ITALY BY TRAIN: Southern Italy

A train journey through Southern Italy that combines millenary history, scenic landscapes, and authentic traditions. This itinerary crosses three regions rich in identity: Campania, vibrant and welcoming, where art and the liveliness of daily life intertwine with the scent of Mediterranean cuisine; Apulia, a crossroads of cultures and a natural bridge between East and West, land of crystal-clear seas and genuine flavors; and Calabria, wild and fascinating, with its timeless villages, the mountains of Sila, and deep roots in family and rural history. Three different faces of a South that knows how to excite, tell stories, and engage, in a journey that is not just travel but an immersion into the soul of these lands.

Arrival in Naples, hotel check-in.

The bustling capital of Campania, Naples is a city of contrasts and passions. Its historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a maze of lively streets, baroque churches, and ancient palaces. Naples is the home of pizza and Neapolitan music. Here you can visit the National Archaeological Museum, custodian of treasures from Pompeii and Herculaneum, and Castel dell’Ovo with views over the Gulf. The Caracciolo seafront invites scenic walks, while the Spanish Quarters preserve the popular and authentic soul of the city.

Included experience:

Guided walking tour of the heart of Naples

Walk with an expert guide through the evocative streets of Naples’ historic center, declared a UNESCO World Heritage site. Discover the vibrant Spaccanapoli district, with its characteristic alleys, artisan shops, and baroque churches, up to the majestic Duomo of San Gennaro, keeper of the famous miraculous blood.

Suggested experiences not included:

Tour of the Spanish Quarters and Street Food

A guided tour through the lively and authentic Spanish Quarters, along narrow alleys and colorful murals, with stops to taste Neapolitan street food specialties such as fried pizza, cuoppo, sfogliatella, and baba.

Dinner with authentic Neapolitan pizza tasting

End the day with a dinner at a Neapolitan pizzeria, where you can enjoy the true Neapolitan pizza, with its soft and fragrant crust, prepared according to ancient traditions. An authentic experience celebrating the flavors and culture of Naples.

Overnight stay in Naples.

From Naples, it is possible to choose from several daily experiences to explore the wonders of the Gulf and its surroundings. You can immerse yourself in history, nature, and local culture, selecting the activity that most inspires you for this unique day.

Suggested experiences:

Guided Tour of Capri

Join a guided tour of the island of Capri, accompanied by an expert local guide who will reveal the history, legends, and curiosities of this Mediterranean gem. The tour includes the main stops, such as the famous Piazzetta of Capri, the vibrant heart of the island, and the Gardens of Augustus, with breathtaking views of the Faraglioni and Marina Piccola.

Excursion to Mount Vesuvius with Crater Trekking

Guided tour to reach the crater of Mount Vesuvius, with spectacular views of the Bay of Naples. The excursion includes a trekking route of about one hour and insights into the volcanic history.

Excursion to Ischia

Discover Ischia, the largest of the islands in the Gulf of Naples, famous for its natural thermal waters, golden beaches, lush gardens, and an authentic, relaxed atmosphere. This excursion takes you to explore an island of many facets: perfect for those seeking wellness, nature, and culture.

Overnight in Naples.

From Naples, it is possible to organize day trips to Pompeii and Caserta, two historic destinations in Campania. These visits allow you to explore archaeological sites and royal monuments, discovering the region’s history, art, and culture, with a return to Naples at the end of the day.

Suggested train departure and bookable: Pompeii

Train departure to Pompeii (about 30 min)

The archaeological site of Pompeii is one of the most famous in the world: an ancient Roman city frozen in time under the ash of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. The ruins reveal everyday life almost two thousand years ago, with theaters, baths, temples, and perfectly preserved frescoes.

Suggested and bookable experiences:

Visit to the archaeological excavations of Pompeii

Immerse yourself in a fascinating journey through time by visiting the extraordinary excavations of Pompeii, the ancient Roman city miraculously preserved under the ash of Vesuvius since 79 AD. Explore the paved streets, houses, temples, baths, and theaters that tell the story of everyday life over two thousand years ago, with frescoes, mosaics, and archaeological finds that bring history to life with incredible realism.

Suggested train departure and bookable: Caserta

Train departure to Caserta (about 40 min)

Caserta is a city rich in history and culture located in the heart of Campania, famous above all for hosting the majestic Royal Palace of Caserta, one of the largest royal palaces in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Beyond the sumptuous Bourbon palace with its vast gardens, fountains, and water features, Caserta offers a lively and authentic historic center, with welcoming squares, historic churches, and a typically Italian atmosphere.

