This long weekend takes you to the heart of southern Italy, where the authentic atmosphere of Bari blends with the iconic views of Polignano a Mare. You'll explore the narrow streets of Bari Vecchia, savor the aromas of homemade Italian cuisine, and spend an evening at one of the most famous pizzerias. The highlight of the trip is Polignano a Mare with its dramatic cliffs and swimming at Lama Monachile beach. It's an itinerary of flavors, views, and the slow pace of the dolce vita.
The first encounter with Bari has a slow and pleasantly relaxed rhythm that gradually wins you over. You will visit Bari Vecchia, a lively labyrinth of narrow streets where the daily life of locals mixes with the authentic character of the old city. The first taste of Puglia comes in the form of focaccia barese or panzerotti. Simple street food that is an integral part of Bari and you can taste it directly in the streets, fresh and still warm. You can end the day with an aperitif and light refreshments in the historic center.
Upon arrival at the airport, you can easily get to the center by direct train from Bari Aeroporto station, which is within walking distance of the terminal. You can buy a ticket at the machines at the airport - you can pay by card or cash, and the destination is Bari Centrale, the main train station in the city center. The journey takes about 20 minutes, is direct and without transfers. Trains run frequently and are comfortable. In a few tens of minutes, you can smoothly transition from the airport to the rhythm of southern Italy.
The narrow streets of Bari Vecchia will immediately draw you in among the stone houses, where the smell of home cooking mixes with everyday life right on the street. Bari Vecchia feels like a living labyrinth – laundry between balconies, small churches on every corner, and locals sitting in front of their houses, all feel authentic and natural.
Bari draws you into the atmosphere of its historic center, where life unfolds directly in the narrow streets. Here, you can come across local grandmothers who handcraft and sell fresh homemade pasta – one of the typical symbols of the city. During the day, you will visit the Basilica di San Nicola and the Cattedrale di San Sabino, two of the most important monuments of the old city. Don't miss a stop for Italian espresso and a fresh cornetto. For lunch, you'll have traditional orecchiette, pasta typical of the Puglia region, and then stroll along Lungomare Nazario Sauro with sea views. You can end the evening at an iconic pizzeria, which is one of the most popular establishments in the city and which you may know from the movie "Eat, Pray, Love" with Julia Roberts.
This basilica is one of the most important monuments in Bari, and it makes a very specific impression right from the entrance. The interior has a simple, almost Romanesque atmosphere, which may recall an old stone temple from the Shrek fairy tale, and that is what gives it its special charm.
The Cathedral of San Sabino is a prominent landmark of old Bari, featuring clean Romanesque architecture and a serene interior that contrasts with the bustling streets of the city.
Lungomare Nazario Sauro is one of the most pleasant parts of Bari, where the city opens up to the sea. The promenade runs along the old stone walls, which recall the city's defensive history and create a strong contrast with the open Adriatic.
Pizzeria De Michele is considered one of the most famous and iconic pizzerias in Italy and for many people a "must-visit" stop. The classic Margherita with a double portion of mozzarella is recommended – a simple pizza that is the main reason why people come here from all over the world. The pizzeria is constantly full and reservations are not taken. At the entrance you will receive a queue number and then you are called inside in order. The whole process has its own rhythm and atmosphere, which is part of the experience, and that is why most people remember the visit as strongly as the pizza itself.
The day belongs to one of the most photogenic places in all of Puglia. Polignano a Mare welcomes you with dramatic cliffs, views of the turquoise sea, and a unique location that seems almost unreal. The historic center is small but full of life – narrow streets, white houses, and sea views at every turn. You'll often encounter street musicians playing and singing "Bella Ciao" in the streets. During the day, have a real Italian gelato and stop at a small bistro in the narrow streets of Polignano, where you can taste traditional homemade focaccia. The main highlight of the day is Lama Monachile beach, hidden among the rocks directly under the bridge. The Terrazza Monachile bridge offers an iconic view of the beach and surrounding cliffs.
Trains run frequently and the journey takes about 30 minutes. It is a regional train without the need for a seat reservation, which is simple and flexible. You can buy a ticket in several ways. The easiest is online via this link. Another option is a machine directly at Bari Centrale station, where you can pay by card or cash and a paper ticket will be printed. The third option is the classic ticket office at the station. On the platform, board the train towards Polignano a Mare or Monopoli and get off at Polignano a Mare station, from where it is only a short walk to the center and the sea.
