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Ultimate Puglia and Matera Road Trip: Bari to Alberobello, Ostuni, Lecce, and Matera

Viewed by 628 travelers

Day 1: Arrival and Explore Bari

Bari, Italy on August 29, 2025

3:00pm

Arrival in Bari and Check-in

Arrive in Bari and check into your hotel in the historic center to start your Puglia adventure.
EUR0, 0h30m

4:00pm

Walk along Bari Vecchia

Explore the charming old town with its narrow streets, the Basilica of San Nicola, and the seaside promenade.
EUR0, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Osteria Le Arpie

Enjoy authentic Apulian cuisine featuring fresh seafood and traditional orecchiette pasta in a cozy atmosphere.
EUR30, 1h30m
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Day 2: Bari Culture and Cuisine

Bari, Italy on August 30, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Caffè Vergnano 1882

Start your day with a classic Italian espresso and freshly baked pastries at this popular café.
EUR7, 0h45m

9:00am

Castello Svevo Tour

Visit this impressive 12th-century fortress offering insights into Bari’s history and panoramic views.
EUR5, 1h30m

11:00am

Bari Street Market Visit

Browse local produce, cheeses, and street foods at the Mercato del Pesce near the old town.
EUR0, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Al Pescatore

Enjoy freshly caught seafood with views over the Adriatic Sea.
EUR25, 1h

2:00pm

Relax at Pane e Pomodoro Beach

Unwind on the beach popular with locals, accessible with a short walk from the city center.
EUR0, 2h

6:00pm

Stroll in Piazza del Ferrarese

Enjoy the lively square with cafes and bar terraces, perfect for an aperitivo.
EUR0, 1h

8:00pm

Dinner at La Tana del Polpo

Dine on traditional Apulian dishes with a modern twist in a friendly setting.
EUR30, 1h30m
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Day 3: Travel to Monopoli

Bari to Monopoli, Italy on August 31, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast and Check-out

Enjoy a light breakfast at the hotel before checking out and preparing to pick up your rental car.
EUR7, 1h

9:00am

Pick up Rental Car at Bari Airport

Collect your rental car to start your road trip through Puglia.
EUR0, 0h30m

10:00am

Drive to Monopoli

Enjoy the scenic 45-minute drive south along the coast to Monopoli.
EUR0, 0h45m

11:00am

Check-in at Monopoli Hotel and Explore the Old Town

Settle into your accommodation and start exploring the charming harbor, narrow streets, and historical sites.
EUR0, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at La Porta Antica

Savor local seafood dishes in a beautiful setting overlooking the sea.
EUR30, 1h

3:00pm

Visit Monopoli Cathedral and Marina

Discover the baroque cathedral and enjoy a walk along the marina at sunset.
EUR0, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Osteria Perricci

Relish traditional Apulian flavors in a cozy and rustic atmosphere.
EUR30, 1h30m
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Day 4: Day Trip Polignano a Mare

Monopoli, Italy with day trip to Polignano a Mare on September 1, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Bar Nazionale

Enjoy a traditional Italian breakfast in Monopoli before heading out for your day trip.
EUR5, 0h45m

9:00am

Drive to Polignano a Mare

Short 15-minute drive to the famous cliffside town known for its dramatic views and crystal-clear waters.
EUR0, 0h15m

9:30am

Explore Polignano a Mare

Walk through the historic center, visit the Lama Monachile beach, and enjoy spectacular sea views.
EUR0, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Ristorante Grotta Palazzese

Experience dining inside a cliff cave overlooking the sea, a unique culinary experience (advance reservation recommended).
EUR60, 1h30m

2:00pm

Visit Domenico Modugno Statue and Local Shops

See the statue of the famous singer and browse artisan shops for souvenirs.
EUR0, 1h

3:00pm

Return to Monopoli

Drive back to Monopoli and relax afternoon at leisure.
EUR0, 0h15m

7:30pm

Dinner at Il Guazzetto

Try innovative seafood dishes in a friendly ambiance, perfect end to your day.
EUR35, 1h30m
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Day 5: Drive to Alberobello

Monopoli to Alberobello, Italy on September 2, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Old Bear Coffee

Enjoy quality coffee and pastries before your morning drive.
EUR6, 0h45m

9:00am

Drive to Alberobello

Scenic 40-minute drive inland to the UNESCO World Heritage town famous for Trulli houses.
EUR0, 0h40m

10:00am

Check-in and Trulli Exploration

Explore the unique Trulli quarter, visit Trullo Sovrano museum to learn about these iconic conical houses.
EUR3, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Trattoria Terra Madre

Taste traditional Puglian dishes in a rustic setting among the Trulli.
EUR25, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Casa Pezzolla Museum

