Puglia, or Apulia, is a region in Southern Italy that’s becoming more and more popular with tourists. It’s known for its history, architecture (like the trulli houses in Alberobello), culture, and Mediterranean climate.
Because it’s easier than ever to fly into Puglia, it’s a convenient destination for both international and domestic travelers.
Three main airports serve the area: Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport (BRI), Brindisi-Salento Airport (BDS), and Foggia Gino Lisa Airport (FOG).
This guide is designed to help you understand the options at Puglia’s airports so you can choose the best one for your trip and figure out how to get around once you’re there. We’ll cover all the major airports in Puglia, Italy, to help you plan your trip with ease.
Key Airports in Puglia: An Overview
Puglia, Italy, has a few airports that serve as gateways to this beautiful region. Here’s a quick rundown of the main ones:
Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport (BRI)
Bari Airport is the biggest in Puglia and it’s in a great spot, only about 10 km from the center of Bari. This makes it super convenient if you’re planning to explore the northern part of Puglia.
You can fly directly to Bari from many major European cities, and there are even some flights from the USA, Canada, and the UK, though they might have a layover or two.
The airport itself has everything you’d expect, including car rentals, public transportation, shops, and restaurants.
Brindisi-Salento Airport (BDS)
If you’re heading to the Salento region, Brindisi Airport is your best bet. It’s only about 6 kilometers from Brindisi and 46 km from Lecce. Just to give you some perspective, it’s about 112 km south of the Bari airport.
Since 2023, there have been more and more flights coming into Brindisi from different cities across Europe.
Foggia Gino Lisa Airport (FOG)
Foggia Airport is smaller and mainly handles flights within Italy. It’s right near the city center of Foggia and started offering new flights to Turin and Milan in 2022.
If you’re planning a trip to the Gargano area, Foggia Airport can be a handy connecting point.
Choosing the right airport
The best airport for you will depend on which part of Puglia you plan to visit.
- Northern Puglia: Bari Airport (BRI). If you’re heading to northern Puglia to see cities like Bari, Trani, and Alberobello, Bari Airport is your best bet.
- Salento Region: Brindisi Airport (BDS). Brindisi Airport is the right choice if you plan to spend your time in the Salento region, home to Lecce, Gallipoli, and Otranto.
- Gargano Peninsula: Foggia Airport (FOG). To visit the Gargano Peninsula, a beautiful coastal area and national park, Foggia Airport is the most convenient.
When you’re making your choice, remember to think about how often flights go to each airport and where they fly from. Bari has the most flights and the widest range of destinations.
Getting to and from Puglia’s airports: Transportation options
Once you’ve landed in Puglia, you’ll need a way to get to your final destination. Here’s a rundown of the transportation options available at each airport.
Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport (BRI) Transportation
- Train: A train whisks you from the airport to Bari Centrale train station in about 15 minutes. This is often the fastest and most convenient option for reaching Bari city center.
- Bus: Several bus lines connect the airport to Bari city center. The journey takes around 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic.
- Taxi and Rideshare: Taxis and rideshare services offer a direct route to Bari city center in approximately 20-30 minutes. Expect to pay a premium for this door-to-door service.
Brindisi-Salento Airport (BDS) Transportation
- Bus: Buses provide connections to Brindisi city center and other towns and cities in the Salento region. Check schedules in advance, as service can be less frequent than in Bari.
- Taxi: Taxis are readily available for direct transfers to Brindisi and other destinations. Be sure to agree on a fare before you set off.
- Car Rental: Several car rental agencies operate at the airport, offering the freedom to explore the Salento region at your own pace.
Foggia Gino Lisa Airport (FOG) Transportation
- Bus: Local bus services connect the airport to Foggia city center. Be prepared for potentially limited service and longer travel times.
- Taxi: Taxis offer transportation to various locations in Foggia and the surrounding area.
Transportation Between Airports
If you’re flying into one airport and departing from another, here are your options for traveling between Bari and Brindisi (the most common scenario):
- Train: Trains run between Bari Centrale and Brindisi, with a journey time of approximately 1 to 1.5 hours.
- Bus: Bus services also connect Bari and Brindisi, with a slightly longer journey time of around 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Car: Driving between Bari and Brindisi is straightforward, taking approximately 1.5 hours via the E55 highway. This offers the most flexibility for exploring the region.
Flying to Puglia from the US, UK, and Europe
While Puglia might feel like a world away, it’s pretty accessible. Here’s what you need to know about getting there from different parts of the world.
Flights from the United States and Canada
Unfortunately, direct flights from the US or Canada to Puglia are rare. Most itineraries involve at least one stopover, usually in a major European city.
For example, if you’re flying from New York City, expect a minimum flight time of around 10 hours, not including the layover. You’ll likely connect through hubs like Rome, Frankfurt, or Amsterdam.
Flights from the United Kingdom
Similar to flights from North America, flights from the UK to Puglia generally involve a stopover. Several airlines offer connections through various European hubs, giving you a few options to choose from.
Flights from Europe
If you’re already in Europe, getting to Puglia is much easier. Puglia has an extensive network of flights connecting it to various European cities. You can often find direct flights from major hubs.
For specific flight examples from European cities, the best resource is the Aeroporti di Puglia website. They keep an updated list of routes and airlines.
Tips for air travel to Puglia
If you’re planning a trip to Puglia, here are a few things to keep in mind when booking your flights:
- Book flights in advance. This is especially important if you’re traveling during the peak summer season. Booking early will help you secure better prices and ensure availability.
- Consider alternative airports. Depending on where you’re going in Puglia, it may be more convenient or cost-effective to fly into a different airport.
- Explore transportation options. Before you arrive, research the best way to get from the airport to your final destination.
- Consider renting a car. If you plan to explore multiple locations in Puglia, renting a car will give you more flexibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which airport is better, Bari or Brindisi?
It depends on your final destination in Puglia. Bari Airport (BRI) is generally better for northern and central Puglia, while Brindisi Airport (BDS) is more convenient for the Salento region in the south. Consider proximity to your accommodations and onward travel options when choosing.
How do I get to Puglia by air?
You can fly directly to either Bari or Brindisi airports. Alternatively, you can fly into a larger Italian airport like Rome (FCO) or Naples (NAP) and then take a domestic flight or train to Puglia.
Who flies direct to Puglia?
Several airlines offer direct flights to Puglia, particularly during the peak tourist season. These include Ryanair, EasyJet, Wizz Air, Volotea, and Alitalia/ITA Airways. The specific routes and airlines may vary depending on your departure location and the time of year.
What airport do you fly into for Puglia Italy?
The two main airports in Puglia are Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport (BRI) and Brindisi Airport (BDS), also known as Salento Airport. You can fly into either of these airports depending on your travel plans within the region.
In Summary
Puglia’s airports are your gateways to experiencing everything this diverse region has to offer, from the cities in the north all the way down to the Salento peninsula.
Choosing the right airport for your trip depends on where you’re headed and how you plan to get around. Picking the most convenient airport can make your travel experience much smoother.
So, do a little planning, consider the information in this guide, and you’ll be well on your way to having a memorable trip to Puglia. Buon viaggio!