Driving in Puglia: Everything You Need to Know

Driving in Puglia is an adventure—one that’s both exhilarating and, at times, utterly perplexing. If you’ve ever driven in Italy before, you might think you know what to expect. But Puglia? It’s a world of its own.

The winding country roads, the spontaneous local driving habits, and the charming yet chaotic town centers make navigating this region a unique experience—even by Italian standards.

I know this because I live here. For the past two years, I’ve been driving Puglia’s roads daily, from the coastal highways to the narrow, whitewashed streets of Ostuni and the rugged backroads of the Valle d’Itria. I’ve rented cars here, owned cars here, and figured out the unspoken rules that keep traffic flowing—rules that often have little to do with what’s written in the official driving code.

I still remember the first time I picked up a rental car in Bari, adjusting to the unfamiliar rhythm of the road. Having driven all over the UK, the US, and much of Europe, I thought I was prepared.

But Southern Italy, and Puglia in particular, threw me a curveball. Driving here is not like navigating the Amalfi Coast, Sicily, or even neighboring Basilicata—it has its own set of challenges, quirks, and, believe it or not, charms.

Whether you’re planning a road trip through Puglia’s sun-drenched olive groves or just need a rental to explore its scattered towns, knowing what to expect before you get behind the wheel can make all the difference. Here’s everything you need to know about renting and driving a car in Puglia—from the practicalities to the realities of the road.

Read more: Where to Stay in Puglia as a Base: Best Places to Stay

Do You Need to Rent a Car in Puglia?

In my opinion, yes you need a car for Puglia but it depends on your Puglia itinerary and how much flexibility you want. If you’re sticking to the Bari area and planning to visit Polignano a Mare and Monopoli, you can easily get around by train and won’t need a car.

The same goes if you’re arriving in Bari and want to visit Lecce, with a possible stop in Ostuni—Puglia’s regional trains cover these routes well. Even a day trip from Bari to Altamura can be done without a car.

But if you’re dreaming of discovering Puglia beyond the well-trodden paths, renting a car is essential. The best beaches in Salento, particularly those along the Ionian coast, are nearly impossible to reach without one. The same goes for visiting Puglia’s top wineries, as they are typically nestled deep in the countryside with little to no public transport access.

If you want to explore lesser-known but incredible towns like Galatina, Nardò, Gallipoli, and Ceglie Messapica, or venture up to the dramatic coastline of the Gargano Peninsula, driving is the only realistic way to do it.

If you want to stay in Puglia’s best accommodations, the typical trulli or luxury masserias scattered around the countryside, you’ll need a car.

A car also gives you the freedom to maximize your itinerary—allowing you to visit multiple towns in a single day and get off the beaten path with ease. If your goal is to experience the best of Puglia at your own pace, renting a car is the way to go.

Legal Requirements for Driving in Puglia

When driving in Italy, you must be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver’s license to drive. The required documents may vary depending on the type of vehicle you’re operating.

If you’re from a European country and you’re planning to drive to Puglia and use your own car, here’s what you need to bring.

• Vehicle registration certificate
• Valid driving license
• Proof of insurance

If you’re bringing a car from a non-EU country, additional documents are required:

• Vehicle registration certificate
• A valid driving license from your home country
• An International Driving Permit (IDP) or an officially sworn translation of your license
• A Green Card or temporary border insurance (check with your insurance provider)
• A country sticker displaying the initials of your home country

If you’re bringing your campervan to Puglia, you’ll need the following:

• A valid driving license from an EU country
• If from outside the EU, an International Driving Permit (IDP) or an officially sworn translation of your license
• Vehicle registration card (for EU-registered vehicles); if coming from a non-EU country, check whether a Green Card or temporary border insurance is required and ensure your vehicle displays a country sticker with your home country’s initials.
• Insurance covering civil liability against third parties

Don’t set out on your trip to Puglia without the Puglia Map. This insider resource is filled with hundreds of pins on a Google Map for recommendations for things to do, restaurants, hotels, parking, and more. It’s the only resource you need for Puglia. Get access to the Puglia Map here. 🗺️

Renting a Car in Puglia

The majority of visitors rent their cars at Bari or Brindisi airports, as these are the main international entry points to the region.

While it’s possible to find local rental agencies in cities like Lecce or Ostuni, airport rentals typically offer a much wider selection of vehicles and, more importantly, better rates. Booking online in advance not only secures the best deal but also ensures availability, especially during peak travel seasons when rental cars in Puglia can sell out quickly.

