Puglia Itinerary Without a Car: 10 Day Guide to Southern Italy

Wander Anyway

Latest update: June 08, 2025

16 min read

Exploring Puglia without a car is easier than you’d think. Thanks to a reliable public transport network connecting its charming, walkable towns, you can navigate this region with ease. This 10-day Puglia itinerary without a car takes you through sun-drenched villages, historic cities, and dramatic coastal landscapes, all reachable by train or regional bus.
To help you travel smoothly, I’ve included key details for each destination. These include departure stations, ticket prices, journey times, and practical tips from my own experience.

Day 1: Bari to Lecce: Starting Your Puglia Itinerary Without a Car

My Puglia adventure began with a flight into Bari. The plan was straightforward: travel from the airport to Bari Centrale, then take a train to Lecce.

Getting to the city center offers several options — bus, subway, regional train, or taxi. The bus, at €4, was the cheapest choice, but we encountered a 45-minute wait for the next departure.

Instead of waiting, we chose the train. We located the yellow ticket machine (separate from Trenitalia’s) at the station and bought tickets for €5.30 per person. The ride to Bari Centrale took only 20 minutes.

From Bari Centrale, trains depart regularly to Lecce throughout the day. We caught the next available regional train. The two-hour journey cost €12.70 per ticket, which could be purchased at the station.

Lecce became our base for the next few days — perfect for exploring Puglia without a car.

Transport Summary

Bari Airport ➝ Bari Centrale:

Train (Ferrotramviaria): €5.30, ~20 min
Bus: €4, less frequent

Bari Centrale ➝ Lecce:

Regional Train (Trenitalia): €12.70, ~2 hrs
Ticket: Buy at the station or online, don’t forget to validate it

Tip: No train/bus changes required

Day 2: Full Day in Lecce

I spent the entire day exploring Lecce, one of Puglia’s most beautiful cities, often called the Florence of the South due to its stunning Baroque architecture. I recommend staying near the historic center, the town is wonderfully walkable, eliminating any need for public transport. My accommodation between the train station and the old town proved perfect, making both areas easily accessible on foot.

Lecce enchants visitors with its ornate churches, vibrant piazzas, and fascinating historical landmarks. Among the key sights, Piazza Sant’Oronzo stands out with its magnificent Roman Amphitheater, while the elegant Piazza del Duomo is perhaps the city’s most atmospheric square. If you have time for just one church, make it the Basilica di Santa Croce — its façade is one of southern Italy’s most intricate and impressive examples of Baroque architecture.

Of course, these highlights merely scratch the surface. Lecce offers a wealth of attractions, from tranquil gardens and ancient city gates to hidden churches and a majestic castle. Thanks to its walkable layout and central location, it’s the perfect starting point for any Puglia itinerary without a car. For more details, check out my full article on Lecce’s must-see spots.

Day 3: Lecce to Brindisi

The original plan for the day was to visit Torre dell’Orso, a beautiful beach destination south of Lecce. I had found a regional bus company online that seemed to connect Lecce with Torre dell’Orso. However, once we reached the Lecce bus station, the situation became confusing. Despite signs indicating service in that direction, staff at the ticket counter told us no buses were running that route.

Determined to make it work, we consulted Google, which directed us to an alternative bus stop. After rushing there, we found no sign of the suggested bus line. Unable to find reliable timetables online and suspecting this might be a seasonal route, we had to abandon our plan. (Being October, the service was likely limited or suspended for the off-season.)

Rather than waste the day, we headed to Lecce train station and decided to take the next train to any interesting destination. We arrived at 13:11, perfect timing to catch the 13:17 train to Brindisi. We quickly purchased tickets from the machine, validated them at the yellow stamp box, and boarded our train.

