This post is part of my Puglia itinerary series, a collection of planned road trips through the Puglia region of southern Italy. This particular tour is called ‘Puglia Itinerary 7 Days: A Fast Paced Road Trip’ and is a faster version of my slower paced one week relaxed tour of Puglia.

On this page you will find a done-for-you planned tour of the Puglia region, complete with driving instructions and a map. You will visit nine towns over seven days, with ‘double towns’ on two of the days. This will allow you to maximise your time and see as much as possible of this beautiful region in your 7 days.

the sun is setting on a mountain road driving to Puglia Italy.
Roads in Puglia at sunset.

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. Check out my other Puglia posts for more inspiration.

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

Contents show

I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through my affiliate links.

Puglia Itinerary 7 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. See my Ultimate Guide to renting a Car in Puglia.

On this fast-paced tour of Puglia, you will visit eight towns plus Castle del Monte, with some days seeing two towns in one day.

Towns you will visit on this Puglia itinerary.

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. Matera: a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its ancient cave dwellings in Basilicata.
  8. Trani: a seaside town known for its beautiful cathedral, medieval castle, and scenic harbour.
  9. Castel del Monte: a mysterious octagonal castle with stunning views.

Further reading: 14 Beautiful Towns in Puglia, Italy.

Puglia itinerary 7 days: driving map.

I have included driving instructions in my written itinerary below, but if you click on this Google map you can also get detailed step by step instructions from Google. Click the blue star to add it to your maps.

Your 7 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).

Further reading: Hazel’s Guide to Driving in Puglia, Italy.

Quick summary of your Puglia itinerary 7 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: Bari (driving time 30 minutes).

Once you have picked up your rental car from Bari airport and arrived in the city of Bari, you can explore the charming old town, known as Bari Vecchia.

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 or 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.

Further reading: 24 Amazing Things to do in Bari.

How to get from Bari airport to Bari city centre

To drive from Bari Airport to the city centre, follow these directions:

  1. Leave the airport and head southeast on Via Napoli.
  2. Continue straight on Via Napoli until you reach the roundabout. Take the second exit onto Viale Ennio, following signs for Bari Centro.
  3. Continue on Viale Ennio for about 3 km (1.8 miles), then merge onto Strada Provinciale 59/SP59.
  4. Follow SP59 for about 4 km (2.5 miles) until you reach the roundabout. Take the second exit to stay on SP59.
  5. Continue on SP59 for about 3 km (1.8 miles), and then take the exit toward Bari Centro/Porto.
  6. Merge onto Via Napoli and follow the signs for the city centre (Centro Città) or any specific landmarks or attractions you plan to visit.
  7. 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.

Day 2: Alberobello & Ostuni.

Today you will see two of the most famous and beautiful towns of Puglia.

First stop: Alberobello (driving time 1 hour)

Get up bright and early this morning, as the first stop on your Puglia itinerary is a drive to the Itria Valley and Alberobello, and you want to get there before the tourists arrive!

Alberobello is 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 might want to have lunch here; there are lots of wonderful restaurants and cafes in Alberobello.

Further reading: Your Ultimate Guide to visiting Alberobello.

How to get from Bari to Alberobello

To get from Bari to Alberobello, you can follow these directions:

  1. Start by leaving Bari and head south on SS16/E55.
  2. Continue on SS16/E55 for about 40 km (25 miles) until you reach the town of Monopoli.
  3. In Monopoli, take the SP237 exit toward Alberobello/Castellana Grotte.
  4. 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.

Second stop: 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. You could relax at nearby beaches along the Adriatic coastline, or book a short walking tour.

the white city of Ostuni, Puglia.
Ostuni, Puglia

How to drive from Alberobello to Ostuni

To drive from Alberobello to Ostuni, follow these directions:

  1. Start your journey in Alberobello and head north on SP 77, also known as Strada Provinciale Alberobello-Martina Franca.
  2. Stay on SP 77 for about 14 km (8.7 miles) until you reach Martina Franca.
  3. In Martina Franca, follow signs for “Ostuni” and take the SP 581.
  4. Continue on SP 581 for about 20 km (12.4 miles) until you reach Ostuni.
  5. 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 40 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. It’s always a good idea to check for any road closures or traffic updates before your trip. Enjoy the scenic drive and the enchanting atmosphere of Ostuni!

