Deciding on places to visit in 5 days in Puglia was a bit of a challenge. I chose to explore Puglia without a car, but even if I had taken a road trip, narrowing down the bucket list for this region felt impossible.
Italy’s heel is packed with dreamy beaches, natural scenery, sun-drenched villages, and imposing historical landmarks, and you can’t experience it all in less than a week.
I was more than happy with my final choices, so if you need help planning a Puglia itinerary that doesn’t require driving (and car rental expenses), you’re welcome to draw inspiration from this post.
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*I try to keep the information on this blog as updated as possible, but I still recommend consulting the latest prices, opening hours, and other details on the official website of each site, hotel, and tour, as well as checking the updated public transport routes and timetables.
5-Day Puglia Itinerary Without a Car – Summary and Map
Click here to access the MyMaps interactive map of this trip itinerary.
In 5 days, I could only focus on a specific area of Puglia, and here’s a quick summary of my trip (based in the city of Bari):
Days 1+2: Bari, Puglia’s capital and an underrated Italian city.
Day 3: Alberobello, known for its unique Trulli houses (optional: Locorotondo).
I traveled to Alberobello independently, but you could explore it with a guide and visit some more towns with these day tours from Bari to:
1. Alberobello, Polignano a Mare, and Monopoli, gorgeous coastal towns
2. Alberobello and Matera, one of the oldest cities in the world
3. Alberobello, Martina Franca, and Locorotondo
Day 4: Polignano a Mare + Monopoli, two magnificent coastal towns.
Day 5: Trani, a hidden gem in Puglia (optional: Giovinazzo).
I could have spent just one day in Bari instead of two to visit Matera, Ostuni, Cisternino, Grotte di Castellana, Castel del Monte, or other places in the area, but I guess those will have to wait until the next time I’m in Puglia.
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Where to Stay in Puglia Without a Car?
My Choice – Bari
Bari is a great choice if you prefer basing yourself in one main place and taking day trips (like I did) instead of staying each night in another town.
The two best districts to stay in Bari are Murat, the more modern part of the city, and Bari Vecchia, the enchanting old town.
I chose to book my accommodation in Murat as it is conveniently located between Bari Vecchia and the train station.
This was a solo trip, and I stayed at B&B Alighieri 97, which, like many guesthouses in Europe, is housed in a residential building. It’s a super simple B&B, yet it’s clean, comfy, and with an ideal location near many restaurants, cafes, and shopping streets.
A higher-rated accommodation in Murat is BARI 102: Rated 9.8 and located near the shopping street near Via Sparano, this B&B offers modern rooms and suites for 2-5 people (with a small balcony) and a highly-rated breakfast buffet.
If you want to stay in Bari Vecchia, check out TRESCA CHARME luxury Rooms: Situated near Basilica San Nicola, this accommodation offers spacious apartment-like rooms (with a small kitchen) for 2-4 people, some of which have a private terrace.
Other Options
Other cities from which it should be fairly easy to take day trips and travel in Puglia by train and bus are Brindisi and Lecce, and they will allow you to explore the Salento peninsula by taking day trips to places like Taranto, Otranto, Gallipoli, and Specchia, to name a few.
Browse accommodations in Brindisi and Lecce.
If you’re seeking a unique experience, you can also book a stay in a Masseria, a traditional estate-like farmhouse from the 16th century, or a trullo, Puglia’s renowned stone hut. A highly rated one is Il Trullo Gentile.
Another unique option is to book a stay at Hotel Grotta Palazzese in the beautiful coastal town of Polignano a Mare, an infamous cliffside hotel & restaurant.
WHAT TO EXPECT & ARE 5 DAYS IN PUGLIA ENOUGH?
To me, it felt like five days were only enough to see a very small part of Puglia.
Being ruled by the Greeks, Romans, and Normans (to name a few), it’s a historically and culturally fascinating Italian region.
While its pristine beaches make it a beloved summer destination, it has so much more to offer, from whitewashed towns, medieval castles, and archeological sites, to olive groves, vineyards, and national parks.
It’s worth knowing that Puglia is the birthplace of my beloved burrata cheese, the largest producer of olive oil in Italy, and a surprising destination for wine lovers.
You can take quite a lot of day trips from Bari and still only scratch the surface of this intriguing region, and if you want to explore it from north to south, you’ll need a lot more time than just 5 days.
If you’re a first-time visitor, I’d suggest spending at least 7-10 days in Puglia. If you can extend that to 14 days, I’d add Lecce as one more base for day trips, like the Cave of Poetry (Grotta della Poesia) and Otranto.
Getting Around Puglia By Train and Bus
Yes, taking a Puglia road trip will give you much more flexibility, but it’s also fairly easy to use public transportation in this region.