Suggested and bookable experiences:

Guided tour of the majestic Royal Palace of Caserta

Explore the magnificent Royal Palace of Caserta, an 18th-century architectural masterpiece known as the “Italian Versailles.” Accompanied by an expert guide, discover the splendid interiors richly decorated with frescoes, stuccoes, and period furnishings that tell the story of the Bourbon court. Stroll through the vast Italian-style gardens, admiring the impressive fountains, water features, and tree-lined avenues that extend for kilometers, offering views of rare beauty and tranquility.

E-bike tour of the Royal Silk Factory Belvedere

Discover Caserta and its surroundings in an ecological and fun way with a guided e-bike tour of the Royal Silk Factory Belvedere, a little-known jewel of great historical and artistic value. Comfortably riding an electric bike, you will visit the ancient buildings related to silk production during the Bourbon period, immersing yourself in an environment full of charm and tradition.

Overnight stay in Naples.

Train departure from Naples to Taranto (about 4h10min). Check-in at the hotel.

Taranto, a city overlooking the Ionian Sea, is known for its millenary history spanning from Magna Graecia to the Roman period and beyond. Famous for the evocative Old Town, the Aragonese Castle, and its crystal-clear sea, Taranto combines tradition, culture, and gastronomy based on fresh seafood, offering an authentic Mediterranean charm.

Included experience:

Guided tour of the historic center of Taranto

A fascinating walking tour through the streets of the Old Town, suspended between history and the sea. The itinerary includes stops at the majestic Cathedral of San Cataldo, home to splendid Byzantine mosaics, the evocative medieval alleys where time seems to have stopped, and the remains of the ancient Greek walls, a testimony to the glorious Taras.

Overnight stay in Taranto.

In Taranto, it is possible to enhance the stay with cultural visits dedicated to the city’s main points of interest. The proposed experiences allow visitors to deepen their knowledge of Taranto’s history and archaeological and architectural heritage, offering a comprehensive overview of its role in Magna Graecia and in later periods.

Suggested experiences:

National Archaeological Museum (MArTA)

Guided tour of the renowned MArTA, one of the most prestigious archaeological museums in Italy and Europe. Here visitors can admire the famous Gold of Taranto, masterpieces of refined Magna Graecia goldsmithing, as well as statues, mosaics, and artifacts that illustrate the power and wealth of the ancient Spartan colony.

Aragonese Castle

Guided visit to the imposing seaside fortress, a symbol of the powers that shaped Taranto over the centuries. Today managed by the Italian Navy, the Aragonese Castle allows visitors to explore underground rooms, panoramic towers, and ancient dungeons, accompanied by historical insights and anecdotes.

Overnight stay in Taranto.

From Taranto, it is possible to organize train trips to some of the most important cities in Apulia. Bari, Lecce, and Martina Franca are ideal destinations for day trips, thanks to their historic centers, monuments, and easily accessible cultural attractions.

Suggested and bookable train departure: Bari

Train departure to Bari (about 1h40min).

Bari is a city with an ancient charm and a lively rhythm, where the scent of the sea blends with that of handmade orecchiette in the streets of Bari Vecchia. Walk through the cobbled alleys, visit the beautiful Basilica of Saint Nicholas, and admire the Norman-Swabian Castle overlooking the sea. Do not miss a stroll along the monumental seafront, one of the most beautiful in Italy, and experience the authentic atmosphere of the markets.

Suggested experiences:

Guided walking tour of Bari Vecchia

Discover the history of Bari with an expert local guide, exploring hidden corners, ancient churches, and the vibrant atmosphere of the old town.

Guided street food tour in Bari

Taste the authentic flavors of Bari’s cuisine through markets and traditional eateries, sampling focaccia, panzerotti, and fresh seafood.

Suggested and bookable train departure: Lecce

Train departure to Lecce (about 2h).

Lecce is the baroque heart of southern Italy, known for its golden stone architecture. The city combines historic churches and palaces with lively streets, artisan workshops, markets, and traditional restaurants.

Suggested experiences:

Guided tour of Lecce

Explore the highlights of Lecce’s baroque architecture with a professional guide, visiting churches, palaces, and main squares.

Bike rental in Lecce

Discover Lecce and its surroundings independently with a rental bike.

Suggested and bookable train departure: Martina Franca

Train departure to Martina Franca (about 1h).

Located in the heart of the Itria Valley, Martina Franca is known for its elegant baroque historic center, harmonious squares, and noble palaces.

