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Compare top brands and save on car rental at Salento Airport, Italy. Low prices, fast pickup, free cancellation. Book now to lock today’s deal.
Top Car Rental Deals at Salento Airport for 2026
Landing at Brindisi–Salento Airport (BDS) puts you minutes from Lecce, Ostuni, and the heel of Italy. Start your trip right with a low-cost, reliable car.
We compare trusted providers like Avis, Hertz, Europcar, Sixt, Enterprise, Maggiore, Locauto, Sicily by Car, and more to find the cheapest rates in real time.
Expect transparent pricing with no hidden fees, flexible options such as free cancellation on most bookings, and pay at pickup on select deals.
Why Book Your Car at Salento Airport with Us?
Best Price, Fast: We scan hundreds of offers so you can grab the best car rental deals at Salento Airport in seconds.
Trusted Brands: Choose from on-airport desks and top-rated local suppliers with high customer scores and clean, modern fleets.
Travel Smart: Add-ons like GPS, child seats, and additional drivers are easy to include during booking for stress-free pickup.
How to Compare Prices and Save at BDS
Filter by economy, compact, SUV, convertible, minivan, and automatic to tailor the car to your route and luggage needs.
Look for value boosters: unlimited mileage, a fair fuel policy (full-to-full), and inclusive Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and theft protection.
Traveling in 2026? Book early for peak summer in Puglia. Prices rise quickly for July–September, weekends, and holidays.
On-Airport vs Off-Airport: What Works Best at Brindisi (BDS)?
On-airport desks offer the fastest pickup, ideal for tight itineraries or late arrivals. You’ll walk from baggage claim to the rental counters in minutes.
Off-airport suppliers often provide the cheapest car rental at Salento Airport, with quick shuttle buses from the terminal curb.
Choose on-airport for convenience; pick off-airport to squeeze your budget further—both options include clear shuttle or desk directions in your voucher.
Pick-up & Return: Where to Find the Car Rental Desks at Salento Airport
Car hire counters are typically in/near the Arrivals area. Signs for “Autonoleggio” guide you to each brand’s desk and parking bays.
For off-airport rentals, follow your voucher to the shuttle pickup point just outside the terminal exit. Shuttles run frequently in high season.
Returning the car is simple: follow “Rent a Car Return” signs back to the provider lot. Allow extra time in summer or before morning flights.
Popular Vehicle Types & Recommended Classes for Puglia Road Trips 2026
Economy & Compact: Perfect for narrow village streets and easy parking in Ostuni, Polignano a Mare, and Lecce’s outskirts.
Automatic: Limited stock in Italy. If you need an automatic, book early for 2026 to lock a guaranteed model class.
SUVs & Minivans: Great for family adventures along the Ionian and Adriatic coasts with space for luggage, beach gear, and strollers.
Driving Tips for Puglia: ZTLs, Tolls, and Parking Near Lecce, Brindisi & Ostuni
Italian historic centers have ZTL (limited traffic zones). Avoid driving into signed zones to prevent fines—park just outside and walk in.
Autostrade (A-roads) can have tolls. Keep cash or a card handy, and stay within posted speed limits to avoid automated tickets.
Parking is color-coded: blue lines mean paid parking, white lines are free where signed, and yellow is reserved.
Money-Saving Advice: Avoid Hidden Fees and Get the Best Rate
Check what’s included: CDW, theft protection, third-party liability, mileage, and fuel. A full-to-full policy is usually the best value.
Bring a credit card in the main driver’s name for the security deposit. Debit cards are limited; if allowed, expect stricter rules.
Traveling across borders or doing a one-way rental (e.g., drop in Bari)? Declare it during booking to display any applicable fees upfront.
What to Expect at Pickup: Documents, Deposits, and Insurance
Have your passport, driver’s license, and booking voucher ready. Non-EU visitors may need an International Driving Permit.
The supplier will place a deposit/hold on your card. Reduce it by selecting enhanced coverage if you prefer less financial risk.
Always inspect the car, record existing marks, and take photos. This speeds up return and avoids disputes.
Local Highlights You’ll Reach Faster with a Rental Car
Lecce (40 min): Baroque architecture, vibrant piazzas, and great food. Park outside its ZTL and stroll the historic center.
Ostuni (40–50 min): The “White City” on a hill with sweeping sea views. Narrow lanes reward small car choices.
Alberobello (1 hr 15 min): Famous trulli houses. Arrive early in peak season to find convenient parking.
When to Book for the Best Price in 2026
For summer, book 4–8 weeks ahead. For shoulder seasons (April–June, September–October), late deals can still be competitive.
Weekday pickups often beat weekend rates. If plans change, use free cancellation on eligible rates to rebook a better price.
Watch for promos on longer rentals (7+ days) that bring down the daily cost, especially outside the July–August rush.
Provider Snapshot: Who Rents Cars at Salento Airport?
Major on-airport names typically include Avis, Budget, Hertz, Europcar, Sixt, Enterprise, Maggiore, and Locauto.
Well-known local and value brands like Sicily by Car and others may be off-airport with quick shuttles and sharp prices.
We display real customer ratings so you can balance price with service, queue times, and fleet condition.
Frequently Asked Questions about Car Rental at Salento Airport
What is the airport code and how far is it from Lecce?
Salento Airport’s code is BDS. It’s roughly 45 km to Lecce, typically a 35–45 minute drive depending on traffic.
What documents do I need to rent a car at BDS?
You’ll need a valid driver’s license, passport, and a credit card in the main driver’s name. Some non-EU drivers need an IDP.
Can I rent a car without a credit card?
Some suppliers accept debit cards with added conditions. Availability is limited, so filter for debit-friendly offers before booking.
Is there free cancellation?
Most rates include free cancellation up to 24–48 hours before pickup. Always double-check the policy on your chosen deal.
Are automatic cars available in 2026?
Yes, but stock is limited in Italy. For summer 2026, reserve early to guarantee an automatic transmission.
Can I drive to other countries?
Cross-border travel may be restricted or come with fees. Declare your route during booking and read the supplier’s terms carefully.
What about additional drivers and young drivers?
Additional drivers can be added for a daily fee. Under-25 drivers often pay a surcharge—compare costs across suppliers.
How much is the fuel and mileage policy?
Look for full-to-full fuel and unlimited mileage. These policies are the most traveler-friendly and keep costs predictable.
Any tips for returning the car?
Refuel at a nearby station, keep the receipt, and arrive a bit early for inspection. Photograph the car and the dashboard fuel gauge.
What if my flight is delayed?
Enter your flight number when booking. Many suppliers monitor arrivals; still, contact the desk if delays are significant or after-hours.
Your Route to Easy Car Rental at Salento Airport
Secure a great price for 2026 and hit the Puglian coast with confidence. Compare now, choose your car, and check in with zero stress.
With no hidden fees, free cancellation on most options, and top-rated suppliers, booking today means you’ll simply pick up and go.
Ready to Drive Puglia? Book Now and Save
From olive groves to turquoise coves, the best of Puglia awaits. Lock your Salento Airport car rental deal now and pay less for the journey.
Reserve in minutes, manage your booking online, and enjoy a smooth start the moment you land at Brindisi (BDS).