From Bari Centrale train station (and the streets around it), it’s easy to catch buses and regional trains to many destinations across Puglia.
When it comes to intercity buses, save time and energy and buy your ticket in advance online because there’s no proper bus ticket office.
Train tickets are much easier to purchase on-site, as you’ll find a ticket office and machines inside the station, alongside which you’ll see a digital departure board and info-point workers who can assist you.
Tickets bought at the station will almost always be imprinted with the date only, so you need to validate them using one of the machines on the platform (there are no validation machines on the train).
On the back side of your ticket, you’ll see arrow marks showing you how to insert it into the machine.
As for online purchases, your e-ticket will indicate both the date and hour of the train ride, so validation isn’t necessary. Plus, if you’re visiting in the high season, the queues at the station might be long, so having an e-ticket will save you time.
In other towns, there are ticket machines on the platform itself, but you can also purchase a round-trip ticket in Bari.
I love booking my tickets on Omio, which compares bus and train prices in one place. Note that it shows results that include bus and train changes, so look for “0 changes” if you’re looking for a direct route.
Days 1+2
Bari
Even though it’s Puglia’s capital city, it seems like Bari isn’t seen as a highlight of such a picturesque region, which I can understand, but I still think it’s worth spending some time here.
You can adjust this itinerary by adding another day trip and spending only one day instead of two in Bari.
From Ancient Greece to the Norman conquest to the Napoleonic Kingdom of Naples, it’s safe to say that Bari is steeped in history, yet, it also caters to those seeking cultural activities, delicious food, and relaxing beaches.
Some highly-rated activities you can book:
- Street food tour of Bari
- Dining experience at a local’s home in Bari
- Boat tour with aperitif in Bari
Day 1
On day one, explore the charming maze of narrow streets of the old town – Bari Vecchia, where you can immerse yourself in the traditional side of Bari.
Admire the medieval Basilica San Nicola and Bari Cathedral (Cattedrale di San Sabino), visit the Civic Museum and the Archeological Museum, people-watch at Piazza Mercantile, and walk on Via Venezia all the way to the gorgeous Teatro Margherita and the old port.
When it comes to food, Bari Vecchia’s alleys are lined with an abundance of Apulian restaurants, bakeries, and cafes, so you’re in for a treat.
I had a great meal at Ristorante Antò, though I also had my eyes on La Cantina dello Zio and La Locanda dell’Elfo. In addition, be sure to try focaccia Barese at Bakery Santa Rita.
For dessert, savor a gelato at Gelateria Gentile, overlooking the imposing Castello Svevo (Swabian Castle), which you can also visit.
I tried the nocciola and ricotta with pistachios, which were unbelievably delicious (seriously, that was one of the best gelatos I’ve ever had in Italy).
Nearby, you’ll find an unmissable place to visit in Bari – Arco Basso Street – also known as “Strada delle Orecchiette” (Street of the Orecchiette).
Here, you’ll see the nonnas sitting and making the most notorious Apulian pasta shape, orecchiette, translating to “little ears”.
Since watching the nonnas has become a popular tourist attraction, be sure to buy some pasta if you’re going to take pictures and videos.
If you want to explore Bari Vecchia’s culinary gems with a guide, consider booking a street food tour.
Day 2
Start your morning with a stroll along the best and liveliest promenade in Bari – Lungomare Nazario Sauro. If you love art museums, you can stop at the Pinacoteca Metropolitana di Bari.
Finally, you’ll get to Bari’s beach, Pane e Pomodoro (translating to Bread and Tomato), for a few hours of tranquility.
In comparison to other beaches in Puglia, it might not be considered one of the best, but the crystal clear water and utter quiet were more than enough for me.
In the second half of the day, head to the vibrant Murat, the newer part of the city. It’s definitely not as picture-perfect as the old town, but it’s home to several photogenic buildings like Palazzo Mincuzzi, Teatro Piccinni, and the opera house Teatro Petruzzelli.
Murat is packed with trendy cafes and international cuisine restaurants, and it’s an ideal place to shop till you drop (on Via Sparano and around it) and have an aperitivo. You should also buy some baked goods at Magda.
Day 3
Alberobello
The first image that usually pops up when you search for info on Puglia depicts the quirky storybook-like Trulli houses of Alberobello.
Although you can see them sprinkled throughout the Itria Valley, this town is home to more than 1,500 Trulli, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The origins of these traditional dry-stone huts with cone-shaped roofs trace back to prehistoric times, but Alberobello and its Trulli date back to the 14th-17th centuries, when the area was ruled by the Kingdom of Naples and controlled by the Counts of Conversano.
The Count ordered his residents to build houses without using mortar, which meant they could be easily dismantled, and the town wouldn’t have to pay taxes to the Kingdom.
