Should I Rent a Car in Puglia: What You Need To Know

Wondering if you need to rent a car to explore Puglia? The quick answer is YES. While there is public transit in southern Italy, you won’t be able to visit places like Alberobello, Matera, or Ostuni easily without a car.

Renting a car isn’t always the most affordable option for travelers coming from other parts of the world, but in places like Bari, prices are pretty cheap!

My best recommendation for a rental car /car hire is Discover Cars! They have the best prices and offer the most affordable insurance.

What I love best is Discover Cars will scan through local companies and international companies so you get the best deal available!

Ready to Book Your Rental Car for Puglia?

Where To Find A Rental Car in the Puglia Region?

Finding the right car hire company in Italy doesn’t have to be complicated. I use Discover Cars for all my car rentals because they are so easy to work with!

My advice to all my friends and family is to book ahead if you need an automatic car. The summer months are especially busy in the Puglia region!

Cost of Renting A Car in Puglia

The cost of renting a car in Puglia depends on several factors, such as the type of car, the length of your rental period, and any discounts or special offers that may be available. The time of year is a major factor in price.

Italy’s busy tourist season is from May through September.

For comparison, a rental car for 8 days in February will cost you a total of around $63. That same car for 8 days in June will cost around $338. Still, that is only $42 a day in high season, which isn’t too terrible.

When estimating the total cost of your rental, you should also factor in additional costs such as insurance, fuel, and parking fees.

Lastly, be sure to read the rental agreement carefully beforehand and understand all of your obligations as a renter.

Is it safe for a Solo female to rent a car in Puglia?

Absolutely! I have had no issues as a solo female renting a car in Italy. Using an online service like Discover Cars is perfect because everything is done for you, just arrive and get your car.

When it comes to safety, the Puglia Region is generally considered safe for a solo female traveler.

In fact, poverty levels are much lower than in most tourist destinations, and crime rates are quite low.

That doesn’t mean leaving your car unlocked or with lots of shopping bags or luggage in the back. You need to take precautions you would anywhere else.

Are The Roads Safe To Drive in Puglia?

Good news! Yes, the roads in the Puglia region are safe to drive. People can drive fast and a little aggressively in Italy, but I found it to be very easy to drive in Puglia.

The small village roads are very narrow, so do yourself a favor and get a small rental car. Be thinking Fiat, not Ford.

Driving after dark is something I don’t recommend whenever possible, the roads aren’t always well lit.

It can be a little nerve-wracking to navigate the busy streets filled with scooters, cars, and trucks in a populated area.

My advice is to do your day trips early and get back to where you can park your car before nightfall.

Why You Should Rent a Car in the Puglia Region

There is so much to see in Puglia that is made so much easier by having your own vehicle! You can cover a lot of ground off the beaten track.

Public transport is decent in Southern Italy, but if you want to find the most beautiful beaches and hidden gems, you must drive there.

With a car, you can take advantage of all the region has to offer without relying on public transportation or spending a fortune on taxis.

You’ll be able to visit small towns and villages, explore some of Italy’s most stunning beaches, and take in the spectacular views of the Apennines Mountains.

For example, if you want to visit some of the locally run family wineries, you will need your own transportation.

It’s also important to note that renting a car in Puglia is relatively affordable compared to other regions in Italy, so it won’t break the bank.

All in all, renting a car in the Puglia region is a great way to experience it with ease and freedom.

What are the qualifications for renting a car in Italy?

To rent a car with Discover Cars, the minimum age is 18. In Italy, in most car rental companies, the minimum age for renting a car is 21.

Depending on the rental company and vehicle type, drivers under 25 may also be subject to a young driver surcharge. But not with Discover Cars! They do not charge a surcharge.

All drivers must have held their license for at least one year prior to the rental date. An international driving permit is required if your driver’s license is not in Italian. If you are an American Citizen like me, be sure to get this permit.

Additionally, some rental companies may require a credit card in the driver’s name as proof of identity and to cover any additional charges.

It is important to check with your rental company for specific requirements before arriving at the pick-up location so that you can plan accordingly.

Finally, all drivers must have valid auto insurance. The rental company typically requires proof of coverage. Discover Cars offers fantastic full coverage for a great rate!

When Should You Book Your Vehicle?

It’s recommended that you book your rental car in Puglia as early as possible. May and October are the busiest months for tourists.

So, if you plan on traveling during that time, it’s best to book two or three weeks ahead of time, especially during peak travel seasons like Easter and summer holidays.

Booking further in advance will also allow you to take advantage of any early bird discounts or other promotional offers.

Does Italy have Automatic or Manual Transmission Cars?

I can only drive an automatic car. The majority of cars in Italy are manual transmissions, but there is a growing trend towards automatic transmission cars.

Discover Cars does have automatic cars, but they book up the fastest.

Automatics also have the advantage of not requiring the driver to use their left foot for shifting, allowing them to focus more on the road and driving conditions.

For the best deals on an automatic car don’t leave booking your car till the last minute!

What do you need to pick up your car?

In order to pick up your rental car, you will need the following:

• Passport
• -Valid Driving License
• -Credit Card
• -Main Drivers Name
• -Booking Voucher
• -Flight Information
• -Renters from Italy need to provide proof of home address, such as a utility bill

Tips when picking up your rental car

1. Check your rental agreement carefully: Before you pick up your rental car, be sure to read through the entire rental agreement so that you know exactly what is included in your rental. Make note of any restrictions or additional fees that may apply during the course of your rental period.