Lama Monachile Beach is hidden between the rocks directly under the bridge. You can bring your swimsuit, towel, and sunscreen if you want to swim.
The small bistro Zia Lè – La Merenda Barese in the narrow streets of Polignano looks inconspicuous, but this is where you can get one of the best focaccias, prepared by a very kind lady who gives the place a homely atmosphere.
Bastione di Santo Stefano is one of the most iconic places in Polignano a Mare, offering stunning views of the clear turquoise sea and dramatic cliffs.
The last day is for the final moments in the city. A short walk, a last stop in the alleys of Bari Vecchia, and a moment to soak up the atmosphere of Puglia one last time. Of course, there's also a last coffee – a simple Italian espresso that belongs to the city as much as the narrow streets and the sea. If there's time left, you can buy small souvenirs or local products for the trip home. Then it's just a transfer to the airport and the return journey. And perhaps it's here that one realizes that "dolce vita" is not a place, but a way of looking at the world.
You can get to the airport the same way as you did from the airport on the first day.
Remember to be at the airport at least 2 hours before departure.
This long weekend takes you to the heart of southern Italy, where the authentic atmosphere of Bari blends with the iconic views of Polignano a Mare. You'll explore the narrow streets of Bari Vecchia, savor the aromas of homemade Italian cuisine, and spend an evening at one of the most famous pizzerias. The highlight of the trip is Polignano a Mare with its dramatic cliffs and swimming at Lama Monachile beach. It's an itinerary of flavors, views, and the slow pace of the dolce vita.
The first encounter with Bari has a slow and pleasantly relaxed rhythm that gradually wins you over. You will visit Bari Vecchia, a lively labyrinth of narrow streets where the daily life of locals mixes with the authentic character of the old city. The first taste of Puglia comes in the form of focaccia barese or panzerotti. Simple street food that is an integral part of Bari and you can taste it directly in the streets, fresh and still warm. You can end the day with an aperitif and light refreshments in the historic center.
Upon arrival at the airport, you can easily get to the center by direct train from Bari Aeroporto station, which is within walking distance of the terminal. You can buy a ticket at the machines at the airport - you can pay by card or cash, and the destination is Bari Centrale, the main train station in the city center. The journey takes about 20 minutes, is direct and without transfers. Trains run frequently and are comfortable. In a few tens of minutes, you can smoothly transition from the airport to the rhythm of southern Italy.
The narrow streets of Bari Vecchia will immediately draw you in among the stone houses, where the smell of home cooking mixes with everyday life right on the street. Bari Vecchia feels like a living labyrinth – laundry between balconies, small churches on every corner, and locals sitting in front of their houses, all feel authentic and natural.
Bari draws you into the atmosphere of its historic center, where life unfolds directly in the narrow streets. Here, you can come across local grandmothers who handcraft and sell fresh homemade pasta – one of the typical symbols of the city. During the day, you will visit the Basilica di San Nicola and the Cattedrale di San Sabino, two of the most important monuments of the old city. Don't miss a stop for Italian espresso and a fresh cornetto. For lunch, you'll have traditional orecchiette, pasta typical of the Puglia region, and then stroll along Lungomare Nazario Sauro with sea views. You can end the evening at an iconic pizzeria, which is one of the most popular establishments in the city and which you may know from the movie "Eat, Pray, Love" with Julia Roberts.
This basilica is one of the most important monuments in Bari, and it makes a very specific impression right from the entrance. The interior has a simple, almost Romanesque atmosphere, which may recall an old stone temple from the Shrek fairy tale, and that is what gives it its special charm.
The Cathedral of San Sabino is a prominent landmark of old Bari, featuring clean Romanesque architecture and a serene interior that contrasts with the bustling streets of the city.
Lungomare Nazario Sauro is one of the most pleasant parts of Bari, where the city opens up to the sea. The promenade runs along the old stone walls, which recall the city's defensive history and create a strong contrast with the open Adriatic.
Pizzeria De Michele is considered one of the most famous and iconic pizzerias in Italy and for many people a "must-visit" stop. The classic Margherita with a double portion of mozzarella is recommended – a simple pizza that is the main reason why people come here from all over the world. The pizzeria is constantly full and reservations are not taken. At the entrance you will receive a queue number and then you are called inside in order. The whole process has its own rhythm and atmosphere, which is part of the experience, and that is why most people remember the visit as strongly as the pizza itself.