Suggested experiences:

Guided walking tour of Martina Franca’s historic center

A walking itinerary through the main squares and characteristic streets, with stops at baroque palaces and historic churches.

Overnight stay in Taranto.

Train departure from Taranto to Reggio Calabria (approx. 6h 40min). Hotel check-in.

Overlooking the sea opposite Sicily, Reggio Calabria is a city that surprises visitors with its seafront, known as “the most beautiful in Italy,” breathtaking views of Mount Etna, and its rich archaeological heritage. It is the home of the famous Riace Bronzes, preserved in the National Archaeological Museum. The city thrives on contrasts: palm-lined promenades, remains of the ancient Greek polis, Liberty-style buildings, and the modern vitality of its people.

Included experience:

Guided walking tour in the heart of Reggio Calabria

A fascinating walking tour with a local guide through history, art, and views of the Strait: from the majestic Cathedral to the evocative Aragonese Castle, continuing through the elegant squares of the historic center and along the famous seafront, known as “the most beautiful kilometer in Italy.” A journey through different eras, scented by the sea and filled with enchanting panoramas.

Suggested experiences not included:

Guided visit to the National Archaeological Museum of Reggio Calabria

Enter one of the most important museums in the Mediterranean and enjoy a captivating journey through Calabria’s millennia-old history. The visit focuses on the famous Riace Bronzes, masterpieces of classical Greek art, displayed in a climate-controlled room that enhances every detail.

Overnight stay in Reggio Calabria.

Recommended and bookable train departure: Scilla

Train departure to Scilla (approx. 30 min).

Perched between sea and mountains, Scilla is one of the most evocative villages in the Mediterranean. The fishermen’s district of Chianalea, with its houses built directly on the rocks, offers a timeless atmosphere, while the beach and Ruffo Castle dominate the coastline from above.

Suggested experiences:

Guided tour of Scilla

Explore one of Calabria’s most charming villages with a local guide, where the sea meets the mountains. Walk through the narrow alleys of Chianalea, the evocative fishermen’s quarter built directly on the rocks, discover stories of myths, legends, and maritime traditions, and be enchanted by the timeless atmosphere of this corner of the Mediterranean.

Visit to Scilla with local swordfish tasting

Discover the charm of Scilla accompanied by an expert guide who will lead you through the picturesque streets of Chianalea, sharing tales of ancient maritime traditions and local legends. At the end of the walk, enjoy an authentic tasting of fresh swordfish, prepared according to traditional recipes, immersed in a unique atmosphere between sea and history.

Overnight stay in Reggio Calabria.

Tropea is a charming destination in Calabria, easily reachable by train. Perched on a cliff overlooking the sea, it is famous for its historic center, breathtaking views of crystal-clear waters, and rich local gastronomic traditions.

Recommended and bookable train departure: Tropea

Train departure to Tropea (approx. 1h 55min).

A jewel set on a white cliff, Tropea is renowned for its medieval historic center, panoramic balconies overlooking the crystal-clear sea, baroque churches, and the unmistakable PGI Tropea Red Onion. Walking through its narrow alleys is a journey among artisan workshops, the scent of the sea, and ancient legends.

Suggested experiences:

Guided tour of Tropea’s historic center

Immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of Tropea by strolling with an expert guide through its medieval alleys, rich in history and tradition. Discover ancient churches, elegant noble palaces, and lively squares that animate the heart of the town. Admire the evocative Sanctuary of Santa Maria dell’Isola, perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the sea, and be captivated by the aroma and flavor of the famous Tropea red onions, the stars of a millennia-old gastronomic tradition.

Overnight stay in Reggio Calabria.

Train departure from Reggio Calabria to Naples (approx. 4h 40min). Hotel check-in.

Suggested experiences:

Visit to the National Archaeological Museum of Naples

The National Archaeological Museum of Naples is one of the most prestigious museums in the world and houses an extraordinary collection of masterpieces of Roman art, along with precious artifacts from the excavations of Pompeii, Herculaneum, and other archaeological sites in Campania. Among mosaics, frescoes, sculptures, and everyday objects, the museum offers a fascinating journey into the past of ancient Rome, revealing surprising details about the history and culture of that era.

Visit to Naples Underground

Explore the mysterious tunnels and catacombs beneath the city on a journey through time, passing through ancient Roman cisterns, World War II air-raid shelters, and early Christian crypts, accompanied by an expert guide.

Overnight stay in Naples.

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.