Airports in Puglia, Italy: A Traveler’s Comprehensive Guide

Puglia has two main airports: Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport (BRI) in the north and Brindisi Airport (BDS) in the south. Fly into Bari if you’re visiting Polignano a Mare, Alberobello, Ostuni, or Matera. Choose Brindisi if Lecce and the Salento peninsula are your focus. Most travelers base themselves in 2-3 towns and use one airport for both arrival and departure.

Here’s the thing about planning your southern Italy Trip: the airports in Puglia you choose completely shapes your itinerary.

I haven’t made it to Puglia yet (it’s next on my list after 17 trips to other parts of Italy), but I’ve planned dozens of Puglia itineraries for friends and clients. The airport question always comes first. Get this decision right and everything else falls into place.

Let me walk you through exactly how to decide.

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Which airport do you fly to for Puglia Italy?

Your airport choice depends entirely on which part of Puglia you’re visiting. Bari serves the northern and central regions, while Brindisi serves the southern Salento area. The two airports are about 120 km (75 miles) apart – roughly a 90-minute drive.

Most people pick one airport and build their trip around that region. Flying into one and out of the other works if you’re doing a full Puglia road trip, but it requires careful planning.

Bari Airport (BRI) is Best For:

• Polignano a Mare (30 minutes)
• Monopoli (30 minutes)
• Alberobello (1 hour)
• Cisternino (1 hour)
• Ostuni (1 hour 15 minutes)
• Matera (1 hour, technically Basilicata but often combined)
• Bari city itself (20 minutes)

Bari Airport has better international connections and more frequent flights. You’ll find more options from major European hubs like London, Paris, and Frankfurt. The airport is also easier to navigate and has better ground transportation options.

Photo by Ante Hamersmit on Unsplash

Brindisi Airport (BDS) is Best For:

• Lecce (40 minutes)
• Ostuni (30 minutes – it’s actually between both airports)
• Otranto (1 hour)
• Gallipoli (1 hour)
• Polignano a Mare (1 hour 15 minutes)
• The entire Salento peninsula

Brindisi Airport is smaller and has fewer international flights. Ground transportation is also trickier here. You’ll likely need a rental car or private transfer rather than relying on trains.

How to Get from Bari Airport to Your Destination

A direct train connects Bari Airport to Bari Centrale station in just 15 minutes for €5. This is hands-down the easiest airport-to-city connection in Puglia.

The train station is inside the airport (follow signs from baggage claim). Trains run every 30-60 minutes from about 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM. Buy tickets from the machines or the Trenitalia counter.

From Bari Centrale, you can catch regional trains to:

• Polignano a Mare (30 minutes, €3.50)
• Monopoli (45 minutes, €4.80)
• Fasano (for Cisternino/Ostuni area, 1 hour)

When to Rent a Car at Bari Airport

You need a car if you’re visiting Alberobello, staying at a countryside masseria, or planning to explore multiple hill towns. The trulli towns and Valle d’Itria aren’t easily accessible by train.

You don’t need a car if you’re staying primarily in Polignano a Mare, Monopoli, or Bari itself. These coastal towns are train-connected and walkable.

Car rental desks are in the arrivals hall. Major companies include Hertz, Europcar, Sicily by Car, and Maggiore. Book in advance for better rates – expect to pay €30-50 per day.

One critical thing: watch for ZTL (Zona Traffico Limitato) zones in historic centers. These are limited traffic areas where you’ll get an automatic fine if you drive in without authorization. Your hotel can register your license plate if you need to drive into a ZTL.

Private Transfers from Bari Airport

Private transfers run €70-120 depending on your destination. This makes sense if you’re traveling with three or more people, have lots of luggage, or arrive late at night.

Companies like Pugliairbus and Welcome Pickups operate in the area. Your hotel can also arrange a transfer.

How to Get from Brindisi Airport to Your Destination

Brindisi Airport is more challenging for ground transportation than Bari. There’s no direct train connection, and bus service is limited. Most travelers either rent a car or book a private transfer.

A shuttle bus runs between the airport and Brindisi train station (15 minutes, €5-6). From Brindisi Centrale, trains go to:

• Lecce (30-40 minutes, €4-7)
• Ostuni (20 minutes, €3-4)
• Bari (1 hour, €8-12)

But here’s the catch: bus schedules don’t always align with flight arrivals, especially for budget airlines that land late at night.

When to Rent a Car at Brindisi Airport

Honestly? I’d rent a car at Brindisi unless you’re staying in Lecce for your entire trip.

The Salento peninsula is made for road trips. Otranto, Gallipoli, the baroque towns, the beaches – you’ll want the freedom to explore. Public transportation in southern Puglia is sparse outside of the Lecce-Brindisi corridor.