The day belongs to one of the most photogenic places in all of Puglia. Polignano a Mare welcomes you with dramatic cliffs, views of the turquoise sea, and a unique location that seems almost unreal. The historic center is small but full of life – narrow streets, white houses, and sea views at every turn. You'll often encounter street musicians playing and singing "Bella Ciao" in the streets. During the day, have a real Italian gelato and stop at a small bistro in the narrow streets of Polignano, where you can taste traditional homemade focaccia. The main highlight of the day is Lama Monachile beach, hidden among the rocks directly under the bridge. The Terrazza Monachile bridge offers an iconic view of the beach and surrounding cliffs.
Trains run frequently and the journey takes about 30 minutes. It is a regional train without the need for a seat reservation, which is simple and flexible. You can buy a ticket in several ways. The easiest is online via this link. Another option is a machine directly at Bari Centrale station, where you can pay by card or cash and a paper ticket will be printed. The third option is the classic ticket office at the station. On the platform, board the train towards Polignano a Mare or Monopoli and get off at Polignano a Mare station, from where it is only a short walk to the center and the sea.
Lama Monachile Beach is hidden between the rocks directly under the bridge. You can bring your swimsuit, towel, and sunscreen if you want to swim.
The small bistro Zia Lè – La Merenda Barese in the narrow streets of Polignano looks inconspicuous, but this is where you can get one of the best focaccias, prepared by a very kind lady who gives the place a homely atmosphere.
Bastione di Santo Stefano is one of the most iconic places in Polignano a Mare, offering stunning views of the clear turquoise sea and dramatic cliffs.
The last day is for the final moments in the city. A short walk, a last stop in the alleys of Bari Vecchia, and a moment to soak up the atmosphere of Puglia one last time. Of course, there's also a last coffee – a simple Italian espresso that belongs to the city as much as the narrow streets and the sea. If there's time left, you can buy small souvenirs or local products for the trip home. Then it's just a transfer to the airport and the return journey. And perhaps it's here that one realizes that "dolce vita" is not a place, but a way of looking at the world.
You can get to the airport the same way as you did from the airport on the first day.
Remember to be at the airport at least 2 hours before departure.
itinerary by Sabina Frohlichova
This long weekend takes you to the heart of southern Italy, where the authentic atmosphere of Bari blends with the iconic views of Polignano a Mare. You'll explore the narrow streets of Bari Vecchia, savor the aromas of homemade Italian cuisine, and spend an evening at one of the most famous pizzerias. The highlight of the trip is Polignano a Mare with its dramatic cliffs and swimming at Lama Monachile beach. It's an itinerary of flavors, views, and the slow pace of the dolce vita.
The first encounter with Bari has a slow and pleasantly relaxed rhythm that gradually wins you over. You will visit Bari Vecchia, a lively labyrinth of narrow streets where the daily life of locals mixes with the authentic character of the old city. The first taste of Puglia comes in the form of focaccia barese or panzerotti. Simple street food that is an integral part of Bari and you can taste it directly in the streets, fresh and still warm. You can end the day with an aperitif and light refreshments in the historic center.
Upon arrival at the airport, you can easily get to the center by direct train from Bari Aeroporto station, which is within walking distance of the terminal. You can buy a ticket at the machines at the airport - you can pay by card or cash, and the destination is Bari Centrale, the main train station in the city center. The journey takes about 20 minutes, is direct and without transfers. Trains run frequently and are comfortable. In a few tens of minutes, you can smoothly transition from the airport to the rhythm of southern Italy.
The narrow streets of Bari Vecchia will immediately draw you in among the stone houses, where the smell of home cooking mixes with everyday life right on the street. Bari Vecchia feels like a living labyrinth – laundry between balconies, small churches on every corner, and locals sitting in front of their houses, all feel authentic and natural.
Bari draws you into the atmosphere of its historic center, where life unfolds directly in the narrow streets. Here, you can come across local grandmothers who handcraft and sell fresh homemade pasta – one of the typical symbols of the city. During the day, you will visit the Basilica di San Nicola and the Cattedrale di San Sabino, two of the most important monuments of the old city. Don't miss a stop for Italian espresso and a fresh cornetto. For lunch, you'll have traditional orecchiette, pasta typical of the Puglia region, and then stroll along Lungomare Nazario Sauro with sea views. You can end the evening at an iconic pizzeria, which is one of the most popular establishments in the city and which you may know from the movie "Eat, Pray, Love" with Julia Roberts.