Where to stay in Ostuni

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

Consider staying in the picturesque historic centre, where you can find charming boutique hotels and bed and breakfasts. There are also traditional guesthouses known as “masserie,” providing an authentic and memorable stay in this beautiful white-washed city.

Day 3: Lecce (driving time 1 hour 15 minutes).

Drive south for just over one hour to Lecce, known as the “Florence of the South” for its stunning baroque architecture. Marvel at the intricate details of the Basilica di Santa Croce and the Piazza del Duomo. Stroll through the charming streets lined with impressive palaces and visit the Roman amphitheatre.

Roman ruins of an amphitheatre in Lecce, Puglia
Lecce, Puglia

Be sure to visit one of the local cafés to try the delectable pasticciotto, a traditional pastry filled with custard.

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:

  1. Start your journey in Ostuni and head south on SS16, also known as the Strada Statale 16 Adriatica.
  2. Stay on SS16 for about 72 km (44.7 miles) until you reach Brindisi.
  3. In Brindisi, follow signs for “Lecce” and take the SS379.
  4. Continue on SS379 for about 38 km (23.6 miles) until you reach Lecce.
  5. As you approach Lecce, follow signs for the city centre (Centro) or any specific landmarks or attractions you plan to visit.
  6. 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 15 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Where to stay in Lecce

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

Consider staying in the historic centre (centro storico) to be close to the city’s main attractions. There are charming boutique hotels, guesthouses, and bed and breakfasts that showcase the unique architecture and atmosphere of this baroque wonderland.

Day 4: Otranto & Gallipoli.

Today you will be visiting two of Puglia’s coastal gems, Otranto and Gallipoli.

First stop: Otranto (1 hour drive)

Head to the coastal town of Otranto and discover the rich history and stunning beaches of this charming town. Visit the Otranto Cathedral with its famous mosaics (these mosaics feature in my 30 must-see sights in Puglia post), explore the picturesque old town, and enjoy the scenic views from the Castello Aragonese. Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront promenade and enjoy fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants.

There are also some amazing hiking trails to be experienced in Otranto.

a beach with a body of water and buildings in the background.
Otranto

How to drive from Lecce to Otranto

To drive from Lecce to Otranto, follow these directions:

  1. Start your journey in Lecce and head east on SS16, also known as the Strada Statale 16 Adriatica.
  2. Stay on SS16 for about 34 km (21 miles) until you reach the town of Cavallino.
  3. In Cavallino, follow signs for “Otranto” and continue on SS16.
  4. Continue on SS16 for about 28 km (17 miles) until you reach Otranto.
  5. As you approach Otranto, follow signs for the city centre or any specific landmarks or attractions you plan to visit.
  6. 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.

Second stop: Gallipoli (1 hour 20 minute drive)

Drive along the coastline to Gallipoli, a coastal gem known for its historic centre located on a small island. Explore the charming streets, visit the Cathedral of Saint Agatha, and enjoy the panoramic views from the city walls. A walking tour with a local is a great way to see the sights.

a group of people standing on top of a beach next to the ocean in Gallipolli Puglia.
Gallipoli, Puglia

How to drive from Otranto to Gallipoli

To drive from Otranto to Gallipoli, follow these directions:

  1. Start your journey in Otranto and head west on SP366, also known as the Strada Provinciale Otranto-Gallipoli.
  2. Stay on SP366 for about 44 km (27 miles) until you reach Maglie.
  3. In Maglie, continue straight on SP48, also known as the Strada Provinciale Maglie-Gallipoli.
  4. Stay on SP48 for approximately 46 km (28.5 miles) until you reach Gallipoli.
  5. As you approach Gallipoli, follow signs for the city centre or any specific landmarks or attractions you plan to visit.
  6. Once in Gallipoli, you can find parking in designated areas or parking lots near the city centre.