Dive deeper into the local history inside this restored Trulli complex.
EUR3, 1h

4:00pm

Relax in Piazza del Popolo

Enjoy the lively square’s cafes and shops, perfect for people watching and relaxing.
EUR0, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Il Pinnacolo

Indulge in gourmet local cuisine with seasonal ingredients in a romantic setting.
EUR40, 1h30m
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Day 6: Alberobello and Surroundings

Alberobello, Italy on September 3, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Feeling Trullo

Enjoy a peaceful breakfast inside a traditional Trullo.
EUR8, 0h45m

9:00am

Day Visit to Local Vineyards

Join a wine tasting tour at a nearby vineyard such as Cantine Due Palme, experiencing local varieties.
EUR25, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Masseria Il Frantoio

Dine on local dishes in a serene farmhouse setting known for olive oil production.
EUR30, 1h

3:00pm

Visit nearby Locorotondo village

Short 15-minute drive to this charming whitewashed town, perfect for a leisurely walk.
EUR0, 2h

6:00pm

Return to Alberobello and Rest

Relax at your hotel or take a gentle evening stroll.
EUR0, 1h

8:00pm

Dinner at Ristorante Gli Ulivi

Savor traditional Apulian specialties with a modern flair in an elegant atmosphere.
EUR35, 1h30m
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Day 7: More Alberobello Experiences

Alberobello, Italy on September 4, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at L'Aratro

Start the day with local pastries and coffee.
EUR7, 0h45m

9:00am

Explore nearby Fasano ZooSafari

Visit the popular safari park featuring exotic animals, about 20 minutes from Alberobello. Open 9am-6pm.
EUR25, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Locanda Zelante

Enjoy farm-to-table dishes near the zoo in a welcoming atmosphere.
EUR30, 1h

2:00pm

Return to Alberobello and Shopping

Browse local artisan shops for souvenirs like ceramics and local crafts.
EUR0, 2h

6:00pm

Relax and prepare for next destination

Enjoy a calm evening at your accommodations.
EUR0, 1h

8:00pm

Dinner at Trattoria Terra di Bari

Dine on traditional dishes highlighting Apulian ingredients and flavors.
EUR30, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Alberobello

Day 8: Drive to Ostuni

Alberobello to Ostuni, Italy on September 5, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast and Check-out

Have breakfast before leaving Alberobello to continue your journey.
EUR7, 1h

9:00am

Drive to Ostuni

Enjoy the roughly 50-minute drive to Ostuni, known as the White City.
EUR0, 0h50m

10:00am

Check-in and Ostuni Old Town Exploration

Explore the spectacular whitewashed old town, with its churches and panoramic viewpoints.
EUR0, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Osteria Piazzetta Cattedrale

Enjoy traditional Apulian dishes with a beautiful cathedral view.
EUR30, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Ostuni Cathedral and Walk City Walls

Discover the cathedral’s Romanesque architecture and walk the historic city walls.
EUR0, 2h

5:00pm

Relax at Hotel or Visit Local Artisan Shops

Spend your late afternoon relaxing or visiting local crafts shops.
EUR0, 2h

8:00pm

Dinner at Cibus Osteria Contemporanea

Experience contemporary Apulian cuisine that elevates local ingredients.
EUR35, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Alberobello to Ostuni

Day 9: Day Trip Martina Franca & Locorotondo

Ostuni with day trip to Martina Franca & Locorotondo, Italy on September 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Caffè delle Monache

Good coffee and pastries before your day trip.
EUR5, 0h45m

9:00am

Drive to Martina Franca

About 30-minute drive to the elegant baroque town of Martina Franca.
EUR0, 0h30m

9:30am

Explore Martina Franca

Wander through its baroque old town, visiting Piazza Plebiscito and Basilica di San Martino.
EUR0, 2h

11:30am

Drive to Locorotondo

Short 15-minute drive to the beautiful circular village with white buildings.
EUR0, 0h15m

12:00pm

Lunch at La Locanda di San Martino

Relax with lunch featuring local produce and wines in Locorotondo.
EUR30, 1h

1:30pm

Explore Locorotondo

Stroll the old town and enjoy panoramic views from viewpoints like Belvedere Maria Immacolata.
EUR0, 2h

3:30pm

Return to Ostuni

Drive back to your base in Ostuni and enjoy late afternoon at leisure.
EUR0, 0h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Il Gambero Rosso

Enjoy fresh seafood specialties in a relaxed atmosphere in Ostuni.
EUR35, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Ostuni with day trip to Martina Franca & Locorotondo

Day 10: Relax in Ostuni

Ostuni, Italy on September 7, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Caffetteria Hosteria

Traditional breakfast near the city center.
EUR6, 0h45m

9:00am

Beach Day at Torre Guaceto

Spend an entire relaxing day at this nearby natural reserve beach, about 20 minutes by car from Ostuni.
EUR0, 6h