Intriguingly, many Trulli are still used as homes (so it’s important to be respectful when wandering around), while others function as accommodations, souvenir shops, and restaurants. Most are built on a slope, so bring comfortable shoes/sandals.
Be sure to explore the two Trulli districts – Rione Monti and Rione Aia Piccola, admire the Basilica of Saints Cosmas and Damian & the Church of Saint Anthony of Padua, and visit Trullo Sovrano.
To learn more about the local history, you can also take a guided walking tour of Alberobello.
Visiting in the shoulder season allowed me to relish one of the most popular Apulian towns without being surrounded by many tourists, so if you’re planning a summer trip, be prepared for the crowds (and heat).
Getting from Bari to Alberobello (and back): You can catch a direct bus several times a day, and the journey only takes 1 hour and 5 minutes. It’s best to purchase your ticket in advance online.
The bus stop in Bari is located behind Bari Centrale on Via Giuseppe Capruzzi (pass through the station to get there), and the bus stop in Alberobello is right outside its train station.
At the platform in Alberobello, use the ticket machines to buy your bus ticket back to Bari if you haven’t book a round-trip in advance.
Alternatively, book a combined day tour of:
- Alberobello, Polignano a Mare, and Monopoli
- Alberobello and Matera
- Alberobello, Martina Franca, and Locorotondo
Optional: Locorotondo
There’s a good chance you won’t spend the entire day in Alberobello, so you can continue to Locorotondo, considered one of the prettiest towns in Puglia (I had to skip out on it this time for various reasons). It’s reachable by a 15-minute bus/train ride.
To get back to Bari, take the bus, though note that the last direct one leaves at approximately 5:25 PM. Otherwise, you’ll have to switch trains in Putignano. Instead of Locorotondo, you can also visit the nearby Martina Franca.
Day 4
You can visit these two towns on your own or book a tour of Alberobello, Polignano a Mare, and Monopoli.
Polignano a Mare
Considering it’s one of the busiest towns in Puglia in the summer months, I’m glad I visited Polignano a Mare in the shoulder season when I had it almost completely to myself.
Overlooking the Adriatic Sea, the charming coastal town is thought to be the Ancient Greek city of Neapolis.
It is known for its scenic viewpoints, whitewashed historic center, and rugged cliffs, which make it a popular cliff diving destination.
One of its main focal points is the adorable beach of Lama Monachile, of which you’ve probably seen a million photos on Instagram.
It’s not sandy, it’s very small, and it seems like it gets overcrowded in the peak season, so if you’re after the ideal Apulian beach, this is not it. However, I loved sitting there without doing anything special, listening to the subtle sound of the waves, and enjoying some serenity.
You can capture the views and beauty of its glistening crystal-clear waters at various lookout points, but my favorites were the Roman bridge, Belvedere su Lama Monachile, and the cliff down the stairs near the statue of Domenico Modugno (the Polignano-born singer-songwriter who gifted us the hit “Volare”).
Another famous spot is the Grotta Palazzese, a stunning cave that has become the location of a 5-star hotel’s restaurant. You can book a stay at Hotel Grotta Palazzese or just make a reservation for lunch or dinner.
If that’s not enough, the surrounding area is packed with more hidden sea caves, which you can get to with a boat tour.
Getting from Bari to Polignano a Mare: Trains to Polignano leave Bari Centrale every 20-30 minutes (their final destination is usually Fasano), and the journey takes 30-40 minutes. It’s not mandatory, but you can purchase your tickets online to save time.
Monopoli
Ruled by the Messapians, Romans, Normans, and Venetians (to name a few), Monopoli has always been one of the most important port towns in the region.
I almost made the mistake of comparing it to Polignano a Mare, but I’m glad I came to my senses because they’re not as similar as you might think.
Sure, they’re proximate to one another, and both are seaside towns with a whitewashed old town, but each has its own charm and rhythm.
While Polignano won me over with its coastal scenery, Monopoli enticed me with its picture-perfect historic city center (Centro Storico). On the map, it doesn’t look that big, yet somehow, it seems to consist of hundreds of little flower-adorned alleys.
If you’re up for some sightseeing, you’ll love the colorful boats of the old port (Porto Antico), the imposing 16th-century Castle of Charles V, and the Monopoli Cathedral (Basilica Cattedrale di Maria Santissima della Madia).
Be sure to also walk along the Lungomare Santa Maria and unwind at Cala Porta Vecchia.
Getting from Polignano a Mare to Monopoli: The train ride only takes 5 minutes, but there’s some walking to do from Monopoli’s train station to the historic center, which is more than 1 km away.
Getting back from Monopoli to Bari: Depending on the train, it’ll take you 30-50 minutes to get back to Bari.
**You can switch things up and visit Monopli first instead of Polignano. It’s not mandatory, but you can purchase your train tickets online.