Car rental desks are in the arrivals area. Same companies as Bari, similar prices.

Private Transfers from Brindisi Airport

Expect to pay:

• To Lecce: €50-70
• To Ostuni: €50-70
• To Otranto: €80-100
• To Gallipoli: €80-100

This is the best option if you’re staying in Lecce without a car, or if you’re arriving late and don’t want to navigate unfamiliar roads in the dark.

The Best way to get to Puglia from the US

The best way to get to Puglia from the US depends on your preferences and travel plans. Here are three options to consider:

1. Fly directly to Puglia: There are two main airports in Puglia: Bari International Airport (BRI) and Salento Airport in Brindisi (BDS). You can find flights from the US to these airports, but they may have less ideal arrival and departure times. To get the best Puglia flight deals, fly from your largest international airport in the US.
2. Fly to Rome and take a train: A popular and affordable way to get to Puglia is to fly into Rome (FCO), take the airport rail to Termini train station, and then train to Puglia. This option allows you to explore Rome before heading to Puglia.
   
   High-Speed Trains (Frecciarossa or Italo): These are the Ferraris of the Italian railway, zooming across the countryside. If you’re headed to Bari, the capital of Puglia, a direct high-speed train can get you there in about 4 hours. Super comfy and a great way to see the Italian landscape whizzing by.
   
3. Fly to Europe and take domestic transportation: Another option is to spend a few days in a European town of your liking and then fly or train into Puglia. When flying from within Europe, you will have the option to fly into smaller airports like Taranto, Salento, Lecce, etc., which may be closer to the towns you plan to stay in within the region1.

Keep in mind that the best option for you will depend on factors such as your travel dates, budget, and personal preferences.

Which Airlines Fly to Puglia from the US?

I don’t see direct flights to Puglia from Miami, the major airport near me, so I compare how much it would be to book the flight directly to Puglia knowing I will have a connection versus booking the flight directly to any other European city and flying from there. So here are some options I see.

1. American Airlines: They offer flights to major European cities like London, Madrid, or Rome, where you can then connect to a flight to Bari or Brindisi.
2. Delta Airlines: Similar to American Airlines, Delta flies into key European airports from various U.S. cities. From these European hubs, you can find connecting flights to Puglia.
3. United Airlines: United provides service to several European destinations, which can then connect you to a flight to Puglia.
4. Alitalia: Although an Italian airline, Alitalia offers flights from the U.S. to Rome or Milan, from where you can get a domestic flight to Puglia.
5. Lufthansa, British Airways, Air France: These European carriers offer flights from major U.S. airports to their respective hubs in Frankfurt, London, and Paris, with onward connections to Puglia.

I also see flights from Turkish Airlines, Swiss International Air Lines, British Airways, Iberia, and Virgin Atlantic. As you can see below, that is super long commute time and pricier tickets.

Once you land in a major European city, you can catch a short-haul flight to either Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport (BRI) or Brindisi-Salento Airport (BDS) in Puglia. Airlines like Ryanair, EasyJet, and Wizz Air often have frequent and affordable flights to these destinations from various European hubs.

Where Should I Base Myself in Puglia?

The best strategy for Puglia is the same as the rest of Italy: choose 2-3 base towns and take day trips from each. Constant hotel changes eat up your vacation time and energy.

This is exactly how I structure every Italy itinerary I plan, whether it’s Tuscany, the Amalfi Coast, or Puglia.

For 7-10 Days in Northern/Central Puglia (Bari Airport):

Base 1: Polignano a Mare or Monopoli (3-4 nights) These coastal towns give you beach access and restaurant scenes. Polignano is more touristy but stunning. Monopoli is more authentic and less crowded.

Day trips: Each other, Bari city, Castellana Grotte

Base 2: Alberobello or Cisternino area (3-4 nights) This is trulli country and Valle d’Itria. Consider a countryside masseria here for the full experience.

Day trips: Alberobello, Locorotondo, Cisternino, Ostuni, Martina Franca

Optional add-on: Matera for 1-2 nights (technically Basilicata but only 1 hour from Bari).

For 7-10 Days in Southern Puglia/Salento (Brindisi Airport):

Base 1: Lecce (3-4 nights) The baroque capital of Puglia. Great restaurants, walkable historic center, and a good base for day trips.

Day trips: Otranto, Gallipoli, Galatina, local beaches

Base 2: Otranto (2-3 nights) For the Adriatic coast vibe and beach time.

Day trips: Castro, Santa Cesarea Terme, the southernmost point of Puglia

Optional add-on: Ostuni (2 nights) The white city is roughly between Brindisi and Bari, so you can include it in either itinerary.