I would discourage renting a fully electric vehicle in Puglia as charging points aren’t as common as they may be at home and distances can be long. Hybrids are more than welcome for reducing fuel costs.

I always recommend booking a rental car with Discover Cars, always selecting full coverage insurance, and booking with reliable companies like Europcar, Hertz, or Sixt. Renting a car in Italy is straightforward, and while driving in Puglia can feel a bit chaotic at times, it’s still a manageable and rewarding way to explore the region. Book your rental car with Discover Cars here.

Requirements for Renting a Vehicle in Italy

To rent a car in Italy, you’ll need the following:

• A valid driving license from an EU country, held for at least one year.
• If you’re from outside the EU, an International Driving Permit (IDP) or an officially translated version of your license.
• A valid form of identification, such as a passport.
• A credit card in the driver’s name for security deposits.

Most rental companies set a minimum age requirement of 21 or 23, while some have an upper age limit between 65 and 75. If you are lucky enough to be at either end of these scales, I’d recommend checking this before booking a rental.

Additionally, it’s typically mandatory to have held a valid driver’s license for at least one year. Always confirm specific requirements with your rental provider and insurance company before your trip.

Common Scams When Renting a Car in Puglia

Unfortunately, car rental scams in Puglia are becoming increasingly common, especially as the region’s popularity continues to grow. Rather than outright fraud, many of these tactics are more like calculated schemes designed to squeeze extra money from unsuspecting tourists—technically legal, but still frustratingly deceptive.

Car rental scams are generally more common with the most budget car rental companies which is why I highly suggest renting a car with a more reputable agency like Sixt, Hertz, Europcar, Avis, etc.

Some of the worst agencies to steer clear of if possible are Noleggiare, Gold Car, Firefly, Thrify, and any others you’ve never heard of before.

Here are some common scams to be aware of so you can take the means necessary to avoid being caught out.

• Insurance – One of the most common ways rental agencies in Puglia try to extract more money from customers is by insisting on their own mandatory insurance. If you’ve booked through Discover Cars with full coverage insurance, you don’t need the rental company’s additional policy—but some agents will go to great lengths to convince you otherwise. In some cases, they may even refuse to hand over the car unless you purchase their insurance, leaving you with little choice but to pay. Unfortunately, there’s not much you can do in these situations other than stand your ground, which is why booking with a reputable rental company is crucial to avoiding unnecessary charges and frustration.

• Test the Car Key in the Lock – Another common scam involves older models and basic cars like the Fiat Panda or Fiat 500—particularly those with physical locks on the driver and passenger doors. When renting one of these vehicles, always test the key in the lock before driving off. A frequent trick is for agents to provide a car with a faulty lock, knowing that most people rely on the remote key fob and never check the manual lock. When you return the car, they’ll claim the lock was tampered with or broken during your rental, forcing you to pay for damages you didn’t cause. To avoid falling for this, always inspect the locks and report any issues before leaving the rental lot.

• New Damage Cause After Drop Off – This scam typically happens after you’ve returned your rental car—you receive an email with unexpected charges billed to your credit card, often for damages caused by another driver after you dropped it off. To protect yourself from these surprise fees, it’s crucial to have additional coverage, such as credit card rental insurance or full coverage through a provider like Discover Cars.

• Inspect and Take Photos of the Entire Car – Agents tend to want to charge you for every, tiny scratch so make sure to take ample photos and video of every inch of the car so you can prove otherwise.

Additional Insurance When Renting a Car

If you’ve purchased full coverage insurance through Discover Cars or another third-party booking platform, you shouldn’t need to pay for any additional insurance at the rental desk.

Reputable companies generally won’t pressure you into buying extra coverage, but some agencies may try to insist on their own policies to upsell you. It’s always best to have full coverage insurance that’s separate from the rental company, whether through Discover Cars, your credit card, or another third-party provider.

This not only protects you in case of an accident but also shields you from common scams, such as false damage claims or unexpected charges after returning the car.

Road Infrastructure in Puglia

Driving in Puglia comes with its own set of challenges and quirks, and understanding the region’s road infrastructure will help you navigate more confidently. From modern highways to winding country roads and toll systems, here’s what to expect.

