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‘.
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 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.
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.
I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through my affiliate links.
7 day Puglia trip: 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 week-long tour of Puglia, you will visit 7 towns, with one leg of your journey seeing 2 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.
- Alberobello: famous for its unique trulli houses and whimsical atmosphere.
- Locorotondo: a charming small town known for its whitewashed houses and picturesque historic centre.
- 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.
Further reading: 14 Beautiful Towns in Puglia, Italy.
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.
Your 7 day Puglia trip itinerary.
For each day of your Pugia trip, I have included a summary of the town 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 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.
- Day 1: Bari.
- Day 2: Alberobello & Locorotondo
- Day 3: Ostuni.
- Day 4: Lecce.
- Day 5: Otranto
- Day 6: Gallipoli.
- Day 7: Bari.
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.
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.
How to get from Bari airport to Bari city centre
To drive from Bari Airport to the city centre, follow these directions:
- Leave the airport and head southeast on Via Napoli.
- Continue straight on Via Napoli until you reach the roundabout. Take the second exit onto Viale Ennio, following signs for Bari Centro.
- Continue on Viale Ennio for about 3 km (1.8 miles), then merge onto Strada Provinciale 59/SP59.
- Follow SP59 for about 4 km (2.5 miles) until you reach the roundabout. Take the second exit to stay on SP59.
- Continue on SP59 for about 3 km (1.8 miles), and then take the exit toward Bari Centro/Porto.
- Merge onto Via Napoli and follow the signs for the city centre (Centro Città) or any specific landmarks or attractions you plan to visit.
- Once in the city centre, you can find parking in designated areas or parking lots.
The driving distance from Bari Airport to the city centre is approximately 11 km (6.8 miles), and the journey usually takes around 20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. It’s always a good idea to check for any road closures or traffic updates before your trip.
Where to stay in Bari
For hotels, click here to get the best rates today for Bari on Booking.com.
Consider staying in the historic centre of Bari, known as Bari Vecchia. Here you’ll find quirky guesthouses and boutique hotels that provide easy access to the city’s main attractions, such as the Basilica di San Nicola and the Castello Svevo.
Alternatively, you can choose to stay near the seafront, where you’ll find modern hotels offering beautiful views of the Adriatic Sea and convenient access to the beach promenade and lively nightlife.
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.
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:
- Start by leaving Bari and head south on SS16/E55.
- Continue on SS16/E55 for about 40 km (25 miles) until you reach the town of Monopoli.
- In Monopoli, take the SP237 exit toward Alberobello/Castellana Grotte.
- Merge onto SP237 and continue for about 14 km (8.7 miles) until you reach Alberobello.
The total driving distance from Bari to Alberobello is approximately 56 km (35 miles) and should take around 1 hour, depending on traffic conditions. It’s always a good idea to check for any road closures or traffic updates before your trip.
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.
How to drive from Alberobello to Locorotondo
To drive from Alberobello to Locorotondo, follow these directions:
- Start your journey in Alberobello and head northeast on SP78.
- Continue on SP78 for about 7 km (4 miles) until you reach Locorotondo.
- As you approach Locorotondo, follow signs for the town centre or any specific attractions you plan to visit.
- Once in Locorotondo, you can find parking in designated areas or parking lots near the town centre.
The driving distance from Alberobello to Locorotondo is approximately 7 km (4 miles), and the journey usually takes around 15 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Enjoy the scenic drive through the countryside and immerse yourself in the charm of Locorotondo.
Where to stay in Locorotondo
Check the best deals for stays in Locorotondo on Booking.com.
One popular choice is to stay in a traditional trullo, a unique stone dwelling with a conical roof that is typical of the region. These trulli have been converted into comfortable and authentic accommodations, providing a memorable and immersive experience.
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.
Read my review of staying in a trullo in Alberobello before checking prices for stays in Alberobello on Booking.com.
Further reading: Ultimate Guide to Renting a Car in Puglia, Italy.
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.
How to drive from Alberobello to Ostuni
To drive from Alberobello to Ostuni, follow these directions:
- Start your journey in Alberobello and head north on SP 77, also known as Strada Provinciale Alberobello-Martina Franca.
- Stay on SP 77 for about 14 km (8.7 miles) until you reach Martina Franca.
- In Martina Franca, follow signs for “Ostuni” and take the SP 581.
- Continue on SP 581 for about 20 km (12.4 miles) until you reach Ostuni.
- As you approach Ostuni, follow signs for the city centre or the historic centre (Centro Storico) where you can find parking and explore the charming streets.
The driving distance from Alberobello to Ostuni is approximately 30 km (18.6 miles), and the journey usually takes around 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.
Further reading: Ultimate Puglia Travel Guide.
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. 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!
