Road Trip Discovering Puglia in a Luxury Car: from Bari to Santa Maria di Leuca

Puglia, a land of history, culture, and landscapes that alternate between ancient olive groves, enchanted villages, and golden coasts, beckons for adventure. And what better way to explore it than aboard a luxury car, offering every comfort and performance? With RH RENT, experience an unparalleled journey through Puglia.

1. Bari - The Elegance of Puglia's Gateway Start in Bari, the pulsating capital of the region. Behind the wheel of your luxury car, feel the engine's roar as you navigate the city streets. Bari Vecchia welcomes you with its history: the Norman-Swabian Castle, the Basilica of San Nicola. After a stroll, indulge in a gourmet lunch in one of the city's exclusive restaurants. Continue along the SS16 heading south.

2. Polignano a Mare - Charm Amidst the Cliffs After a smooth drive on the SS16, you arrive in Polignano. The luxury of your car is mirrored in the deep blue of the sea. Park and wander the alleys, perhaps treating yourself to dinner in a restaurant carved into the rock overlooking the Adriatic.

3. Ostuni - Elegance Amongst the White Houses On the SS379, you reach Ostuni. Your luxury car gleams under the sun, reflecting off the white facades of the houses. Ostuni, with its panoramas and gourmet restaurants, is a place where luxury meets tradition.

4. Lecce - Baroque in Premium Style Heading south on the SS613, Lecce greets you with its baroque splendor. Park your car and admire landmarks like the Basilica of Santa Croce. And in the evening? An aperitif in one of the city's rooftop bars, savoring the sunset.

5. Gallipoli - Luxury on the Seafront Continue on the SS101 towards Gallipoli. The city, with its historic center and beaches, is a blend of history and relaxation. And with your luxury car, every journey becomes a pure delight.

6. Santa Maria di Leuca - Comfort at the Far South The SS274 takes you to the tip of Puglia. Here, where the two seas meet, you can enjoy moments of relaxation in exclusive beach clubs or dine in gourmet restaurants overlooking the sea.

With RH RENT, every detail is taken care of to offer you the travel experience you deserve. Puglia awaits you, in pure luxury style.

Read also: From Rome to Ostuni: A Comprehensive Road Trip Itinerary through History, Nature, and Gastronomy

You might also like: Discover the best of Puglia with a road trip through Ostuni and the Itria Valley, exploring trulli and breathtaking landscapes

From Rome to Ostuni: A Comprehensive Road Trip Itinerary through History, Nature, and Gastronomy

A road trip from Rome to Ostuni can unfold as a unique experience, an opportunity to discover different facets of Italy, from cities steeped in history to natural landscapes, all the way to culinary variety. This one-week itinerary provides insights and tips on how to organize a car journey through some of the most evocative locations in central and southern Italy.

1. Rome: A Dive into History

Rome, globally renowned for its invaluable historical and cultural heritage, serves as the starting point of this itinerary. The city offers a vast array of places to explore, providing an initial taste of the journey through Italy.

See 5 Must-Visit Itineraries in Rome for Road Trip Enthusiasts.

2. From Rome to Naples

Route: A1, approximately 225km

The journey continues towards Naples, a city of many facets. Beyond its historical and architectural beauties, such as the Cathedral and Castel dell'Ovo, Naples offers a dive into authentic flavors with its famous culinary tradition.

3. From Naples to Matera

Route: A16 and SS407, approximately 250km

The next stop leads to Matera, known for its Sassi and the moon-like landscape that surrounds it. Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, tells stories of ancient times among its rock-cut dwellings and cave churches.

4. From Matera to Alberobello

Route: SS99 and SS172, approximately 80km

The journey proceeds towards Alberobello, famous for its trulli, distinctive conical constructions that lend the landscape a unique character. Alberobello offers a one-of-a-kind experience, with its cobblestone streets and small artisan shops.

5. From Alberobello to Lecce

Route: SS172 and SS613, approximately 150km

The itinerary then leads to Lecce, the heart of Apulian baroque. Lecce offers an experience rich in history, art, and culture, with its churches, historical buildings, and lively squares.

