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Southern Italy Itinerary: 6 Days in Rome & Apulia
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Trip curated by Roman Karin
ExpertLecce's baroque is most visceral in Piazza del Duomo before 9am; the cathedral facade and the seminary colonnade shift from cream to amber in under twenty minutes as the sun angle changes, and it's the kind of image that makes clients understand why I put this city on the itinerary at all. Bari Vecchia rewards an afternoon arrival on foot from the station: the Basilica of San Nicola and the Norman cathedral are within ten minutes of each other, and the fishmongers setting up along the waterfront outside the fortification wall are the version of Bari most visitors miss by routing directly to the hotel. For the Vatican with two nights in Rome, the Museums visit has to be the first morning commitment. Entering before 8am and routing the path so the Sistine Chapel arrives last means the ceiling in the first twenty minutes at close to empty, and everything that follows in Florence reads more clearly for having that foundation already in place.
Lecce's baroque is most visceral in Piazza del Duomo before 9am; the cathedral facade and the seminary colonnade shift from cream to amber in under twenty minutes as the sun angle changes, and it's the kind of image that makes clients understand why I put this city on the itinerary at all. Bari Vecchia rewards an afternoon arrival on foot from the station: the Basilica of San Nicola and the Norman cathedral are within ten minutes of each other, and the fishmongers setting up along the waterfront outside the fortification wall are the version of Bari most visitors miss by routing directly to the hotel. For the Vatican with two nights in Rome, the Museums visit has to be the first morning commitment. Entering before 8am and routing the path so the Sistine Chapel arrives last means the ceiling in the first twenty minutes at close to empty, and everything that follows in Florence reads more clearly for having that foundation already in place.
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Rome
Day 1 - 2
Experience Rome, the bustling capital of Italy. This city, rich with exciting history and culture, offers an unparalled mix of ancient explorations and modern living. Immerse yourself in the past and explore the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Vatican. Wander through other must-see destinations like The Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, and Pantheon. Experiencing the culinary scene is a delight, from traditional pasta to world-renowned Italian gelati. You can explore daily markets such as Campo de' Fiori for local ingredients and fresh food. A stay in Rome promises great experiences all year round, but it is advisable to take seasonality into account. While spring (April–May) and fall (September–October) offer pleasant weather and less crowds, summer (June–August) has a lively, spirited atmosphere — but can also be hot. No matter when you go, visiting Rome promises an unforgettable journey through the centuries. The unique combination of a rich historical past mixed into a thriving and vibrant modern community makes Italy's Eternal City one of the world's most intriguing and inspiring tourist destinations.
NH Collection Roma Centro
With a stay at NH Collection Roma Centro, you'll be centrally located in Rome, steps from Via Cola di Rienzo and within a 10-minute walk of Piazza del Popolo. This hotel is 0.5 mi (0.9 km) from Basilica of Santa Maria del Popolo.
Take in the views from a terrace and make use of amenities such as complimentary wireless internet access and concierge services.
Make yourself at home in one of the 257 individually decorated guestrooms, featuring minibars and flat-screen televisions. Complimentary wireless internet access keeps you connected, and digital programming is available for your entertainment. Private bathrooms with bathtubs or showers feature rainfall showerheads and complimentary toiletries. Conveniences include safes and desks, and housekeeping is provided daily.
Your activity
Vatican & Castel Sant’Angelo Tour
Take the tour of the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel with no queue at all! No stress to access the Vatican: your professional guide will take you inside and accompany you in a memorable visit to one of the most important art collections worldwide. Admire the numerous halls of the museum, including the spiral staircase, the beautiful Raphael’s rooms and their famous paintings, before entering the Sistine Chapel, Michelangelo’s masterpiece. On your way out from the Sistine Chapel, you will go inside St. Peter’s Basilica through an exclusive access skipping long lines. The tour wouldn’t be complete without a walk in St. Peter’s Square, the open space before the basilica, redesigned by G. L. Bernini, an architectural masterpiece of the Baroque age. Your day continues with a visit of Castel Sant’Angelo, originally built as the tomb of Roman Emperor Hadrian, was later converted into a military fortress, the Pope’s residence, a Renaissance-era prison, and then finally into a museum to preserve the history of Rome. Built in 135 AD, the castle now houses Hadrian’s tomb, Papal apartments, and several magnificent works of art including paintings, sculptures, pottery, frescoes, murals, and more. Choose this tour if you would like to enjoy a professional guided tour to the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel and Castel Sant’Angelo with skip the line access thanks to a special agreement we have. Tour ends at Castel Sant’Angelo area.
