We spent a few days revisiting Rome, as well as Bari, on the coast, for the first time, as well as sneaking in another country (The Vatican), and in a different season to last time, early Autumn.
We started in Bari, just for a day, but we were sad it was so short because it’s such a cute city and beautiful spot by the Adriatic coast. It’s small enough to walk along the promenade by the sea and take most of it in. The beaches are pebbles and the water is so clear and blue, like Greece. There are plenty of places to sit by the water and have a drink or a meal, too.
From there we had the bright idea to save money on flights and took the Ita bus sleeper to Rome overnight. We expected two or three hours, maybe four, and it literally took all night! Maybe that was our fault for not realizing that. But luckily it’s quite comfortable and safe so we could get some sleep. And it is cheap, so not a complete fail.
We stayed in a neighborhood about half an hour from the Center of Rome, again, to try and save some money. The coastal neighborhood of Ostia Antica which turned out to be really nice and had a local kind of feel. Which was a good thing since we found Rome is so so so busy now, just full of tourists.
But, it was as beautiful as we remembered it, and we enjoyed meandering down the historic lanes and exploring the Campio de Florio market and the Jewish quarter. We also got to visit the Vatican, the world’s smallest country which was an interesting experience. The highlight was attending a small mass in one of the cathedrals there.
And on our last day we walked along the black sand beach near our apartment, and thought how varied and beautiful Italy is. We are already planning our next escape there…
Practical Information
Getting there- Bari has a small airport, and Rome has two large ones, served by many airlines. The route between Bari and Rome by road takes about six hours, and various companies, including Ita Bus and Flix bus make the journey.
Where to stay- we booked our place in Bari through Home 2 Go, and Air bnb, and both were great.
What to do- In Bari, stroll along the promenade. In the summer, swim in the sea or soak in the sun on the beaches. In Rome, there’s so much to see and do. This time we did the Vatican, but last time we did all the real touristy must dos, like the Colosseum and Pantheon (you can read about that on the site, too).
Getting around- Ubers are widely used, and both cities are very walkable too.
When to visit- We went in early autumn and lucked out with pleasant weather. Summer is very hot, winter and spring more changeable, but Italy is beautiful all year round.
Thank you to Maya for the photos and all the laughs x