6. From Lecce to Ostuni

Route: SS613 and SS16, approximately 80km

The final stop of the journey is Ostuni, the "White City" of Puglia. Ostuni stands out for its white dwellings, labyrinthine streets, and views over the Adriatic Sea. A visit to the historic center, nearby beaches, and tasting of Apulian cuisine complete the travel experience.

This itinerary from Rome to Ostuni offers a journey through the diversity and richness of central and southern Italy. Each stop presents a unique mix of history, culture, and nature, providing a taste of Italian traditions and landscapes. It is hoped that this route may serve as inspiration for future travels along Italian roads, discovering new places and flavors.

Rome, the "Eternal City," is one of the world's richest historical destinations. Walking its streets is like flipping through the pages of a book that tells millennia of history, culture, art, and gastronomy. If you truly want to savor every corner of this magnificent metropolis, prepare to discover less-traveled itineraries and hidden wonders.

Itinerary 1: The Appian Way

The Appian Way, also known as "The Queen of Roads," is one of the most significant examples of ancient Roman road engineering. Named by the Romans themselves, this designation underscores its importance and prestige. The road has maintained its relevance over the centuries, not only as a work of art but also as a historical testament to the construction capabilities of the Roman Empire.

History and Importance: Built in 312 BC by the censor Appius Claudius Caecus, the Appian Way was much more than a simple road: it was a symbol of power and connection. Extending from Rome to the port of Brindisi, it facilitated movements and trade, thus contributing to the strengthening of the Roman economy and the spread of Roman culture in the Mediterranean.

Points of Interest along the Appian Way:

• Catacombs of San Callisto: These catacombs are one of the holiest places of ancient Christianity. Inside, there are intricate networks of tunnels and chambers where thousands of Christians, including several popes, have been buried. Their size and complexity reflect the growth and evolution of the Christian community in the early centuries.
• Circus of Maxentius: This ancient Roman structure, once the venue for spectacular chariot races, is a testament to the Romans' passion for entertainment and competition. Although now in ruins, the area still retains traces of its original majesty and allows visitors to imagine the excitement and adrenaline of race days.
• Mausoleum of Cecilia Metella: This funerary monument was built in honor of Cecilia Metella, a prominent female figure in Roman society. Its imposing structure and decorative art show the importance the Romans placed on remembering the deceased and celebrating their lives.

Stopover Tips: Park near the Caffarella Park, a green oasis perfect for a relaxing break.

Itinerary 2: Rione Monti

Rione Monti stands out as one of Rome's most fascinating areas, serving as a bridge between past and present. This district, being the first among those of the Capital, has seen the birth and growth of the eternal city, preserving over time its unique spirit, which combines the vitality of a contemporary urban center with the deep historical roots of ancient Rome.

History and Culture: Rione Monti boasts a history dating back to ancient Rome when it was populated by the plebeians, the class of non-aristocratic citizens. Although its demographics and function have changed over the centuries, the neighborhood has always retained a genuine and lively character. In modern times, Monti has become a hotbed of creativity, attracting artists, writers, and young innovators, transforming into a cosmopolitan meeting place.

Points of Interest in Rione Monti:

• Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore: This majestic basilica is one of the four papal basilicas of Rome and boasts magnificent architecture and countless artistic treasures. The interior, decorated with golden mosaics and finely crafted sculptures, reflects the religious fervor and artistic mastery of the era in which it was built.
• Trajan's Market: Located in the heart of Rione Monti, this ancient building complex was once the commercial hub of Rome. Trajan's forum, part of the complex, is a testament to the importance of trade in the daily life of ancient Rome. Although in ruins, the grandiosity of this place continues to impress visitors.
• Via Urbana: Walking along this street, one feels immersed in a movie set in the Rome of the past. With its vintage shops, historic cafes, and ancient facades, Via Urbana offers a perfect combination of history and modernity. It is the ideal place to immerse oneself in the Roman atmosphere, sipping a coffee or looking for a unique piece in one of the many antique shops.

Culinary Tips: Stop the car and enjoy a meal at "La Carbonara," a historic Roman trattoria.

