You’ve just arrived at Bari Airport and have a week — or even just a weekend — ahead of you to discover one of the most beautiful regions in Italy. Puglia is large, diverse, and full of extraordinary places that cannot be reached by public transport. A car is the best way, if not the only one, to truly see it.
In this guide, we explain why renting a car in Bari is the perfect choice for exploring Puglia in total freedom, what to see starting from Bari, and how the Puglia by Car service works — no queues, no credit card required, and direct assistance.
Why You Need a Car to Explore Puglia
Puglia’s railway network is quite limited once you leave the main cities. Iconic spots like Ostuni, Alberobello, Locorotondo, Matera, the Salento beaches, the trulli of the Itria Valley, and the inland masserie (farmhouses) are almost impossible to reach conveniently by train or bus.
With a rental car, however, you have total freedom: you can leave whenever you want, stop wherever you please, explore the backroads, and discover hidden villages that you would never find in a guidebook. It’s a completely different way of traveling.
Exploring Puglia: Best Places to Visit from Bari
Bari is an excellent starting point for exploring both the north and south of the region. Here are the top destinations you can reach by car:
Itria Valley and the Trulli (1-2 hours from Bari)
Alberobello, Locorotondo, Cisternino, Martina Franca: the heart of the Itria Valley is about 60-80 km from Bari. The trulli of Alberobello are a UNESCO World Heritage site. Locorotondo is officially one of Italy's most beautiful villages. One full day is simply not enough to see it all.
Salento (2-2.5 hours from Bari)
Lecce, Otranto, Gallipoli, Santa Maria di Leuca: Salento is the tip of Italy’s 'heel.' Crystal-clear waters, stunning Lecce Baroque architecture, and extraordinary cuisine. With a car, you can drive along both the Adriatic and Ionian coasts, stopping at the most beautiful beaches along the way.
Gargano (2 hours north of Bari)
Vieste, Peschici, the Umbra Forest, and the Tremiti Islands: the Gargano promontory is completely different from the rest of Puglia. Green, wild, and featuring sheer cliffs overlooking the sea. It is extremely difficult to reach without a car.
Matera (1.5 hours from Bari)
Technically located in Basilicata, Matera is only 65 km from Bari. The Sassi — ancient cave dwellings carved into the rock — are a unique sight in the world. It’s a detour that is absolutely worth the trip.
Castel del Monte and the Murgia (1 hour from Bari)
The octagonal castle of Frederick II, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is located about 60 km from Bari on the Murgia plateau. Surrounding it is a 'lunar' landscape made of ravines (gravine), traditional farmhouses (masserie), and vineyards.
How Car Rental with Puglia by Car in Bari Works
"Puglia by Car is a local car rental provider with services at both Bari and Brindisi airports. Here is what sets us apart from the big international operators:
No Queues, No Desk
You don't have to wait in line at the airport counter. Your car is already waiting for you in the parking lot. You will receive all instructions via WhatsApp before you land: where to go, how to identify the car, and how to proceed. From the gate to your car: in less than a minute.
No Credit Card, No Security Deposit
Major international agencies often block between €800 and €1,500 on your account as a security deposit, and they only accept credit cards. With Puglia by Car, you can pay with a debit card, prepaid card, or cash. No funds blocked, no surprises.
One-Way Service: Pick up in Bari, Drop off in Brindisi
Planning an itinerary that starts in Bari and ends in Salento? You can pick up your car at Bari Airport and return it at Brindisi Airport — without having to drive back and with no extra costs. Perfect for those who want a linear journey through Puglia.
Local Assistance via WhatsApp
Having an issue with the car? Need a recommendation on where to eat or which road to take? With Puglia by Car, you talk to a real local person who knows Puglia like the back of their hand. No call centers, no bots.
Practical Tips for Driving in Puglia
- ZTL in historic centers: Bari, Lecce, Ostuni, and Alberobello have Limited Traffic Zones (ZTL). Park outside these areas and continue on foot. The entrances are clearly marked, but be extra careful during evening hours when restrictions are often active.
- Rural roads: Outside the main highways, you will often find narrow roads that aren't always well-marked. Download offline maps before you set off (Google Maps or Maps.me) to stay on the right track.
- High season: In July and August, coastal roads get very crowded. We recommend starting your trips early in the morning and using the central hours of the day to enjoy the beaches.
- Parking: In major cities, paid parking is the standard. Keep some coins handy or download the EasyPark app to manage your payments easily from your phone.
- Petrol: In small inland villages, gas stations can be rare. We suggest refueling whenever your tank drops below half to avoid any stress.
How Much Does it Cost to Rent a Car in Bari?
Rates vary based on the season, duration, and type of vehicle. Generally speaking:
- Low Season (October-April): very affordable rates and high availability.
- Mid Season (May-June, September): excellent value for money.
- High Season (July-August): we recommend booking at least 2-3 weeks in advance.
With Puglia by Car, the price you see is the price you pay: no airport surcharges, no extra driver fees, and no hidden penalties.
How to Book
Booking is done directly on pugliabycar.it in just a few minutes: choose your dates, car type, and pick-up and drop-off points. Once confirmed, you will immediately receive instructions via email or WhatsApp. For special requirements — such as child seats, hotel delivery, or specific vehicles — please contact us directly.
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