This basilica is one of the most important monuments in Bari, and it makes a very specific impression right from the entrance. The interior has a simple, almost Romanesque atmosphere, which may recall an old stone temple from the Shrek fairy tale, and that is what gives it its special charm.
The Cathedral of San Sabino is a prominent landmark of old Bari, featuring clean Romanesque architecture and a serene interior that contrasts with the bustling streets of the city.
Lungomare Nazario Sauro is one of the most pleasant parts of Bari, where the city opens up to the sea. The promenade runs along the old stone walls, which recall the city's defensive history and create a strong contrast with the open Adriatic.
Pizzeria De Michele is considered one of the most famous and iconic pizzerias in Italy and for many people a "must-visit" stop. The classic Margherita with a double portion of mozzarella is recommended – a simple pizza that is the main reason why people come here from all over the world. The pizzeria is constantly full and reservations are not taken. At the entrance you will receive a queue number and then you are called inside in order. The whole process has its own rhythm and atmosphere, which is part of the experience, and that is why most people remember the visit as strongly as the pizza itself.
The day belongs to one of the most photogenic places in all of Puglia. Polignano a Mare welcomes you with dramatic cliffs, views of the turquoise sea, and a unique location that seems almost unreal. The historic center is small but full of life – narrow streets, white houses, and sea views at every turn. You'll often encounter street musicians playing and singing "Bella Ciao" in the streets. During the day, have a real Italian gelato and stop at a small bistro in the narrow streets of Polignano, where you can taste traditional homemade focaccia. The main highlight of the day is Lama Monachile beach, hidden among the rocks directly under the bridge. The Terrazza Monachile bridge offers an iconic view of the beach and surrounding cliffs.
Trains run frequently and the journey takes about 30 minutes. It is a regional train without the need for a seat reservation, which is simple and flexible. You can buy a ticket in several ways. The easiest is online via this link. Another option is a machine directly at Bari Centrale station, where you can pay by card or cash and a paper ticket will be printed. The third option is the classic ticket office at the station. On the platform, board the train towards Polignano a Mare or Monopoli and get off at Polignano a Mare station, from where it is only a short walk to the center and the sea.
Lama Monachile Beach is hidden between the rocks directly under the bridge. You can bring your swimsuit, towel, and sunscreen if you want to swim.
The small bistro Zia Lè – La Merenda Barese in the narrow streets of Polignano looks inconspicuous, but this is where you can get one of the best focaccias, prepared by a very kind lady who gives the place a homely atmosphere.
Bastione di Santo Stefano is one of the most iconic places in Polignano a Mare, offering stunning views of the clear turquoise sea and dramatic cliffs.
The last day is for the final moments in the city. A short walk, a last stop in the alleys of Bari Vecchia, and a moment to soak up the atmosphere of Puglia one last time. Of course, there's also a last coffee – a simple Italian espresso that belongs to the city as much as the narrow streets and the sea. If there's time left, you can buy small souvenirs or local products for the trip home. Then it's just a transfer to the airport and the return journey. And perhaps it's here that one realizes that "dolce vita" is not a place, but a way of looking at the world.
You can get to the airport the same way as you did from the airport on the first day.
Remember to be at the airport at least 2 hours before departure.
This long weekend takes you to the heart of southern Italy, where the authentic atmosphere of Bari blends with the iconic views of Polignano a Mare. You'll explore the narrow streets of Bari Vecchia, savor the aromas of homemade Italian cuisine, and spend an evening at one of the most famous pizzerias. The highlight of the trip is Polignano a Mare with its dramatic cliffs and swimming at Lama Monachile beach. It's an itinerary of flavors, views, and the slow pace of the dolce vita.
The first encounter with Bari has a slow and pleasantly relaxed rhythm that gradually wins you over. You will visit Bari Vecchia, a lively labyrinth of narrow streets where the daily life of locals mixes with the authentic character of the old city. The first taste of Puglia comes in the form of focaccia barese or panzerotti. Simple street food that is an integral part of Bari and you can taste it directly in the streets, fresh and still warm. You can end the day with an aperitif and light refreshments in the historic center.