The driving distance from Otranto to Gallipoli is approximately 90 km (56 miles), and the journey usually takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. It’s always a good idea to check for any road closures or traffic updates before your trip. Enjoy the scenic drive and the coastal beauty of Gallipoli!

Where to stay in Gallipoli

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

Consider staying in the historic centre of Gallipoli, known as the “Old Town” or “Centro Storico,” where you can find charming boutique hotels, guesthouses, and bed and breakfasts. Many have a close proximity to the stunning beaches and vibrant atmosphere of this coastal town.

Further reading: Ultimate Puglia Travel Guide.

Day 5: Matera (driving time 3 hours)

Whilst this is a road trip itinerary for Puglia, you will now leave Puglia briefly to visit the nearby city of Matera, which is just over the border, in the Basilicata region of Italy. Matera is a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its ancient cave dwellings, known as the “Sassi”.

This will be the longest drive of your trip, but it is really worth it. Not only is Matera a UNESCO site but you can also stay in an amazing cave hotel! 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 in Italy

How to drive from Gallipoli to Matera

To drive from Gallipoli to Matera, follow these directions:

  1. Start your journey in Gallipoli and head northeast on SS101.
  2. Continue on SS101 for about 42 km (26 miles) until you reach the town of Sannicola.
  3. In Sannicola, merge onto SS274 and continue for about 16 km (10 miles).
  4. At the roundabout, take the second exit onto SP51, following signs for Galatina/Taranto.
  5. Stay on SP51 for about 36 km (22 miles) until you reach Galatina.
  6. In Galatina, take the third exit at the roundabout onto SS7, following signs for Lecce/Taranto.
  7. Continue on SS7 for about 22 km (14 miles) until you reach the town of San Cesario di Lecce.
  8. At the roundabout, take the second exit to stay on SS7.
  9. After about 4 km (2.5 miles), merge onto SS16 and continue for about 73 km (45 miles).
  10. Take the exit toward Matera Centro/Taranto from SS7bis.
  11. Merge onto SS99 and follow signs for Matera.
  12. Continue on SS99 for about 58 km (36 miles) until you reach Matera.

The driving distance from Gallipoli to Matera is approximately 251 km (156 miles), and the journey usually takes around 3 hours, 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.

Further reading: Ultimate Guide to Renting a Car in Puglia, Italy.

Day 6: Trani & Castel del Monte.

Today you will be visiting the town of Trani and the UNESCO listed Castel del Monte.

First stop: Trani (driving time 2 hours)

On your map it might look quicker to visit Castel del Monte first, then onto Trani, but it actually takes longer to get to the castle than it does to Trani. However you will still have to return to Trani after visiting the castle, so you can choose which way around you prefer.

In Trani, you can explore the beautiful Trani Cathedral, stroll along the waterfront promenade, and enjoy fresh seafood in one of the seaside restaurants. Book a short walking tour here.

a harbor filled with lots of small blue boats in Trani, Puglia.
Trani, Puglia

How to drive from Matera to Trani (driving time: 2 hours)

To drive from Matera to Trani, follow these directions:

  1. Start your journey in Matera and head west on SS7dir.
  2. Continue on SS7dir for about 10 km (6 miles) until you reach the town of Laterza.
  3. In Laterza, continue straight onto SS7.
  4. Stay on SS7 for approximately 70 km (43 miles) until you reach the town of Gioia del Colle.
  5. In Gioia del Colle, take the second exit at the roundabout to stay on SS7.
  6. Continue on SS7 for about 29 km (18 miles) until you reach the town of Castellana Grotte.
  7. In Castellana Grotte, merge onto SS16 and continue for approximately 44 km (27 miles) until you reach the town of Molfetta.
  8. In Molfetta, take the exit toward Bari/Taranto from SS16.
  9. Merge onto SS16bis and follow signs for Trani.
  10. Continue on SS16bis for about 17 km (10.5 miles) until you reach Trani.

The driving distance from Matera to Trani is approximately 186 km (116 miles), and the journey usually takes around 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions.