3:00pm

Return to Ostuni and Leisure

Afternoon free for shopping or resting.
EUR0, 3h

7:30pm

Dinner at La Taverna della Gelosia

Cozy restaurant serving Apulian classics with a warm ambiance.
EUR30, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Ostuni

Day 11: Day Trip Lecce

Ostuni to Lecce, Italy (Day Trip) on September 8, 2025

7:30am

Early Breakfast and Drive to Lecce

Grab a quick breakfast then enjoy the 1hr 45min drive to Lecce, the Baroque gem of Puglia.
EUR7, 1h45m

9:30am

Explore Lecce Historic Center

Visit Piazza del Duomo, Basilica di Santa Croce, and Roman amphitheater.
EUR0, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Le Zie Trattoria

Enjoy homemade pasta and traditional Lecce cuisine.
EUR25, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Museo Faggiano

Discover Lecce’s archeological layers beneath this private home museum.
EUR3, 1h

3:30pm

Drive back to Ostuni

Return to Ostuni for evening relaxation.
EUR0, 1h45m

7:30pm

Dinner at Osteria Al Fornello da Ricci

Savor Apulian delicacies in a lovely old townhouse restaurant.
EUR30, 1h30m
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Day 12: Ostuni Leisure

Ostuni, Italy on September 9, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Bar Caffetteria Santa Lucia

Relaxed breakfast in the heart of Ostuni.
EUR6, 0h45m

9:00am

Visit Museo Civico di Ostuni

Learn about local history, art, and culture in this city museum.
EUR3, 1h

10:30am

Shopping and Leisure

Stroll downtown exploring shops and cafés at leisure.
EUR0, 4h

2:30pm

Afternoon siesta or spa time

Relax at hotel or enjoy a local spa treatment to rejuvenate.
EUR50, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Cibus Ristorante

Elegant dining with farm-to-table ingredients showcasing Puglian flavors.
EUR40, 1h30m
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Day 13: Drive to Lecce

Ostuni to Lecce, Italy on September 10, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast and Check-out

Light breakfast before departing Ostuni for Lecce.
EUR7, 1h

9:00am

Drive to Lecce

Approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes scenic drive southeast to Lecce.
EUR0, 1h45m

11:00am

Check-in and Relax

Settle into your Lecce hotel and prepare for local exploration.
EUR0, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at Ristorante Le Zie

Traditional Salento dishes served in a cozy setting.
EUR25, 1h

1:30pm

Walking Tour of Lecce

Visit key sites including Piazza Sant'Oronzo, the Duomo, and Santa Croce church.
EUR0, 3h

5:00pm

Coffee break at Caffè Alvino

Historic café perfect for a late afternoon espresso and people watching.
EUR5, 0h45m

7:30pm

Dinner at Osteria degli Spiriti

Enjoy creative regional cuisine in a stylish setting.
EUR35, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Ostuni to Lecce

Day 14: Day Trip to Gallipoli

Lecce, Italy with day trip to Gallipoli on September 11, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at pasticceria in Lecce

Start your day with a sweet pastry and coffee.
EUR5, 0h45m

9:00am

Drive to Gallipoli

Approximately 45-minute drive to this charming fishing town on the Ionian Sea.
EUR0, 0h45m

9:45am

Explore Gallipoli Old Town

Walk the historic center on the island, visit the castle and Santa Maria della Purità church.
EUR0, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Trattoria La Puritate

Delight in fresh seafood specialties with authentic local flavors.
EUR30, 1h30m

2:30pm

Beach time or stroll at Porto di Gallipoli

Relax on the beach or enjoy waterfront cafes.
EUR0, 2h

4:30pm

Return to Lecce

Drive back to Lecce to unwind.
EUR0, 0h45m

7:30pm

Dinner at La Cucina di Mamma Elvira

Home-style cooking in a charming atmosphere completes your day.
EUR30, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Lecce

Day 15: Day Trip to Otranto

Lecce, Italy with day trip to Otranto on September 12, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast and Early Drive to Otranto

Quick breakfast before the 1-hour drive to the easternmost town in Italy.
EUR7, 1h

9:00am

Discover Otranto Old Town

Explore Otranto Cathedral with its famous mosaic floor and the Aragonese Castle.
EUR0, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at L'altro Baffo

Seafood-focused lunch with fresh local ingredients in a cozy setting.
EUR30, 1h

2:00pm

Walk the coastal promenade

Enjoy the stunning views of the Adriatic Sea and rocky coastline.
EUR0, 1h

3:00pm

Return to Lecce

Relax during your drive back to Lecce.
EUR0, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Trattoria Le Zie

End your day with classic Salento dishes in a welcoming environment.
EUR30, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Lecce

