14-Day Budget Rail Adventure: Bari to Sicily

Day 1: Arrive in Bari

Bari, Italy

10:00AM

Explore Old Town

Start your journey by wandering the charming narrow streets of Bari Vecchia, soaking in the local atmosphere.
Walk from your accommodation in the old town.
FREE, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Panificio Rosticceria Pugliese

Enjoy freshly baked focaccia and local pastries at this beloved bakery.
5-minute walk from Old Town.
EUR5, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Basilica di San Nicola

Admire the stunning architecture and intricate interior of this 11th-century church.
10-minute walk from the bakery.
FREE, 1 hour

4:00PM

Stroll Along Lungomare

Relax along the scenic seafront promenade with views of the Adriatic Sea.
20-minute walk from the Basilica.
FREE, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Il Pescatore

Indulge in delicious seafood pasta at this local favorite.
15-minute walk from the promenade.
EUR15, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Day in Bari

Bari, Italy

9:00AM

Breakfast at Caffè Carrubba

Start your day with a rich Italian coffee and a cornetto at this quaint café.
15-minute walk from accommodation.
EUR3, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Castello Normanno-Svevo

Explore the historic castle and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
10-minute walk from the café.
EUR6, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Pizzeria da Michele

Savor authentic Neapolitan pizza at this iconic establishment.
10-minute walk from the castle.
EUR8, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Teatro Petruzzelli

Visit one of Italy's most famous opera houses and experience its grand architecture.
15-minute walk from the pizzeria.
EUR5, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Al Pescatore

Relish a selection of fresh seafood dishes while enjoying the waterfront view.
20-minute walk from the theater.
EUR20, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Travel to Taranto

Taranto, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Bakery

Grab a quick breakfast of local pastries to start the day.
5-minute walk from accommodation.
EUR2, 30 min

9:00AM

Train to Taranto

Catch the regional train to Taranto; enjoy the scenic countryside.
Bari Centrale Train Station.
EUR10, 1 hour

10:30AM

Arrive and Explore Taranto

Once you arrive, take some time to explore the historic city center.
Walk to the historical district.
FREE, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Il Bolognese

Savor traditional Apulian dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
10-minute walk from the city center.
EUR10, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Castello Aragonese

Explore this historic castle with a rich history and beautiful views of the sea.
15-minute walk from the restaurant.
EUR8, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Ristorante La Nuova Gilda

Enjoy a delicious dinner featuring local seafood and pasta.
20-minute walk from the castle.
EUR15, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Adventure in Taranto

Taranto, Italy

8:30AM

Breakfast at Café Centrale

Start your day with a traditional Italian breakfast in the main square.
5-minute walk from accommodation.
EUR3, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore the National Archaeological Museum

Discover the fascinating history of Taranto through its archaeological finds.
15-minute walk from the café.
EUR8, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Trattoria da Nonna

Enjoy homemade pasta and local specialties at this family-run trattoria.
5-minute walk from the museum.
EUR10, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit the Dolphin Point

Witness the beauty of dolphins at this nearby sanctuary.
Take local transport to the site.
EUR5, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Osteria di Mare

Indulge in fresh catches of the day prepared in local style.
Return to the city center.
EUR20, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Reggio Calabria

Reggio Calabria, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café del Sud

Enjoy robust coffee and pastries at this local gem.
5-minute walk from your accommodation.
EUR3, 1 hour

9:00AM

Train to Reggio Calabria

Depart on the scenic train ride to Reggio Calabria.
Taranto Train Station.
EUR10, 2.5 hours

11:30AM

Check-in and Explore Waterfront

After checking in, take a stroll along the beautiful waterfront promenade.
20-minute walk from the station.
FREE, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Trattoria Da Nino

Dive into Calabria’s gastronomic treasures including local cheeses and meats.
10-minute walk from the promenade.
EUR12, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit the Museo Nazionale della Magna Grecia

Explore the rich history of Greek culture and artifacts in this impressive museum.
10-minute walk from the restaurant.
EUR8, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Ristorante Il Chiosco

