Car Hire Bari

Driving around Bari is a breeze compared to the busier Italian cities further inland. The city brushes the Adriatic Sea, making it a prime location for awe-inspiring coastal drives that promise spectacular scenery at every turn.

From Bari, the SS16 runs north to south along the coast, offering easy access to the region’s many sensational slices of paradise. The white-pebble beaches of Polignano a Mare are just over half an hour south along the SS16, while to the north, Trani is 45 minutes from the city centre. Further inland, you can join the SS96 to reach Alta Murgia National Park in under an hour.

Driving and parking in Bari is simple. Before arriving in the city, it’s a good idea to familiarise yourself with the different types of parking. Blue lines indicate paid parking and white lines signal areas where it’s free to park. However, you should check if any restrictions apply. There are also larger lots for longer stays and overnight parking.

In Italy, motorists drive on the right and overtake on the left. Wearing a seatbelt is mandatory. Look out for Zona Traffico Limitato signs, which indicate pedestrian-only streets or restricted access. You’ll find these in many city and town centres.

Speed limits vary, so keep an eye on any signs. Generally, motorways have a limit of 130km/h, while roads outside of urban areas are 110km/h. Narrower or smaller roads outside built-up areas can drop down to 90km/h – in towns and cities a general rule of 50km/h applies.

Brimming with culture, history and home to two charming harbours, Bari is a gloriously rustic coastal hub in the south of Italy. Wander down the narrow, stone alleyways of the old quarter before watching the boats sail in and out of the harbour on the seafront. Once you’ve filled your lungs with the fresh sea air, spread your wings and venture further into Puglia where further delights await you.

Bari Vecchia

Bari’s alluring old town – Bari Vecchia – is filled with winding streets and historic wonders.  Here you’ll find the Basilica San Nicola, a Romanesque structure built to house the relics of Saint Nicholas. Saint Nicholas was a Christian Bishop who once lived in Myra (which today is Turkey). He fled to Bari in the 11^th century and his relics still reside here – although his remains were recently moved to Russia.

Bari Cathedral is a spectacular display of Romanesque architecture, constructed in the late 12^th century, and currently the seat of the Archbishop of Bari-Bitonto.

Just outside the old quarter is a 12^th century castle, Castello Normanno-Svevo. Imposed by a fortified wall, it bears a striking resemblance to architecture from Norman England. Here you’ll be struck by the extraordinary detailing on the stone exterior. It’s just as bedazzling inside, where you can gaze awe-struck at the many exhibitions on show – including medieval ceramics and jewels.

Slice of paradise

Bari may be situated on the edge of Italy’s coast, but to find the best beaches for sunbathing you’ll need to venture outside the city.

A hidden gem of Puglia is Polignano a Mare, a picturesque town sat upon a staggering 20-metre cliff. Here you can gaze down at stunning turquoise waters from a jagged coastline. Best of all, it’s only a 35-minute drive from Bari’s centre. It’s a favourite among Italians –renowned for its blissful white-pebble beaches and the small cove of Ponte dei Lapilli.

Inside Polignano a Mare you’ll be met with white-washed buildings and welcoming cafés. Each offers a uniquely majestic view across the ocean. Time seems to stand still here, with the only sound being the gentle lapping of rippling waters. It’s the perfect place to relax like a local.

If you’re looking for a slightly more vibrant vibe, Monopoli is well worth a visit. It’s just 15 minutes from Polignano a Mare, and offers a mix of rocky terrain and golden sands. Monopoli exudes southern Italian charm and has a wealth of attractions, including a large waterpark – Acquapark Egnazia.

Florence of the south

Packed with grand Baroque buildings, it’s little wonder Lecce is nicknamed the ‘Florence of the South’. The drive takes one hour and 45 minutes from Bari, making it the perfect place for a day trip. Here you’ll be able to take in southern Italy’s grandest architecture.

Cathedrals, amphitheatres, castles and villas – there’s breathtaking beauty around every corner in Lecce’s old town. Much like Florence, the Basilica of Santa Croce is an impressive display of intricate stonework and golden embellishments. Then there’s the Roman Amphitheatre – an ancient ruin in the heart of the city. Wonderfully preserved, the amphitheatre spent centuries hidden below ground until it was uncovered in 1901.

With a bustling port city frozen in time, a wealth of picturesque coves dotting the southern coast and a spectacular display of fine, Italian architecture, send your senses into overdrive with car hire in Bari.