Car rental Brindisi Airport

Once you’ve touched down at Brindisi Airport and picked up the keys to your rental car, you’ll find the city center is only 10 minutes away along the Via Provinciale S. Vito.

Be aware that as in many Italian cities there’s a Limited Traffic Zone – known as a ZTL – in operation in the heart of Brindisi. This restricts traffic during certain hours and can result in a fine for entering within these times. If you’re planning to discover its historical attractions, make use of the numerous parking lots available and walk the short distance on foot.

If you want to drive further afield, Brindisi is linked by a number of major roads and highways. Lecce , known as the ‘Florence of the South’, is the region’s leading attraction. This baroque beauty is a 30-minute drive southbound via the SS613. More spectacular baroque architecture can be found in Martina Franca, just over an hour away via the SS7 and SP581.

Tourists flock to this part of Italy to experience its sun-kissed beaches and spectacular coastline – and from Brindisi Airport you’re spoilt for choice for places to visit. Poligano a Mare takes less than an hour to reach if you head north up the Adriatic coast using the SS379. Torre Lapillo Bay, nicknamed the ‘Maldives of Italy’ due to its beautiful crystal clear waters, is also a 50-minute drive via the SP79 and SP109.

You’ll drive on the right-hand side of the road while in Italy. All passengers must wear a seat belt and the use of mobile cell phones while behind the wheel is banned. The Italian speed limit is 130km/h (80mph) for highways, which reduces down to 110km/h (68mph) on non-major roads and 50km/h (30mph) in urban areas. It’s important to note that you can’t take a right-hand exit at a junction on a red light.

Untouched by mass tourism, Brindisi has managed to retain its authentic character despite being home to a bustling port. Give this city the time it deserves before heading out to see more of the serene south of Italy, home to an abundance of beaches and baroque towns.

The Roman touch

With a proud history that dates to the Roman era, the port is now best known for its beautiful coastline and mouthwatering cuisine. If you only have a day to spend in Brindisi before moving on to your next destination, then make sure you head for the tangle of streets that form the atmospheric old town.  

Here you can visit the magnificent Tempio di San Giovanni al Sepolcro, a Romanesque style church built in the 12^th century. Venture inside to discover its medieval frescoes and decorative columns and see if you can spot the architectural details that link this building to the Knights Templar.

Make your way down to the photogenic waterfront and stop to see the Roman column that still stands in the city. From here you can wander to one of the many seafood restaurants in Brindisi – Il Giardino is a local favorite, tucked away down an alleyway inside a former palace. Dine on fresh pasta, opt for a mushroom risotto or order a pizza topped with fresh anchovies.

Unearth Baroque jewels

Step back in time when you visit Lecce, a breathtaking baroque city that has enough treasures to rival its northern counterparts. Spend a day admiring the lavish churches and over-the-top palaces within the city’s walls, decorated with ornate patterns and carvings. Basilica di Santa Croce is one of the best examples, with intricate sculptures decorating the façade.

More baroque heritage can be traced at Martina Franca, a hilltop town that’s worth taking a day trip to. Immerse yourself in the old quarter and slowly wander the warren of twisting streets dotted with white-washed houses. Make your way to Piazza Plebiscito and discover the impressive Basilica di San Martino, with a beautiful Rococo-style exterior.

Sun, sea and sand

In Puglia, there’s no shortage of beaches where you can bask in the Italian sunshine. They may not be Italy’s most famous sun spots – most of them are off the beaten track, away from masses of tourists – but they are no less idyllic.  

One of the most serene is Torre Guaceto, part of a protected marine area. Sandy and secluded, this coastal spot is perfect if you want to spend a day blissfully exploring the sparkling blue waters lapping at the shore. 

Drive to the other side of the Italian heel and you’ll find Punta Prosciutto, a tiny seaside village with a dreamy beach. The pristine white sand and unbelievably blue waters make for an unforgettable day trip.

With a rental car from Brindisi Airport, you can enjoy a feast of culture on vacation in this unspoiled part of Italy.