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.
The Puglia (or Apulia) region is one of my favourite regions of Italy, and I last visited in April 2023.
I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through my affiliate links.
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.
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:
- Bari: a vibrant coastal city with a charming old town, bustling streets, and a rich cultural heritage.
- Alberobello: famous for its unique trulli houses and whimsical atmosphere.
- Ostuni: the ‘White City’, with its dazzling white buildings, winding streets, and views over the Adriatic Sea.
- Lecce: ‘Florence of the South’, a treasure trove of Baroque architecture, with elegant squares and impressive churches.
- Otranto: a coastal gem with a charming old town, magnificent cathedral with intricate mosaics, and stunning beaches.
- Gallipoli: a picturesque town located on a small island, with historic streets, a beautiful seaside promenade and a rich maritime heritage.
- Santa Maria di Leuca: a coastal town nestled at the southern tip of the Salento Peninsula, with breathtaking views and a famous lighthouse.
- Polignano a mare: a stunning clifftop town with coastal scenery, charming old town, and the famous Grotta Palazzese restaurant.
- 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.
Your 10 day Puglia itinerary.
For each day of your itinerary, I have included a summary of the place you are visiting, a photo, driving instructions from A to B and suggestions for where to stay.
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 (for instance I have chosen tours which do not include transport, since you are already there).
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.
- Day 1: Bari.
- Day 2: Alberobello.
- Day 3: Ostuni.
- Day 4: Lecce.
- Day 5: Otranto.
- Day 6: Gallipoli.
- Day 7: Santa Maria di Leuca.
- Day 8: Polignano a Mare.
- Day 9: Matera.
- Day 10: Bari.
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.
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.
Consider staying in the historic centre of Bari, known as Bari Vecchia. 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Further reading: How to Get to Alberobello by Plane, Train, Bus and Car.
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).
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.
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.
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.
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!
How to drive from Ostuni to Lecce
To drive from Ostuni to Lecce, 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.
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.
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 50 minutes, 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 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.
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 famous spiaggia della purita beach. 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.
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.
Further reading: Ultimate Guide to Renting a Car in Puglia, Italy.
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. Continue your journey south to Santa Maria di Leuca, which offers lots of baroque architecture in its centre. Admire the picturesque lighthouse and stunning coastal views.
You can also take a boat trip to explore the sea caves and swim in the crystal-clear waters. If you have time, be sure to see the baroque architecture in the historic centre. A private tour of Santa Maria di Leuca can help you maximise your time.
How to drive from Gallipoli to Santa Maria di Leuca
To drive from Gallipoli to Santa Maria di Leuca, follow these directions:
- Start your journey in Gallipoli and head southeast on SP215, also known as the Strada Provinciale Gallipoli-Alezio.
- Continue on SP215 for about 17 km (10.6 miles) until you reach Alezio.
- In Alezio, follow signs for “Ugento” and take the SP214.
- Stay on SP214 for about 35 km (21.7 miles) until you reach Ugento.
- In Ugento, continue on SS274, also known as the Strada Statale 274, following signs for “Santa Maria di Leuca.”
- Stay on SS274 for about 32 km (19.9 miles) until you reach Santa Maria di Leuca.
- As you approach Santa Maria di Leuca, follow signs for the city centre or any specific landmarks or attractions you plan to visit.
- Once in Santa Maria di Leuca, you can find parking in designated areas or parking lots near the city centre.
The driving distance from Gallipoli to Santa Maria di Leuca is approximately 85 km (52.8 miles), and the journey usually takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Enjoy the scenic drive and the beautiful coastal scenery of Santa Maria di Leuca!
Where to stay in Santa Maria di Leuca
Use this link to get the best rates today for Santa Maria di Leuca on Booking.com.
Consider staying in one of the waterfront hotels or guesthouses, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the sea and easy access to the beaches and attractions of this charming coastal town.
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.
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.
How to drive from Santa Maria di Leuca to Polignano a Mare
To drive from Santa Maria di Leuca to Polignano a Mare, follow these directions:
- Start your journey in Santa Maria di Leuca and head northwest on SS274, also known as the Strada Statale 274.