Day 16: More Lecce Exploration

Lecce, Italy on September 13, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Pasticceria Natale

Traditional pastries and cappuccino to start your day.
EUR6, 0h45m

9:00am

Visit Museo Faggiano and Roman Amphitheater

Explore underground ruins and the Roman amphitheater highlighting Lecce’s history.
EUR5, 2h

11:30am

Relax at Villa Comunale Park

Enjoy a peaceful walk and shaded gardens in Lecce’s main park.
EUR0, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Osteria degli Spiriti

Contemporary takes on traditional cuisine using local produce.
EUR35, 1h

2:30pm

Shopping for local crafts

Visit artisan shops for Lecce’s famous papier-mâché crafts.
EUR0, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Vito

Enjoy refined Salentine dishes with excellent service.
EUR40, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Lecce

Day 17: Drive to Matera

Lecce to Matera, Italy on September 14, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast and Check-out

Early breakfast and pack for your trip to Matera.
EUR7, 1h

8:30am

Drive to Matera

Enjoy the 2-hour scenic drive northwest to Matera, famous for its ancient cave dwellings.
EUR0, 2h

10:30am

Check-in and Explore Sassi di Matera

Discover the UNESCO-listed Sassi cave dwellings and rock churches.
EUR0, 3h

1:30pm

Lunch at L'Abbondanza Lucana

Sample local Basilicata specialties in a charming setting.
EUR30, 1h

3:00pm

Visit Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario

Tour a traditional cave house showcasing historic Matera life.
EUR3, 1h

4:30pm

Panoramic viewpoint at Belvedere Pellegrino

Watch the sunset over the Sassi from this amazing lookout spot.
EUR0, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Ristorante Francesca

Experience sophisticated regional dishes in modern surroundings.
EUR35, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Lecce to Matera

Day 18: Matera History and Culture

Matera, Italy on September 15, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Caffè Tripoli

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast in Matera’s historic center.
EUR6, 0h45m

9:00am

Visit Museo Archeologico Nazionale

Explore artifacts from the region's prehistoric to modern era.
EUR5, 2h

11:30am

Chiesa Rupestre di San Pietro Barisano

Visit one of the largest cave churches in Matera.
EUR0, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Il Terrazzino

Enjoy panoramic views with your meal featuring local specialties.
EUR30, 1h

2:30pm

Free Time/Shopping

Explore local shops or relax before dinner.
EUR0, 3h

7:30pm

Dinner at Osteria Al Casale

Authentic regional dishes made with local ingredients.
EUR35, 1h30m
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Day 19: Matera Art and Leisure

Matera, Italy on September 16, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at La Cavenna Plateau

Unique breakfast inside a cave setting in Matera.
EUR8, 0h45m

9:00am

Visit Palombaro Lungo

Explore the enormous ancient underground cistern under Matera’s main square.
EUR5, 1h

10:30am

Photoshoot around Sassi neighborhoods

Capture stunning photos of Matera’s unique architecture and narrow alleys.
EUR0, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Baccanti

Contemporary cuisine highlighting local ingredients with artistic presentation.
EUR40, 1h

2:30pm

Relax or visit local art galleries

Browse galleries featuring works inspired by Matera’s landscapes.
EUR0, 3h

7:30pm

Dinner at Ristorante Francesca

Revisit this great option to savor more refined dishes.
EUR35, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Matera

Day 20: Return to Bari and Departure

Matera to Bari, Italy on September 17, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast and Check-out

Final breakfast in Matera and prepare for departure.
EUR7, 1h

8:30am

Drive back to Bari

Approximate 1 hour and 15-minute drive back for your flight.
EUR0, 1h15m

10:00am

Return rental car at Bari Airport

Drop off your rental car and check in for your flight.
EUR0, 1h

11:30am

Airport Lunch at Bari Airport

Grab a light lunch or snack at a café before boarding.
EUR15, 0h45m

1:30pm

Flight Bari to Rome

Depart from Bari to Rome via airline as planned.
EUR0, 1h15m
Find Hotels in Matera to Bari
0
Itinerary created by AI-assisted, human-reviewed

Plan Your Design a vacation in puglia starting on 8/29/25 at 3 pm in Bari on a Friday until Sunday, pick up rental car at Bari airport on Sunday, then go to monopoli on Sunday through Tuesday with a day trip on Monday to poligano a mare, drive to alberobello for three days from Tuesday to Thursday, ostuni for 5 days from Thursday to Monday with a day trip on Sunday to Martina Franca on and locorotundo, four days in lecce with a day trip to galipolli on Tuesday and a day trip to otranto on Wednesday, 3 days in matera from Wednesday to Saturday, drive to bari, and leave from bari to Rome on Saturday at 1:30 pm via airline. Renting a car. Trip

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