Upon arrival at the airport, you can easily get to the center by direct train from Bari Aeroporto station, which is within walking distance of the terminal. You can buy a ticket at the machines at the airport - you can pay by card or cash, and the destination is Bari Centrale, the main train station in the city center. The journey takes about 20 minutes, is direct and without transfers. Trains run frequently and are comfortable. In a few tens of minutes, you can smoothly transition from the airport to the rhythm of southern Italy.
The narrow streets of Bari Vecchia will immediately draw you in among the stone houses, where the smell of home cooking mixes with everyday life right on the street. Bari Vecchia feels like a living labyrinth – laundry between balconies, small churches on every corner, and locals sitting in front of their houses, all feel authentic and natural.
Bari draws you into the atmosphere of its historic center, where life unfolds directly in the narrow streets. Here, you can come across local grandmothers who handcraft and sell fresh homemade pasta – one of the typical symbols of the city. During the day, you will visit the Basilica di San Nicola and the Cattedrale di San Sabino, two of the most important monuments of the old city. Don't miss a stop for Italian espresso and a fresh cornetto. For lunch, you'll have traditional orecchiette, pasta typical of the Puglia region, and then stroll along Lungomare Nazario Sauro with sea views. You can end the evening at an iconic pizzeria, which is one of the most popular establishments in the city and which you may know from the movie "Eat, Pray, Love" with Julia Roberts.
This basilica is one of the most important monuments in Bari, and it makes a very specific impression right from the entrance. The interior has a simple, almost Romanesque atmosphere, which may recall an old stone temple from the Shrek fairy tale, and that is what gives it its special charm.
The Cathedral of San Sabino is a prominent landmark of old Bari, featuring clean Romanesque architecture and a serene interior that contrasts with the bustling streets of the city.
Lungomare Nazario Sauro is one of the most pleasant parts of Bari, where the city opens up to the sea. The promenade runs along the old stone walls, which recall the city's defensive history and create a strong contrast with the open Adriatic.
Pizzeria De Michele is considered one of the most famous and iconic pizzerias in Italy and for many people a "must-visit" stop. The classic Margherita with a double portion of mozzarella is recommended – a simple pizza that is the main reason why people come here from all over the world. The pizzeria is constantly full and reservations are not taken. At the entrance you will receive a queue number and then you are called inside in order. The whole process has its own rhythm and atmosphere, which is part of the experience, and that is why most people remember the visit as strongly as the pizza itself.
The day belongs to one of the most photogenic places in all of Puglia. Polignano a Mare welcomes you with dramatic cliffs, views of the turquoise sea, and a unique location that seems almost unreal. The historic center is small but full of life – narrow streets, white houses, and sea views at every turn. You'll often encounter street musicians playing and singing "Bella Ciao" in the streets. During the day, have a real Italian gelato and stop at a small bistro in the narrow streets of Polignano, where you can taste traditional homemade focaccia. The main highlight of the day is Lama Monachile beach, hidden among the rocks directly under the bridge. The Terrazza Monachile bridge offers an iconic view of the beach and surrounding cliffs.
Trains run frequently and the journey takes about 30 minutes. It is a regional train without the need for a seat reservation, which is simple and flexible. You can buy a ticket in several ways. The easiest is online via this link. Another option is a machine directly at Bari Centrale station, where you can pay by card or cash and a paper ticket will be printed. The third option is the classic ticket office at the station. On the platform, board the train towards Polignano a Mare or Monopoli and get off at Polignano a Mare station, from where it is only a short walk to the center and the sea.
Lama Monachile Beach is hidden between the rocks directly under the bridge. You can bring your swimsuit, towel, and sunscreen if you want to swim.
The small bistro Zia Lè – La Merenda Barese in the narrow streets of Polignano looks inconspicuous, but this is where you can get one of the best focaccias, prepared by a very kind lady who gives the place a homely atmosphere.
Bastione di Santo Stefano is one of the most iconic places in Polignano a Mare, offering stunning views of the clear turquoise sea and dramatic cliffs.
The last day is for the final moments in the city. A short walk, a last stop in the alleys of Bari Vecchia, and a moment to soak up the atmosphere of Puglia one last time. Of course, there's also a last coffee – a simple Italian espresso that belongs to the city as much as the narrow streets and the sea. If there's time left, you can buy small souvenirs or local products for the trip home. Then it's just a transfer to the airport and the return journey. And perhaps it's here that one realizes that "dolce vita" is not a place, but a way of looking at the world.
You can get to the airport the same way as you did from the airport on the first day.
Remember to be at the airport at least 2 hours before departure.
