ITALY BY TRAIN: Apulia

A journey into the heart of Puglia, among white villages, sun-drenched squares, and authentic flavors.

Discover the magic of the South at a leisurely pace, relying on the convenience of the train and the warmth of Puglian hospitality.

The railway connections in Puglia will take you from BARI to LECCE, passing through small seaside wonders and art cities steeped in history. Between the scent of the sea and olive groves, you will find perched white villages, sun-drenched squares where pizzica is danced, ancient farmhouses, and authentic flavors like handmade orecchiette, fresh burrata, and wood-fired bread. Each stop is an encounter with the true soul of the South, where hospitality is a ritual and every meal is a celebration. In Puglia, one travels not only to see, but to feel: in the rhythm of the taranta, in the taste of a simple dish, in the warm stone of Baroque cities. A journey of the heart, among beauty, memory, and passion.

Arrival in Bari and check-in at the hotel.

Bari is a city with an ancient charm and a lively rhythm, where the scent of the sea mixes with that of handmade orecchiette in the streets of Bari Vecchia. Stroll through the cobbled streets, discover the splendid Basilica of San Nicola, and admire the Norman-Swabian Castle overlooking the sea. Don’t miss a walk along the monumental seafront, one of the most beautiful in Italy, and experience the genuine atmosphere of the markets, where sea urchins, warm focaccia, and smiles are sold. In Bari, every corner tells a story of the sea, faith, and hospitality.

Included experience:

Guided walking tour of Bari Vecchia

Immerse yourself in the history of Bari with an expert local guide. Discover hidden corners, ancient churches, and the vibrant atmosphere of the alleys, blending tradition and modernity.

Suggested experiences:

Guided street food tour in the alleys of Bari

Taste the authentic flavors of Bari’s cuisine among markets and small traditional eateries. A culinary journey through focaccia, panzerotti, and fresh seafood.

Puglian cooking class in Bari

Learn to prepare typical Puglian dishes such as orecchiette with local chefs. A hands-on lesson followed by a convivial meal.

Masseria experience with countryside lunch

Enjoy an authentic day in a masseria, surrounded by nature, animals, and genuine flavors, with a lunch prepared from locally sourced products.

Extra virgin olive oil and wine tasting in a masseria

Discover the secrets of Puglian olive oil and artisanal cheeses with a tasting in a masseria. A sensory experience blending nature and tradition.

Guided visit to Alberobello

Walk through the heart of the trulli, the typical conical buildings and UNESCO World Heritage site. Learn about the history, unique architecture, and curiosities of this fascinating Puglian village.

Guided tour of the Sassi di Matera

Matera and its famous Sassi, ancient dwellings carved into the rock, tell a millennial story of rural traditions, spirituality, and resilience. Walking through alleys, rock-hewn churches, and panoramic terraces offers intense emotions.

Overnight stay in Bari.

From Bari, a train journey along the Adriatic coast is suggested to reach Polignano a Mare and Monopoli. The railway connections allow for easy and quick travel to two iconic destinations of the Puglian coastline, ideal for a day trip among seaside historic centers and maritime traditions.

Suggested and bookable train departure: Polignano a Mare and Monopoli

Train departure towards two gems of the Adriatic coast: Polignano a Mare (approx. 30 min), followed by Monopoli (approx. 5 min).

Perched on breathtaking cliffs, Polignano offers unforgettable views. Lama Monachile is an icon, but it is in the details that the town truly stands out: poems written on walls, the voice of Domenico Modugno accompanying sunsets, and sea caves to explore by boat. A place that combines nature, beauty, and emotion in every corner.

Monopoli surprises visitors with its historic center overlooking the sea, sunlit squares, ancient bastions, and fishing boats returning at dawn with the catch of the day. Wandering through the white streets reveals churches, hidden courtyards, and Mediterranean views. It is a city that welcomes visitors with simple elegance, between an aperitif at the harbor and a seaside lunch.

Suggested experiences:

Guided visit of Polignano a Mare and Monopoli

Discover two jewels of the Puglian Adriatic coast with an expert guide. In Polignano a Mare, explore spectacular cliffs, the old town, and the famous Lama Monachile. In Monopoli, stroll through the seaside historic center, lively squares, Baroque churches, and a harbor rich in maritime history and traditions.

Boat tour of the sea caves of Polignano a Mare

Sail through the spectacular natural sea caves of Polignano a Mare. An unforgettable excursion to admire the coastline from a unique perspective.