For 10-14 Days (Full Puglia):

Combine both regions. Fly into Bari, spend 5-6 days in the north/center, drive south to Salento for 5-6 days, fly out of Brindisi. Or reverse it.

Sample 12-day itinerary:

• Polignano a Mare: 3 nights
• Alberobello/Cisternino area: 3 nights
• Ostuni: 2 nights
• Lecce: 3 nights
• Otranto: 2 nights

This gives you beach towns, trulli towns, baroque cities, and countryside masserie without moving around too much.

Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport ( BRI) Info

Bari Airport, named after Pope John Paul II, is Puglia’s largest airport and a testament to the region’s growth and modernization. With a rich history dating back to World War II, the airport has evolved significantly, now boasting state-of-the-art facilities, diverse dining options, and extensive connectivity across Europe and beyond.

Getting from BRI Bari City Center

1. By Train: The airport is equipped with its own train station, conveniently named ‘Bari Aeroporto’. The train ride to Bari Centrale, the main train station in the city center, is super quick – only about 15 minutes. Trains run regularly, making it a hassle-free option for travelers. Check their website for more info and train times.
2. By Bus: If you’re looking for a budget-friendly choice, the AMTAB city buses . They link the airport to Bari city center and take about 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic. It’s a great way to soak in the local vibes and maybe strike up a conversation with fellow travelers or locals.
3. By Taxi or Rideshare: For a more direct and private option, taxis and rideshare services are readily available at the airport. The ride to the city center takes about 20-30 minutes. Sometimes, depending on the time we arrive, we prefer to hire a driver, so check out this one here.
4. Car Rental: As a travel writer and photographer, I appreciate the flexibility of having my own car, and we plan to rent a car while visiting Puglia this year. We like finding car deals on Expedia or finding a local car rental company in a Facebook group. Learn more about Driving in Italy.

Accommodations Near BRI Airport

Brindisi-Salento Airport: ( BDS Transportation Options)

Brindisi-Salento Airport, located in the heart of Puglia, serves as a crucial link for tourists and locals alike. Known for its efficient services and passenger-friendly amenities, the airport is conveniently located, offering easy access to some of Puglia’s most famous destinations, like Lecce and the Salento Peninsula.

Accommodations near BDS Airport

1. Hotel Orientale: A popular choice among travelers, this hotel offers comfortable rooms and convenient access to the airport.
2. Grande Albergo Internazionale: This hotel features elegant rooms and a central location near the airport1.
3. Palazzo Virgilio: A boutique hotel with a unique atmosphere, Palazzo Virgilio offers a comfortable stay close to the airport.
4. Penthouse Station Luxury Suites & Spa: A luxury option, this hotel offers high-end amenities and a relaxing spa experience.
5. Calamaterdomini a 2 passi dal Mare. Has an airport shuttle.
6. Casa Cocoon. Apartment close to the airport.

Exploring Foggia Gino Lisa Airport

Smaller yet significant, Foggia Airport serves the northern part of Puglia. It’s an essential component of the region’s air travel infrastructure, providing access to both commercial and private flights. Though currently undergoing developments, it promises an enhanced travel experience in the near future.

Gino Lisa Airport, primarily serving domestic flights, is like a quaint Italian trattoria amidst a sea of bustling, tourist-packed restaurants. Currently, its main connections are within Italy, such as flights from Rome or other major Italian cities. This focus on domestic travel makes Gino Lisa a convenient entry point for visitors coming from other parts of Italy, offering a more relaxed and hassle-free experience compared to larger, international airports.

Facilities and Ambiance: The airport, though small, is equipped with the essential amenities to cater to the needs of modern travelers. Its compact size contributes to a smooth, swift check-in and boarding process, a luxury rarely found in larger airports. The staff are often locals from Foggia and the surrounding region, providing a warm, welcoming atmosphere that starts your journey on a delightful note.

The Advantage of Domestic Travel: While international travelers will need to connect through a larger Italian airport, Gino Lisa’s domestic focus is a boon for those already in Italy. It offers a quick and convenient route to Puglia, bypassing the often overwhelming crowds and complexities of international hubs. For Italian residents or those spending an extended time in Italy, Gino Lisa is a gateway that simplifies the journey to Puglia.

Transportation between airports in Puglia

Traveling between these airports is facilitated by an efficient network of road and rail links. Shuttle services and public transportation options are readily available, making inter-airport travel convenient for passengers.