How to drive from Ostuni to Lecce
To drive from Ostuni to Lecce, follow these directions:
- Start your journey in Ostuni and head south on SS16, also known as the Strada Statale 16 Adriatica.
- Stay on SS16 for about 72 km (44.7 miles) until you reach Brindisi.
- In Brindisi, follow signs for “Lecce” and take the SS379.
- Continue on SS379 for about 38 km (23.6 miles) until you reach Lecce.
- As you approach Lecce, follow signs for the city centre (Centro) or any specific landmarks or attractions you plan to visit.
- Once in Lecce, you can find parking in designated areas or parking lots near the city centre.
The driving distance from Ostuni to Lecce is approximately 110 km (68.4 miles), and the journey usually takes around 1 hour and 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.
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.
How to drive from Lecce to Otranto
To drive from Lecce to Otranto, follow these directions:
- Start your journey in Lecce and head east on SS16, also known as the Strada Statale 16 Adriatica.
- Stay on SS16 for about 34 km (21 miles) until you reach the town of Cavallino.
- In Cavallino, follow signs for “Otranto” and continue on SS16.
- Continue on SS16 for about 28 km (17 miles) until you reach Otranto.
- As you approach Otranto, follow signs for the city centre or any specific landmarks or attractions you plan to visit.
- Once in Otranto, you can find parking in designated areas or parking lots near the city centre.
The driving distance from Lecce to Otranto is approximately 45 km (28 miles), and the journey usually takes around 50 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
Where to stay in Otranto
Use this link to get the best rates today for Otranto on Booking.com.
Consider staying in one of the charming hotels or bed and breakfasts near the historic centre or along the picturesque waterfront, allowing you to soak in the stunning views and enjoy easy access to the town’s attractions and beautiful beaches.
Puglia 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.
How to drive from Otranto to Gallipoli
To drive from Otranto to Gallipoli, follow these directions:
- Start your journey in Otranto and head west on SP366, also known as the Strada Provinciale Otranto-Gallipoli.
- Stay on SP366 for about 44 km (27 miles) until you reach Maglie.
- In Maglie, continue straight on SP48, also known as the Strada Provinciale Maglie-Gallipoli.
- Stay on SP48 for approximately 46 km (28.5 miles) until you reach Gallipoli.
- As you approach Gallipoli, follow signs for the city centre or any specific landmarks or attractions you plan to visit.
- Once in Gallipoli, you can find parking in designated areas or parking lots near the city centre.
The driving distance from Otranto to Gallipoli is approximately 90 km (56 miles), and the journey usually takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. It’s always a good idea to check for any road closures or traffic updates before your trip. 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.
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.
How to drive from Gallipoli to Bari
To drive from Gallipoli to Bari, follow these directions:
- Start your journey in Gallipoli and head north on the SS101.
- Continue on the SS101 for about 70 km (43 miles) until you reach the SS16 junction.
- Take the exit onto the SS16 toward Bari.
- Stay on the SS16 for about 135 km (84 miles) as it leads you directly to 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 Gallipoli to Bari is approximately 205 km (127 miles), and the journey usually takes around 2 hours, 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 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.
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 advice and tips for driving in Puglia in my article Hazel’s Guide to Driving in Puglia, Italy.
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.
- Day 1: Bari.
- Day 2: Alberobello & Locorotondo
- Day 3: Ostuni.
- Day 4: Lecce.
- Day 5: Otranto
- Day 6: Gallipoli.
- Day 7: Bari.
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.
More Puglia road trips.
Road trip itineraries in Puglia.
I have published a series of done-for-you road trip itineraries for Puglia, along with guides for driving in Puglia and how to rent a car in Puglia.
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.
- Whistlestop 2 week road trip itinerary for Puglia.
- Relaxed 2 week road trip itinerary for Puglia.
- Whistlestop 10 day itinerary for Puglia.
- Relaxed 10 day itinerary for Puglia.
- Whistlestop 7 day road trip itinerary for Puglia.
- Relaxed 7 day road trip itinerary for Puglia.
- All Puglia itineraries in one place.
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.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.
Further reading: My street food tour of Bari (with photos).
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.
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.
- 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.
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.
Travel advice for your 7 day Puglia trip.
For general travel advice for your trip to the Puglia region of Italy, please see my main Puglia Travel Guide. This guide contains information on things like currency, weather, best time to visit Puglia, tourist seasons, safety and general travel advice for the region. It also contains a list of every Puglia post I have published, all in one place.
Further reading: Ultimate Puglia Travel Guide.
Below is a list of some of my Puglia travel guides which may interest you.
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.
Overall, Puglia is an excellent road trip destination, and I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!
Travelling soon? Check my 20 Must-Have Travel Essentials post before you go.
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Tags: Europe, Italy, Itineraries, Puglia, Road trips
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