Overnight stay in Bari.

From Bari, a train departure to Ostuni is suggested, with a direct and easily accessible connection. The journey allows you to comfortably reach one of the most representative towns of the Valle d’Itria, ideal for a day dedicated to exploring the historic center and the surrounding rural landscape.

Suggested and bookable train departure: Ostuni

Train departure to Ostuni (approx. 50 min).

Perched on a hill, Ostuni is a maze of whitewashed alleys, lively squares, and charming views. The historic center—affectionately known as “La Terra”—is an intricate network of winding streets illuminated by a bright, reflective light, perfect for leisurely walks.

Suggested experiences:

Guided visit of the historic center of Ostuni

Discover the timeless charm of the “White City” by strolling through the white alleys and Baroque architecture of Ostuni’s historic center. The guided tour leads through a labyrinth of cobbled streets, panoramic viewpoints, carved stone portals, artisan workshops, and flower-filled balconies.

Bike tour among olive groves and the Valle d’Itria

Departure from Ostuni with a cycling guide. Ride through the beautiful Puglian landscape on a bike tour suitable for all levels. The route crosses panoramic paths surrounded by ancient olive trees, traditional dry-stone walls, and characteristic trulli, iconic symbols of the Valle d’Itria. The itinerary winds through charming villages with strategic stops for memorable photos and tastings of local products, offering an authentic experience.

Overnight stay in Bari.

Train departure from Bari to Lecce (1h30). Hotel check-in.

Lecce, the Baroque soul of the South, enchants visitors with its golden stone that turns pink at sunset. Baroque façades resemble carved lace, and every church is a small masterpiece. Lecce is also a lively city: its streets feature contemporary art, papier-mâché artisans, colorful markets, and traditional taverns where you can taste ciceri e tria, pasticciotti, and full-bodied wines. It is a city that warmly welcomes visitors with grace and passion.

Included experience:

Guided visit of Lecce

Stroll through the wonders of Lecce’s Baroque heritage with a professional guide. Admire palaces, churches, and squares that tell centuries of art and culture.

Suggested experiences:

Bike rental in Lecce

Explore Lecce and its surroundings independently with a rental bike, ideal for discovering hidden corners and enjoying the landscape.

Wine tasting in the Lecce countryside

Taste prestigious wines such as Negroamaro and Primitivo in selected wineries. A guided journey through aromas, flavors, and unique landscapes.

Masseria experience with countryside lunch

Enjoy an authentic day in a masseria, surrounded by nature, animals, and genuine flavors, with a lunch prepared using locally sourced products.

Workshop of traditional Salento bread, desserts, or preserves

Take part in traditional workshops to discover ancient recipes for bread, desserts, or preserves. A deep dive into Salento’s gastronomic culture.

Overnight stay in Lecce.

From Lecce, a train departure to Gallipoli is suggested, with a direct and easily accessible connection. The journey allows you to comfortably reach one of the main coastal towns of Salento, ideal for a day dedicated to exploring the historic center by the sea and coastal activities.

Suggested train departure and booking: Gallipoli

Direct train to Gallipoli (approx. 1h30).

Gallipoli, known as “the beautiful city,” is a charming seaside town with a historic center located on an island connected to the mainland by a bridge. Paved streets, ancient Baroque churches, and the majestic Angevin Castle overlooking the port intertwine here. The seafront offers breathtaking views of the crystal-clear sea and sandy beaches. Gallipoli is also a gastronomic paradise, famous for fresh seafood, local specialties, and the warm hospitality that makes every visit unforgettable.

Suggested experiences:

Guided visit of Gallipoli

Walk through the heart of Gallipoli, exploring picturesque streets and scenic corners, visit the Castle, stroll along the seafront, and enjoy free time for a swim or seafood lunch.

Boat excursion along the Gallipoli coast

Discover the Gallipoli coastline with stops to swim in hidden coves and enjoy the crystal-clear sea in complete relaxation.

Overnight stay in Lecce.

Train departure from Lecce to Bari (approx. 1h30) and arrival at the hotel for check-in.

Free day at your disposal.

Overnight stay in Bari.

Breakfast at the hotel*. At the indicated time, transfer to the airport for your return flight.

*Depending on the return flight schedule and the hotel breakfast service, you may not be able to enjoy the included breakfast on the last day.