Traveling between Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport (BRI) and Brindisi-Salento Airport (BDS) offers a neat opportunity to explore two distinct parts of the Puglia region. Here are the main transportation options for this journey:

1. By Train: The train is a convenient and scenic way to travel between Bari and Brindisi. However, there are no direct train services from either airport to the other. You’ll first need to get to the central train stations in Bari or Brindisi. From there, Trenitalia offers regular train services between Bari Centrale and Brindisi, with a journey time of approximately 1 to 1.5 hours. Remember, you’ll need to factor in the additional travel time to and from the airports.
2. By Bus: There are bus services that operate between Bari and Brindisi, though they might not be as frequent as trains. The bus journey can take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Like with the train, you’ll need to travel from the airports to the respective bus stations in the city centers.
3. By Car: Renting a car could be an excellent choice, especially if you’re interested in flexibility and the chance to explore the region at your own pace. The drive between Bari and Brindisi takes about 1.5 hours via the E55 highway and is quite straightforward. This option allows you to make stops along the way and potentially explore smaller towns and countryside vistas.
4. Private Transfer or Taxi: For a more direct and comfortable journey, you can book a private transfer or catch a taxi. This is the most convenient option, albeit the most expensive. The journey time is similar to driving – around 1.5 hours. Check out this option for private diver.

Each of these options offers a different experience of the journey between Bari and Brindisi, adding variety to your travel adventure in Puglia.

Do I Need to Rent a Car in Puglia?

Yes, if you want to see the countryside, trulli towns, or multiple destinations in Salento. No, if you’re sticking to the main train-connected towns like Polignano, Monopoli, and Lecce.

Here’s my breakdown:

Rent a car for:

• Alberobello and Valle d’Itria (Cisternino, Locorotondo, Martina Franca)
• Staying at rural masserie
• Beach hopping in Salento
• Exploring multiple baroque towns
• Matera day trip from Bari
• Any itinerary with more than 2 bases

Skip the car for:

• Polignano + Monopoli only trips
• Lecce city-based trips
• Bari city breaks
• If you’re uncomfortable driving in Italy

Driving in Puglia is easier than driving in cities like Rome or Naples. The roads are generally good, traffic is manageable, and parking is available (though sometimes tight in historic centers). Just watch for those ZTL zones.

Air Travel Tips for Visitors to Puglia

Timing is key when flying to Puglia. The region is a popular summer destination, so booking flights in advance is advisable. Additionally, understanding local travel requirements and airport facilities can significantly enhance your travel experience.

Sample Puglia Itineraries by Airport

7 Days Northern Puglia (Bari Airport)

Day 1: Arrive Bari, train to Polignano a Mare, settle in
Day 2: Polignano beach day and sunset at Lama Monachile
Day 3: Day trip to Monopoli and Castellana Grotte
Day 4: Pick up rental car, drive to Alberobello (1 hour), settle in
Day 5: Explore Alberobello trulli and Locorotondo
Day 6: Day trip to Ostuni and Cisternino
Day 7: Drive to Bari (1 hour), return car, fly home

7 Days Southern Puglia (Brindisi Airport)

Day 1: Arrive Brindisi, transfer to Lecce, settle in
Day 2: Explore Lecce (baroque churches, Piazza del Duomo)
Day 3: Day trip to Otranto
Day 4: Day trip to Gallipoli and local beaches
Day 5: Pick up rental car, drive to Ostuni (1 hour), settle in
Day 6: Explore Ostuni and nearby masserie
Day 7: Drive to Brindisi Airport (30 min), fly home

10 Days Full Puglia (Bari to Brindisi)

Days 1-3: Polignano a Mare
Days 4-6: Alberobello/Cisternino area with countryside masseria
Days 7-9: Lecce
Day 10: Morning in Lecce, afternoon drive to Brindisi Airport (40 min)

Also, check out my Airports in Sicily Guide

Which Airport Comparison Table

Your Destination	From Bari Airport	From Brindisi Airport	Better Choice
Polignano a Mare	30 min	1 hr 15 min	Bari
Monopoli	30 min	1 hr	Bari
Alberobello	1 hr	1 hr 30 min	Bari
Ostuni	1 hr 15 min	30 min	Brindisi
Lecce	1 hr 45 min	40 min	Brindisi
Otranto	2 hr 15 min	1 hr	Brindisi
Matera	1 hr	2 hr	Bari

Bottom Line

Pick Bari Airport for the trulli country and northern Puglia. Pick Brindisi for Lecce and the Salento peninsula. Don’t stress about getting this perfect – both airports work fine. The most important thing is to build your itinerary around whichever airport you choose.

Puglia is at the top of my Italy bucket list (right after I finish my house renovation in Salemi, Sicily). The more I research this region, the more excited I get. Those trulli houses, that turquoise water, the baroque churches – it’s calling my name.

When I do finally make it there, I’ll update this article with all my first-hand tips. Until then, I’m planning Puglia trips the same way I’ve planned 17 successful Italy trips: focus on 2-3 bases, rent a car for the countryside, and save your energy for eating your way through the region.