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 ‘7 Day Puglia Trip: an itinerary for South Italy’ and is a slightly slower version of my faster-paced ‘Puglia Itinerary 7 days – a Fast Paced Road Trip‘.

A row of trulli with conical roofs is illuminated at dusk along a quiet street in Alberobello, Puglia, with a few people visible.
Alberobello

On this page you will find a done-for-you planned tour of the Puglia region, hotel suggestions for each place, and a map.

You will visit 7 towns over 7 days, with ‘double towns’ on one of the days. On all other days, you will have a full day in each destination.

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The Puglia (or Apulia) region is one of my favourite regions of Italy, and I last visited in 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.

Introduction to your 7 day Puglia trip.

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 week-long tour of Puglia, you will visit 7 towns, with one leg of your journey seeing 2 towns in one day.

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

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. Read more about Bari.
  2. Alberobello: famous for its unique trulli houses and whimsical atmosphere. Read more about Alberobello. Read more about Alberobello.
  3. Locorotondo: a charming small town known for its whitewashed houses and picturesque historic centre.
  4. Ostuni: the ‘White City’, with its dazzling white buildings, winding streets, and views over the Adriatic Sea.
  5. Lecce: ‘Florence of the South’, a treasure trove of Baroque architecture, with elegant squares and impressive churches.
  6. Otranto: a coastal gem with a charming old town, magnificent cathedral with intricate mosaics, and stunning beaches.
  7. Gallipoli: a picturesque town located on a small island, with historic streets, a beautiful seaside promenade and a rich maritime heritage.

7 day Puglia trip: driving map.

I have included driving instructions for your Puglia trip 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.

Quick summary of your 7 day Puglia trip.

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

Puglia trip 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.

Have a wander through Bari’s narrow streets, visit the Basilica di San Nicola, and soak up the lively atmosphere. You could book a walking tour or a pasta experience. Enjoy exploring 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.

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

Where to stay in Bari

Below are three hotel recommendations 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.

Further reading: 24 Amazing Things to do in Bari.

Puglia trip day 2: Alberobello & Locorotondo.

Today you will see two examples of the beautiful towns of Puglia within the Itria Valley.

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.

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

Further reading: Your Ultimate Guide to visiting Alberobello.

Second stop: Locorotondo (driving time 15 minutes)

Depart Alberobello and make your way to Locorotondo, a captivating town known for its whitewashed houses, colourful flowers, and unique circular layout. Its well-preserved medieval buildings and charming churches, such as the Church of San Giorgio and the Church of San Rocco, add to its timeless appeal.

Explore the town’s cultural heritage at the Museo del Territorio, indulge in wine tasting at Cantina Sociale del Locorotondo, and enjoy local culinary delights in traditional trattorias. Don’t miss the panoramic views from Belvedere Santa Maria della Greca.

Narrow picturesque alleyway in Locorotondo, with white stone buildings adorned with small string lights, closed shutters, and a few balconies. Sparse leafless trees line the street.
Locorotondo

Where to stay in Locorotondo

Most travellers will want to stay in a unique trullo house if they can! Read my review of staying in a trulllo for more information.

Here are three hotel suggestions for Locorotondo:

Luxury: Leonardo Trulli Resort – boutique resort featuring trulli accommodations, a pool, and stunning countryside views.

Mid-Range: Sotto le Cummerse – Unique apartments set in Locorotondo’s historic centre.

Budget: Almapetra Trulli Resort – budget-friendly option with trulli-style rooms, a garden, and easy access to nearby towns.

Or browse all stays in Locorotondo on Booking.com.

Where to stay in Alberobello

There is a broader range of options for trulli stays in Alberobello, so you may prefer to pop back to Alberobello for the evening. You could do a short visit to Locorotondo, before having your evening meal in Alberobello.

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.

Read my review of staying in a trullo in Alberobello.

Puglia trip day 3: Ostuni (driving time 40 minutes)

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

Where to stay in Ostuni

Here are three hotel choices in Ostuni.

Luxury: La Sommità Relais & Chateaux – 5-star boutique hotel in a historic building with elegant rooms, a spa, and stunning views of the Adriatic.

Mid-Range: Hotel Monte Sarago – A modern hotel close to the old town, with a rooftop pool, and excellent service.

