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Planning a short trip to Puglia? You’re in the right place!
This region at the heel of Italy’s boot is bursting with personality, from whitewashed towns and cliffside villages to fresh orecchiette pasta and vibrant piazzas filled with locals. With just three days, we recommend splitting your time between Bari and Lecce, two lively cities that make it easy to explore both the coastline and the culture.
Along the way, you’ll discover postcard-perfect spots, dive into Puglian food traditions, and enjoy evenings of aperitivo as the streets come alive. Three days go quickly, but it’s more than enough to get a real taste of Puglia.
Ready to get started? Let’s go!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did in Puglia was this street food tour in Bari! Wandering the old town’s narrow lanes, tasting panzerotti, focaccia, and gelato while hearing local stories made us fall completely in love with the city.
Check out the 1,100+ 5-star reviews and book this tour here!
Itinerary Overview
Getting around Puglia is part of the adventure! The region has a good highway network, and while you can travel by train, they aren’t nearly as connected as in other parts of Italy. We’d definitely recommend renting a car, since it gives you the flexibility to hop between coastal towns and inland gems without wasting precious time. Driving here is straightforward, and the routes often reward you with beautiful sea views along the way.
In three days, you’ll cover a lot without ever feeling rushed. This itinerary splits time between Bari and Lecce, so you get the best mix of historic old towns, unforgettable food, and a couple of can’t-miss tours. By the end of the trip, you’ll have experienced Puglia’s charm from every angle: iconic trulli villages, dramatic cliffs, Baroque streets, and even a boat ride to hidden caves.
Day 1: Take a full-day guided tour from Bari to Alberobello, Monopoli, and Polignano a Mare before returning for aperitivo and dinner in Bari’s old town.
Day 2: Enjoy a morning stroll along Bari’s waterfront, join a guided street food tour, then road trip south to Lecce for an evening exploring the centro storico.
Day 3: Head to Santa Maria di Leuca for a boat tour of the caves, stop for lunch in Lecce, then cap off your trip with a history and food tour followed by an evening passeggiata and rooftop drinks.
Day 1
Full day – Take a day trip to Alberobello, Monopoli, and Polignano a Mare
We can’t think of a better way to start three days in Puglia than by heading straight out to some of its most iconic towns. This full-day tour departs from central Bari at 10 am and makes it effortless to see a mix of inland charm and coastal beauty, all without the hassle of renting a car. With a comfortable, air-conditioned ride and plenty of local insight along the way, it’s the perfect introduction to the region.
First up is Alberobello, home to the famous trulli houses with their conical stone roofs. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site for a reason! While the tour doesn’t include a guided walk in each town, your driver gives some background and suggestions before dropping you off, so you can make the most of your free time.
Next, you’ll stop in Monopoli, a charming seaside town where you’ll have time to explore the waterfront, peek into quiet alleyways, and grab a quick bite by the harbor. The pace is relaxed, and we loved having the flexibility to go at our own rhythm.
The last stop is the showstopper—Polignano a Mare. Perched dramatically above the Adriatic, this cliffside town is one of Puglia’s most iconic sights. You’ll have time to wander through its old town, admire the terraces with sweeping sea views, and make your way to Lama Monachile, the famous beach tucked between limestone cliffs. Every corner feels like a postcard moment, and it’s the kind of place you’ll want to linger, camera in hand, soaking it all in.
By the time you return to Bari around 6:30 pm, you will have covered some of Puglia’s greatest hits, without the stress of driving. It’s easy to see why this tour has earned over a HUNDRED five-star reviews, blending comfort, variety, and plenty of time to explore at your own pace.
Fill up your camera on this scenic day out, check their reviews, and book here!
Evening – Aperitivo and dinner in Old Town Bari
After the busy day tour, we made our way back to Bari and returned to the heart of the old town for a laid-back evening of aperitivo and dinner. There’s something magical about Bari Vecchia as the sun sets, with lantern-lit alleyways, families chatting in the street, and that warm coastal breeze drifting through the piazzas.
