Rome — 3 nights
Perfect base to start your trip. It’s best to explore on foot and rent a car only after leaving to avoid problems with the ZTL (Limited Traffic Zones). Must-sees: Colosseum, St. Peter’s Basilica, Vatican Museums, Trevi Fountain, Piazza Navona, and Trastevere.

Complete Rome Itinerary

Rome-Naples

Rome → Naples
230 km — 2h30
Optional high-speed train: 1h10

Where we stayed – Locanda Parlamento – Rhome Luxury Suites

Car rental: Trayectis (personalized experience, family cars, full insurance included) Discount coupon: EUROPAACOMPANADA5

Search engines Discovercars. Other car options and offers.

Naples — 4 nights
We recommend choosing a hotel with parking. Ideal base for visiting Pompeii, Herculaneum, Vesuvius, Caserta Palace y las islas de Procida e Ischia. Ciudad intensa, caótica y con muchísimo encanto.

Ticket pass: Campania Pass

Complete Naples itinerary

Naples-Sorrento

Naples → Sorrento
50 km — 1h approx.

Where we stayed – Real Paggeria

Sorrento — 2 nights
An excellent alternative for exploring the Amalfi Coast without paying Positano prices. Ferry to Capri and spectacular sea views.

Where we stayed – The Night Guest House

Amalfi Road

Ruta Amalfitana
Sorrento → Positano: 14 km
Positano → Amalfi: 17 km
A few kilometers, but lots of traffic and a slow road.

Amalfi — 1 night
Highlights: Amalfi Cathedral, the coastal atmosphere, and sunset in the main square. Parking is very limited; a hotel with parking is recommended.

Where we stayed – Baia de Amalfi

Amalfi → Ravello → Vietri sul Mare
Ravello: 7 km
Amalfi → Vietri: 20 km

Vietri sul Mare — 1 night
A strategic stop before continuing south. A town famous for its handcrafted pottery. Optional visit to Salerno.

Where we stayed – Mareteré

Vietri sul Mare- Matera

Vietri → Matera
A complete change of scenery heading inland.

Matera — 2 nights
Sleeping in a cave house is part of the experience. Must-sees: the Sassi and the Murgia Timone viewpoint.

Where we stayed –19.52 Matera

Full itinerary for Matera

Matera → Lecce
200 km approx.

Route through Puglia

Lecce — 2 nights
The “Florence of the South”. Ideal base for visiting Gallipoli and Otranto without constantly changing hotels.

Route through Puglia
Lecce → Ostuni → Cisternino → Alberobello: 100 km approx.

Complete route through Puglia

Alberobello — 2 nights
Sleeping in a trullo is mandatory. From here you can visit Locorotondo and Martina Franca..

Where we stayed –Trullo Mont Santo 50

Alberobello → Polignano a Mare
33 km
Recommended stop in Monopoli.

Polignano a Mare — 1 night
Cliffs, panoramic terraces and the famous Lama Monachile cove.

Polignano → Bari
35 km

Bari — 1 or 2 nights
Ideal end of the trip. Bari Vecchia, focaccia barese and authentic southern Italian atmosphere.

Option to return to Rome
Bari → Rome: 450 km
Possible intermediate stop in Foggia to rest.

Quick summary of nights

20-day itinerary through southern Italy

• Rome — 3
• Naples — 4
• Sorrento — 2
• Amalfi — 1
• Vietri sul Mare — 1
• Matera — 2
• Lecce — 2
• Alberobello — 2
• Polignano a Mare — 1
• Bari — 2 ( o 1 y otra en Roma)

Map with the route

Frequently Asked Questions:

How many days does it take to travel around southern Italy?

Ideally, you should allow 15 to 20 days to combine Rome, Naples, the Amalfi Coast, and Puglia at a relaxed pace. If you only have that many days, we recommend Calabria and Sicily on a separate itinerary.

Is it worth exploring southern Italy by car?