- Stay on SS274 for about 44 km (27 miles) until you reach the town of Gallipoli.
- In Gallipoli, follow signs for “Bari” and take the SS101.
- Continue on SS101 for about 100 km (62 miles) until you reach Monopoli.
- In Monopoli, follow signs for “Polignano a Mare” and take the SS16.
- Stay on SS16 for about 10 km (6 miles) until you reach Polignano a Mare.
- As you approach Polignano a Mare, follow signs for the city centre or any specific landmarks or attractions you plan to visit.
- Once in Polignano a Mare, you can find parking in designated areas or parking lots near the city centre.
The driving distance from Santa Maria di Leuca to Polignano a Mare is approximately 154 km (95.7 miles), and the journey usually takes around 2 hours and 15 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 Polignano a Mare
Use this link to get the best rates today for Polignano a Mare on Booking.com.
Consider staying in one of the hotels or guesthouses near the historic centre. Here you can immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the old town, enjoy breathtaking sea views, and have easy access to the town’s iconic sights, such as the stunning beach and the famous Lama Monachile cove.
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.
How to drive from Polignano a Mare to Matera
To drive from Polignano a Mare to Matera, follow these directions:
- Start your journey in Polignano a Mare and head southeast on SS16, also known as the Strada Statale 16.
- Continue on SS16 for about 37 km (23 miles) until you reach the town of Conversano.
- In Conversano, follow signs for “Bari” and take the SS100.
- Stay on SS100 for about 35 km (22 miles) until you reach the town of Altamura.
- In Altamura, follow signs for “Matera” and take the SS96.
- Stay on SS96 for about 29 km (18 miles) until you reach Matera.
- As you approach Matera, follow signs for the city centre or any specific landmarks or attractions you plan to visit.
- Once in Matera, you can find parking in designated areas or parking lots near the city centre.
The driving distance from Polignano a Mare to Matera is approximately 101 km (63 miles), and the journey usually takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
Where to stay in Matera
Use this link to get the best rates today for Matera on Booking.com.
Matera offers a unique accommodation experience with its cave hotels, known as “sassi” accommodations, carved into the rocky hillsides. Daniel Craig’s James Bond stayed in one! In these hotels you can immerse yourself in the ancient ambiance of Matera’s Sassi, enjoy stunning views of the city, and have time to explore the fascinating UNESCO World Heritage site.
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.
How to drive from Matera to Bari
To drive from Matera to Bari, follow these directions:
- Start your journey in Matera and head northwest on SP175.
- Continue on SP175 for approximately 30 km (19 miles) until you reach the town of Altamura.
- In Altamura, merge onto SS96 and continue for about 41 km (25 miles) in the direction of Bari.
- As you approach Bari, follow the signs for the city centre or your specific destination within Bari.
- Use a GPS or follow road signs to navigate to your desired location within Bari.
The driving distance from Matera to Bari is approximately 70 km (43 miles), and the journey usually takes around 1 hour, depending on traffic conditions. Please note that these directions are approximate and subject to change. It’s always a good idea to have a detailed map or GPS navigation system to ensure a smooth journey.
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.
Bid farewell to the enchanting region of Puglia, cherishing the memories of its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and warm hospitality.
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. Read more about how to hire a car in Puglia.
Please also note that when I say “about”, I mean “approximately” (I’m British!)
You can find tips and advice on driving in Puglia in my post A Guide to Driving in Puglia Italy.
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.
- Day 1: Bari.
- Day 2: Alberobello.
- Day 3: Ostuni.
- Day 4: Lecce.
- Day 5: Otranto.
- Day 6: Gallipoli.
- Day 7: Santa Maria di Leuca.
- Day 8: Polignano a Mare.
- Day 9: Matera.
- Day 10: Bari.
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.
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:
- 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 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.comTours 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.
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 FAQs 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.
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.
- 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 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.
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.
Travelling soon? Check my 20 Must-Have Travel Essentials post before you go.
Found this post helpful? Buy Me a Coffee!
You are reading Hazel’s Travels – an online publication and travel blog which aims to provide advice and inspiration for travel in Europe, the UK and USA.
Tags: Europe, Italy, Itineraries, Puglia, Road trips
Leave a Reply