Arriving at Bari International Airport or sailing into the Port of Bari puts you in Italy's sunny heel, ready to explore the sights of Puglia's largest city. Hiring a scooter, motorcycle or quad bike is the perfect way to zip around Bari and discover its character at your own pace. Weave through Bari's narrow alleyways and arrive at the Basilica di San Nicola, the final resting place of the patron saint of the city.
Admire the Romanesque architecture before continuing to Bari Vecchia, the atmospheric old town. Wander past ladies handmaking orecchiette pasta and sample the fresh catch straight off the fishing boats. When you're ready to venture further afield, hop on your rental and cruise along the coastal road heading north.
Stop in the charming seaside town of Trani to photograph its impressive cathedral overlooking the harbor. Continue up the coast to the cliffside Castel del Monte, an enigmatic 13th century octagonal castle mixing Gothic, Romanesque and Islamic architectural styles. Drive inland through olive groves and vineyards to reach Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its cone-shaped trulli houses dotted across the landscape.
Further west lies Matera, where ancient cave dwellings are carved into the mountainside. This ancient city provided an evocative backdrop for many Biblical films. After a day of adventure, return to Bari for an evening passeggiata along the lungomare seafront promenade.
Watch the sunset behind the swaying palm trees before settling in at a trattoria to dine on Puglia's delicious cuisine. With so much to experience in and around Bari, hiring your own set of wheels is the perfect way to explore it all.