We started with drinks at The Ciclatera Under the Sea, a tucked-away spot with cozy outdoor tables and a perfect view as golden hour washed over the old city walls. It was the kind of place where time slows down, a drink, a few snacks, and nowhere else to be.
After the aperitivo, we wandered slowly through the old town, soaking up the evening’s buzz and the narrow, stone streets before settling in for dinner at Sopravento da Sergione. This intimate spot served up hearty local dishes with generous portions and a warm, welcoming vibe. It was the perfect way to end the day!
Day 2
Morning – Walk the Lungomare
With our food tour starting today at 11:30 am, we have time to ease into the day, and the Lungomare Nazario Sauro is the perfect place to do it. We grabbed coffee and flaky pastries at Faros Cafè, then wandered down the scenic seaside promenade, where locals jog, chat, and soak up the Adriatic breeze, with pastel buildings on one side and fishing boats bobbing on the other.
It’s not a place to rush through. The fresh air, calm sea, and relaxed pace made it an ideal way to start our day. Once you’ve had your fill of the view, it’s just a short walk over to the edge of Bari Vecchia, right on time to kick off the next tour.
Midday – Taste your way around Bari
One of the best ways to get to know Bari is through its food, and this 3-hour street food tour through Bari Vecchia is a delicious way to dive right in. Starting at 11:30 am in a quiet little piazza on the edge of the old town, the tour quickly blends history, culture, and plenty of flavor into one memorable afternoon.
With a local guide leading the way, you’ll wander the maze-like alleyways of the old town, stopping to sample panzerotti stuffed with gooey cheese, focaccia barese straight from the oven, and even panino col polpo, a grilled octopus sandwich that often ends up being everyone’s favorite bite.
The route winds through some of Bari’s most striking landmarks, including the sun-drenched Piazza dell’Odegitria, the pale stone Cattedrale di San Sabino, and the Museo Civico. Along the way, the food is balanced with stories and context that make the city feel even more alive.
What makes this tour stand out is the authentic, personal touch. You’ll pop into family-run bakeries, share espresso with locals, and end with a scoop (or two) of homemade gelato. By the time the tour wraps up around 2:30 pm, you won’t just feel full, you’ll feel like you’ve truly connected with Bari. It’s no surprise this experience has more than 1,000 glowing five-star reviews!
Book this tour here and enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
Afternoon – Travel to Lecce
After filling up on Bari’s street food, it’s time to hit the road toward Lecce. The drive takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes, and much of the route hugs the coast, so you’ll catch plenty of pretty sea views along the way. Having a car makes this leg of the trip super straightforward, and we actually enjoyed the journey almost as much as the destination.
Plan on arriving in Lecce after 5 pm, giving yourself time to check into your hotel and freshen up. From there, the evening is all about soaking in the charm of the centro storico and settling into one of our favorite dinner spots.
Dinner/Evening – Lecce Centro Storico
Your first evening in Lecce is all about getting lost in the historic center. The baroque architecture glows beautifully at night, and there’s something magical about wandering the narrow streets as the city starts to come alive. Since most restaurants don’t open until around 7 or 7:30 pm, this is the perfect chance to stroll past ornate churches, peek into little piazzas, and enjoy the atmosphere before dinner.
When it’s time to eat, you’ve got two excellent options. For a high-end experience, Tabisca “il Vico dei Tagliati” serves up some of the best steak in town, with a menu that’s perfect for a celebratory meal. If you’re keeping things more budget-friendly, TAULA is a fantastic choice with plenty of local flavor. Both are right in the heart of the centro storico, so whichever you choose, you’ll be dining in style surrounded by Lecce’s historic charm.
Related Read: If you’re planning to spend more time in the city, don’t miss our full 3-day Bari itinerary here—it’s packed with local favorites, food tours, and easy day trips.
Day 3
Morning – Visit the Caves of Santa Maria di Leuca
Santa Maria di Leuca is where the Adriatic and Ionian seas meet, and exploring its coastline by boat is pure magic! This three-hour cruise gives you front-row views of dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters, and the caves that make this corner of Salento so special. With a guide onboard to share stories about the history and geography of the area, it’s the kind of outing that blends sightseeing with relaxation.
