There’s a certain thrill to turning a layover in Brindisi into a quick city adventure. From BDS, the STP Brindisi Bus can get you into town in around 45 minutes. Below, we’ll walk you through transport, budget, bags, and what’s actually worth seeing.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Before heading into Brindisi, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Italy vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Brindisi is roughly 45 minutes from BDS via STP Brindisi Bus. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in EUR. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some EUR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Transport from Brindisi â Salento Airport to Downtown
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| STP Brindisi Bus | ~45 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~65 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the STP Brindisi Bus is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
Exploring Brindisi on a Layover
For a layover visit to Brindisi, we’d suggest Roman Columns & Lungomare Regina Margherita and Duomo di Brindisi (Brindisi Cathedral). Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit. A peaceful stop that offers a break from the rush of travel.
If you’d rather stay inside BDS — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Sala VIP (Executive Lounge)
- Shopping for Local Salento Products
Food Worth Trying
In Brindisi
If you make it into town, L’Aragonese is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try La Locanda del Porto.
Inside BDS
If you’re staying in the terminal, Autogrill ‘Ciao’ is your main option. Puglia Taste works too if you want something quick.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Quick budget math for your Brindisi layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$11 |
| Meal | ~$22 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$43 |
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Storing Your Luggage at Brindisi â Salento Airport
Luggage storage options at BDS can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Brindisi for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and BDS is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Brindisi and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Need a Nap? Options at BDS
Long overnight layover? Your options at BDS include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Italy also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Brindisi genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.