5-Day Italy Road Trip from Bari traveling east to Lecce

Your road trip adventure in Italy begins as soon as you reach Bari and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Bari for 2 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

Bari is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Parco 2 Giugno or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Bari. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Italy. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bari. 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.

Renowned for its , this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of cuisine. This distinguished -recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. With an acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at AncheCinema, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? La Tana del Polpo offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Lo Svevo. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bari.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. Luau Tiki Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out MercantileNove, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Steam pub. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Italy!

Day 2 of your road trip across Italy promises a magnificent time exploring Bari. You have 1 night left in Bari. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Lungomare Araldo di Crollalanza. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 5,519 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Teatro Petruzzelli. This opera house has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 6,870 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Basilica di San Nicola. This cathedral has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 16,196 visitors. Up to 445,000 people visit this place of interest annually.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Direzione regionale Musei. This local government office is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 3,074 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Basilica Cattedrale Metropolitana Primaziale San Sabino. This church is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,399 visitors.

There are plenty of experiences you can choose from in Italy that will add excitement to your vacation. When you’re keen to discover what else Bari has in store for you, use this day to go on a tour. This tour allows curious travelers like you to experience the best of the country. You can make the most of your time in Italy by scrolling down and selecting tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

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

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. This venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Located in the heart of the city, is an ideal pick for cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Mezcla, a top-rated dining spot in Bari. If you're in the mood for something new, try Mastro Ciccio, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Black and White. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bari.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Cavanbah Pub, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Piccolo BAR offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Bari. The ciclatera under the sea is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Italy!

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Italy, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, Polignano a Mare, Alberobello, Castellana Grotte, and Monopoli. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Lecce, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Monopoli, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Polignano a Mare. Your travel time is around 15 min.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Lama Monachile. Previous visitors have rated this bridge an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 11,378 reviews.

Monumento a Domenico Modugno is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 9,550 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Castellana Grotte, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Alberobello may take around 22 min. Upon your arrival in Alberobello, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Trulli di Alberobello Puglia, a remarkable point of interest where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 16,252 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Lecce, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Lecce. 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.

Renowned as a restaurant, it offers an exceptional menu. This restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Nestled in the heart of the city, is an ideal choice for discerning foodies seeking culinary excellence. Enjoy a delicious meal at Il Ristoro dei Templari Trattoria Pizzeria Braceria, a top-rated dining destination in Lecce. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La Cucina di Mamma Elvira, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at La Vecchia Osteria da Totu. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Lecce this evening.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Sensi. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Caffè Alvino offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Bar Il Palio, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 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 Bari. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Matera’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Lecce behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 10 min. Matera welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Palombaro lungo. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,650 visitors.

When you’re finished at Palombaro lungo, head to Sassi di Matera. This one-of-a-kind archaeological site is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 34,582 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Sasso Caveoso. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 1,108 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Casa Grotta nei Sassi di Matera. This sightseeing destination is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,538 visitors.

To round off your sightseeing experience, make your way to Belvedere di Piazza Giovanni Pascoli. This famous sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,750 travelers.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Bari. Bari offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. This venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Located in the heart of the city, is an ideal pick for cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Al Raffaello, a top-rated dining spot in Bari. If you're in the mood for something new, try Ristorante Biancofiore, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Cortigiano Restaurant & Bar. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bari.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Bar Moderno, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting.

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

Day 5 of your road trip in Italy is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Bari before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

As your final day in Italy unfolds, don’t miss the chance for a last-minute shopping spree in Bari’s shopping district. Your accommodation’s convenient location near the city’s shopping area offers the luxury of time, so you don’t have to limit yourself from leisurely strolling its streets amidst a collection of establishments.

Look for the perfect gift for your loved ones back home, or buy yourself a little keepsake to remind you of Italy. Keep the spirit of your trip to Italy alive with these special souvenirs.

Before you conclude your road trip in Italy, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Bari.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. This acclaimed -recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. With a recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure. Dine in style at The Stuart, Scottish Pub, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Terra di Mezzo | Beer Food & Fun boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

You’ll then say farewell to Bari. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Italy!