Car Hire Brindisi — Gateway to Puglia’s Coastal Treasures

Brindisi is Puglia’s port city — a gateway to Greece and the Ionian islands, but also a base for exploring Puglia’s lesser-known eastern coast. The city itself has a charming old town, Roman columns marking the end of the Appian Way, and a beautiful seafront. But beyond the city, Puglia unfolds: Alberobello’s trulli, Ostuni’s white streets, Lecce’s Baroque architecture, and the Salento beaches. A rental car here is essential — Puglia’s dispersed attractions require driving.

Brindisi is smaller and less touristy than Bari, making it a more relaxed base for Puglia exploration. The SS16 and SS379 connect along the Adriatic coast, while inland roads lead to the Itria Valley’s olive groves and trulli. Within an hour, you can be in Lecce, Ostuni, or the beaches of the Salento.

Picking Up Your Rental Car in Brindisi

City pickup locations are near Brindisi station and in the port area. Most offices open Monday through Saturday, 8 AM to 6 PM, with limited Sunday hours. Brindisi Airport (BDS) is 6 km from the centre and offers longer hours — consider airport pickup for convenience. Parking in central Brindisi is manageable. Use street parking or small garages (€8-12/day).

Documentation: valid driving licence (International Driving Permit recommended for non-EU licences), passport or ID card, and credit card for deposit (€500-1,500). Italian rental companies inspect vehicles carefully. Photograph your car before driving off.

Where to Go with Your Rental Car in Brindisi

Ostuni (35 minutes) — North on the SS379. “White City” on a hill, stunning views and winding streets. Essential Puglia visit.

Lecce (45 minutes) — South on the SS613. “Florence of the South” — stunning Baroque architecture. Don’t miss the cathedral and amphitheatre.

Alberobello (1 hour) — North on the SS379 and SS172. UNESCO World Heritage trulli houses. Essential Puglia experience.

Torre Guaceto Nature Reserve (20 minutes) — North on the SS379. Protected coastal area with beaches, dunes, and hiking. Perfect for nature lovers.

Salento Beaches (1 hour) — South on the SS613. Porto Cesareo, Gallipoli, and the Ionian coast. Crystal-clear water and white sand.

Tips for Driving in Italy

Brindisi connects to the SS16 (north-south along the Adriatic) and SS613 (south to Lecce). 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 runs north-south along the Adriatic but doesn’t pass through Brindisi directly. Local roads are mostly free. 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 have narrow streets — drive slowly and carefully.

Use the search above to compare Brindisi car hire prices. Whether you’re exploring Ostuni or heading to Salento, a rental car gives you freedom to discover Puglia.