Enjoy a delightful dinner featuring local seafood dishes and a view of the sea.
10-minute walk from the museum.
EUR15, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Discover Reggio Calabria

Reggio Calabria, Italy

9:00AM

Breakfast at La Delizia

Start the day with a scrumptious croissant and coffee in this friendly café.
5-minute walk from accommodation.
EUR3, 1 hour

10:30AM

Excursion to Aspromonte National Park

Take a bus ride to this stunning national park for breathtaking views and hikes.
Local bus from downtown.
EUR5, Half day

2:00PM

Lunch at Agriturismo

Savor authentic Calabrian cuisine made with fresh farm ingredients.
In the park, near hiking trails.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Hiking in the Park

Enjoy hiking through stunning trails, capturing breathtaking natural beauty.
Choose trails within the park.
FREE, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner Back in Reggio

Head back to the city for dinner at Da Francesco’s, a place renowned for pasta.
Bus back to Reggio.
EUR12, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Travel to Sicily

Villa San Giovanni, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Local Bakery

Get your toasted bread and coffee to go for the journey ahead.
Walk from your accommodation.
EUR2, 30 min

9:00AM

Ferry to Messina

Take the ferry from Villa San Giovanni to Messina, enjoying the sea breeze.
Ferry terminal nearby.
EUR12, 1 hour

10:30AM

Arrive Messina and Explore

After disembarking, visit the splendid Cathedral of Messina.
Walk from the port.
FREE, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Ristorante Pizzeria Rocco

Enjoy some captivating local pizza and pasta dishes.
10-minute walk from the cathedral.
EUR10, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Fontana di Orione

Check out this beautiful fountain and the stunning surrounding architecture.
5-minute walk from lunch.
FREE, 30 min

3:00PM

Train to Taormina

Catch a train to Taormina for the enchanting Sicilian coast.
Messina Train Station.
EUR6, 1 hour

4:00PM

Arrive in Taormina!

Check in and enjoy exploring this picturesque coastal town.
Walk to the town center.
FREE, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at La Botte

Savor delicious fresh seafood at a lovely restaurant with a view.
10-minute walk from your accommodation.
EUR18, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Charming Taormina

Taormina, Italy

8:30AM

Breakfast at Da Cristina

Delight in a traditional Sicilian breakfast of granita and brioche.
5-minute walk from your accommodation.
EUR5, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Ancient Theatre of Taormina

Explore the ruins of this ancient Greek theatre that overlooks the coast.
15-minute walk from breakfast.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Osteria RossoDiVino

Enjoy a delightful Sicilian meal with local dishes and fantastic wine.
10-minute walk from the theater.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Stroll Giardini della Villa Comunale

Take a relaxing walk in the public gardens with lush greenery and views.
15-minute walk from lunch.
FREE, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit Pinnacle of Taormina

Ascend to the top of Taormina for stunning panoramic views of Mount Etna.
Hike or take local transport.
FREE, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Ristorante al Saraceno

Finish off the day with a hearty meal while enjoying breathtaking views of the sunset.
15-minute walk from the pinnacle.
EUR20, 2 hours
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Day 9: Explore Catania

Catania, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pasticceria Savia

Indulge in the best cannoli and a strong espresso at this iconic pasticceria.
5-minute walk from accommodation.
EUR5, 1 hour

9:30AM

Train to Catania

Take a train from Taormina to Catania, enjoying the lovely views along the route.
Taormina Train Station.
EUR5, 1 hour

10:30AM

Check-in and Explore Piazza Duomo

Visit the nucleus of Catania with stunning architecture and the famous Elephant Fountain.
Walk from the train station.
FREE, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Trattoria da Antonio

Enjoy Sicilian specialties including pasta alla norma at this local favorite.
5-minute walk from the Piazza.
EUR10, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Castello Ursino

Explore the history of Catania in this medieval castle situated by the sea.
15-minute walk from lunch.
EUR8, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Ristorante Da Nino

Savor grilled fish and local wines at this inviting restaurant.
20-minute walk from the castle.
EUR15, 1.5 hours
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Day 10: Visit Siracusa

