
Southern Italy Itinerary by Train: Coastal Charm and Trulli Wonders
Embark on a 7-day train journey through Southern Italy, exploring the historic cities of Naples, the stunning coastal beauty of Sorrento, and the vibrant Apulian capital of Bari, including a unique day trip to Alberobello.
- 1Naples
- 2Sorrento
- 3Bari
Day 1: Arrive in Naples
Settle into Naples, a city rich in history and vibrant street life, and begin your exploration of its historic center after arriving at Naples-Capodichino International Airport (NAP) and transferring to Napoli Centrale.
Highlights
- Discover the Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Napoli, home to treasures from Pompeii and Herculaneum.
- Wander through Spaccanapoli, the historic street cutting through the old center, filled with churches and workshops.
- Experience the lively atmosphere of Via Toledo, a bustling shopping boulevard connecting old and modern Naples.
Day 2: Explore Historic Naples
Dedicate a full day to delving deeper into Naples' artistic heritage and iconic landmarks, from grand squares to seaside fortresses.
Highlights
- Visit the Museo e Real Bosco di Capodimonte, a prestigious art museum in a palace, featuring works by Caravaggio and Raphael.
- Stroll through Piazza del Plebiscito, Naples' grand central square, framed by major landmarks.
- Explore Castel dell'Ovo, a medieval seaside fortress, offering bay views and a classic city symbol.
Day 3: Journey to Sorrento
Travel by train from Naples to the picturesque coastal town of Sorrento, spending the afternoon exploring its charming main square and scenic coastal views.
Highlights
- Board a Campania Express or Ente Autonomo Volturno S.r.l. train from Napoli Centrale to Sorrento, a journey taking around 53 minutes.
- Arrive at Sorrento station and head to Piazza Tasso, the town's main square and a perfect starting point for exploration.
- Enjoy sweeping views of the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius from Villa Comunale di Sorrento, a clifftop public garden.
Day 4: Discover Sorrento's Coastal Charm
Immerse yourself in Sorrento's unique blend of local crafts, historic sites, and breathtaking clifftop vistas.
Highlights
- Explore the Museo Bottega della Tarsia Lignea, a museum dedicated to Sorrento's signature wood inlay craft.
- Wander through the Chiostro di San Francesco, a beautiful 14th-century cloister known for its elegant arches.
- Stroll along Via San Cesareo, a historic lane lined with shops and old buildings in the heart of the old town.
Day 5: Travel to Bari
Take a scenic train journey from Sorrento to Bari, the capital of Puglia, and spend your afternoon discovering its historic old town and impressive waterfront.
Highlights
- Travel by train from Sorrento to Bari Centrale, a journey taking approximately 5 hours 17 minutes.
- Explore Bari Vecchia, the atmospheric old town with narrow lanes, courtyards, and churches.
- Walk along the Lungomare Nazario Sauro, a monumental seaside promenade offering sea views and landmark architecture.
Day 6: Day Trip to Alberobello's Trulli
Embark on a day trip by train from Bari to Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its unique conical-roofed Trulli houses.
Highlights
- Take an early morning Ferrovie del Sud Est train from Bari Centrale to Alberobello (earliest departure 04:10).
- Visit the Rione Monti, the most famous Trulli district, packed with iconic conical-roofed houses.
- Explore Trullo Sovrano, the town’s only two-storey trullo, offering insight into local architecture, before returning to Bari by train (latest departure 22:57).
Day 7: Depart from Bari
Enjoy a final morning exploring Bari's cultural highlights before departing from this vibrant Apulian city.
Highlights
- Visit the Basilica di San Nicola, a famous basilica housing the relics of Saint Nicholas and showcasing remarkable Romanesque architecture.
- Explore the Castello Normanno-Svevo, a Norman-Swabian fortress by the old port, central to Bari's history.
- Depart from Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport (BRI), with convenient train connections from Bari Centrale, or consider Brindisi Airport (BDS) or Foggia Gino Lisa Airport (FOG) as alternatives.