Yes, especially in Puglia and the Amalfi Coast, where many towns and viewpoints are much more enjoyable on a road trip.

Where is the best place to rent a car in Italy?

The best option is to pick it up when leaving Rome and return it in Bari or again in Rome depending on the return price.

What is the best time to travel to southern Italy?

May, June and September are usually the best months due to pleasant weather and less tourism.

 NOTE: The information in this article is based on our own experience and is entirely objective. This article contains affiliate links.

La entrada 20-day road trip through southern Italy: Rome to Puglia se publicó primero en Europa acompañada.

So let’s go from the beginning, like we were?

By car. For a month and something we were touring part of Italy, we rented the car in Rome and we would return it at the end of the whole tour. We rented it from Discovercars.

So we left Matera very early, visiting some of the towns we found along the way and leaving others for the next day.

As we said Alberobello is a small town and a municipality in the province of Bari (Apulia). They are famous the trulli of Alberobello, declared Heritage of Humanity  by the  Unesco in the year 1996.

​The origins of the city date back to the second half of the Middle Ages or to the beginning of the sixteenth century when as an existing rule in the Kingdom of Naples the birth of an urban agglomeration required the payment of tribute;  so the settlers built their houses to dry stone, that is, without cement, so that they could be demolished in case of inspection Having therefore to use only stones, the peasants found in the round shape with domed roof, composed of overlapping stone circles, the simplest and most solid configuration.  The symbols painted on the roofs of the trulli often took on a religious meaning, sometimes they could represent the signs of the  zodiac or other pagan signs.

This is how we find today not only in the city but in the Itria Valley with this type of striking constructions

Dedicating a few hours to this part of the city will be enough to get to know it since it is not that big, walking and discovering charming corners is wonderful

You can join a city in Basilicata, Matera.

Excursion to Matera and Alberobello from Bari, or excursion to Alberobello, Polignano a Mare and Monopoli

Stay in a teal

We chose to spend a night to enjoy sleeping in a trulli, we chose the Trullo Monte Santo 50, it is charming and spacious, but you have many options, yes, make sure that it is a real trulli if that is what you are looking for, because in some cases it may look like it on the outside and not be, look well at the photos of the interiors on the hotel search website, We use Booking

The one we chose was very spacious and comfortable, we had a voucher included for breakfast in the village, a coffee with croissant, cold cuts and cheese and to be able to continue our journey. Cosimo was in contact with us via WhatsApp the whole time before we arrived, which was very helpful.

As we were telling you, we went by car, so we needed parking. We asked them about parking and they recommended us to go to one (Nel Verde) that was very close to the trullo.

We were always connected with Holafly eSIMs, discount code EUROPAACOMPAÑADA5

What to see in Alberobello?

Those of us who come to Alberobello arrive with the idea of ​​seeing the trulli, so visiting the areas of Rioni Monti and Rioni Aia Piccola where you will find the concentration of trulli is essential.

Although I would let myself be carried away by the streets and corners in a relaxed manner, we know that we will come across the Parish of San Antonio de Padua, the church of San Antonio or the Basilica of Saints Cosme and Damiano.

Our steps will undoubtedly lead to the Largo Martelotta, a beautiful open place or we will arrive at the Belvedere Santa Lucia to get the panoramic view of the trulli from above.

You also get very good views from the Parco Largo Martellota.

But there are many small terraces that you can go up to and for a drink sit quietly to enjoy the views as we did in the afternoon.

Also, if you don’t stay in a trullo you have several open to the public to visit them and see what they are like inside.

You can visit it in a few hours if you are touring Puglia and want to stay in another town or in Bari, but if you choose to stay here you will surely look for a place for dinner at night.

Although there are several, we chose Favola in Tavola, an exquisite place, with a great variety of wines, personalized attention and good food. I’ll tell you which was our choice since the experience was good, but there are many more sides to it.