Day 5
Trani
Unlike the other towns I mentioned, Trani is not as known (and if it is, it doesn’t always make the cut into people’s itineraries), which is one of the reasons I loved it so much.
Picture this: a beautiful port, the sound of seagulls, a striking medieval castle and cathedral overlooking the Adriatic Sea, and an adorable historic center. If you love quaint coastal towns, Trani will win you over.
But the thing that makes Trani even more unique is its Jewish heritage, as it was home to one of the largest Jewish communities in Puglia until the 16th century.
Not much has remained from the Jewish quarter, but fortunately, you can visit the Scolanova Synagogue and Synagogue Museum of Sant’Anna. Touring the Scolanova Synagogue requires a reservation in advance.
Another spot not to be missed in Trani is the Villa Communale. Perfectly landscaped and decorated, this coastal public park is ideal for a leisurely stroll.
Getting from Bari to Trani: Trains to Trani leave Bari Centrale frequently (their final destination is usually Barletta or Foggia), and the journey takes 30-40 minutes.
When you go back to Bari, note that you’ll have to pass through a small kiosk to get to the platform. Ask the cashier for a train ticket because there are no ticket machines on the platform itself.
It’s not mandatory, but you can purchase your tickets online to save time.
Optional: Giovinazzo
Originally, I wanted to continue from Trani to Giovinazzo, a lesser-known port town that seems like a picturesque hidden gem in Puglia.
But although I had perfect weather throughout my trip, that morning was rainy, so I only got to Trani at around 1 PM. I didn’t want to rush things and squeeze Giovinazzo into my Puglia travel itinerary, so I had to skip out on it.
This town is located right between Trani and Bari, and you can reach it by either train or bus (the same goes for getting back to Bari).
Puglia in 5 Days – Other Travel Tips and Notes
When to Visit
It’s well-known that Puglia is a favored summer destination, so if you want to avoid the crowds and the overly hot & humid weather, July and August might not be the best time to visit.
I traveled to Puglia in March because I was looking for an off-season trip.
The temperatures can be unpredictable, providing cloudy and rainy days alongside warm days, but I was lucky to enjoy perfect weather 95% of the time and relish Puglia’s popular towns with barely any tourists wandering around.
That said, it wasn’t warm enough to go for a swim, though some locals did.
That’s why I assume that the sweet spot between the shoulder season and the summer months is May, the first half of June, the second half of September, and maybe even the beginning of October.
If soaking up the sun is not necessarily on your Puglia bucket list, it seems like this region is also an extremely surprising and underrated Christmas destination in Europe.
How to Get to Puglia
International flights arrive daily at Bari’s Karol Wojtyla Airport, but you can also catch a bus from Naples or a train from Rome.
What to Eat
Food in Italy never disappoints me, but since my other trips took place in the central and northern regions, I was excited to immerse myself in Puglia’s culinary scene. Here are some local dishes I’d gladly go back to devour:
Spaghetti all’Assassina (The Assassin’s Spaghetti): If a non-Italian came up with this recipe, I’m pretty sure nonnas across Italy would have been outraged, given that the pasta is placed raw in the spicy tomato sauce until slightly burnt, and then a broth of water and tomato paste is added gradually (like in a risotto) until it’s perfectly cooked.
Bari is the birthplace of this unusual dish, but it’s important to choose the right restaurant to try it because some seem to burn the pasta a lot more than others, and I’ve heard the result is not great. I tried it at La Baresana at loved it.
Riso, patate e cozze: Also known as Tiella Barese, this unexpected yet utterly delicious baked dish consists of rice, potatoes, and mussels.
Orecchiette with cime di rapa: Not only was I excited to know that Puglia’s most iconic pasta shape, orecchiette (little ears), was inspired by Jewish sweets called Haman’s Ears (that we on Purim), but I was also thrilled to try a typical dish in which it’s cooked with cime di rapa – broccoli rabe/rapini. Note that the sauce contains anchovies, so it’s not vegetarian.
Focaccia Barese: Topped with cherry tomatoes (and sometimes olives), this focaccia is not an ordinary one because some versions incorporate mashed potatoes into the dough.
Panzerotto: Similar in shape to a calzone, this heavenly fried dough is filled with tomato and mozzarella.
Sgagliozze: While polenta is a more common ingredient in northern Italy, it’s used to make a popular street food in Puglia of deep-fried polenta squares.
Pasticciotto: As a full-time pastry addict, one of my favorite things to try was a pasticciotto, an oval-shaped sweet pie filled with pastry cream. YUM.
Taralli: If you’re a savory snack lover (who isn’t), don’t forget to buy these crunchy round breadsticks. If you can’t find them in regular bakeries, some nonnas on Bari’s Street of the Orecchiette also sell them.
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