Car Hire Bari Airport — Gateway to Puglia’s Hidden Treasures

Bari Airport (BRI), officially Karol Wojtyła Airport, is the primary gateway to Puglia — Italy’s “heel” and one of its most beautiful regions. Located 8 km northwest of Bari, it’s perfectly positioned for exploring white-washed towns, olive groves, and the Adriatic and Ionian coasts. Within an hour, you can be in Alberobello (trulli houses), Polignano a Mare (cliffside beaches), or Matera (ancient cave dwellings). A rental car here is essential — Puglia’s dispersed attractions are difficult to reach by public transport.

The airport handles about 6 million passengers annually, with both domestic and international flights. Car rental counters are in the arrival hall, and pickup is straightforward. The A14 and A16 motorways connect Bari to the entire region, making this an efficient starting point for Puglia exploration.

Picking Up Your Rental Car at Bari Airport

Car rental counters are in the arrival hall. Major providers include Sixt, Europcar, Hertz, Avis, Budget, and local companies like Maggiore and Locauto. Most counters are open 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM, with some offering extended hours. Follow “Autonoleggio” signs from baggage claim.

The pickup garage is adjacent to the terminal. Vehicle return is in the same location — follow “Restituzione Autonoleggio” signs. Fuel stations are located on Viale Enzo Ferrari near the airport. Fill up before returning to avoid surcharges.

Documentation: valid driving licence (International Driving Permit recommended for non-EU licences), passport or ID card, and credit card for deposit (€500-1,500). Bari Airport handles international travellers daily. Photograph your vehicle before leaving.

Where to Go from Bari Airport

Bari City Centre (20 minutes) — Southeast on Viale Enzo Ferrari. The old town (Bari Vecchia), cathedral, and seafront are walkable. Parking is available in garages.

Alberobello (1 hour) — South on the SS172. UNESCO World Heritage trulli houses. Essential Puglia visit.

Polignano a Mare (30 minutes) — Southeast on the SS16. Cliffside town with dramatic beaches. Famous for its cliff diving.

Matera (1 hour) — South on the SS96 and SS175. Ancient cave dwellings (Sassi). UNESCO World Heritage. Stunning at sunset.

Ostuni (1 hour) — South on the SS16. “White City” on a hill. Stunning views and winding streets.

Tips for Driving in Italy

Bari connects to the A14 (north-south along the Adriatic) and A16 (west to Naples). Speed limits are 50 km/h in cities, 90 km/h on rural roads, and 130 km/h on motorways. Puglia’s roads are generally less crowded than northern Italy — driving is more relaxed.

Italian motorways are toll roads. The A14 and A16 have moderate tolls. Credit cards are accepted. Fuel is cheaper at supermarkets than at the airport.

Puglia’s smaller towns have limited parking. Use paid parking areas or lots. The region’s white-washed towns are stunning — drive slowly and carefully through narrow streets.

Compare Bari Airport car hire prices using the search above. With immediate access to Alberobello, Polignano a Mare, and Matera, it’s the perfect starting point for your Puglia adventure.