We picked the 10 am option and drove for about an hour from Leece (which was totally worth it!). Getting to see the caves up close while still staying at a safe distance was so much fun. From hidden grottoes sparkling in the sunlight to stretches of wild coastline, every turn seemed to reveal something new.
What made it even better was the friendly atmosphere, chatting with fellow travelers as the sea breeze kicked up and snapping photos of views that looked straight out of a postcard.
There’s something unforgettable about being out on the water here, seeing where two seas collide and hearing local tales that bring the landscape to life. It’s a laid-back adventure, easy to join and rewarding whether you’re a first-time visitor or coming back to Puglia for more.
Sail the coast and discover Leuca’s caves here!
Lunch – Too Much – Brunch e Café
Back in Lecce after your morning adventure, you’ll probably be ready for a bite to eat before the food tour kicks off later. Around 2 pm is a great time to stop for something light, and we found Too Much – Brunch e Café to be just the spot. It’s casual, friendly, and perfect for recharging without overdoing it.
The menu leans toward fresh salads, sandwiches, and easy brunch-style plates, which makes it ideal when you want something filling but not too heavy. Since it closes at 4 pm and sits just outside the historic center, it’s also a convenient stop before heading back in for the evening. We left feeling satisfied but still excited for all the food to come later in the day!
Late afternoon/Dinner – Discover Lecce’s history, architecture, and street food
We hope you’ve got some space left! Kicking off at 5 pm, this popular food and history tour will introduce you to the city’s most stunning baroque landmarks, while you learn quirky stories from your guide and nibble on local specialties that we still dream about.
Wandering through the old town at a relaxed pace, you’ll stop at the Basilica of Santa Croce and Piazza Sant’Oronzo, where your guide makes history feel lighthearted and easy to follow.
But the best part? Each pause comes with a treat—think freshly baked pastries oozing with cheese, crunchy snacks, and other little bites that show off Lecce’s food scene. It’s like a tour and more like being shown around by a friend who knows all the best spots!
By the time you wrap up around 7:30 pm, you’ll be full of both food and fun stories about the city. This is such a great option if you want to combine sightseeing with eating, especially if you’re short on time. You’ll walk away knowing more about Lecce, with a happy stomach and plenty of new favorites to track down later.
Check availability and taste Lecce’s flavors here!
Evening – Passeggiata, rooftop drinks, and dessert!
With dinner already sorted thanks to your earlier food tour, the evening is all yours to enjoy Lecce at a slower pace. One of our favorite Italian traditions is the passeggiata, an evening stroll that locals use to socialize and unwind. Lecce is especially magical for this—the baroque architecture glows beautifully under the night lights, and every piazza feels alive with energy.
After your walk, settle in for a drink at Folia Bar & Lab (closed Tuesdays), a stylish rooftop spot with a fun, creative vibe. And to end on a sweet note, head to Settimo Cielo for gelato. Trust us, a scoop (or two) here while taking in the nighttime buzz of Lecce is the perfect way to wrap up your Puglian adventure!
Related Read: If you’re spending extra time in the city, our detailed best things to do in Bari guide has plenty of ideas to fill your itinerary.
Where to Stay in Puglia, Italy
Choosing where to stay in Puglia really comes down to how you want to split your time. Since this itinerary covers both Bari and Lecce, we’d recommend booking hotels in each city so you can enjoy the highlights without too much backtracking. Below are our favorite options in both spots, with something for every budget. Just keep in mind that hotels here book up fast, so reserve your stay early to secure your spot!
Bari
Luxury – $$$
Set along Bari’s sparkling seafront, JR Hotels Bari Grande Albergo delle Nazioni is the city’s only five-star hotel, and it shows. With sweeping Adriatic views, an ocean-facing rooftop pool, and elegant rooms styled in soft marine tones, this urban retreat blends luxury with coastal charm.
Rates typically range from €250 to over €1,000+ per night. Book your luxury stay now on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
Residence Hotel Moderno is a solid mid-range option in Bari, just a 10-minute walk from the central train station and close to Quintino Sella metro. Rooms and suites are spacious, clean, and air-conditioned, with flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi. Some even feature kitchenettes and balconies!
