Dreaming of the sun-drenched olive groves, baroque towns, and turquoise Adriatic coastline of Puglia? You’re not alone. This southern gem of Italy has become a go-to for travelers looking for an authentic Italian experience away from the crowds. But before booking your ticket, there are a few key things to consider to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. From travel routes and airport options to local transport and seasonal weather—this guide breaks down 9 important things to think about before planning your trip to Puglia, Italy.
1. Decide Where in Puglia You Want to Go
Puglia (Apulia in Italian) is a large region stretching along the heel of Italy’s boot. It includes many diverse destinations:
Bari (the capital) – a historic port city with great transport links
Lecce – known as the “Florence of the South” for its baroque architecture
Alberobello – famous for its UNESCO-listed trulli houses
Polignano a Mare – cliffside beaches and stunning views
Ostuni, Monopoli, Gallipoli, and Otranto – charming towns with unique character
Choosing your target city or town helps determine the best arrival airport and transportation method. Puglia isn’t compact, so knowing your base helps reduce travel time and costs.
2. Consider Your Nearest International Airport
Getting to Puglia often involves connecting flights or train travel depending on your starting point. The region has two main airports:
Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport (BRI)
Brindisi Salento Airport (BDS)
Both offer domestic and some international flights. Direct flights to Puglia from outside Italy are limited, but you can usually connect through:
Rome (FCO)
Milan (MXP or LIN)
Naples (NAP)
Venice (VCE)
If you’re coming from the UK, Germany, or other parts of Europe, budget airlines like Ryanair, EasyJet, and Wizz Air offer seasonal routes to Bari and Brindisi.
3. Weigh Train Travel as an Option
If flying into Puglia is complicated or expensive, consider taking a train from another Italian city. Trenitalia and Italo offer high-speed and regional trains from:
Rome to Bari (\~4-5 hours)
Naples to Lecce (\~5-6 hours)
Florence to Brindisi (\~7 hours)
Trains are comfortable and often scenic, especially as you approach the coast. It’s also more eco-friendly than flying.
4. Understand Regional Transportation
Once in Puglia, you’ll need to consider how you’ll move around. Public transport between small towns can be limited, especially on weekends or in the off-season.
Options include:
Regional trains (Ferrovie del Sud Est) – affordable but may be infrequent
Buses – available but not always well-timed for tourists
Car rental – highly recommended for flexibility
Driving gives you the freedom to explore rural areas, coastal towns, and local beaches that are otherwise hard to reach.
5. Compare Travel Times and Connections
Not all routes to Puglia are equal. Depending on your origin city and the mode of transport, travel times can vary greatly.
For example:
London to Bari (direct flight): \~2.5 hours
Paris to Brindisi (with layover): \~5-6 hours
Rome to Lecce (train): \~5 hours
Milan to Bari (flight + transfer): \~3.5 hours total
Check flight and train timetables carefully, and plan layovers to avoid long waits or missed connections.
6. Plan Around the Best Time to Visit
Puglia’s climate is Mediterranean, with hot summers and mild winters. The best months to visit are:
May to June – pleasant weather, fewer crowds
September to early October – warm seas and lower prices
July and August – peak season, busy and hot
Traveling in the off-season (November to March) can mean limited flights, fewer local events, and some attractions closed.
7. Book Early During Peak Seasons
Puglia has grown in popularity over the past decade, especially in summer. If you’re planning to visit during July or August, book early:
Flights can be significantly cheaper if booked 2–3 months in advance
Accommodation in towns like Polignano a Mare or Ostuni fills up quickly
Car rentals can run out or become expensive in peak months
Booking early ensures you get better deals and a wider choice of options.
8. Check Visa and Entry Requirements
Before booking, confirm your visa requirements for Italy:
EU/EEA citizens: No visa needed
U.S., UK, Canada, Australia: No visa for stays under 90 days (Schengen rule)
Other countries: Check local Italian embassy or consulate
Also, ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay. Keep in mind that Italy is part of the Schengen Area, so your entry and stay will count toward that limit.
9. Factor in Your Budget
Your total cost of getting to Puglia depends on several variables:
Flight prices (direct vs connecting)
Train fares or bus passes
Airport transfers or car rentals
Time of year (peak vs off-season)
For budget-conscious travelers, a combination of budget flights + train travel may be ideal. If you’re going as a family or group, renting a car and sharing fuel costs might be the best value.
10. Pack for Flexibility
Whether you’re flying or taking the train, pack light and smart. Many small towns in Puglia have:
Cobbled streets
Limited public transport
ZTL zones (restricted car access)
Use a small rolling suitcase or backpack and pack for warm days and cool nights. Don’t forget swimwear, sunscreen, and good walking shoes.
Conclusion: Plan Smart for a Perfect Puglia Trip
Getting to Puglia, Italy, is worth every bit of planning. While the region might not be as straightforward to reach as Rome or Venice, its authentic charm, stunning coastlines, and relaxed lifestyle make it a destination unlike any other.
By considering where you’re going, your transport options, seasonal factors, and budget, you can craft a trip that’s smooth, efficient, and unforgettable. Whether you arrive by plane, train, or car, Puglia is sure to welcome you with open arms—and a plate of orecchiette.
FAQs About Getting to Puglia, Italy
1. What’s the fastest way to get to Puglia from Rome?
The fastest option is a direct flight to Bari or Brindisi, which takes about 1 hour. Alternatively, a high-speed train to Bari takes around 4 hours.
2. Do I need a car to explore Puglia?
While it’s not essential, renting a car is highly recommended to visit rural towns, beaches, and countryside areas that are not well-served by public transport.
3. Which airport is better: Bari or Brindisi?
It depends on your destination. Choose Bari for northern Puglia (like Polignano or Alberobello) and Brindisi for southern towns (like Lecce or Otranto).
4. Is it easy to get to Puglia by train?
Yes, Puglia is well-connected by train from cities like Rome, Naples, and Milan. Trains are affordable, comfortable, and scenic.
5. Are there budget airlines that fly to Puglia?
Yes. Budget carriers like Ryanair, EasyJet, and Wizz Air offer seasonal and year-round flights from European cities to Bari and Brindisi.