Highways

Puglia’s major cities and coastal towns are well-connected by highways. Running along the Adriatic coast from Bologna to Taranto is the Autostrada A14 or E843 it’s the fastest route for covering long distances in the north of the region, linking cities like Foggia and Bari.

Another key route and the most common when exploring Valle d’Itria areas and Salento is the SS16, a major coastal highway that runs parallel to the A14, connecting towns like Polignano a Mare, Monopoli, Ostuni, and Lecce.

The SS16 is toll-free and widely used for regional travel, though traffic can be heavy in summer, especially near popular beach destinations. While these highways are generally in good condition, Italian drivers tend to be fast and assertive, so staying in the right-hand lane unless overtaking is essential.

Country Roads

Once you leave the main highways, expect narrow, winding country roads, especially in the Valle d’Itria and Salento regions. Many of these roads are flanked by ancient stone walls and olive groves, with little room for error when passing oncoming traffic.

Potholes and uneven surfaces are common (depending on the area), and local drivers often take corners quickly—so drive cautiously, especially at night. It’s also common to see local drivers cutting into the adjacent lane on a corner.

It’s also worth noting that road signs can be inconsistent or missing in rural areas, so using a GPS or downloading Google Maps for offline maps is essential. In fact, many country roads in Puglia have no phone signal at all- when I drive home from Ostuni town, for example, I have very little signal on the way.

Toll Roads

Most of Puglia’s roads are toll-free, but if you’re driving into the region from the north, you’ll likely encounter toll roads on the Autostrada A14.

Tolls in Italy are based on distance traveled and can be paid in cash or by card at toll booths. If you plan on using toll roads frequently, consider getting a Telepass, which allows for automatic payments and faster access through toll gates.

However, within Puglia itself, most major routes—such as the SS16 coastal road and the SS100 connecting Bari and Taranto—are free to use.

Driving Around Puglia

Italian drivers have a reputation for their fast-paced and assertive driving style, but they are generally skilled and experienced on the road. At first, it is intimidating but don’t let it get to you—stay confident, and you’ll quickly adapt to the local rhythm of traffic.

Despite the initial adjustment, Puglia’s roads are generally easy to drive on, and once you get used to the narrow streets in towns, navigating them becomes second nature.

While Italy has an official highway code, known as the Codice della Strada, in practice, a more flexible interpretation is often applied, especially in smaller towns. It’s not unusual to see drivers bending the rules or following their own set of unwritten road customs, so staying alert and adaptable is key.

Common Driving Characteristics to Be Aware Of

Roundabouts

Italy has a long-standing love affair with roundabouts, and while they help keep traffic moving, they can sometimes feel like an anything-goes zone—especially in smaller towns and rural areas. Approaching them with caution is essential, as not every driver follows the rules. Some Italians learned to drive before roundabouts became widespread, while others simply ignore the regulations altogether.

In theory, Italy’s Codice della Strada (Highway Code) sets clear guidelines for roundabouts, treating them as intersections where right of way is dictated by road signs and markings. Most modern roundabouts follow the “European” system, where vehicles already in the roundabout have priority.

However, older “Italian-style” roundabouts still exist, where cars entering from the right have the right of way unless signage indicates otherwise. It’s all very confusing.

The general rule in Italy is to yield to traffic coming from the right unless signs or markings suggest otherwise. That said, independent-minded Italian drivers often take a more creative approach to these rules. The best strategy? Stay alert, drive assertively but cautiously, and be prepared for unexpected maneuvers from fellow road users, such as giving way when already on the road about to someone entering who hasn’t even bothered looking left.

Tailgating

Another common Pugliese pastime is tailgating. Many local drivers tailgate aggressively when they’re looking to overtake. On highways, it’s common for them to follow extremely close behind until they find the right moment to pass—often much closer than what feels comfortable.

Rather than waiting for a wide-open stretch, many Italian drivers will dart into the overtaking lane abruptly, sometimes without signaling, expecting the car in front to adjust speed accordingly. Once they’ve passed, they’ll often cut back in just as quickly, making overtaking a fast-paced and unpredictable experience.

If you’re driving at night and someone flashes their headlights as they pass, don’t panic—it’s not a warning about your taillights. In southern Italy, this is simply a way for drivers to signal their presence.

On country roads tailgating is again common and for much longer stretches of road as sometimes there are no safe spots to overtake. I always give plenty of notice by indicating when planning to turn off the main road so they can adjust their speed accordingly.