Though Brindisi wasn’t in our original car-free Puglia itinerary, it proved to be an unexpected delight. This historic port city offers a relaxed coastal atmosphere. From the station, we walked directly to the seafront and enjoyed lunch at a nearby restaurant. We then explored the Lungomare di Brindisi, taking in landmarks such as the Colonne Romane, the Fontana Vittorio Emanuele III, and the Castello Svevo (viewed from the outside). Our walk continued to the Monument to the Italian Sailor, leading us through a peaceful stretch of the city with continuous sea views.

If you’re planning to explore more places from Lecce without a car, I’ve also written a separate guide that covers how to visit Otranto, Gallipoli, and Brindisi by train.

Transport Summary: Lecce to Brindisi by Train

Route: Direct regional train from Lecce to Brindisi
Journey time: 30–40 minutes
Cost: Around €3.40 per person (one way)
Bonus: No train changes required

Day 4: Lecce to Gallipoli

On the fourth day of our Puglia itinerary, we took the train from Lecce to Gallipoli, a charming coastal town known for its historic old center and sandy beaches. Like many towns in Puglia, Gallipoli’s train station is conveniently located, in this case, just along Lungomare Marconi, within walking distance of the historic center.

Gallipoli is split into two distinct areas: the modern city on the mainland and the old town, located on an island and connected by a short bridge. We focused our visit on the old town, but before crossing over, we walked along both sides of the shore to enjoy the views. From the mainland, you’ll pass the Fontana Greca, and as you approach the bridge, you’ll spot the impressive Gallipoli Castle and the small fishing ports just below it.

Crossing into the old town feels like stepping back in time. Narrow cobblestone streets are lined with restaurants, cafés, souvenir shops, churches, and traditional houses. We made our way to Spiaggia della Purità, a lovely city beach right beneath the old walls. To my surprise, people were still swimming in October, and I quickly regretted not bringing a swimsuit.

We spent the afternoon wandering the circular route around the old town, enjoying the relaxed atmosphere and occasional sea views. Gallipoli is compact and walkable, making it a perfect day trip from Lecce.

If you’re interested in more day trip ideas from Lecce, including Gallipoli, Otranto, and Brindisi, check out this post: Day Trips from Lecce by Train: Otranto, Gallipoli and Brindisi

Transport Summary: Lecce to Gallipoli by Train

Route: Direct regional train from Lecce to Gallipoli
Journey time: 1.5 to 2 hours
Cost: €5 per person (one way)

Day 5: Lecce to Otranto by Train: A Must on Any Puglia Itinerary Without a Car

Of the three day trips I took from Lecce, Otranto was my favorite. Don’t get me wrong, Gallipoli and Brindisi are beautiful in their own right, but Otranto had something extra. Whether it was the warm October sun, the welcoming atmosphere, or the mix of sea views and medieval history, this coastal town left a lasting impression. A perfect example of the places you can discover on a Puglia itinerary without a car.

The town is small enough to explore on foot, yet it offers an impressive variety of sights and scenery. After a short walk downhill from the train station, you arrive at the lungomare, with a stunning view of the beach straight ahead. To your left, the Cappella della Madonna dell’Altomare overlooks the sea, a peaceful spot with panoramic views. To your right lies the historic old town, complete with a castle, fortress walls, charming narrow alleys, and additional beaches tucked into coves.

After missing out on swimming in Gallipoli, I came prepared this time. Despite it being mid-October, the weather was still warm and inviting, so I started the day with a refreshing swim. The rest of the afternoon was spent wandering the old town, stopping for views, and soaking up the relaxed coastal vibe until sunset.

Otranto is not just photogenic, it’s also one of the most atmospheric towns in southern Italy and a favorite stop on my Puglia itinerary without a car.

You can read more about how to visit Otranto in this related guide: Otranto Day Trip from Lecce: Train Tips and Things to Do

Transport Summary: Lecce to Otranto by Train

Route: Regional train from Lecce to Otranto with a change in Maglie
Journey time: Around 1 hour 45 minutes
Cost: €4.20 per person (one way)

Day 6: Lecce to Bari

Although we landed in Bari at the start of the trip, we didn’t take time to explore it right away. After spending five days based in Lecce, we took the train back north and made Bari our home base for the rest of the itinerary, thanks to its well-connected train and bus links to other towns in the region.