You can go by public transport from Bari if you are staying in the city, it will take you about two hours or so. You have a train to Conversano and then a bus to Alberobello, around €12 return.

But you can also visit Alberobello on an excursion from Bari, some add it to Matera or to the most beautiful villages of Puglia.

 NOTE: The information in this article is based on our own experience, being totally objective. This article contains affiliate links.

La entrada Alberobello se publicó primero en Europa acompañada.

Our tour was by car, on our trips we usually rent them on Discovercars since the search engine offers us good prices

Martina Franca

Martina Franca is a true baroque treasure in the heart of the Itria Valley. Founded in medieval times, it stands out for its noble history and unique architecture. During the 18th century, the town experienced great development, giving rise to the elegant baroque buildings that characterise it today. It is also famous for its vibrant and hospitable atmosphere.

Excursion to Alberobello, Monopoli and Polignano a Mare

Start your visit in Piazza Roma, where the imposing Palazzo Ducale is located, a 17th-century building that today houses municipal offices and cultural exhibitions. Stroll through the narrow streets of the historic center, decorated with wrought-iron balconies and white facades. Don’t miss the Basilica of San Martino, an architectural gem that combines Baroque and Rococo styles. Its detailed façade and interior rich in decorations are a delight for history and art lovers.

If you visit in July or August, you can enjoy the Festival della Valle d’Itria, an internationally renowned event dedicated to opera and classical music. I suppose it’s a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture while enjoying top-level performances, but we visited in September and it had already passed.

• Gastronomy: Martina Franca is also known for its “capocollo,” a cup, similar to what we at least know as bondiola, a cured sausage.
• Tip: Take your time to explore at your leisure. Martina Franca is best enjoyed on foot, getting lost in its alleys and discovering charming corners at every turn.

Ostuni

Known as the White City, Ostuni stands on a hill, its whitewashed buildings shining in the sun. It dates back to prehistoric times, and over the centuries, it has been a crossroads of cultures that left their mark on its architecture and traditions. Today, it is a must-see destination for those seeking authenticity and spectacular views.

Excursion to Ostuni, Poligano a mare and Cisternino

Stroll through the labyrinthine old town, where you’ll discover narrow streets lined with boutiques, cafés and picturesque corners. The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, with its Gothic-Romanesque façade and unique rose window, is a must-see. From the top of the hill, enjoy panoramic views spanning olive groves and the Adriatic Sea.

In summer, local festivals celebrate Puglia’s music and gastronomy, but I think that every date should be magical in this city.

• Gastronomy: The “focaccia pugliese,” with fresh tomatoes and extra virgin olive oil, is a simple but delicious pleasure. Pairing it with a wine from the region should be the complete experience.
• Tip: One tip I was given is to see Ostuni at sunset, when the golden lights enhance the white glow of its buildings. Go up to the main viewing point to capture unforgettable photos and enjoy the tranquility of the town as night falls, but we would continue on our way because our accommodation was somewhere else, you’ll see.

Do you plan to continue through southern Italy? Naples can be an excellent option. Things to see in Naples

Polignano a mare

Polignano a Mare is a seaside town with a history dating back to Roman times, when it was an important trading port. Today, it is famous for its spectacular cliff-top location and authentic charm. This destination has inspired poets and artists for generations, and its magical atmosphere will captivate you from the first moment.

One of Polignano a Mare’s iconic images is Lama Monachile, a cliff-lined cove that looks like something out of a postcard. Explore the historic town, where narrow streets lead to viewpoints with stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. Don’t forget to stop by the statue of Domenico Modugno, the singer of “Volare,” who was born here. If you’re into adventure, consider taking a boat tour to admire sea grottos, such as the famous Grotta Palazzese.

Polignano is also known for the Red Bull Cliff Diving, an international event where the world’s best divers jump from its cliffs. It is an impressive spectacle that attracts thousands of visitors every year.

