Southern Italy Road Trip: 2 Weeks of History & Coastlines

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.

Presided over by the mighty Mount Vesuvius and with the extraordinary archaeological site of Pompeii on its doorstep, the historic Mediterranean city of Naples is steeped in centuries of fascinating history. Founded long before the Italian state—or even the Roman Republic—Naples holds an unparalleled collection of Greek and Roman artifacts. There’s truly no place like it: vast, gritty, and chaotic, yet this modern-day energy plays out against a dramatic backdrop of grand historical piazzas, world-class museums, and stunning Baroque architecture. As the birthplace of pizza and a contender for the richest food scene in a country celebrated for its cuisine, Naples is a paradise for food lovers, offering a dazzling array of local dishes and gourmet experiences.

Carved into the rugged mountains of Basilicata in southern Italy, the ancient city of Matera is a stunning maze of stone homes stacked into hillsides and connected by winding stairways and rooftop streets. These homes, known as the Sassi di Matera, evoke a biblical atmosphere—so much so that filmmaker Mel Gibson used Matera as a stand-in for Bethlehem in The Passion of the Christ. One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, Matera is rich in history, with must-see landmarks such as the Civita district and its Romanesque Cathedral, home to art treasures including a 13th-century statue of the Madonna della Bruna. Nearby, the vast Park of the Rupestrian Churches spans more than 8,000 hectares and features over 150 cave churches, including the dramatic Santa Maria de Idris.

Perched atop a high rocky limestone cliff on the coast of the Valle d’Itria, the idyllic small town of Polignano a Mare overlooks the sparkling aquamarine waters of the on the Adriatic Sea in the Metropolitan City of Bari, in Apulia, Italy. Awash with stunning medieval architecture, this enchanting seaside village maintains its old-world aura. Stroll along the white-washed streets and narrow alleyways to explore the quaint cafes and beautiful churches that flank the Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II. Must-see sites include medieval Clock Palace, the Pino Pascali Museum Foundation, and crystalline waters of the picturesque Cala Porto. Don’t miss the opportunity to pay a visit to the church of Santa Maria Assunta, where visitors can view the iconic Stefano da Putignano.

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.