Planning your trip to Puglia, Italy? Here’s what to know about getting there.
Puglia, the heel of Italy’s boot, is a stunning region offering a unique travel experience. But mapping out your arrival requires a bit of planning. This guide walks you through Puglia’s airports and ground transportation options, so you can get your vacation off to a smooth start.
We’ll explore the main airports serving the region, flight options from the US and Europe, and the best ways to travel within Puglia once you land. Understanding these details will help you plan a smooth and enjoyable trip.
Choosing the right airport in Puglia and the best transportation method depends on your itinerary and priorities. We’ll give you actionable tips for making informed decisions, so you can spend less time stressing and more time enjoying your vacation.
Puglia’s Airports: Gateways to the Region
Puglia has a few airports that can serve as your entry point to the region. Here’s a quick guide:
Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport (BRI)
Bari Airport is the biggest airport in Puglia. If you’re planning to visit central or northern Puglia, BRI is a great choice, and it’s only about 6 miles from the city center of Bari.
Once you land, you can get to Bari by train (about 15 minutes), bus (30-40 minutes), or taxi or rideshare (20-30 minutes).
Brindisi-Salento Airport (BDS)
Brindisi Airport is closer to southern Puglia, including Lecce and the Salento region. BDS is about 4 miles from Brindisi proper, and roughly 25 miles from Lecce.
If you’re heading to Salento, the southernmost province of Puglia, Brindisi is your best bet.
Other Airports: Foggia and Taranto
Foggia Gino Lisa Airport is primarily for domestic flights in northern Puglia. As of late 2022, Lumiwings started offering flights to Foggia from Turin and Milan. Foggia Airport is very close to the city itself.
Taranto-Grottaglie Airport is mainly used for charter flights.
Getting to Puglia from North America
Okay, so you’re dreaming of trulli and turquoise waters? Here’s the deal on getting to Puglia from North America.
Limited Direct Flights and Connecting Hubs
Sadly, there are no direct flights from the U.S. to Puglia. Even flights from NYC involve at least one stopover, meaning you’re looking at a minimum of 10 hours in the air. Most routes will connect you through major European hubs.
I’d recommend setting up price alerts for flights to Bari and Brindisi from your nearest international airport. That way, you’ll know when a good deal pops up.
Flying into Rome (FCO) and Connecting to Puglia
A popular and often more budget-friendly option is to fly into Rome (FCO) and then hop on a train to Puglia. Keep in mind that Rome (FCO) airport is about an hour outside the city center, so factor that into your plans.
I’d even suggest spending a night or two in Rome – why not make the most of it?
From Rome, high-speed trains will whisk you to Bari or Brindisi in about 4-5 hours. Expect to pay around $50-100 per person. Definitely pre-book those train tickets, especially if you’re traveling during peak season.
Alternative European Entry Points
Don’t be afraid to explore flying into other major European cities and then catching a domestic flight or train to Puglia. This is a great way to combine your trip with visits to other awesome European destinations. Think of it – Paris, then Puglia? Yes, please!
Transportation Options Within Puglia
Once you arrive in Puglia, you’ll need to figure out how to get around. Here are a few options to consider:
Car Rental: Freedom to Explore
If you want to explore Puglia at your own pace, renting a car is probably the best option. A car gives you the freedom to visit smaller towns and more rural areas that might be harder to reach with public transportation.
Be sure to rent a car that’s big enough for your luggage and other travel gear. If you need an automatic transmission, be sure to specify that when you book.
Public Transportation: Trains and Buses
Puglia has trains and buses, but they may not be as convenient as having your own car. The train ride between Bari Centrale and Brindisi takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, while the bus ride between the same two cities takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. In general, train travel in Europe is comfortable, efficient, and affordable.
Organized Tours: Hassle-Free Exploration
If you prefer a more structured approach, organized tours can be a great way to see Puglia’s highlights without having to worry about transportation logistics. There are many popular tours that will take you to the must-see destinations in Puglia.
Navigating Airport Transfers and Inter-Airport Travel
Once you’ve landed, you’ll need to figure out how to get to your final destination. Here’s a breakdown of transportation options.
Getting from Bari Airport (BRI) to Bari City Center
You have a few choices for getting from the Bari airport to the city center.
- Train: About 15 minutes
- Bus: 30-40 minutes
- Taxi or rideshare: 20-30 minutes
The best option for you will depend on your budget and how quickly you need to get to your hotel or other destination.
Transportation Between Bari (BRI) and Brindisi (BDS) Airports
If you’re flying into one airport but need to get to the other, here are your options:
- Driving: About 1.5 hours
- Train (Bari Centrale to Brindisi): 1 to 1.5 hours
- Bus (Bari to Brindisi): 1.5 to 2 hours
Choosing the Right Airport Based on Your Destination
As a general rule, if you’re planning to explore central and northern Puglia, you’ll want to fly into Bari. If your travels will primarily take you to the south, including Lecce and Salento, Brindisi is the better choice.
Tips for Flying to Puglia
Planning a trip to Puglia? Keep these things in mind:
- Book your flights early, especially if you’re traveling in the summer.
- If you’re flying from the U.S., you might have to connect through a European hub.
- Always give yourself extra time to get to the airport and go through security. Flights can be delayed or canceled at any time.
- Set up price alerts for flights to Bari and Brindisi so you know when prices drop.
- If you plan to take the train from Rome to Puglia, book your tickets ahead of time, especially if you’re traveling when everyone else is.
- If you fly into Rome, you can hire a private car to take you into the city center.
- Consider renting a car so you can see everything Puglia has to offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it better to fly into Bari or Brindisi?
Whether Bari or Brindisi is “better” depends on where you’re headed in Puglia. Bari is generally better for exploring the northern part of the region, including the Gargano Peninsula. Brindisi is more convenient for the Salento region in the south. Consider your itinerary to determine which airport minimizes travel time.
Which airport do you fly to for Puglia, Italy?
Puglia has two main airports: Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport (BRI) and Brindisi Airport (BDS), also known as Salento Airport. Both serve international and domestic flights, so choose the one that best aligns with your travel plans within the region.
Which airlines fly direct to Puglia?
Several airlines offer direct flights to Bari and Brindisi, especially from European cities. Ryanair, Wizz Air, and easyJet are common low-cost carriers with frequent routes. Major airlines like Alitalia (ITA Airways) and Lufthansa may also offer direct flights depending on the season and your origin.
What is the best way to travel in Puglia?
The best way to explore Puglia is generally by car. Renting a car gives you the freedom to visit smaller towns and rural areas at your own pace. Public transportation (trains and buses) connects major cities, but can be less convenient for reaching more remote destinations. Consider your budget and desired level of independence when choosing your transportation method.
In Closing
When planning your trip to Puglia, it’s important to think about which airport works best for you, how you’ll get there, and what the transportation options are like when you arrive. Taking the time to consider these things can make your arrival easier and more enjoyable.
Whether you fly directly into Bari or Brindisi, connect through Rome, or come in through another European city, the magic of Puglia is waiting for you. So, book your flight and get ready to experience the beauty and charm of this unforgettable region of Italy!