Budget: Ostuni Palace Hotel – A budget-friendly hotel near the historic centre of Ostuni, with comfortable rooms and easy access to local attractions.

Or browse All accommodation in Ostuni.

Puglia trip day 4: 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.

You can admire the intricate details of the Basilica di Santa Croce and the Piazza del Duomo, and stroll through the charming streets lined with impressive palaces. There is also a Roman amphitheatre here.

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

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.

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

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.

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

Where to stay in Otranto

Here are three great hotels in Otranto:

Luxury: Hotel Palazzo Papaleo – A 5-star boutique hotel in the heart of Otranto’s old town. Elegant rooms, a rooftop terrace, and stunning sea views.

Mid-Range: Hotel Vittoria Resort & Spa – A modern hotel with spacious rooms, a wellness centre, and a convenient location near the historic centre.

Budget: Otranto Suites – An affordable guesthouse with a welcoming atmosphere and a great location near Otranto’s historic centre and waterfront.

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

Puglia trip day 6: Gallipoli (1 hour 20 minutes 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.

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

Where to stay in Gallipoli

Three great options in Gallipoli:

Luxury: Palazzo del Corso – A 5-star hotel in a historic building, with a rooftop pool, and panoramic views of Gallipoli’s harbour.

Mid-Range: Al Pescatore Hotel & Restaurant – A charming hotel in the historic centre, featuring comfortable rooms and an on-site restaurant.

Budget: B&B Gallipoli Vecchia – An affordable and cosy B&B located in the old town, perfect for exploring Gallipoli’s historic streets and nearby beaches.

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

Puglia trip day 7: Bari (driving time: 2 hours).

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, do some last-minute shopping, or simply relax in one of the city’s cosy cafes.

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

Airport hotels in Bari

If you need a room close to the airport for a quick layover, I recommend the B&B AIRPORT BARI DELUXE28. It’s a 20 minute walk to the terminal, or a 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 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 7 day Puglia itinerary. If the pace is a bit slow for your liking, you could always add some extra stops to suit your preference.

a large stone building with a clock on it's side.
De Monti Castle of Corigliano d’Otranto.

Quick hotel links for your Puglia trip.

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 Locorotondo | Book hotels in Ostuni | Book hotels in Otranto | 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 similar 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.

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

Solo travellers

For solo travellers, be aware that many tours in Puglia seem to have a minimum two-person rule, which can be frustrating. However I find that by contacting tour operators directly, it is often possible to arrange bookings for one person, so always email them and check.

FAQs relevant to your Puglia trip.

For transparency, these FAQs are the same ones for all of of my Puglia itinerary posts.

Q: How long does a typical Puglia trip itinerary 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 ‘7 day Puglia trip’ 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 trip?

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

Other towns you might like to add to your itinerary are Monopoli, Polignano a Mare, Matera (in Basilicata) and Santa Maria di Leuca. See my other itineraries 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 Puglia trip in 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 trip 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 embark on a Puglia trip?

A: The best time for a road trip in Puglia is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is pleasant, and tourist crowds are smaller. The summer months can be hot and crowded, especially along the coastal areas.

Related reading: The Best Time to Visit Alberobello.

Q: Are the roads in this Puglia trip 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 on your Puglia trip.

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 Puglia trip itinerary does not include any toll roads.

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

A: Yes, there are plenty of accommodation options along the road trip route in this Puglia trip 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 7 day Puglia trip, I have provided you with some hotel booking links to make things easier.

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.

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

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

A: It’s important to adhere to the general driving rules in Italy, including carrying a valid driver’s licence, having insurance coverage, and wearing seat belts. Speed limits and parking regulations should be followed, and it’s essential to be cautious while driving in busy city centres and watch out for ZTL (limited traffic zone) areas.

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

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.

7 day Puglia trip – pin for later.

If you have enjoyed this 7 day Puglia trip itinerary, please feel free to use the below images to save the post to your Pinterest account for reading later.

Image of a Puglia trip itinerary for a 7-day road adventure, capturing the iconic trulli houses at sunset.
Collage of a scenic 7-day Puglia road trip itinerary featuring images of iconic trulli houses, stunning coastal cliffs, a winding road, and people smiling in a car.

Overall, Puglia is an excellent road trip destination, and I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!

General Travel booking links:

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