Epic 10-Day Road Trip Adventure in Puglia, Italy

Day 1: Arrival in Bari

Bari, Italy

9:00 AM

Coffee at Caffè Vergnano

Start your Puglia adventure with a rich Italian coffee and fresh pastry at Caffè Vergnano, a local favourite.
Stroll to the nearby old town along Via Sparano.
EUR5, 1 hour

10:30 AM

Visit Basilica di San Nicola

Explore the iconic Basilica, which is a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture and key pilgrimage site.
Walk towards Via Niccolò Piccinni.
EUR0, 1 hour

12:00 PM

Lunch at La Cantinetta

Enjoy traditional Pugliese dishes including orecchiette with turnip tops at La Cantinetta.
Just a short walk from the Basilica.
EUR20, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Explore Bari Vecchia

Wander through the narrow streets of the old town, where you can see local women making pasta by hand.
Follow the maze-like paths through the old town.
EUR0, 2 hours

4:00 PM

Drive to Polignano a Mare

Depart for Polignano a Mare, a stunning coastal town overlooking the Adriatic Sea.
Drive along the SS16 for approximately 30 minutes.
EUR20 (fuel), 30 minutes

5:00 PM

Check into Hotel

Check into a local hotel with sea views for a refreshing evening.
Select a hotel in Polignano a Mare.
EUR100, 1 hour

7:00 PM

Dinner at Grotta Palazzese

Enjoy an upscale dinner at the famous restaurant set in a cave overlooking the sea.
Make a reservation and walk down to the restaurant.
EUR120, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Explore Polignano a Mare

Polignano a Mare, Italy

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Pasticceria Il Bignè

Start your day with a delicious brioche and gelato at Pasticceria Il Bignè.
Walk to the local pastry shop.
EUR5, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Lama Monachile Beach

Spend some time relaxing at the beautiful beach known for its clear blue waters.
Head down to the beach from the old town.
EUR0, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Ristorante Da Tuccino

Indulge in seafood pasta while overlooking the picturesque coastline.
Stroll along the seafront to reach the restaurant.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Explore the Sea Grottos

Join a boat tour to see the stunning sea caves along the coast.
Local vendors offer boat rides near the beach.
EUR30, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Visit the Church of Saint Mary of the Assumption

This charming church offers wonderful views of the area and is known for its stunning baroque altar.
Walk back towards the old town.
EUR0, 1 hour

7:00 PM

Dinner at Caffè Vetrano

End your day with some exquisite local wines and regional specialties.
Located near the main square.
EUR35, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Discover Alberobello

Alberobello, Italy

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at the hotel before departing for Alberobello.
Eat at the hotel.
EUR10, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Drive to Alberobello

Leave Polignano a Mare and head to Alberobello, the town known for its charming trulli houses.
Drive via SP108 for approximately 40 minutes.
EUR15 (fuel), 40 minutes

10:15 AM

Explore Trulli District

Wander through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Trulli district and soak up the unique architecture.
Walking in the Rione Monti area.
EUR0, 2 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at Trattoria Rispoli

Savour fresh orecchiette served with a rich tomato sauce at Trattoria Rispoli.
Just a short walk through the trulli.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Visit the Trullo Sovrano

Explore the tallest trullo in Alberobello and learn more about their history.
Walk over from the restaurant.
EUR3, 1 hour

4:00 PM

Visit Casa Pezzolla

Discover the exhibition on trulli architecture and the cultural significance of these unique structures.
Walk from Trullo Sovrano.
EUR5, 1.5 hours

6:00 PM

Drive to Matera

Travel to Matera, famous for its ancient cave dwellings.
Drive via SS172 for approximately 1 hour.
EUR20 (fuel), 1 hour

7:00 PM

Check into Hotel

Settle into your hotel in Matera for the night.
Select accommodation in the Sassi area.
EUR80, 1 hour

8:30 PM

Dinner at Ristorante Francesca

Experience a delicious meal comprised of local lamb and fresh seasonal vegetables.
Cabs are available for transportation to the restaurant.
EUR40, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Experience Matera

Matera, Italy

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up on traditional breads and cheeses at the hotel.
Breakfast served at the hotel.
EUR10, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Explore Sassi di Matera

