There’s a way of travelling that doesn’t rush. It listens, observes and allows you to breathe in the places you visit.
In Puglia, this approach reveals its full magic: timeless villages perched on hills, whitewashed houses overlooking the Adriatic, ancient olive groves, fishermen’s boats and locals greeting you as if you were an old friend.
If you’re dreaming of exploring Puglia without the stress of driving — and with the freedom to truly slow down — here’s a 7-day itinerary you can follow entirely by train and local bus.
📍 Day 1 — Bari
Start your journey in Bari. Wander through the maze of Bari Vecchia, where women still make fresh orecchiette in front of their homes. Visit the Basilica of Saint Nicholas, the Norman-Swabian Castle and treat yourself to an aperitivo on the seafront promenade.
🚂 Day 2 — Polignano a Mare
A short train ride brings you to Polignano a Mare. The town is perched dramatically above the sea — lose yourself in narrow streets, panoramic terraces and hidden stairways. Don’t miss a gelato or a panino with grilled octopus right by Lama Monachile beach.
🚂 Day 3 — Monopoli
Hop on another regional train to Monopoli, a true gem among coastal towns. Its old port, white houses and small coves make it a perfect place to linger. Visit the cathedral, the castle and take a swim if the season allows.
🚌 Day 4 — Alberobello
Travel inland: take the train to Fasano and a bus to Alberobello. Here you’ll step into a fairytale of trulli, stone rooftops and blooming geraniums. Stay overnight in a trullo — it’s more than accommodation, it’s an experience.
🚌 Day 5 — Locorotondo
Just a short bus ride away lies Locorotondo, one of Italy’s most beautiful villages. Its circular old town is made of white houses, wrought iron balconies and panoramic views over the Valle d’Itria vineyards. Sip a glass of the local crisp white wine at sunset.
🚌 Day 6 — Ostuni
Continue by bus to Ostuni, the White City. From afar, it looks like a mirage of whitewashed houses rising above the olive trees. Get lost in its alleyways, climb up to the cathedral and enjoy the sea breeze from a terrace restaurant.
🚂 Day 7 — Back to Bari
Take the train back to Bari. Spend your last hours enjoying a coffee in the elegant Murat district, pick up some local delicacies for home, and let the memories of this slow journey linger.
Why travel this way?
Travelling by train and bus connects you to the rhythm of local life. It’s more sustainable, more authentic — and it invites you to notice what you’d otherwise miss: the landscape rolling by the window, a conversation at the station, the taste of time well spent.
If you’d like, we can craft your tailor-made route — adding hidden corners, local producers, and unique places to stay.
Because discovering Italy is not just about where you go, but how you choose to travel.
Ready to slow down with us?