Indicators

What indicators? One of the more noticeable quirks of driving in Puglia is the widespread disregard for turn signals. Whether on highways, at junctions, or navigating roundabouts, it’s not uncommon for drivers to switch lanes or make a turn without any warning.

In fact, the use of indicators is a good way to spot a foreign driver or a rental car as Italian drivers tend to indicate when completely necessary.

Staying alert and anticipating sudden moves from others is key to driving safely in Puglia.

Merging onto Highways

Merging onto highways in Puglia requires patience and quick decision-making. Don’t expect local drivers to slow down or make space for you—yielding isn’t a common courtesy here.

Adding to the challenge, many highway entry lanes are really quite short, meaning you may need to come to a complete stop and wait for an opening before merging. My advice is to go in quite slowly when merging into the highway.

If you’re already on the highway, avoid slowing down to let merging cars in, as drivers behind you won’t be expecting it and may not react in time. If traffic allows, move into the left lane to give merging vehicles more room.

Driving in Towns and Cities

Driving in Puglia’s towns and cities can be a bit chaotic, but with time, you’ll adapt to the local flow. The roads, especially in or near historic centers, tend to be incredibly narrow—often feeling like they were designed for horse carts rather than cars. This can make maneuvering tricky, and parking is almost always a challenge, with cars packed tightly into any available space.

One thing to keep in mind is that Italian drivers waste no time—if you leave even the slightest gap, someone will take it. A more assertive driving style is the norm here, so hesitation can lead to more confusion than simply making your move. It’s best to be confident behind the wheel while staying alert for the quick, often unpredictable decisions of other drivers.

Another important difference is pedestrian crossings—or rather, the way they are ignored. Unlike in many other countries, Italian drivers rarely stop for pedestrians at crosswalks, and pedestrians don’t expect them to. Always approach crossings with caution, but don’t assume other drivers will slow down just because someone is waiting to cross.

Additionally, many town centers are full of one-way streets, which can make navigation tricky if you’re unfamiliar with the area. To avoid frustration (and accidentally turning the wrong way), it’s best to keep a GPS or Google Maps on hand to help you navigate the maze of narrow streets and unexpected dead ends.

ZTL Zone

Almost every town center in Puglia—including Matera—has a ZTL (Zona a Traffico Limitato) or Limited Traffic Zone. These areas are restricted to residents and those with special permits, meaning tourists and non-residents are not allowed to drive or park within them.

Designed to reduce congestion and preserve historic centers, ZTL zones are strictly enforced, and entering one without authorization will result in a large fine (hundreds of euros).

ZTL zones are marked with clear signage, usually featuring a red circle with the words “Zona a Traffico Limitato”, and a digital screen to say open/closed, and are often monitored by cameras that automatically record license plates.

Many towns activate their ZTL only during specific hours—typically in the evenings or weekends—while others, like Lecce and Ostuni, have permanent restrictions in place. Rental cars are not exempt, and fines are often sent to drivers long after their trip, processed through the rental company.

To avoid driving into a ZTL by mistake, always use Google Maps or a GPS with restricted zone settings (but be careful- Google Maps has suggested I drive through a ZTL many times before, so you need to pay attention to the signs).

If you’re staying in a hotel within a ZTL, contact them in advance about parking—some accommodations can temporarily register your car to grant access for unloading luggage or even parking within its limits. Otherwise, the best option is to park outside the restricted zone and explore on foot.

Wandering where to park in Puglian towns to avoid the ZTL zones? I’ve listed all my favorite car parks and convenient free and paid parking spots on my Puglia Map. Get access to my Puglia Map here.

Parking

This one forever makes me laugh. Just when I think I’ve seen it all, I spot someone who has taken parking to a whole new level—whether it’s parking on a roundabout, blocking a driveway, or not even parking. Some leave their car in the middle of a junction with hazard lights on, the engine running, key in the ignition, door open, and head to the shops. I do not kid.

Parking in Puglia is a mix of chaos and creativity, and while there are rules, they’re not always followed.

Understanding Parking Zones

Officially, parking is color-coded:

• Yellow lines are reserved for residents, disabled drivers, or special permits, and parking here without authorization can lead to fines or towing. Do not park on yellow lines.

