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.
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On this page you will find a done-for-you planned tour of the Puglia region, complete with driving instructions and a map.
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.
Puglia Itinerary 7 days.
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:
- 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.
- 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.
- Matera: a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its ancient cave dwellings in Basilicata. Read more.
- Trani: a seaside town known for its beautiful cathedral, medieval castle, and scenic harbour.
- 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.
For each day of your itinerary, I have included a summary of the place you are visiting 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.
Quick summary of 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 below.
- Day 1: Bari.
- Day 2: Alberobello & Ostuni.
- Day 3: Lecce.
- Day 4: Otranto & Gallipoli.
- Day 5: Matera.
- Day 6: Trani & Castel del Monte
- Day 7: Bari.
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.
Where to stay in Bari
Here are three hotel suggestions 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.
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.
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.
Where to stay in Ostuni
Here are three hotel choices in Ostuni.
Luxury: La Sommità Relais & Chateaux – 5-star boutique hotel in a historic building with elegant rooms, a spa, and stunning views of the Adriatic.
Mid-Range: Hotel Monte Sarago – A modern hotel close to the old town, with a rooftop pool, and excellent service.
Budget: Ostuni Palace Hotel – A budget-friendly hotel near the historic centre of Ostuni, with comfortable rooms and easy access to local attractions.
Or browse All accommodation in Ostuni.
Day 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.
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!
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
Where to stay in Matera
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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:
- 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 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.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!
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.
FAQs for Puglia itinerary 7 days: a whistlestop tour.
Below are some frequently asked questions about Puglia itineraries.
Q: What are the towns and places included in a 7-day Puglia itinerary?
A: This itinerary covers a mix of coastal cities, historic towns, and unique landmarks:
- Bari: A lively coastal city with a charming old town and rich cultural heritage.
- Alberobello: Famous for its unique trulli houses and whimsical atmosphere.
- Ostuni: The ‘White City,’ known for its dazzling white buildings and views over the Adriatic Sea.
- Lecce: Called the ‘Florence of the South,’ with stunning Baroque architecture.
- Otranto: A coastal gem with a historic old town, intricate cathedral mosaics, and pristine beaches.
- Gallipoli: A picturesque island town with historic streets and a scenic seaside promenade.
- Matera: A UNESCO World Heritage site in Basilicata, renowned for its ancient cave dwellings.
- Trani: A scenic seaside town with a magnificent cathedral and picturesque harbor.
- Castel del Monte: A mysterious octagonal castle offering breathtaking views.
Q: Is it better to rent a car for exploring Puglia?
A: Yes, renting a car is highly recommended. Puglia’s charm lies in its small towns and rural landscapes, which are best explored independently. A car allows you to travel conveniently between destinations and enjoy scenic routes.
Q: What is the best time of year to visit Puglia?
A: The ideal time to visit Puglia is during spring (April-June) or early autumn (September-October) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer (July-August) is also popular but can be hot and busy.
Q: How many nights should I stay in each location?
A: In this itinerary you will only stay one night at some locations, and others you will only visit during the day. For longer itineraries, see my list of Puglia itineraries.
Q: Are there unique activities to do in Puglia?
A: Yes! Highlights include:
- Exploring Bari Vecchia and tasting focaccia.
- Staying in a trullo in Alberobello.
- Wandering the whitewashed streets of Ostuni.
- Admiring Lecce’s Baroque architecture.
- Visiting Otranto’s mosaic-filled cathedral.
- Enjoying fresh seafood in Gallipoli.
- Touring the ancient cave dwellings of Matera.
- Photographing the iconic Castel del Monte.
Q: Is Puglia family-friendly?
A: Absolutely! Puglia offers plenty of family-friendly activities, such as beaches, castles, and unique attractions like trulli houses. Many towns are pedestrian-friendly, making them easy to explore with children.
Q: What are the best beaches in Puglia?
A: Puglia boasts beautiful beaches, including:
- Lama Monachile in Polignano a Mare
- Punta Prosciutto near Porto Cesareo
- Baia dei Turchi near Otranto
- Torre dell’Orso on the Adriatic Coast
Q: Can I combine Puglia with another destination in 7 days?
A: Yes, Matera in Basilicata is a perfect addition and is included in this itinerary. Alternatively, you could extend your trip to Naples or the Amalfi Coast, but focusing solely on Puglia allows a more relaxed experience.
Q: What traditional foods should I try in Puglia?
A: Don’t miss these Puglia specialties:
- Orecchiette with cime di rapa (broccoli rabe)
- Burrata cheese
- Focaccia Barese
- Taralli (savory crackers)
- Pasticciotto (custard-filled pastry)
Q: Do I need to book accommodation in advance?
A: Yes, especially during peak season. Puglia offers charming boutique hotels, agriturismos, and trulli accommodations, which can fill up quickly. Booking ahead ensures you secure the best options.
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.
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.
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!
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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