Second stop: Castel del Monte (driving time 40 minutes)

Drive to Castel Del Monte, a stunning octagonal castle on a hilltop. Take a guided walking tour to unravel the mysteries surrounding this UNESCO World Heritage site. The castle is located in the Alta Murgia National Park, and there are plenty of beautiful hikes in this area.

octagonal castel del monte in Puglia Italy
Castel del Monte

How to get from Trani to Castel del Monte

Directions from Trani to Castel del Monte:

  1. Start your journey in Trani and head east on SP 231, also known as the Strada Provinciale Trani-Andria.
  2. Follow SP 231 for about 14 km (8.7 miles) until you reach Andria.
  3. In Andria, follow signs for “Castel Del Monte” and take the SP 234.
  4. Continue on SP 234 for about 18 km (11.2 miles) until you reach Castel Del Monte.

The driving distance from Trani to Castel Del Monte is approximately 33 km (20.5 miles), which takes around 40 minutes.

After visiting the castle, you will need to return back to Trani. Remember you could also do this the other way around if you prefer – visit the castle first (it will take an extra half hour driving time from Matera) and then onto Trani for your overnight stay.

Where to stay in Trani

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

For a memorable stay, consider choosing a hotel with a waterfront view, allowing you to wake up to picturesque vistas of the harbour and the Adriatic Sea.

Day 7: 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.

Sea with boats and buildings on the sea front in Bari Puglia.
Bari, Puglia

How to drive from Trani to Bari

To drive from Trani to Bari, follow these directions:

  1. Start your journey in Trani and head southeast on SS16.
  2. Continue on SS16 for about 42 km (26 miles) until you reach Bari.

As you approach Bari, follow signs for the city centre or any specific landmarks or attractions you plan to visit. Once in Bari, you can find parking in designated areas or parking lots near the city centre.

The driving distance from Trani to Bari is approximately 42 km (26 miles), and the journey usually takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic conditions.

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 the quoted driving times above are approximate and can vary depending on traffic and road conditions. It’s always a good idea to check the latest route information and plan accordingly.

Please also note that when I say “about”, I mean “approximately” (I’m British!)

You can find hints and tips for driving in Puglia in my articles Hazel’s Guide to Driving in Puglia and Ultimate Guide to Renting a Car in Puglia.

Italian motorway on a Puglia itinerary with cars and overhead signs for Salento, Puglia
Puglia motorways

In summary: your 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 above.

Here ends your Puglia itinerary!

I hope you have enjoyed this Puglia itinerary over 7 days. If the pace is a bit fast for your liking, you could always skip some stops to suit your preference. See my slower Puglia road trip itineraries where you will stay in most places for two nights each.

Collage of photos of a trip to Puglia, Italy
Puglia, Italy

More road trips 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:

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 Trani | 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.

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!

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.

collage of food items of bari street food
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 for Puglia itinerary 7 days: a whistlestop tour.

For transparency, these FAQs are the same ones for all of 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 7 days’ and is one of two 7 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 7 day Puglia itinerary?

A: Some must-visit towns in Puglia for a road trip include Bari, Alberobello, Ostuni, Lecce, and Matera (in Basilicata). These places offer a mix of historical sites, charming towns, stunning coastal scenery, and culinary delights. The above ‘Puglia itinerary 7 days’ contains all of the above towns.

Other towns you might like to add to your itinerary are Monopoli, Polignano a Mare, Gallipoli and Santa Maria di Leuca. See my other (slower) 7 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.

It is possible to travel in Puglia using public transport, but it would take a lot longer.

Further reading: Ultimate Guide to Renting a Car in Puglia, Italy.

Q: What is the best time of year to drive a Puglia itinerary 7 days?

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.

Further reading: Ultimate Puglia Travel Guide.

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 7 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 7 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.

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.

Travel advice for your Puglia itinerary: 7 days.

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 7 days – related reading.

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

Puglia itinerary 7 days – pin for later.

If you have enjoyed this Puglia itinerary for 7 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 as me!

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.

TripAdvisor Tags: , , , ,