Since we had a free half day after arriving, we spent the afternoon strolling through Bari Vecchia, the city’s old town, and enjoying the seaside promenade. Compared to the smaller towns we’d visited earlier, Bari felt much bigger and busier. There’s no shortage of things to do here: churches, piazzas, street food, local markets, and sea views all within walking distance.

While I prefer the atmosphere of the lesser-known and quieter towns, Bari has its charm and is worth exploring, especially if you’re looking for a livelier, more urban vibe.

Transport Summary: Lecce to Bari by Train

Route: Direct regional or Intercity train from Lecce to Bari Centrale
Journey time: 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours (depending on train type)
Cost: €11–€16 per person (one way)
Tip: Bari makes a great base for the second half of your Puglia itinerary

Day 7: All Day in Bari

Day 7 was dedicated entirely to exploring Bari, and it turned out to be one of the most relaxed and enjoyable days of the trip. We spent the day walking, trying local food, and soaking in the city’s energy. Bari has a lively yet laid-back feel that’s easy to enjoy at your own pace.

We started in Bari Vecchia, wandering through its maze of narrow streets where locals sit outside their homes making fresh orecchiette. From there, we passed through Piazza Mercantile, a lively square surrounded by historic buildings and cafés, and continued to the impressive Swabian Castle (Castello Normanno-Svevo).

We also walked by the Teatro Margherita, a striking building built over the water, before heading to the lungomare, Bari’s scenic seaside promenade. The walk is long but beautiful, stretching to Pane e Pomodoro Beach, a local spot where people swim, sunbathe, or just enjoy the sea breeze.

This day was all about slow travel, enjoying the rhythms of the city, and discovering spots that don’t always make it into guidebooks.

Day 8: Bari to Ostuni and Monopoli

The original plan for Day 8 was to visit Matera, but when we reached the station, we learned a regional strike had suspended trains and buses for two days. The Matera line, operated by Ferrovie Appulo Lucane (FAL), runs from a separate station next to Bari Centrale, so we had to pivot quickly.

Luckily, being based in Bari gave us backup options. So, we returned to Bari Centrale, checked the board, and caught the next train to Ostuni, a hilltop town already on my list.

Often referred to as the White City, Ostuni is a picturesque hilltop town with winding alleys, bright white buildings, and scenic viewpoints. During our visit, I enjoyed its peaceful vibe, perfect for a half-day trip. Together, we explored the cathedral, wandered through charming piazzas, and admired the views over olive groves and the Adriatic Sea in the distance. Overall, you can easily enjoy a meal and visit the main highlights in about 3–4 hours.

For full details on what to do and how to get there, check out my guide: How to Get from Bari to Ostuni: Complete Day Trip Guide

Instead of heading straight back to Bari, we took advantage of the day and continued to Monopoli, a small coastal town brimming with charm. From the station, it’s a short walk to the compact old town, filled with highlights—from the colorful Porto Antico and its iconic blue boats to the seaside Castello Carlo V and the scenic lungomare that curves along the town walls.

My favorite spot was Cala Porta Vecchia, a beach tucked beneath the old walls, perfect for a quick rest or afternoon swim. Monopoli moves at a slower pace than many popular destinations, which is exactly what makes it so appealing.

Transport Summary: Bari ➝ Ostuni ➝ Monopoli

Bari to Ostuni by train:

€6.80 per person (one way), ~1 hr 10 min
Ostuni station to the old town: ~2.5 km walk or €2 bus ride

Ostuni to Monopoli by train:

€3 per person, ~20–22 minutes

Monopoli back to Bari:

Frequent direct trains, ~30 minutes

Day 9: Exploring Alberobello and Polignano: Puglia Itinerary Without a Car Ideas

On Day 9, our Puglia itinerary without a car brought us to two destinations that perfectly capture the charm and diversity of the region: Alberobello and Polignano a Mare.