Take a guided walk through the Sassi, UNESCO World Heritage Site, to learn about its rich history.
Meet your guide near the hotel.
EUR25, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Osteria Pico

Savour innovative dishes utilizing local produce and traditional methods at Osteria Pico.
Short walk to the restaurant.
EUR30, 1.5 hours

1:30 PM

Visit Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario

Step back in time to see how cave dwellers lived centuries ago in this preserved cave house.
Walk from the restaurant.
EUR8, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Wine Tasting at Cantina di Firriato

Sample some excellent regional wines in a local winery.
Take a short drive to the winery.
EUR15, 2 hours

5:30 PM

Free time for exploration

Take the opportunity to explore more of Matera on your own or relax at a café.
Wander the cobbled streets.
EUR0, 1.5 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Ristorante Zio Peppe

Enjoy traditional homemade dishes featuring locally-sourced ingredients.
Located in Sassi di Matera.
EUR35, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Charming Ostuni

Ostuni, Italy

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Delight in breakfast at your hotel featuring local fruits and pastries.
Eat at the hotel.
EUR10, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Drive to Ostuni

Travel to Ostuni, known as the 'White City' for its whitewashed buildings.
Drive via SS16 and SP24 for approximately 1 hour.
EUR15 (fuel), 1 hour

10:30 AM

Explore the Old Town

Wander through the cobbled streets and admire the stunning architecture of the Old Town.
Walk through the heart of the old town.
EUR0, 1.5 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Osteria del Tempo Perso

Dig into local Puglian pasta dishes in a rustic setting.
Stroll through the streets to the restaurant.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

1:30 PM

Visit the Cathedral of Ostuni

Admire the impressive Gothic architecture and unique bell tower.
Just a few minutes' walk from the restaurant.
EUR0, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Explore the Olive Groves

Take a guided tour of the local olive groves and learn about oil production.
Drive or arrange a tour.
EUR25, 2 hours

5:30 PM

Check into Hotel

Settle into a charming hotel in Ostuni.
Choose a hotel in the old town.
EUR100, 1 hour

7:00 PM

Dinner at La Taverna della Gelosia

Taste delectable homemade dishes with a nod to local tradition.
A short walk from the hotel.
EUR30, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Artistic Lecce

Lecce, Italy

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a delightful breakfast featuring local breads and goat cheeses.
At the hotel.
EUR10, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Drive to Lecce

Head to Lecce, the Baroque capital of Italy, renowned for its architecture.
Travel via SS16 for approximately 1 hour.
EUR15 (fuel), 1 hour

10:30 AM

Explore the Historic Centre

Marvel at the stunning Baroque architecture, including the Basilica di Santa Croce.
Walk through the city centre.
EUR0, 2 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at La Causa

Savour a meal of local delicacies in a trendy establishment.
Located near the main square.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Visit Lecce’s Roman Amphitheatre

Discover the ancient Roman theatre and learn about its history.
A short walk from the restaurant.
EUR4, 1 hour

3:30 PM

Traditional Papercutting Workshop

Join a local artisan to learn about the traditional craft of cartapesta art.
Workshop spaces are available in the centre.
EUR30, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Check into Hotel

Settle into a lovely hotel in Lecce.
Choose accommodation in the historic centre.
EUR90, 1 hour

7:30 PM

Dinner at Osteria da Mamma Elvira

Feast on homemade pasta and local wines.
Walk to the restaurant from the hotel.
EUR35, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Seaside Otranto

Otranto, Italy

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a selection of pastries and coffee at your hotel.
Eat at the hotel.
EUR10, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Drive to Otranto

Take a short drive to Otranto, known for its stunning beaches.
Drive via SS16 for approximately 45 minutes.
EUR10 (fuel), 45 minutes

10:15 AM

Relax at Otranto Beach

Spend the morning soaking up the sun and enjoying the crystal-clear waters of Otranto Beach.
Easy access from the town centre.
EUR0, 2.5 hours

12:45 PM

Lunch at Il Ghiottone

Savour fresh seafood and local Puglian wines at this quaint seaside restaurant.
Located a short walk from the beach.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

2:15 PM

Visit Otranto Cathedral

See the stunning mosaic floor of this ancient cathedral that dates back to the 11th century.
Walk to the cathedral from the restaurant.
EUR0, 1 hour