2. Inspect the vehicle before signing off: Upon arrival, inspect the vehicle for any signs of damage or wear and tear, and make sure that all of the features described in your rental agreement are present. Take pictures or video of any existing damage before you sign off on the rental so that no additional charges can be added to your bill.

3. Familiarize yourself with your rental car: Before you drive off, take a few moments to familiarize yourself with the features and functions of your rental car. This includes getting comfortable with the controls and any safety or navigation systems that may be included in the vehicle.

4. Refill your rental car before returning it: Many rental companies charge extra fees if you return a car with a less-than-full tank of gas. Be sure to fill up your rental car before returning it so that you don’t have to worry about any additional charges.

5. Ask questions if needed: Don’t be afraid to speak up! If you have any questions or concerns during the course of your rental period, be sure to ask the rental company for clarification.

You don’t want to regret not bringing up your concerns before you drive off with the car!

Where can you pick up your rental car in Puglia?

When you arrive in Puglia, several rental locations throughout the region offer cars. The most convenient places to pick up your rental car in Puglia include Bari Airport, Brindisi Airport, Foggia Airport, Lecce Airport, and Taranto Airport.

Several car hire companies are located in major towns such as Bari, Brindisi, Lecce, and Taranto, and they can be used to explore the region by train or bus.

One-way Rental Rules

If you want to pick up your car in Bari and drop it off in the Cinque Terre there are extra costs involved. It is called a one-way fee.

Bit of a bummer to pay more just to leave it elsewhere, but at least it is possible! Some rental service companies don’t allow it, but Discover Cars does!

Can I drive my rental car from Italy to another country?

The best way to answer this question is by looking at the Rental Options on the Discover Cars booking page. But the answer is likely “no“.

Most rental car companies do not allow their vehicles to be taken out of the country without prior approval.

If you are interested in traveling across international borders with your rental, the only way is to check with your Discover Cars directly. They will have more information on their policies and rental options.

You may find that additional fees and paperwork will be required.

Local Driving Laws in Italy

• – All drivers must carry a valid driver’s license, registration documents, and third-party insurance coverage at all times whilst driving.
• Seat belts must be worn by all passengers in the car.
• It is illegal to drive while using a mobile phone (unless you have a hands-free device).
• The speed limits on motorways are 130km/h, and 50km/h in built-up areas. Always be aware of the maximum speed limit.
• You must give way to traffic from the right at roundabouts and junctions. I am going to warn you now, those roundabouts are a free for all ; )
• Motorcyclists must wear a protective helmet at all times.
• The use of headlights is mandatory in tunnels and during adverse weather conditions.
• It is illegal to drive with a blood alcohol level exceeding 0.05%.
• It is important to be aware of the many ZTL (limited traffic zones) in some Italian cities that require permission to enter. Google Maps has been known to try and direct you to drive through these Zona Traffico Limitato, so be vigilant.
• The maximum trailer length allowed on the roads is 12 meters.

Filling Your Car With Gas In Italy

Gas in European Countries is often referred to as Petrol. You can spot an American when they ask where the gas station is.

When getting gas in Italy make sure you don’t fill it up with Diesel!

• Benzina (Gas) unleaded petrol
• Gasolio (Diesel)

TIP: Most gas stations have a self-service pump that you can use even if the station is closed.

On-Street Parking in Puglia was not my favorite

The smaller your car, the easier to park, and finding a parking space can be annoying! There is some parking information you ought to know when getting a car in Puglia.

The lines all mean something different when it comes to permission to park.

• A blue line means they are for paid parking
• Yellow lines are for disabled drivers and must present the badge of proof
• White lines mean free parking, almost always!

Looking for parking signs with a white P on a blue sign. If you find an unmarked parking lot that often means free. It is more common outside large cities.

What are the major cities of Puglia?

The most popular tourist destinations include the regional capital of Bari, the port city of Brindisi, and the Trullo-filled town of Alberobello.

Other major cities in Puglia include Lecce, Foggia, Taranto, Andria, and Barletta.

Each of these cities offers unique opportunities for visitors to explore the region’s history and culture.

If you don’t have a rental car for your entire stay you should check out some day tours from Bari.

Best Places for a Road Trip in Puglia

If you base yourself in the historic old town of Bari, as I did, there are a number of places to visit. Once I hit everything on my Bari itinerary I continued to travel down southern Italy.

First I went to Polignano a Mare and then Monopoli! Two of the most beautiful and authentic places I’ve visited in Italy.

Head to Ostuni, also known as The White Town. It was once an important port city, but now it is one of Puglia’s most popular tourist destinations.

From its picture-perfect alleyways to the castle and local churches, every corner of this delightful town is worth exploring.

Next, make your way to Alberobello, which is totally worth visiting for the day. Here is where you will find the iconic Trulli houses. Trulli of Alberobello is these ancient dwellings with conical roofs. They were created centuries ago by farmers who wanted to avoid paying taxes.

You can walk the streets and admire these unique buildings, or even rent one for a night during your stay.

If you’re looking to relax on the beach, head down to Gallipoli. This lively seaside resort is situated on an island connected by bridges with mainland Puglia.

Looking for ideas outside of Puglia? The famous Almafi coast is just on the opposite side of the Puglia region!

So Should You Rent A Car?

The best way to explore the south of Italy is by having your own car. There are so many little stop-offs and places to check out only possible if you have a vehicle.

For the little cost of renting a car, I highly recommend it!

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