Rates typically range from €100–€180 per night. Check availability and prices on Booking.com.
Budget – $
For a stylish and affordable stay in Bari, Habari We Dorm hits the mark! Located just a short walk from the train station and Bari’s historic center, this cozy hostel offers air-conditioned dorms, a fully equipped kitchen, and a chill communal vibe.
Beds start around €45 per night. Book your budget stay now on Booking.com.
Related Read: Want more hotel options for Bari? Check out our full guide on where to stay in Bari here, with detailed neighborhood tips and recommendations for every budget.
Lecce
Luxury – $$$
Palazzo Sant’Anna Lecce blends historic charm with modern comfort right in the city’s baroque heart. Rooms come with balconies or terraces, wellness extras like yoga classes, and a standout breakfast featuring local specialties and fresh pastries. Just steps from Lecce Cathedral, it’s a serene yet central stay.
Rates average €300–€500 per night. Book your luxury stay on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
Hotel Delle Palme offers comfort and convenience just a 10-minute walk from Lecce’s historic center. Spacious, air-conditioned rooms include Wi-Fi, TVs, and private bathrooms, while the on-site restaurant serves both Salento specialties and Italian classics. A generous daily breakfast adds to the value!
Rates average around €150 per night. Check availability here on Booking.com!
Budget – $
Arryvo Hotel combines a central Lecce location with a youthful, social vibe. Rooms are modern and comfortable with air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, and minibars, while the restaurant and bar serve everything from brunch to cocktails. A sun terrace, games room, and live music nights make it more than just a place to sleep.
Rates average €100–€150 per night. Book your budget stay here!
Related Read: If you’re still deciding where to base yourself, our full where to stay in Puglia guide breaks down the best towns and hotels for every style and budget.
Renting a Car in Italy
Renting a car in Italy is one of the best ways to explore the country beyond the cities—think charming Tuscan villages, dramatic Amalfi Coast drives, and hidden gems in the countryside. While Italy’s roads can be a little chaotic (especially in cities), with the right preparation, renting a car here can be an unforgettable and rewarding experience!
We always use Discover Cars when booking our rentals, and highly recommend them. They compare dozens of providers to find you the best rates, include important filters like “automatic transmission,” and offer affordable full insurance coverage. For more info, you can read our in-depth Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in Italy
- Drive on the right: Italians drive on the right-hand side of the road and overtake on the left. Right turns on red are illegal, and you must often yield to vehicles coming from the right at intersections.
- Stay alert and confident: Italian driving can feel aggressive in cities—expect assertive drivers, scooters weaving through traffic, and liberal horn use (often just a form of communication). Stay calm and practice defensive driving.
- Insurance is a must: We highly recommend adding full coverage insurance when booking. Minor damage like scratches and dents is common, especially in cities, and Discover Cars’ full protection gives you peace of mind at a low cost!
- Mind the ZTL zones: Many city centers have restricted traffic zones called ZTLs. Entering without a permit can result in a fine. Check with your hotel and use GPS with ZTL alerts.
- Choose the right vehicle: Roads in Italy can be narrow and parking tight, so a compact car is usually best. Most rentals are manual, but if you need an automatic, you can easily filter for one when booking with Discover Cars.
What You Need to Rent a Car in Italy
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- If you’re from outside the EU, you’ll likely need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
- You must be at least 18 years old, but renters under 25 may incur a young driver surcharge.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring Italy on your own terms!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
Puglia is so much more than just beaches and olive groves—it’s a region bursting with life, flavor, and heart. Between Bari’s lively old town, Lecce’s baroque beauty, and the whitewashed villages along the coast, every stop feels like a discovery. Whether you’re road-tripping through trulli towns, sailing to hidden caves, or sampling Bari’s street food, Puglia delivers that authentic Italian charm we fell in love with.
If you’re planning more adventures in Italy, check out our other Italy travel guides here! We love sharing our favorite cities, tours, and insider tips to help you plan unforgettable trips across the country. Or, keep scrolling for a few related posts to inspire your next getaway!
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