Itinerary 3: The Seven Hills of Rome

The city of Rome, known as the Eternal City, is born from an intricate fabric of myths, history, and culture, and its seven hills are the key to understanding its evolution over the centuries. This itinerary invites you to explore each of these hills, revealing their secrets and hidden treasures.

Description of the Hills:

• Palatine: Considered the cradle of Roman civilization, the Palatine is steeped in legend. It is said that this was the den of the she-wolf that nursed Romulus and Remus, the twin founders of Rome. Now, the hill hosts archaeological ruins that show the residences of Roman emperors.
• Aventine: This quiet and charming hill offers visitors the famous "Keyhole" at the Villa del Priorato di Malta. Looking through this hole, one can see a perfectly framed view of St. Peter's dome. The Aventine is also home to ancient churches and lush gardens.
• Capitoline: The political and religious heart of ancient Rome. Today, it is home to the Capitoline Hill, designed by Michelangelo, and the Capitoline Museums, which contain a vast collection of art and artifacts from ancient Rome.
• Quirinal: Dominating the city with its elevated presence, the Quirinal is today the residence of the President of the Italian Republic. The Quirinal Palace, with its gardens and opulent halls, reflects the grandeur of modern Italy.
• Viminal: Although less famous compared to the other hills, the Viminal has a discreet charm, offering panoramic views of Rome and hosting various government buildings.
• Esquiline: A cosmopolitan and vibrant hill. In addition to the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, one of the four papal basilicas, the Esquiline features a mix of cultures due to its history as a multi-ethnic neighborhood.
• Caelian: Located near the famous Colosseum, the Caelian is characterized by ancient churches, green parks, and Roman ruins. It offers a mix of sacred and secular history, making it a place of reflection and exploration.

Itinerary 4: EUR District

The EUR district of Rome represents an important testimony to the urban planning and architecture of the fascist era in Italy. Conceived as a symbol of modernity and Italian expansion, today the EUR is a historical and architectural testimony, as well as a lively residential and commercial neighborhood.

Points of Interest in the EUR District:

• Palace of Italian Civilization: Commonly known as the "Square Colosseum" due to its numerous arches, it is one of the most iconic buildings in the EUR. Designed by architects Giovanni Guerrini, Ernesto Lapadula, and Mario Romano, the building was completed in 1943. Characterized by a cubic structure and 54 arches (9 in a row and 6 in height), it has become a symbol of new rationalist architecture. At the entrance, a series of statues represent the arts, sciences, and other disciplines, testifying to the achievements and ambitions of Italy during the period.
• Museum of Roman Civilization: Located near the Palace of Italian Civilization, the museum offers a detailed and comprehensive overview of the history of Rome, from its foundation to late antiquity. One of the museum's main attractions is a gigantic relief map of ancient Rome, allowing visitors to see what the city looked like at the height of its glory. Other exhibits show detailed models of buildings, monuments, and other Roman structures, offering a deep understanding of the grandiosity of Roman engineering and architecture.

In addition to these places of interest, the EUR offers many other notable buildings and areas of interest. The EUR Pond is an artificial lake surrounded by parks and open spaces, a popular place for walks and recreational activities. The Marconi Obelisk, dedicated to the inventor Guglielmo Marconi, stands imposing in the district, as do many modern churches and other public structures.

Itinerary 5: The Castelli Romani Area

The Castelli Romani area is a hilly district on the outskirts of Rome, a place of ancient traditions, rich in history and natural beauty. This area, famous for its temperate climate, has always represented an escape from the summer heat of Rome for emperors, cardinals, and, more recently, for the Romans themselves.

