Landing at Bari's Karol Wojtyła airport puts you close to the coast, hilly towns and excellent cuisine. Renting a car lets you get around easily without having to worry about train schedules or public transport delays. Goldcar helps UK travelers get started quickly, offering decent prices, new cars and a simple booking process.
By booking in advance, you get the best price and a wider choice of vehicles. Choose the size you need, add extras like a navigation system or child seat, and collect your car from the airport. Goldcar also offers 24/7 roadside assistance, as well as the chance to avoid paying extra in the event of a problem. Having your own car allows you to explore Puglia at your own pace.
Why rent a car at Bari airport?
Public transport doesn't serve all the most interesting places in Puglia. Cabs are expensive if you want to explore Puglia. With a car, you can leave the airport and hit the road straight away. The SS16 runs along the coast to Polignano a Mare, Monopoli and Ostuni. Inland, Alberobello and Matera are within easy reach.
If you collect your car from the airport, there's no need to wait with your luggage. You can stop wherever you like and easily transport your bags, beach gear or purchases. Goldcar simplifies things at the counter and, in some agencies, Key'n Go lets you avoid the queue. You'll get a car in the group you booked, and help is available 24 hours a day.
Types of vehicles and options available at Bari airport
If you're staying in town, a small car will do. For trips with the family or more luggage, choose a station wagon or compact sedan. SUVs are useful for longer journeys or rougher roads. Larger groups can opt for people carriers. Some cars run on hybrid or electric power, depending on the date.
If you would like an automatic car, book in advance. Additional options include satellite navigators, child seats and extra driver options. Young drivers are allowed on some vehicles at an additional cost. You can add additional coverage to reduce or eliminate your liability in the event of damage.
Where to pick up your rental car at Bari airport?
Bari airport is small and easy to manage. After landing, follow the car rental signs. Present your documents, complete the paperwork and proceed to the parking lot or take a short shuttle bus to collect your vehicle.
If you've booked Key'n Go, use the machine to obtain your keys. Before you leave, check the fuel level, mirrors and seat positions. Take photos of the car's condition, and find out about traffic rules or areas near to where you're staying.
When returning your car, follow the road signs. There are gas stations nearby. Keep your receipt, allow time for inspection and try to avoid rush hours.
Explore Bari and surroundings by car
Start in Bari's old town. Walk to the Basilica of San Nicola and the old castle. The seaside road offers superb views, and the local cuisine is well worth a stop.
Polignano a Mare is 35 minutes away. It's famous for its cliffs and small beaches. Monopoli is close by, with its pretty port and beaches. Ostuni, the white city, is about an hour and 20 minutes away.
Drive inland to discover the trulli houses of Alberobello or the troglodyte houses and churches of Matera. Trani and Castel del Monte lie to the north and are easy to visit. If you have more time, you can head for the Gargano coast or south to Lecce and the beaches of Salento.
Tips for driving and parking in Bari
Bari's old town is subject to traffic regulations and camera zones. Park outside and enter on foot. Use public parking lots or hotel parking when you can.
Blue lines mean paid parking. White lines are free but may be limited in time. Yellow lines are reserved for residents. Always show your ticket. Get to the beaches early in summer to find parking spaces.
Speed limits are as follows: 50 km/h in town, 90 on local roads, 110 on dual carriageways and 130 on freeways. Speed limits are reduced in the event of rain. The A14 is a toll road: take a ticket and pay at the exit. The SS16 is free, but can be very busy.
Don't drink and drive. Use the hands-free kit if you're on the phone, turn on the headlights in tunnels, and wear a safety vest and warning triangle. In winter, some roads require chains or winter tires, but this is rarely the case along the coast.
Best time to visit Italy
Late spring and early autumn offer warm days and quiet roads. May and June are good for beaches and exploring. September and October offer gastronomic events and fewer crowds.
July and August are hot and crowded. Book early and go to the beach early or late in the day. Winter is a quiet time for day trips and car rental offers. At the beginning of May, Bari hosts the San Nicola festival, which attracts large crowds.
