12-Day Italy Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bari to Lecce, Taranto, Salerno, Rome, and Naples and surrounding area

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Italy. Today you will explore Bari, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Lecce. You’ll stay here for 4 nights.

Start by visiting Basilica Cattedrale Metropolitana Primaziale San Sabino, a prime spot to begin your journey. This culturally significant church is sure to impress. Next on your list is Basilica Di San Nicola, another must-visit landmark and popular church renowned for its heritage-rich features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Bari by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Direzione Regionale Musei. This eye-catching museum is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Bari experience. We also recommend visiting Palazzo Mincuzzi, an up-and-coming palace. Nearby, you'll also find Teatro Petruzzelli, ready to add charm to your journey.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Lecce, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Lecce. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Lecce by booking a table at Primo Restaurant. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of mediterranean and contemporary cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Bros', celebrated for its delectable creative and contemporary menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Sensi, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Caffè Alvino offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Jolly Roger provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Italy!

On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Lecce, where you'll stay for 3 nights more.

Lecce is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a castle, a monument, a beach, a nature reserve and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the worthwhile Aragonese Castle Of Otranto and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Greek Fountain, a symbolic monument that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Fixed Point Beach, one of the town’s most worthwhile spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the beloved Parco Naturale Regionale Porto Selvaggio.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Lecce.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Lecce's best restaurants.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Miro Coffee Bistrot & Lounge Bar, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Oscar Cafè is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at La Vecchia Osteria da Totu. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Lecce tonight.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Bar Il Palio, known for its lively atmosphere. Al Ventuno is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Avio offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Italy!

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Lecce, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Madonna di Roca Vecchia, Torre dell'Orso, and Sant'Andrea. You still have 2 nights left in Lecce.

Lecce is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots! Start at Archaeological Area Of roca Vecchia, an up-and-coming archeological site that is worthwhile a visit in the hamlet. Nearby, you’ll find La Poesia, enchanting visitors with its eye-catching appeal. Continue your exploration at Torre Dell'orso. This beach is one of the hamlet’s most frequently visited spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Lecce at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Torre Sant'andrea. After exploring the rock formation, head to the often recommended Faraglioni Di Sant'andrea.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Lecce and your accommodation.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Lecce's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Savor the flavors at L'OSTRICA UBRIACA di viale della Libertà, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, L'angolino di Via Matteotti beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Bar L'Incontro | Caffetteria, Pasticceria, Rosticceria. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Lecce tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Quanto Basta. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks.

Head back to your accommodation in Lecce and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Italy!

On day 5 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Lecce. You’ll stay in Lecce for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Lecce. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Giardini Pubblici Giuseppe Garibaldi - Villa Comunale is the perfect place to start. This park is one of the most worthwhile places to visit in Lecce. Next, head to Basilica Di Santa Croce, a beloved church, known for its heritage-rich features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Castle Of Charles V. This breathtaking castle is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Gate Of Saint Blaise and Porta Rudiae. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Italy is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Lecce. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Opera Lounge - Lecce, a top-rated dining spot in Lecce. If you're in the mood for something new, try A'Roma l'Osteria, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Bar Meeting Di Mattia De Vincenza. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Lecce.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Italy.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Italy. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Matera. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Taranto. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Lecce is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a church, a museum, and an archeological site. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the intriguing Cattedrale Di Maria Santissima Della Bruna E Sant'eustachio and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Casa Noha, a heritage-rich museum that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Sassi Di Matera, one of the city’s most popular spots that you shouldn’t miss.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Taranto. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Taranto. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Come Vuoi Pane & Condimenti, a popular restaurant in Taranto. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Taranto at Ricci - Pizzaioli dal 1963, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Ristorante La Pignata. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Taranto tonight.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Bar Center after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Tabir, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Old Fashion also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Italy.

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Taranto, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Taranto. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Parco Regionale Della Murgia Materana is the perfect place to start. This nature reserve is one of the most locally appreciated places to visit in Taranto. Next, head to Ipogeo Materasum, a beloved cave system, known for its photogenic features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Palombaro Lungo. This photogenic cave system is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Chiesa Di San Giovanni Battista. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Taranto.

As you explore more of Taranto, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Al Faro Hotel Restaurant Masseria Saraceno, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Ristorante Gesù Cristo offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Braceria Via Vai - Viale Jonio. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Taranto.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Bar Veneto, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Kaktus Taranto, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Ztl Coffee & Gourmet Appetizer provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Italy!

On day 8 of your road trip in Italy, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Matera. In the evening, you’ll end up in Salerno, where you will stay for 1 night.

Immerse yourself in Taranto’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Belvedere Di Piazza Giovanni Pascoli. This instagrammable observation deck is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the UNESCO world heritage-designated features of Palazzo Lanfranchi, a must-visit museum in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Sasso Caveoso, an increasingly popular cave system. For a change of scene, check out Casa Grotta Del Casalnuovo, known for its respected features.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Salerno. Salerno offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Salerno's best restaurants.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Re Maurì in Salerno by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Re Maurì delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious creative cuisine. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try L'Unico Drink & Food Salerno? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Hilton Bar E Gastronomia. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to The Black Monday Speakeasy Tbm, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Dòmo I' Vinaino Wine Bar - Enogastronomia provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Italy!

On day 9 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Italy, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, Salerno, Ravello, Castiglione, and Amalfi. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Rome, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots. Whether you decide to explore Salerno on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Cathedral Of Santa Maria Degli Angeli, San Matteo And San Gregorio Vii is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this historic church before continuing your journey. Villa Rufolo is your next stop. This interesting historical landmark is one of the best-rated sights in Salerno.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Villa Cimbrone Gardens. This history-steeped botanical garden is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Amalfi Coast.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Rome, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Rome's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Experience a harmony of flavors at La Pergola in Rome by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 3-star Michelin status, La Pergola offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious mediterranean and contemporary menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Il Pagliaccio, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative and innovative cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Enoteca La Torre, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional mediterranean and creative menu.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, La Botticella Of Poggi Giovanni stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Almalu Trastevere offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Bar Viminale Di Pepi Maurilio is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Say good night to Rome and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Italy!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 10 of your road trip in Italy. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Rome. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Naples, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Rome. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Roman Forum is the perfect place to start. This archeological site is one of the most iconic places to visit in Rome. Next, head to Colosseum, a wondrous archeological site, known for its culturally significant features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Piazza Navona. This symbolic public square is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Pantheon and Trevi Fountain. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Naples. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Naples. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Begin your culinary exploration in Naples by securing a reservation at Veritas. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of campanian and contemporary cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Il Comandante, celebrated for its delectable creative and mediterranean menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover ARIA, a top local spot known for its tantalizing contemporary and modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Happening Cocktail Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Shanti Art Musik Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Gran Caffè Gambrinus, another top-rated place in the area.

Head back to your accommodation in Naples and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Italy!

Dive into day 11 of your remarkable road trip in Italy. Today you will explore Naples, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Bari. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today’s agenda in Naples includes a public square, a castle, and a museum. Piazza Del Plebiscito is must-visit public square and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Ovo Castle, a notable castle, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Naples National Archaeological Museum, an eye-catching museum, also available for your discovery today.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Bari. Bari offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

As you explore more of Bari, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Cocktail Bar "Numero 75 ", a highly-rated dining destination in Bari. If you're eager to try something different, consider Lo Svevo, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Mezcla. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bari this evening.

Keep the evening going at Steam Pub, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Cavanbah Pub, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Piccolo Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Italy.