Points of Interest in the Castelli Romani Area:

• Frascati: This charming town is perhaps the most famous among the Castelli Romani, particularly for the production of its D.O.C. white wine, Frascati. But Frascati is not just wine. The town hosts splendid Renaissance and Baroque villas, including Villa Aldobrandini, with its panoramic gardens and spectacular fountains. The churches, alleys, and squares of Frascati offer a taste of traditional Lazio life. And don't forget to try the porchetta, another of the typical products of this area.
• Castel Gandolfo: Nicknamed "The Pope's Hill," Castel Gandolfo is famous for being the summer residence of the Popes. The splendid pontifical villa directly overlooks Lake Albano, offering spectacular views. Although a papal residence, since 2016 some parts of the palace and gardens have been opened to the public, making Castel Gandolfo an even more interesting destination. The surrounding village is characterized by narrow medieval alleys, ancient churches, and traditional restaurants where you can taste local cuisine. The lake itself offers opportunities to swim, canoe, or simply stroll along its shores.

Other Places of Interest in the Castelli Romani:

• Albano Laziale: With its ancient Roman amphitheater and catacombs.
• Ariccia: Famous for the porchetta and the suggestive bridge that overlooks a deep gorge.
• Nemi: Known for its small volcanic lake and for the wild strawberries, which are celebrated with a festival every year.

1: Ostuni, the White City

Perched on a hill a few kilometers from the Adriatic Sea, Ostuni shines in the sun thanks to its white facades. The tradition of white lime dates back centuries, an ancient method to purify the dwellings.

• History: A fundamental crossroads of cultures, from the Messapians to the Romans, from the Normans to the Aragonese. Each civilization has left its mark on the urban structure and monuments.
• Main Attractions: The imposing Cathedral of Ostuni, built between the 15th and 17th centuries, is a mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. Its location offers a breathtaking panoramic view over the plain of ancient olive trees.
• Tips: The labyrinthine streets of Ostuni are an invitation to get lost, discovering internal courtyards, artisan shops, and hidden panoramas.

2: Road Trip in the Itria Valley

The Itria Valley, a vast inland plateau, is dotted with trulli, those characteristic conical buildings that seem to spring from the earth.

• Itinerary: Leaving Ostuni behind, the road winds through olive fields and vineyards, connecting small villages like Cisternino, Locorotondo, and, of course, Alberobello.
• The Trulli: Built with dry stone, without the use of mortar, they were the dwellings of peasants. The origin of their conical design remains a mystery wrapped between legend and functionality.
• Tips: A stop at a masseria, ancient rural homes transformed into welcoming accommodations, is a must to savor the authentic atmosphere of Puglia.

3: Cisternino and Locorotondo

These villages rise like white islands in a green sea of fields.

• Cisternino: Its origins date back to the Messapic period. The historic center, with its narrow alleys and staircases, is a labyrinth of surprises. And the fornelli, typical butcheries where the meat selected directly by the customer is cooked, are a must-try gastronomic experience.
• Locorotondo: Its name derives from the circular shape of the historic center. Besides its architectural charm, it is renowned for wine production.

4: Alberobello, the City of Trulli

Alberobello needs no introduction. With over 1,500 trulli in the historic center, it is a true open-air museum.

• History: Legend has it that the conical design was chosen to evade taxes, as the trulli could be easily dismantled in case of inspection.
• Main Attractions: The Sovereign Trullo, larger than the others, and the Church of Sant'Antonio, also built like a trullo.
• Tips: A nighttime walk through the streets illuminated only by the soft light of the street lamps offers a magical atmosphere.

5: Martina Franca, Fusion of Art and Music

Located on a height between valleys, Martina Franca is a symphony of Baroque art and lively local life.

• Main Attractions: The Basilica of San Martino is a masterpiece of Apulian Baroque art, while the Ducal Palace mixes Renaissance and Rococo styles.
• Events: Every year, the city vibrates to the rhythm of the Festival della Valle d'Itria, a must-attend event for opera lovers.

This road trip between Ostuni and the Itria Valley represents a journey through time, among ancient traditions, authentic flavors, and enchanted landscapes. Puglia, with its roads winding through history and nature, offers indelible emotions and memories that last a lifetime. To immerse oneself in Puglia means to dive into a mosaic of colors, flavors, and history. This region, located at the extreme heel of the Italian boot, is one of Italy's hidden gems. In this article, we will take you on an unforgettable road trip from Ostuni, the shining White City, through the magical Itria Valley, the beating heart of trulli culture.