The Best of Southern Italy: Bari, Alberobello, Matera, Naples, and Sicily

Your journey begins with a flight to Bari, where you are welcomed to Southern Italy. Upon arrival at the airport, your transfer will be ready to take you directly to your hotel in the heart of Bari. This smooth start allows you to relax and get your first impression of the city’s southern charm.

Then, spend the rest of the day at your own pace. Take a peaceful walk along the beautiful waterfront or enjoy the relaxed atmosphere in local cafés. For example, try a traditional espresso or a refreshing Italian gelato while watching the sunset over the Adriatic Sea.

Alberobello is a town that feels like something from a fairytale, known for its iconic trulli houses, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. During your stay, you will live in an authentic trulli house, offering a unique blend of history and comfort.

Start your first day by exploring Rione Monti, the most iconic area of Alberobello. Here, more than 1,000 trulli stand side by side along narrow streets. Along the way, you will find small shops selling local crafts and specialties such as olive oil and wines from Puglia. Then, visit Trullo Sovrano, the largest and only two-story trullo, now a museum that offers insight into the history and function of these unique buildings.

The next day, take a relaxing walk outside the town center. Enjoy views of the surrounding vineyards and olive groves that frame Alberobello as a peaceful retreat. In addition, you can take a short day trip to Locorotondo, one of the most beautiful villages in Italy, known for its circular old town and local wines.

If time allows, treat yourself to dinner at a local restaurant. For example, try traditional dishes such as focaccia barese or braciole al sugo, served with regional pride.

For those who wish to explore further, Alberobello is also a perfect base for nearby experiences:

The historic town of Martina Franca, known for its Baroque architecture.
A cycling route along the Acquedotto Pugliese, offering scenic views of the countryside.

As a result, Alberobello is a destination that captures the heart. With two nights here, you have time to explore its history and enjoy the calm of the surrounding landscapes.

The journey from Matera to Naples is an experience in itself, offering some of the most beautiful landscapes in Southern Italy. After a transfer from Matera to the nearest train station, you continue by high-speed train. Then, settle into comfortable seats and enjoy the views through large panoramic windows as the train travels towards Naples.

Along the way, you pass through a rich cultural landscape with olive groves, vineyards, and charming villages. As the train approaches Naples, you begin to sense the vibrant energy that defines the city. The view of the Bay of Naples and the iconic Mount Vesuvius rising on the horizon creates a striking welcome to one of the most historic cities in Italy.

As a result, this train journey combines comfort with a scenic introduction to the region’s culture and landscapes, making your arrival in Naples even more memorable.

Naples, the vibrant capital of Southern Italy, is a city full of life and history. With two nights here, you have time to experience its unique mix of lively atmosphere, rich heritage, and culinary traditions.

Start with a walk along Spaccanapoli, the narrow street that cuts through the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then, explore Baroque churches, historic palaces, and small shops offering handmade crafts and local delicacies. Afterwards, visit the impressive Naples Cathedral, home to the relics of the city’s patron saint, San Gennaro.

Naples is the birthplace of pizza. Therefore, no visit is complete without trying an authentic pizza margherita at a historic pizzeria such as Antica Pizzeria da Michele. In addition, the local cuisine offers much more. For example, taste sfogliatella, a traditional filled pastry.

For history lovers, a trip to nearby Pompeii is highly recommended. This ancient city was buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. As a result, it offers a fascinating insight into life in ancient Rome. Alternatively, take a scenic walk along the Bay of Naples, where views of Mount Vesuvius and the blue sea create a memorable experience.

In the evening, Naples comes alive. The waterfront promenade, Lungomare, is ideal for a relaxed walk with views of the bay and nearby islands such as Capri and Ischia. In addition, venues like Teatro San Carlo offer world-class opera and classical music.

As a result, Naples leaves a lasting impression with its deep history, passionate atmosphere, and unique energy.

The journey from Naples to Sicily is one of the most memorable train experiences in Italy. Along the way, you cross the iconic Strait of Messina, where the train is transported onto a ferry. This unique moment combines rail and sea travel. Then, you can step out on deck and enjoy views of the sea and the coastline of Sicily.

After arrival on Sicily, the journey continues towards either Cefalù or Taormina. Both destinations offer a distinct and memorable experience.

Cefalù: Known for its combination of golden beaches and historic charm. The impressive Norman Cathedral rises above the town. Then, explore narrow streets filled with small shops and cafés, ideal for both relaxation and cultural experiences.

Taormina: Set on a hillside with views over the sea and Mount Etna. Visit the ancient Greek Theatre, one of the most famous landmarks in Sicily. Afterwards, explore the lively streets and enjoy the atmosphere of the town.

As a result, whichever destination you choose, the journey ends with a memorable stay in Sicily.

Your journey ends with a private transfer from your hotel to the airport. This ensures a smooth and comfortable conclusion to your stay in Sicily. From Cefalù, the transfer goes to Palermo Airport. Meanwhile, guests staying in Taormina are driven to Catania Airport. The driver ensures you arrive in good time for your flight, so you can travel home without stress.

There are direct flights to both Billund and Copenhagen Airport (Kastrup). However, some departures may include a short stopover. Finally, this last part of the journey gives you time to reflect on your experiences in Southern Italy and Sicily—from historic cities and dramatic landscapes to memorable culinary highlights.