• Blue lines indicate paid parking—you’ll need to purchase a ticket from a nearby machine or use a parking app. Apps are the way to go as lines for meters in popular lots in summer can be a little crazy. Some towns use EasyPark and others like Ceglie Messapica use Flowbird. It’s worthwhile having both these apps on your phone and paying through them. While they are a tiny bit more expensive than the meter they allow you to top up your parking as and when you need.

• White lines mean free parking, but these spots are often hard to find in busy areas and almost impossible to find available in summer.

Always check signage, as time limits and payment hours can vary by location. In many towns, parking fees apply only during the morning and evening and are free during siesta hours. Winter and summer parking hours also vary.

Street Parking & Creative Solutions

In smaller towns, parking can feel like a free-for-all. Double parking is common, as is parking in places that technically shouldn’t be used as spaces—on sidewalks, in front of driveways, or in absurdly tight gaps.

Locals often leave their cars in neutral when parallel parked so others can push them forward or backward to make room.

Where to Park in Historic Centers

If you’re driving into a town with a ZTL (Limited Traffic Zone), your best bet is to find parking outside the restricted area. Most historic centers have designated public parking lots just outside the main town, which are usually paid but convenient.

Cities like Lecce, Ostuni, and Alberobello all have well-marked parking areas just a short walk from the center.

Parking at the Beach

Beach parking in Puglia is a whole different challenge, especially in summer.

Popular beaches often have private parking lots run by locals charging a flat fee for the day—these are usually the easiest options. Roadside parking near beaches can be chaotic and impossible, with cars wedged into every possible space, often partially blocking the road. If you’re heading to a well-known beach, plan to arrive early to secure a spot.

At the end of the day, parking in Puglia requires patience, flexibility, and a good sense of humor. If you find a legal space, take it—because chances are, it won’t be there for long. This is one reason why shoulder season travel is best and why I never run errands or head to dinner in Ostuni or other popular towns in July and August- there’s just no place to park.

Left Luggage in Parked Cars

You should not, under any circumstances, leave all your belongings in a parked car and head out for the day—especially at the beach. Car break-ins are a known issue in Puglia, particularly in popular coastal areas where thieves target rental cars.

One of the most common mistakes travelers make is on their last day in Puglia when they stop at the beach for a few final hours before heading to the airport—leaving all their luggage in the car. Many return to find their bags gone, a devastating way to end a trip. Thieves are well aware of this routine and actively watch for rental cars packed with suitcases.

They clone your key signal and open your car normally, so you won’t find any broken windows on your return either. This is also a way to not draw attention to themselves.

Even if you’re parking in what seems like a safe area, never leave valuables or bags in your vehicle. If you must store something in the trunk, do it discreetly before arriving at your destination, not in the parking lot where someone could be watching.

The best option is to plan ahead—leave your luggage at your hotel, or go directly to the airport before making any stops. At the beach, bring all your stuff with you.

Refueling in Puglia

Refueling in Puglia is very similar to refueling anywhere else in Italy, but very different compared the UK and other countries. It is straightforward once you know the system, but if you’re not familiar with Italian gas stations, it can be a little confusing at first. Here’s what to expect when refueling in Puglia.

Types of Fuel

Most rental cars in Italy run on either benzina (unleaded petrol) or diesel (gasolio)—make sure you know which one your car takes before pulling up to the pump.

You may also see GPL (liquefied petroleum gas) and Metano (natural gas) pumps, but these are for specialized vehicles and won’t apply to most rentals.

Self-Service vs. Attendant Service

Gas stations in Puglia offer both self-service (self-servito) and full-service (servito) options.

• Self-service is usually cheaper, and you’ll need to pay at the machine next to the pump or inside before filling up. Some stations require you to insert cash or a card into a machine before selecting your fuel.
• Full-service stations have an attendant who will pump the fuel for you, but you’ll pay a slightly higher price per liter for the convenience. If you’re unsure about the process, this can be a stress-free option and in summer, the faster option.

Paying for Fuel

• Most stations accept credit and debit cards, but smaller rural stations may be cash-only. I personally have never encountered a station that does not take cards.
• Almost all self-service pumps require prepayment at an automated kiosk or more commonly at the payment machine next to the pump before fueling—insert cash or card, select your pump number, and then fill up.
• Be aware that some machines do not provide change, so if you insert a €50 note but only pump €30 worth of fuel, you may not get the difference back.

24/7 Fuel Stations

While many gas stations close in the afternoon for siesta (Italy’s midday break), larger stations along highways and main roads have 24-hour self-service pumps. These are fully automated, so make sure you have a working credit/debit card or cash to use the payment machine.