3:30 PM

Explore Castello Aragonese

Discover the fascinating history of this medieval castle overlooking the sea.
Just a few minutes from the cathedral.
EUR5, 1 hour

5:00 PM

Check into Hotel

Settle into your hotel in Otranto.
Choose a hotel with a view of the sea.
EUR90, 1 hour

7:00 PM

Dinner at Masseria dei Marmi

Indulge in a countryside meal featuring traditional dishes and organic wine.
Book ahead and drive to the location.
EUR40, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Explore Gallipoli

Gallipoli, Italy

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a delightful breakfast at the hotel with local pastries.
At the hotel.
EUR10, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Drive to Gallipoli

Travel to Gallipoli, a charming town on the Ionian Sea.
Drive via SS16 for about 30 minutes.
EUR10 (fuel), 30 minutes

10:00 AM

Explore the Historic Centre

Discover the beautiful streets of Gallipoli's old town, packed with vibrant architecture.
Walk in the old town, accessible by foot.
EUR0, 2 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at Ristorante La Dolce Vita

Enjoy regional dishes including fresh fish, accompanied by local wine.
Just a short walk from the main square.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Visit the Castello di Gallipoli

Explores this impressive castle that overlooks the sea and learn about its history.
Close to the restaurant.
EUR6, 1 hour

3:30 PM

Free time at Baia Verde Beach

Relax at this beautiful beach known for its crystal-clear waters.
Short drive or walk from the old town.
EUR0, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Check into Hotel

Settle into a beachfront hotel in Gallipoli.
Choose accommodation near the coast.
EUR90, 1 hour

7:30 PM

Dinner at Il Pizzicotto

Feast on traditional Apulian pizza and local wines.
Just a short walk from the hotel.
EUR20, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Relax in Santa Maria di Leuca

Santa Maria di Leuca, Italy

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Indulge in a breakfast of fresh fruits and pastries at your hotel.
At the hotel.
EUR10, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Drive to Santa Maria di Leuca

Travel to the southernmost tip of Puglia, famous for its stunning coastline.
Drive via SS274 for approximately 1 hour.
EUR15 (fuel), 1 hour

10:30 AM

Visit Punta Riti

Admire the breathtaking cliffs and impressive views of the Adriatic and Ionian Seas.
A short drive or walk to the viewpoint.
EUR0, 1.5 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Trattoria Le Vele

Enjoy a lunch of local seafood delicacies with a sea view.
Located near the coast.
EUR30, 1.5 hours

1:30 PM

Explore the Lighthouse

Visit the iconic lighthouse and take memorable photos.
A short drive from the restaurant.
EUR0, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Relax at the Beach

Spend the afternoon unwinding at the nearby beach.
Locals can recommend the best beach access points.
EUR0, 3 hours

6:00 PM

Check into Hotel

Choose a lovely hotel with stunning views of the coastline.
Select accommodation in Santa Maria di Leuca.
EUR100, 1 hour

7:30 PM

Dinner at Ristorante Il Cibo

Savour fresh Mediterranean cuisine while enjoying the sunset.
Located close to your hotel.
EUR40, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Return to Bari

Bari, Italy

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel, taking in the last views of Santa Maria di Leuca.
At the hotel.
EUR10, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Drive back to Bari

Take a scenic drive back to Bari, reflecting on your adventures.
Route via SS274 and SS16 for approximately 2 hours.
EUR25 (fuel), 2 hours

11:30 AM

Explore Bari’s Waterfront

Take a last stroll along the vibrant waterfront before departure.
Head towards the seafront from the car park.
EUR0, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Lunch at Ristorante Al Pescatore

Enjoy a final seafood feast in Bari’s old town.
Selected a well-rated restaurant in the old town.
EUR40, 1.5 hours

2:30 PM

Visit the Castello Normanno

Explore the medieval Norman castle for a glimpse into Bari's history.
A short walk from the restaurant.
EUR5, 1 hour

4:00 PM

Shopping in Bari

Spend your last hours in Puglia picking up souvenirs and local goods.
Head to Via Sparano for shopping.
EUR0, 2 hours

6:30 PM

Departure

Return your rental car and head to Bari Airport for your flight home.
Allow time for car drop-off.
EUR0, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability