This post is a part of my Puglia itinerary series, a collection of planned road trips through the Puglia region. This tour is called ‘Puglia Itinerary 10 Days: A Relaxed Road Trip’, and is a slower version of the faster paced 10 day whistlestop tour of Puglia.
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The Puglia (or Apulia) region is one of my favourite regions of Italy, and I last visited in April 2023. I have travelled extensively in this region, so I am well placed to advise you on which towns are best to visit!
Further reading: A Series of Planned Road Trip Itineraries around Puglia, Italy.
Puglia Itinerary 10 days: 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 most of the towns. My faster-paced Puglia road trip over 10 days is here.
Towns you will visit on this Puglia itinerary.
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. 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.
- Polignano a mare: a stunning clifftop town with coastal scenery, charming old town, and the famous Grotta Palazzese restaurant. Read more.
Further reading: 14 Beautiful Towns in Puglia, Italy.
Puglia itinerary 10 days: 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 Puglia itinerary 10 days:
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 1-2: 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.
You have got two nights here and there is a lot to do!
Bari’s narrow streets twist and turn, each corner revealing something new. The Basilica di San Nicola stands as a silent guardian of history, while the grand Castello Svevo watches over the town from its commanding position.
The seafront promenade stretches out for miles, and you can smell the street food—focaccia warm from the oven, and panzerotti with crispy, golden edges.
Try booking a walking tour or a pasta experience.
Further reading: 24 Amazing Things to do in Bari.
Where to stay in 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.
Day 3: 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.
Further reading: Your Ultimate Guide to visiting Alberobello.
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.
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.
Further reading: My Stay in a Trulli House in Alberobello (Photos & Review).
Day 4-5: Ostuni (driving time: 40 minutes).
Depart Alberobello and make your way to Ostuni, the “White City” perched on a hilltop. Explore its enchanting historic centre full of whitewashed buildings, labyrinthine streets, and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Visit the beautiful Ostuni Cathedral and immerse yourself in the local culture and cuisine. Take time to relax at nearby beaches along the Adriatic coastline or book a short walking tour. Spend two nights to fully enjoy this charming town. Beach reading suggestions for 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.
Further reading: Hazel’s Guide to Driving in Puglia, Italy.
Day 6-7: Lecce (driving time: 1 hour).
A quick drive south, and Lecce welcomes you with the kind of beauty that makes you stop in your tracks. Known as the “Florence of the South,” this city is a masterclass in Baroque architecture, where every building seems to be a work of art.
The Basilica di Santa Croce is a showstopper, its intricate carvings almost too perfect to believe. Nearby is the Piazza del Duomo and the Roman amphitheatre. Stay two nights to explore the city and its surroundings.
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.
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 8: Otranto (driving time: 1 hour).
Otranto is a coastal gem often missed off Puglia itineraries.
Otranto Cathedral features in the my 30-must-see-sights-post, with its mesmerising mosaics telling stories that stretch back centuries.
The town itself is a picturesque labyrinth, where the charm of narrow streets leads you to the imposing Castello Aragonese, offering sweeping views of the coastline.
Along the waterfront, the promenade invites a leisurely stroll, and you can enjoy fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants.
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 9-10: Polignano a Mare (driving time: 2 hours).
Drive to the picturesque coastal town of Polignano a Mare for two nights. Admire the stunning cliffside views and explore the charming historic centre with its narrow streets and whitewashed buildings. Visit the famous beach of Lama Monachile and enjoy the crystal-clear waters. Take a boat trip along the coast to discover hidden caves and coves.
Experience the lively atmosphere and dine in one of the seaside restaurants. You could even visit the famous Grotta Palazzese, a stunning restaurant set in a cave overlooking the sea.
There are lots of boat tours available; I recommend this catamaran tour.
Where to stay in Polignano a Mare
Below are three hotel options 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.
Further reading: Ultimate Guide to Renting a Car in Puglia, Italy.
Day 10: Bari (driving time: 30 minutes).
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.
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 Puglia itinerary!
I hope you have enjoyed this Puglia itinerary over 10 days. If the pace is a bit slow for your liking, you could always add some further stops to suit your preference. See my faster 10 day Puglia road trip where you will stay in most places for just one night each.
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 Lecce | Book hotels in Ostuni | Book hotels in Otranto | Book hotels in Polignano a Mare | 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.
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!
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.
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!
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.
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 for Puglia itinerary 10 days: a relaxed road trip.
For transparency, these FAQs are the same as the FAQs on all of my Puglia itinerary posts.
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.
This post is called ‘Puglia itinerary 10 days’ and is one of two 10 day Puglia itineraries available on Hazel’s Travels.
Further reading: A Series of Planned Road Trip Itineraries around Puglia, Italy.
Q: What are the must-visit destinations on a 10 day Puglia itinerary?
A: Some must-visit towns in Puglia for a road trip include Bari, Alberobello, Ostuni, Lecce, and Polignano a Mare. These places offer a mix of historical sites, charming towns, stunning coastal scenery, and culinary delights. The above ‘Puglia itinerary 10 days’ contains all of the above towns.
Other towns you might like to add to your itinerary are Monopoli, Matera, Gallipoli and Santa Maria di Leuca. See my other (faster paced) 10 day itinerary for these towns.
In terms of tourist attractions, the most popular ones include Castel del Monte, Gargano National Park, Grotta della Poesia, Spiaggia della Purita and Monte Sant Angelo. There are several UNESCO heritage sites in Puglia.
Further reading: Must See Sights: The 30 Best Places to Visit in Puglia.
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 Puglia itinerary 10 days, 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 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 enjoy the local culture and cuisine.
Below is a list of some of my Puglia travel guides which may interest you.
Puglia itinerary 10 days – pin for later.
If you have enjoyed this Puglia itinerary for 10 days, please feel free to use the below images to save the post to your Pinterest account for reading later.
Overall, Puglia is an excellent road trip destination, and I hope you enjoy it as much I did!
General Travel booking links:
- Booking.com is the best site for booking hotels with free reservation and cancellations.
- Viator and Get Your Guide are the best sites for original tours and activities.
- Discover Cars is the best comparison site for car rentals.
- Trip.com is good for booking flights and packages.
- Check my list of 20 excellent travel books to read on your holidays.
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