Renting a car in Puglia is the best way to explore this sun-soaked corner of southern Italy. Trains and buses will get you between the bigger towns, but they won’t take you to olive grove backroads, clifftop villages, or secret beaches. With a car, you can set your own pace and discover parts of Puglia that most visitors miss.

Close-up of the front of a blue car parked on a paved road, with lush green foliage reminiscent of Alberobello, Puglia, in the background.
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Over the years, I’ve rented cars in Puglia from both airports and city centres, and I use Discover Cars to compare the options. It pulls together local and international companies so you can see prices, policies, and reviews in one place.

This guide covers everything you need to know before booking, from where to rent and what documents you’ll need, to manual vs automatic cars, insurance, and money-saving tips.

1. Where to Rent a Car in Puglia 🚗

Most travellers pick up their rental at one of Puglia’s two main airports:

  • Bari Airport (BRI) – ideal if you’re exploring the north or central Puglia.
  • Brindisi Airport (BDS) – convenient for the Salento peninsula and southern Puglia.

You’ll also find rental offices in Bari city, Brindisi, Lecce, and some smaller towns. Airport pick-ups are usually easier (and cheaper) because there’s more choice.

2. Best Rental Companies in Puglia 🚘

There are plenty of international and local companies to choose from in Puglia, including Hertz, Europcar, and Sixt. But instead of checking each site separately, I recommend using Discover Cars.

Why?

  • It compares dozens of providers in one search.
  • You can filter by car type, rating, price, and fuel policy.
  • Reviews from other drivers are included.
  • Prices are usually cheaper when booked in advance.

I always book through Discover Cars myself because it saves time and avoids nasty surprises.

3. Documents You’ll Need 📑

To rent a car in Puglia, make sure you have:

  • Driver’s licence from your home country. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required for some nationalities (and often requested at the counter), so bring one if possible.
  • Passport for ID.
  • Credit card in the lead driver’s name (needed for the deposit).
  • Booking voucher/confirmation from your rental company.

Tip: Debit cards are rarely accepted for deposits, so a credit card is essential.

A vintage blue car parked between two stone houses adorned with potted plants in the charming town of Alberobello, Puglia, under a clear sky.

4. Manual vs Automatic ⚙️

Automatic cars exist, but stock is limited and prices are higher. If you need one, book well in advance.

Manual cars are the default in Italy, cheaper, and more widely available.

5. One-Way Rentals in Puglia 🔄

Planning to pick up your car in Bari and drop it in Brindisi (or vice versa)? One-way rentals are possible, but they usually come with a fee. Discover Cars will show this clearly before you book.

6. Insurance & Deposits Explained 🛡️

  • Basic insurance (third-party liability) is usually included.
  • Extras like Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or theft protection can be added at booking or on arrival.
  • Deposit/Excess – expect the rental company to block €500-€1500 on your credit card, depending on the car. This is released when you return it undamaged.

Tip: Check whether your travel credit card covers car hire insurance; it can save you from buying extra coverage.

7. Fuel & Mileage Policies ⛽

Unlimited mileage is usually included, but double-check your booking if you plan to cover lots of ground.

Petrol = benzina | Diesel = gasolio. Double-check before filling up.

Full-to-full fuel policy is most common (pick up full, return full). Always top up before returning to avoid hefty refuelling charges.

Driving through the scenic roads under a cloudy sky, the person joyfully waves a hat out of the car window, evoking a sense of freedom reminiscent of an adventure in picturesque Alberobello, Puglia.

8. Tips for Getting the Best Deal 💡

Read the reviews – some small local firms are excellent, others less so.

Book early – prices climb in summer, especially for automatics.

Compare providers with Discover Cars to see hidden fees upfront.

Pick up at the airport for lower rates and better selection.

FAQs About Renting a Car in Puglia 💡

Is it necessary to rent a car in Puglia?

Yes, if you want flexibility. Public transport is fine for Bari, Lecce, and Brindisi, but you’ll need a car for rural villages, coastal drives, and day trips.

What’s the minimum age for renting a car in Italy?

Usually 21, sometimes 25. Under-25 drivers often pay a surcharge.

Do I need an International Driving Permit?

EU/UK licences are generally fine, but some companies insist on an IDP. US/Canada/Australia travellers almost always need one. Best to carry it regardless.

Can I take my rental outside Italy?

Some companies allow it, others don’t. Always check the booking conditions before planning a cross-border trip.

Are there tolls in Puglia?

Yes, some motorways have tolls (such as the A14). Most booths take cards, but keep cash handy.

Conclusion ✨

Renting a car in Puglia is straightforward once you know the basics. Book in advance, bring the right documents, and double-check the small print.

With the right wheels, you’ll have the freedom to explore Puglia’s trulli towns, turquoise beaches, and hidden countryside at your own pace.

👉 Ready to book? Compare rental options in Bari and Brindisi with Discover Cars.

If you’re planning a road trip, these posts will help you map it all out:

🚙 Driving in Puglia: Rules, ZTLs, Parking & Tips.
📅 10 Day Puglia Road Trip Itinerary.
🏠 The Best Towns to Visit in Puglia.
🇮🇹 Ultimate Puglia Travel Guide.

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    Thank you for reading my post about renting a car in Puglia. I hope it has helped you to plan your trip to southern Italy. Feel free to leave any comments below.

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