Starting time: 9:30 AM approx.
Bari
Day 3 - 4
Located in Italy’s Puglia region, the port city of Bari fringes the Adriatic Sea and is the capital of the area. Bari is the second-largest town in southern Italy and provides convenient transport links to Croatia, Albania, and Greece, while also serving as an excellent stopover for visitors travelling to Brindisi and Lecce. This historic city is an urban hub of contrasts, boasting both a rich history including an array of interesting heritage buildings, as well as a thriving, modern nightlife scene. Meander through the labyrinthine streets of old town Barivecchia, view the impressive 11th-century Basilica di San Nicola and stroll along the Murat quarter’s scenic promenade. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample mouth-watering local Italian cuisine at one of the many traditional trattorias.
HOTEL EXCELSIOR BARI – BY FARACE HOTELS
With a stay at HOTEL EXCELSIOR BARI – BY FARACE HOTELS, you'll be centrally located in Bari, within a 5-minute drive of Basilica of San Nicola and Bari Cathedral. This hotel is 5.2 mi (8.4 km) from Bari Harbor and 3.5 mi (5.6 km) from Pane e Pomodoro Beach.
Take in the views from a garden and make use of amenities such as complimentary wireless internet access and a television in a common area.
Make yourself at home in one of the 152 air-conditioned rooms featuring minibars and flat-screen televisions. Complimentary wireless internet access keeps you connected, and satellite programming is available for your entertainment. Private bathrooms with bathtubs or showers feature complimentary toiletries and bidets. Conveniences include phones, as well as safes and desks.
Your activity
Taste your way through Bari
Experience the vibrant soul of Bari through its flavors on this private street food walking tour through the city’s historic Old Town (Bari Vecchia). Led by a knowledgeable local guide, this tour is a delicious journey into the heart of Puglian cuisine and culture.
As you wind through the city's narrow alleys and lively squares, you'll stop at beloved local spots to sample some of Bari’s most iconic bites:
- Warm, crusty focaccia barese fresh from the oven
- Golden panzerotti filled with melted mozzarella and tomato
- Crispy sgagliozze (fried polenta squares)
- Crunchy, savory taralli, a true regional favorite
One of the highlights? Watching local women hand-roll orecchiette pasta right outside their homes—an unforgettable glimpse into Bari’s living culinary traditions.
Your tour ends on a sweet note, with a taste of a pasticciotto, a scoop of artisanal gelato, or a sip of limoncello or local wine, depending on what’s in season and available that day.
This is more than just a food tour—it’s a flavorful, authentic experience of Bari’s rich culture and warm hospitality.
Starting Time: approx 9:30AM (check confirmation)
Lecce
Day 5 - 6
Tucked into the eastern edge of the Salento Peninsula, Lecce is a historic jewel of the Apulia region, surrounded by the waters of the Adriatic and Ionian Seas. Known as the “Florence of the South,” Lecce dazzles with Baroque architecture, ancient Roman ruins, and a thriving arts and culture scene. The city's dramatic façades, decorated with quirky gargoyles, twisting columns, and elaborate stonework, are sure to inspire awe. Top attractions include the ornate Church of the Holy Cross, the Roman Amphitheatre, the Duomo, and the fascinating underground Faggiano Museum. Lecce’s charming old town is home to upscale boutiques, cozy cafes, lively bars, and excellent restaurants serving authentic Pugliese fare.
Hotel Delle Palme
A stay at Hotel Delle Palme places you in the heart of Lecce, steps from Villa Bianca and 8 minutes by foot from Torre del Parco. This hotel is 12.1 mi (19.4 km) from Frigole Beach and 0.5 mi (0.8 km) from Sigismondo Castromediano Museum.
Take advantage of recreation opportunities such as bicycles to rent, or other amenities including complimentary wireless internet access and concierge services. Additional features at this hotel include babysitting (surcharge) and a banquet hall. Getting to nearby attractions is a breeze with the area shuttle (surcharge).
Make yourself at home in one of the 96 guestrooms featuring minibars and LCD televisions. Your bed comes with down comforters and premium bedding. Complimentary wireless internet access keeps you connected, and satellite programming is available for your entertainment. Private bathrooms with showers feature complimentary toiletries and bidets.
