Puglia, the sun-drenched heel of Italy’s boot, remains one of the country’s most enchanting yet underrated regions. Known for its trulli houses, whitewashed towns, and pristine beaches, this part of southern Italy offers an authentic and unforgettable road trip experience. From the fairytale landscapes of Alberobello to the coastal beauty of the Gargano Peninsula, driving through Puglia means immersing yourself in a land rich with history, stunning landscapes, and mouthwatering cuisine. This detailed itinerary will guide you through the best of Puglia, ensuring an epic road trip adventure.
Day 1-2: Bari – The Gateway to Puglia
Exploring Bari’s Historic Charm
Begin your journey in Bari, the region’s bustling capital and a city that beautifully blends tradition with modernity. Park your car and explore Bari Vecchia, the old town, where winding alleys lead to picturesque piazzas and centuries-old churches. Visit the Basilica di San Nicola, home to the relics of St. Nicholas, and admire the Swabian Castle, a medieval fortress built by Frederick II.
Stroll along the Lungomare, one of Italy’s longest seafront promenades, and indulge in local street food like sgagliozze (fried polenta squares) or panzerotti (fried pizza pockets). For an authentic experience, head to Strada delle Orecchiette, where local women hand-make Puglia’s famous ear-shaped pasta in front of their homes.
Day Trip to Polignano a Mare
A short 30-minute drive south takes you to Polignano a Mare, one of Puglia’s most photogenic coastal towns. Famous for its dramatic cliffs, Lama Monachile Beach, and crystal-clear waters, this town is perfect for a scenic break. Explore the charming historic center and treat yourself to caffè speciale, a unique coffee with lemon zest, sugar, and a splash of amaretto.
Day 3-4: Alberobello & the Valle d’Itria – Land of Trulli
Discovering Alberobello’s Fairytale Landscape
No trip to Puglia is complete without visiting Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its trulli houses—iconic white stone huts with conical roofs. Wander through the Rione Monti district, where over 1,000 trulli create a magical landscape. Stop by the Trullo Sovrano, the only two-story trullo in town, to learn about the history and architecture of these unique homes.
For a more immersive experience, consider staying overnight in a converted trullo. Enjoy dinner at Trattoria Terra Madre, where farm-to-table dishes showcase Puglia’s culinary excellence.
Exploring the Whitewashed Towns of Valle d’Itria
Spend the next day exploring the stunning towns of the Valle d’Itria:
- Locorotondo: A circular hilltop town known for its whitewashed buildings, panoramic views, and fine local wines.
- Martina Franca: A Baroque gem with elegant palaces, ornate churches, and a lively historic center.
- Cisternino: One of Italy’s “most beautiful villages,” famed for its fornelli pronti, butcher shops that cook meat on demand.
Day 5-6: Ostuni & Lecce – The White City and Baroque Beauty
Ostuni – The White City
Drive 45 minutes south to Ostuni, an enchanting hilltop town with dazzling white buildings. Lose yourself in its maze-like streets, explore Piazza della Libertà, and visit the Ostuni Cathedral, which boasts a stunning rose window. Enjoy a panoramic aperitivo at Riccardo Caffè, a cave-like bar carved into the town’s ancient walls.
Lecce – The Florence of the South
Continue to Lecce, Puglia’s Baroque masterpiece, where intricate facades and grand piazzas make this city a feast for the eyes. Visit the stunning Basilica di Santa Croce, explore the Piazza del Duomo, and discover the Roman Amphitheater hidden in the city’s main square. For lunch, try rustico leccese, a savory puff pastry filled with mozzarella and tomato.
Day 7-8: Salento’s Stunning Coastline
Gallipoli – The Ionian Pearl
Drive west to Gallipoli, a charming seaside town where the historic center sits on an island connected to the mainland by a 16th-century bridge. Walk through its narrow streets, visit the Castello Angioino, and relax on the stunning beaches like Baia Verde.
Otranto & the Adriatic Coast
Next, head to Otranto, a coastal gem with crystal-clear waters and a rich history. Visit the Otranto Cathedral, famous for its mesmerizing 12th-century mosaic floor, and explore the Aragonese Castle. Drive along the dramatic Adriatic coastline, stopping at the Grotta della Poesia, a breathtaking natural swimming pool.
Day 9-10: Gargano Peninsula – Wild Beauty & Secluded Beaches
Vieste – The Jewel of Gargano
For the final leg of your road trip, journey north to the Gargano Peninsula, a lesser-known paradise with towering limestone cliffs, secluded beaches, and lush forests. Base yourself in Vieste, a picturesque coastal town known for its whitewashed houses and medieval charm. Explore Pizzomunno Beach, take a boat tour to the sea caves, and enjoy fresh seafood at a traditional trabucco (wooden fishing hut-turned-restaurant).
Tremiti Islands – A Hidden Gem
If time allows, take a ferry to the Tremiti Islands, an untouched paradise with pristine waters, perfect for snorkeling and diving. San Domino, the largest island, offers stunning sea views and hidden coves to explore.
Final Thoughts: The Ultimate Puglia Road Trip Experience
A road trip through Puglia is an unforgettable journey through one of Italy’s most captivating regions. From the trulli houses of Alberobello to the whitewashed towns of Ostuni and Lecce, and the pristine beaches of Salento and Gargano, Puglia offers a unique blend of history, nature, and culture. Whether you’re indulging in fresh seafood, sipping local wines, or discovering hidden coastal gems, this itinerary ensures you experience the very best of Puglia’s breathtaking beauty.
Buon viaggio!
