Brindisi

Europe > Italy > Brindisi (BDS)

The Car or no Car advice for  Brindisi can be broken down into three similar questions - do you need a car in Brindisi ;  is it worth it (based on costs), and ultimately - should you rent one? (a balance of the two).

🚆 🚌⛴️ Do we need to rent a car in Brindisi ?

These scores are based on the quality of public transport and other travel options. If these are good enough to see the main points of interest, then you don’t need to rent a car.

---

💰💶💳 Is it worth hiring a car in Brindisi?

These scores reflect the practical factors that affect whether renting a car is convenient, good value, and stress-free.

---

Brindisi is one of southern Italy’s most convenient arrival points, especially for travellers heading into Puglia’s coastlines, hill towns, and olive groves. Because the city combines a compact historic centre with easy transport links, many visitors naturally ask: should you rent a car in Brindisi? The answer depends on whether you plan to stay mostly in Brindisi itself or explore the broader region. Since Puglia’s main attractions sit outside the city, a car becomes helpful for almost every itinerary that goes beyond the waterfront.

🚶‍♂️ Exploring Brindisi Without a Car

Brindisi’s old town is small, walkable, and atmospheric. You can easily reach the harbourfront, the Roman column marking the ancient Via Appia, and the cathedral square on foot. Moreover, hotel locations tend to be central, which means you rarely need transport to enjoy restaurants or evening strolls. Because the city is pleasant and compact, walking becomes the simplest way to explore.

🚆 Using Public Transport Across Puglia

However, once you start exploring beyond Brindisi, public transport becomes slower. Trains connect Brindisi to Lecce, Ostuni, Bari, and Taranto, and these routes are reliable. Nevertheless, many of the inland towns, beaches, and rural highlights have limited bus services, particularly at weekends. Therefore, relying entirely on trains and buses can restrict your freedom.

🚗 Why a Rental Car Helps

A car gives you access to the whitewashed towns, vineyards, and quiet beaches that define Puglia. You can visit Alberobello, Martina Franca, Cisternino, or Polignano a Mare without juggling timetables. Additionally, countryside masserie (farm hotels) often sit far from stations, so driving becomes practical.

🎯 Conclusion: Should You Rent a Car in Brindisi?

• Yes, rent one if you want to explore wider Puglia’s towns, beaches, and rural landscapes.

• Skip it if you’re staying only in Brindisi and using trains for a couple of straightforward day trips.

---

---

🚗 ✅ ❌ Summary Table

This summary score brings how much you really need a car, whether it’s worth it, driver options, local driving rules, and an overall recommendation.  This site is planned for full launch on 1st March 2026. Full terms, advice, FAQs, disclaimer etc to follow.