Topping Up Before Returning a Rental Car

If you need to return your rental with a full tank, don’t leave it until the last minute. Not all gas stations near the airport are open 24/7, and some only take Italian bank cards at automated pumps. Plan to refuel a bit earlier to avoid any last-minute stress or extra refueling charges from the rental company.

Drinking and Driving in Puglia

Drinking and driving laws in Italy are strict, and Puglia is no exception. While a glass of wine with lunch or dinner might seem like part of the Italian lifestyle ( and to be honest most locals do it), getting behind the wheel afterward comes with it’s risks—both legally and in terms of road safety.

Legal Limits & Penalties

Italy’s legal blood alcohol limit (BAC) is 0.05%, which is lower than in many other countries, including the UK (0.08%). For new drivers—those with a license for less than three years—the limit is 0.00%, meaning absolutely no alcohol is allowed.

If you’re caught over the limit, penalties are severe and can include:

• Heavy fines (ranging from several hundred to thousands of euros)
• License suspension
• Possible vehicle confiscation
• In extreme cases, criminal charges and even jail time

Police in Puglia regularly set up random roadside checkpoints (posto di blocco), especially on weekends and near tourist hotspots like Ostuni, Lecce, and Gallipoli. If stopped, you may be asked to take a breathalyzer test on the spot. Refusing to comply results in automatic penalties.

Road Safety & Local Driving Culture

Puglia’s roads, particularly in rural areas, are not well-lit at night, and many local drivers take a relaxed approach to road laws. Drunk driving isn’t as uncommon as it should be, but that doesn’t make it safe.

Many accidents in Puglia occur late at night, especially near beach clubs and summer party destinations. If you’re heading out for a night of drinking, leave the car behind and take a taxi, arrange a driver, or stay within walking distance of your accommodation.

Don’t set out on your trip to Puglia without the Puglia Map. This insider resource is filled with hundreds of pins on a Google Map for recommendations for things to do, restaurants, hotels, parking, and more. It’s the only resource you need for Puglia. Get access to the Puglia Map here. 🗺️

Winter Driving in Puglia

While Puglia is best known for its sun-drenched beaches and warm Mediterranean climate, winter brings a different experience, especially if you’re driving. If you’re visiting in the off-season (November to March), there are a few things to keep in mind when navigating the region’s roads.

Do You Need Winter Tires?

Unlike northern Italy, Puglia’s winters are mild, and snow is rare in most areas. However, winter tires or snow chains are legally required on certain roads from November 15 to April 15, particularly in higher-altitude areas like the Gargano Peninsula or Le Murge (near Altamura and Castel del Monte), where temperatures can drop, and ice is possible.

Rental cars picked up in Puglia typically won’t come with winter tires by default, so check with your rental agency if you plan to drive in these regions.

Rain & Slippery Roads

Puglia’s roads aren’t designed for heavy rain, and in both winter and summer, sudden downpours can cause flooding, particularly on country roads with poor drainage. After a long dry summer, the first rains also make roads extra slippery due to built-up oil and dust.

When driving in Puglia during wet conditions, be cautious as braking distances can be longer than expected.

Limited Daylight & Road Conditions

Days are shorter in winter, with the sun setting by 4:30–5:00 PM, meaning you’ll be driving in the dark more often. Many rural roads in Puglia lack streetlights, and potholes, uneven surfaces, or sudden curves can be difficult to see at night. If you’re driving long distances, plan your routes to avoid unfamiliar country roads after dark.

Road Closures & Seasonal Changes

While Puglia doesn’t experience the extreme winter weather of northern Italy, some beach roads, coastal routes, and rural attractions may be less maintained or even closed during the off-season. Certain small towns also have reduced services in winter, meaning fewer gas stations and rest stops may be open.

Is Winter Driving in Puglia Difficult?

Generally, no—driving in Puglia during winter is quite manageable, especially if you’re staying near major towns and highways. I actually think driving in the winter is easier in many ways as there are way fewer cars on the road and parking is easy.

However, if you plan on exploring the countryside or heading into higher-altitude areas, be prepared for wet roads, limited lighting, and the occasional winter driving requirement. Always check local weather conditions and rental car policies before setting out.

What was your experience like driving in Puglia? Let me know your questions and comments below, I’d love to hear from you.

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