Siracusa, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Barcollo

Enjoy a light breakfast of pastries and coffee at this popular spot.
5-minute walk from accommodation.
EUR4, 1 hour

9:30AM

Train to Siracusa

Head to Siracusa by train for a day of exploration.
Catania Train Station.
EUR5, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Parco Archeologico

Discover the ancient Greek theaters and archaeological sites in this expansive park.
Walk to the park from the station.
EUR10, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Trattoria da Mariano

Feast on local fresh seafood with a Sicilian flair.
15-minute walk from the park.
EUR12, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Ortigia Island

Stroll the charming streets of Ortigia, enjoying the local shops and stunning Piazza del Duomo.
15-minute walk from lunch.
FREE, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Osteria da Serafino

Dine on delicious local cuisine with view of the sea.
20-minute walk from Ortigia.
EUR20, 1.5 hours
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Day 11: Discover Agrigento

Agrigento, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Bar D’Angelo

Enjoy a classic Italian breakfast of coffee and pastry.
5-minute walk from your hotel.
EUR3, 1 hour

9:30AM

Train to Agrigento

Hop on the train to Agrigento to explore the Valley of the Temples.
Catania Train Station.
EUR10, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit Valley of the Temples

Marvel at the ancient Greek temples in this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Walk from the train station.
EUR12, 2.5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Trattoria Pizzeria La Sicilia

Delight in authentic Sicilian pizza and pasta after exploring.
10-minute walk from the temples.
EUR10, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit Agrigento's old town

Wander the charming streets and historic sites of Agrigento's historical center.
15-minute walk from lunch.
FREE, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Ristorante Il Re di Girgenti

Enjoy a lovely dinner with a selection of local dishes.
20-minute walk to the restaurant.
EUR18, 2 hours
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Day 12: Cultural Journey in Palermo

Palermo, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Antico Caffè Spinnato

Relish traditional Sicilian pastries with your coffee in this historic caffè.
5-minute walk from your accommodation.
EUR4, 1 hour

9:30AM

Train to Palermo

Travel to Palermo from Agrigento by train.
Agrigento Train Station.
EUR10, 2 hours

12:00PM

Explore Palazzo dei Normanni

Visit this stunning palace rich in architecture and history.
Short walk from the train station.
EUR10, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Osteria Lo Bianco

Indulge in Sicilian dishes made from fresh, local ingredients.
5-minute walk from the palace.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit Cattedrale di Palermo

Discover the beautiful cathedral with its mix of architectural styles.
5-minute walk from lunch.
FREE, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at Trattoria Bestonzo

Finish your day with a homecooked meal featuring local flavors.
10-minute walk from the cathedral.
EUR18, 2 hours
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Day 13: Relax in Cefalù

Cefalù, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Bar del Corso

Start your day with a delicious Italian coffee and a pastry.
5-minute walk from your accommodation.
EUR3, 1 hour

9:30AM

Train to Cefalù

Catch a scenic train to Cefalù from Palermo.
Palermo Train Station.
EUR8, 1 hour

10:30AM

Relax at Cefalù Beach

Spend some time soaking up the sun on the beautiful sandy beach.
15-minute walk from the train station.
FREE, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Ristorante La Giara

Enjoy some nice traditional Sicilian pasta dishes while overlooking the beach.
5-minute walk from the beach.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore the Old Town

Discover charming alleyways and local shops in Cefalù's historical center.
Walk around freely.
FREE, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Il Normanno

Savor a fresh seafood dinner with a view of the sunset over the beach.
10-minute walk from the old town.
EUR20, 2 hours
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Day 14: Departure from Cefalù

Cefalù, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Local Café

Enjoy a farewell breakfast, indulge in a last pastry and coffee on your travels.
5-minute walk from accommodation.
EUR4, 1 hour

9:30AM

Enjoy Final Moments at the Beach

Take some time to breathe and enjoy the morning sun on Cefalù beach.
10-minute walk from the café.
FREE, 1 hour

11:00AM

Check out and Travel to Palermo Airport

Travel back to Palermo airport for your departure flight.
Train to Palermo Central, then take a bus to the airport.
EUR15, 2 hours
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