Our first stop was Alberobello, known for its traditional trulli houses and UNESCO World Heritage status. Since there’s no direct train from Bari, and the train takes much longer, we chose the quicker, more convenient bus.

Alberobello is small and easy to explore on foot. You can see most of it in just a few hours, though it’s no longer a hidden gem. The Rione Monti area, packed with clustered trulli and souvenir shops, is the busiest part of town, especially in high season. For a quieter experience, I recommend exploring Rione Aia Piccola or nearby residential streets. These offer a more authentic feel and fewer crowds.

If you’re wondering whether it lives up to the hype, I’ve written a full article exploring that question here.

After a few hours of wandering through Alberobello, we caught the bus back to Bari, then transferred onto a regional train to Polignano a Mare, one of Puglia’s most photogenic coastal towns.

Polignano is perched dramatically on cliffs above the Adriatic, with houses and viewpoints overlooking the turquoise sea. It’s compact and easy to explore on foot. We visited the famous Lama Monachile beach, walked to the cliffside terraces, saw the Domenico Modugno statue, and explored the narrow alleys of the old town. The atmosphere here is both romantic and dramatic, completely different from Alberobello, and yet equally memorable.

For a comparison of Polignano a Mare vs. Monopoli, along with things to do in each, read the article here.

Transport Summary: Bari ➝ Alberobello ➝ Polignano a Mare

Bari to Alberobello by bus:

€5 per person (one way)
Just over 1 hour
Departs from Largo Sorrentino (check schedules in advance)

Alberobello to Bari:

Same bus line, return journey

Bari to Polignano a Mare by train:

€3 per person (one way)
~30 minutes
Direct regional train from Bari Centrale

Day 10: Bari to Matera (Bonus Trip Outside Puglia)

Although this is a Puglia itinerary, I highly recommend adding Matera to your trip, even if it’s technically in the neighboring region of Basilicata. It’s one of Italy’s most unique cities and is still easily accessible from Bari.

We traveled to Matera on our final day, taking the FAL (Ferrovie Appulo Lucane) train. This route requires a quick change in Altamura. While most people get off at Matera Centrale, we stayed on for one more stop and exited at Matera Sud. From there, we walked toward the city center. Nature flanked one side, caves the other, and the dramatic Sassi di Matera slowly came into view. It was one of the most scenic approaches to any town during our trip.

Whichever station you choose, make sure to wear comfortable shoes. Matera involves a lot of walking, and many of the old stone paths are uneven and steep.

Once in the old town, don’t miss the Church of Saint Mary of Idris, the incredible viewpoints over the Sassi, Piazza Vittorio Veneto, the Palombaro Lungo (an ancient underground cistern), and the winding alleys that make this city unforgettable. If you want to make the most of your visit, check out my full guide here.

Transport Summary: Bari to Matera by Train (FAL)

Route: Bari ➝ Altamura ➝ Matera (FAL line)
Travel time: ~1.5 hours
Cost: ~€6 one way / €12 round trip
Stops: Matera Centrale or Matera Sud (we chose Sud for the scenic walk)
Where to buy: FAL ticket office next to Bari Centrale or via the FAL website
Tip: Check strike schedules and timetables in advance. This route is not operated by Trenitalia

Traveling through Puglia without a car is not only feasible but surprisingly enjoyable. With well-connected train lines and walkable towns, you can explore the region’s highlights at a relaxed pace. This 10-day journey offers a mix of historic cities, coastal escapes, and unique cultural experiences — all accessible by public transport. From Lecce’s ornate streets to the cliffs of Polignano and the ancient stone paths of Matera, this itinerary proves that a car-free approach doesn’t mean missing out. Instead, it allows you to see Puglia differently, through local rhythms, slower travel, and meaningful moments.

More Italy Travel Guides and Inspiration

Planning more adventures in Italy? Check out these travel guides to help you explore Puglia and beyond!

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