are lots of boat tours available; I recommend this catamaran tour.

This is probably the longest drive you will do, and your route will pass through the town of Monopoli which you may wish to make a stop at.

Where to stay in Polignano a Mare

Luxury: Borgobianco Resort & Spa – A 5-star hotel set in the countryside, offering elegant rooms, a spa, and breathtaking views of the Adriatic.

Mid-Range: Covo dei Saraceni – A charming cliffside hotel with stylish rooms, a restaurant, and stunning sea views.

Budget: Casa Dorsi – A charming B&B located in Polignano a Mare’s historic centre, with a rooftop terrace with sea views, and easy access to local attractions.

Use this link to get the best rates today for Polignano a Mare on Booking.com.

Puglia itinerary day 9: Matera (driving time: 1.5 hours).

Whilst this is a Puglia itinerary, we are going to leave Puglia briefly to visit the nearby city of Matera, which is just over the border in the Basilicata region.

Matera is a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its ancient cave dwellings, known as the “Sassi”.

Explore the unique architecture and learn about the fascinating history of this ancient city. There are also ancient rupestrian churches in Matera, which must be seen to be believed. A private tour of Matera can really help you maximise your time.

Ancient city of Matera

Where to stay in Matera

Three hotel recommendations in Matera:

Luxury: Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita – A unique luxury hotel offering cave dwellings with rustic-chic interiors, located in the UNESCO-listed Sassi di Matera.

Mid-Range: Palazzo Gattini Luxury Hotel – A beautifully restored historic palace featuring elegant rooms, a rooftop terrace, and a spa.

Budget: B&B Il Vicinato – A charming and affordable B&B offering cozy rooms in the heart of Matera’s ancient cave district.

Use this link to get the best rates today for Matera on Booking.com.

Puglia itinerary day 10: Bari (driving time: 1 hour).

On your final day, return to Puglia and drive 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.

Waterfront view of a historic building with domes in Bari, surrounded by small boats on a sunny day.
Bari, Puglia

Airport hotels in Bari

If you need a room 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 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 on Booking.com.

In summary: your Puglia itinerary.

In summary, here is a list showing each day of your itinerary for Puglia, Italy. The links will take you straight to the specific day of your Puglia itinerary above.

Here ends your 10 day Puglia itinerary!

I hope you have enjoyed this 10 day itinerary for Puglia. If the pace is a bit fast for your liking, you could always substitute some of the towns and have more time in the towns you would prefer to explore for longer.

Collage of Italian scenery: coastal towns, historic buildings, Alberobello's trulli houses in Puglia, narrow streets lined with olive trees, and a pasta dish with greens and cheese.
Collage of photos of Puglia

Other Puglia road trip itineraries.

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:

Quick hotel links for your Puglia itinerary.

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 Matera | Book hotels in Ostuni | Book hotels in Otranto | Book hotels in Polignano a Mare | Book hotels in Sant Maria di Leuca | 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.com

Tours in Puglia.

I always use Viator for my tour bookings, but you can probably find the same tours on Get Your Guide too.

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.

Further reading: Ultimate Puglia Travel Guide.

A collage of various Italian street foods, including pizza, sandwiches, pasta, fried snacks, and skewers, is artfully presented in different settings reminiscent of Alberobello's charming streets in Puglia.
Street food consumed by me on the Do Eat Better tour.

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.

Further reading: My street food tour of Bari (with photos).

FAQs about a Puglia itinerary and road trips in Puglia.

For transparency, these frequently asked questions are the same FAQs for all of my road trip itineraries for Puglia.

Q: How long does a typical road trip itinerary in Puglia last?

A: A typical road trip itinerary in Puglia 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 10 day Puglia itinerary.

Further reading: A Series of Planned Road Trip Itineraries around Puglia, Italy.

Q: What are the must-visit destinations on a Puglia itinerary?

A: Some must-visit towns in Puglia for a road trip include Bari, Alberobello, Ostuni, Lecce, Matera (in Basilicata) and Polignano a Mare. These places offer a mix of historical sites, charming towns, stunning coastal scenery, and culinary delights. The above Puglia itinerary contains all of the above towns.

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.

Q: Is it necessary to rent a car for a road trip in Puglia?

A: Renting a car is highly recommended for a road trip in Puglia (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 add multiple destinations to your Puglia itinerary 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 to drive a Puglia itinerary?

A: The best time for a road trip in Puglia 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.

Q: Are the roads in this Puglia itinerary easy to navigate?

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 10 day Puglia itinerary does not include any toll roads.

Q: Can I find accommodations easily along this Puglia itinerary route?

A: Yes, there are plenty of accommodation options along the road trip route in this Puglia itinerary, including hotels, guesthouses, agriturismi (farm stays), and bed and breakfasts. It’s advisable to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons in southern Italy. In this 10 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 the road trip?

A: Some recommended local dishes to try during the road trip in Puglia 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.

Two slices of baked calzone filled with cheese and tomato, stacked on a piece of burlap on a wooden surface.
Rustico
A white plate of orecchiette pasta with broccoli rabe, topped with a cherry tomato and a sprinkling of breadcrumbs.
Restaurant L’Aratro

Q: Are there any specific driving rules or regulations to be aware of in Puglia?

A: It’s important to adhere to the general driving rules in 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 road trip in Puglia?

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 savour the local culture and cuisine.

Travel advice for your Puglia itinerary.

For general 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.

Puglia itinerary – related reading.

Below is a list of some of my Puglia travel guides which may interest you.

Puglia itinerary – pin for later.

If you have enjoyed this Puglia itinerary, please feel free to use the below images to save the post to your Pinterest account for reading later.

Collage promoting a 10-day Puglia road trip with images of a coastal road, trulli houses, a seaside town, and people in a car. Includes a URL for more information.
Tree-lined road in Puglia, Italy under blue sky, with road signs. Text overlay: "10 Day Trip Itinerary, Puglia, Italy, Road Trip." Website link: www.hazelstravels.co.uk.

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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