• Gastronomy: Artisanal gelato is a must-try here. You can also enjoy fresh seafood dishes, such as grilled octopus or “riccio di mare” (sea urchins).
• Tip: If you can afford it, book a table at the Grotta Palazzese restaurant if you are looking for a unique dining experience in a cave above the sea. In our case, we left it for another time as we promised ourselves we would return to explore this area with more time. Remember that it is popular, so book in advance! Grotta Palazzese’s website

Alberobello

Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is world-renowned for its “trulli,” unique stone buildings with conical roofs. These structures are believed to date back to prehistoric times, but their heyday came in the 17th century, when local farmers built them because they were easy to dismantle and avoid taxes.

Explore the districts of Rione Monti and Aia Piccola, where more than 1,500 trulli form a fairytale landscape. Some of them have been converted into shops, restaurants and small museums, such as the Trullo Sovrano, the largest trullo in the area. Walking through these streets is like stepping back in time.

But since we wanted the full experience, we stayed in a trullo!, the truth is that it was magical, it was here in Alberobello where we had our base for the tour.

Alberobello comes alive during the summer with cultural events and local markets. The Feast of St. Anthony in June is especially vibrant, with decorations and processions.

• Gastronomy: Try the “orecchiette,” the traditional pasta of Puglia, served with a sauce of cime di rapa or fresh tomato. You can also enjoy an artisanal “limoncello” at one of the local shops.
• Advice: Go early in the morning to avoid the crowds and capture the best photos in the soft light of dawn. Wear comfortable shoes to explore its cobblestone streets.

Another option can be to take a day trip to Matera from Bari

Locorotondo

Locorotondo, whose name means “round place,” owes its charm to its unique circular design and hilltop position. Known as one of the prettiest villages in Italy, it is a perfect destination for those seeking tranquility and beauty.

Stroll through the historic centre, with its flower-bedecked streets and typical white houses. From the belvedere, enjoy spectacular views of the Itria Valley, with its trulli and vineyards stretching as far as the eye can see.

In summer, the town holds festivals highlighting local music and traditions. The Feast of San Rocco in August is particularly popular, with processions and fireworks.

• Gastronomy: Locorotondo is famous for its white wine with Denomination of Origin, light and refreshing, ideal to accompany seafood dishes or local cheeses. Don’t miss the opportunity to try it in one of the nearby wineries.
• Tip: Locorotondo is perfect for a quiet getaway. Take your time to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and appreciate the local life. We really loved it, it was one of our favourite places and we want to stay again.

Are you planning to visit Rome?, don’t miss this post with what to see in Rome

Cisternino

Cisternino is a charming little town, known for its authenticity and welcoming atmosphere. Its history is reflected in its cobbled streets, medieval towers and ancient churches that tell of centuries of tradition.

The historic centre, with its white houses and narrow streets, invites you to wander aimlessly. Highlights include the Norman Tower, a vestige of the medieval past, and the Mother Church of St Nicholas, with its sober elegance.

In the summer, Cisternino hosts events celebrating local music and cuisine, attracting visitors and residents alike. It is a place where traditions come to life on every corner.

• Gastronomy: One of the most unique culinary experiences in Cisternino is to visit a “fornello pronto,” a butcher shop-restaurant where you can choose the meat you want and have it cooked for you on the spot. It’s a delicious and authentic experience.
• Advice: Visit Cisternino at sunset for magical views of the Itria Valley while sipping an aperitif on a local terrace.

More cities to add:

Gallipoli, Monopoli, Vieste, Otranto, Perchisi, and the famous Bari are just a few to add on this Puglia tour

Puglia is a treasure full of surprises, and these six villages are just a sample of its beauty, but I’m sure you won’t want to miss this other place in Italy, which although it is not in Puglia is very close to going to visit it, Matera in Basilicata.

MAP

 NOTE: The information in this article is based on our own experience, being totally objective. This article contains affiliate links.

La entrada Beautiful villages in Puglia, Italy se publicó primero en Europa acompañada.