Puglia, located in the southeastern corner of Italy, How to Get to Puglia is a dream destination filled with sun-soaked beaches, whitewashed villages, and delicious local cuisine. While it may feel like an off-the-beaten-path treasure, getting to Puglia doesn’t have to cost a fortune. In fact, there are several affordable options that make visiting this charming region possible on almost any budget. Whether you’re coming from another part of Italy or traveling internationally, here are 8 budget-friendly ways to get to Puglia with ease and style.
1. Fly into Bari or Brindisi with Low-Cost Airlines
How to Get to Puglia The easiest and often cheapest way to get to Puglia is by flying directly into one of its two main airports: Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport or Brindisi Papola Casale Airport. Low-cost carriers like Ryanair, EasyJet, Wizz Air, and Volotea frequently offer budget-friendly fares from major European cities. You can often snag round-trip flights for under €50 if you book early. Once you arrive, public transportation options like trains and buses make it simple to reach nearby towns and coastal areas.
2. Take a Budget Train from Rome or Naples
How to Get to Puglia For travelers already in Italy, taking a train is a scenic and economical way to reach Puglia. Trenitalia and Italo offer direct services from cities like Rome, Naples, or Bologna to Bari and Lecce. Booking in advance can yield great deals, with some tickets as low as €19 for a one-way journey. Regional trains are slower but cheaper, while high-speed trains cut down on travel time and offer extra comfort. Either way, it’s an efficient and enjoyable way to reach Puglia without spending much.
3. Hop on a Long-Distance Bus for Ultra Savings
If you’re really watching your budget, long-distance buses are among the cheapest transportation options. How to Get to Puglia Companies like FlixBus, Itabus, and MarinoBus offer connections from Italian cities such as Rome, Milan, and Florence to Puglian destinations including Bari, Brindisi, and Lecce. Prices can start from as little as €9 for a one-way ticket. While the journey is longer than by train, overnight buses allow you to save on accommodation too — ideal for backpackers and students.
4. Drive to Puglia and Split Costs with Car Sharing
How to Get to Puglia Car sharing is an excellent option for those who want flexibility and comfort without renting a car solo. Platforms like BlaBlaCar connect drivers with empty seats to passengers traveling in the same direction. A shared ride from Rome to Bari might cost around €20–€30 — a deal when compared to other transport options. Plus, you get the chance to enjoy Italy’s beautiful countryside and possibly make new friends along the way.
5. Catch a Ferry from Greece, Albania, or Croatia
If you’re coming from the Balkans or Greece, a ferry ride can be a fun and affordable way to reach Puglia. Bari and Brindisi serve as major ports, welcoming ferries from cities like Patras and Igoumenitsa (Greece), Durrës (Albania), and Dubrovnik (Croatia). Night ferries are a great way to travel economically since you can skip a night’s stay in a hotel. You can book tickets in advance through platforms like Ferryhopper or Direct Ferries for the best prices and routes.
6. Use Regional Flights within Italy
Italy’s domestic flight network is surprisingly robust, and regional flights can be a time-saving and cost-effective alternative to trains. Budget airlines such as Volotea and Ryanair operate routes between cities like Milan, Turin, Venice, and Bologna to both Bari and Brindisi. Flights are often cheaper midweek, and prices can dip as low as €20. To make the most of this option, travel light and avoid checked baggage to dodge extra fees.
7. Combine Eurail or Interrail Passes for Value
If you’re planning a broader European adventure, Eurail or Interrail passes provide excellent value and flexibility. These passes allow for unlimited travel within a certain number of days, making it easy to include Puglia in your itinerary. Trains from Florence, Venice, or even Austria can get you to Bari or Lecce using the pass. While some high-speed routes require seat reservations, most regional lines do not, allowing for spontaneous and budget-conscious travel.
8. Travel Off-Season to Maximize Savings
Traveling during the off-season (October to April) or shoulder seasons (May–June, September) can significantly reduce the cost of getting to Puglia. During these months, both transportation and accommodation are cheaper, and tourist sites are less crowded. Airlines and train companies often offer discounts, and last-minute bookings are more feasible. This is also the best time to experience Puglia’s local charm without the summer rush, all while staying within your budget.
Conclusion
Puglia may seem remote compared to Italy’s bustling cities, but it’s incredibly accessible and affordable if you know how to travel smart. From flying with budget airlines and catching cheap buses to exploring Europe with train passes or ferrying in from nearby countries, there are plenty of cost-effective ways to reach this southern Italian paradise. With a little planning and flexibility, you can enjoy everything Puglia has to offer — olive groves, ancient towns, sunlit beaches — without overspending. Bon viaggio!
FAQs
1. What is the cheapest way to get to Puglia from Rome?
The cheapest option is usually long-distance buses like FlixBus, which can cost as little as €9. However, early train bookings can also offer competitive prices with faster travel times.
2. Which Puglian airport is best for budget travelers?
Both Bari and Brindisi airports serve low-cost airlines, but Bari generally has more frequent international and domestic connections, making it a better bet for deals.
3. Is public transportation reliable in Puglia?
Yes, especially for traveling between cities. Trains and regional buses run regularly, though service may be less frequent in rural areas, so plan accordingly.
4. Can I use my Interrail/Eurail pass on all trains to Puglia?
You can use your pass on most regional and national trains, but high-speed trains may require seat reservations, which come with a small additional cost.
5. Is it better to rent a car once I arrive in Puglia?
If you want to explore smaller villages or beaches off the beaten path, renting a car is a great idea. Otherwise, trains and buses will cover most of the main tourist spots affordably.