The paths of the mezzogiorno
A journey from Naples to Bari to discover southern Italy in all its splendour and mystery.
Duration
10 nights and 11 days
including 9 on motorcycle
Distance
Approximately 2,000 km
(220 km per day on average)
Itinerary
50% sea and 50% mountains
Level
Intermediate and above
Motorcycle
Rental included or optional depending on formula
Our next departures
Group tour (Zeus):
May 28 to June 7, 2026 (10 nights)
Voyage à la carte (Poséidon):
From April to October of your choice
"From the lively alleys of Naples to the light of Puglia, between ancient heritage, picturesque villages and Mediterranean roads! "
Why this trip
Because it brings together in a single itinerary the most seductive aspects of southern Italy:
must-see ancient sites such as Pompeii and Herculaneum, at the foot of Mount Vesuvius,
spectacular coastal scenery with the Amalfi Coast and the Mediterranean shores of Basilicata and Puglia,
authentic and unusual villages, from Matera and its troglodyte dwellings to the ghost village of Craco, via the hilltop villages of the Lucan Dolomites,
a diversity of regions - Campania, Basilicata, Calabria and Puglia - each with its own character and atmosphere,
an immersion in Italian culture through the gastronomy, hospitality and dolce vita of the small towns of the Mezzogiorno.
This trip is conceived as a great Mediterranean crossing, from Naples to Bari, between volcanoes, baroque cities and mountain roads.
A compendium of history, culture and luminous landscapes, to discover a more secret and authentic face of Italy.
TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS
Overview
This road trip starts in Naples, Campania, and ends in Bari, Puglia.
Whether you decide to take it as part of a group or on your own, with your own motorcycle or with a rental bike, expect to see a whole new side to this part of Italy known as the Mezzogiorno.
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Welcome to Naples, which you reach by plane or by road if you're traveling with your own motorcycle. Check into your hotel and immerse yourself in the city's vibrant atmosphere, with its lively streets and weathered facades. The former capital of the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies, Naples is a city of faded but unspoilt beauty.
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Early departure for Pompeii, the world's only archaeological site, frozen since the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD.
In the afternoon, head for Sorrento: the islands of Capri and Ischia can be seen in the distance, before the mythical Amalfi Coast, a ribbon of cliffs plunging into the brilliant blue of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Overnight in one of the emblematic villages.
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After Salerno, the itinerary climbs up into a hilly, forested landscape, before reaching the coast.
Arrival at Maratea offers a breathtaking panorama, dominated by the monumental statue of Christ the Redeemer, one of the highest in the world.
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Drive south through the Argentino River nature reserve: a succession of twists and turns.
After Cosenza, the route plunges into the Calabrian forests with the sea in the background, before the evening stopover in Catanzaro.
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Head north via a short stretch of freeway. A succession of landscapes: Pollino National Park, then the spectacular relief of the Lucan Dolomites.
Overnight in a charming hilltop village.
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An exceptional day of motorcycling.
Villages clinging to the rocks, winding roads in the heart of the lunar-like Calanchi.
Arrive at Matera, the UNESCO-listed troglodyte town, for an unforgettable immersion in the Sassi.
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Departure for Puglia through the Terra delle Gravine park.
First trulli scattered across the countryside, then crossing fertile plains planted with vines and olive trees.
End of the stage in Lecce, a Baroque jewel.
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A day dedicated to discovering Lecce and its incredible Baroque and Rococo heritage.
For those who want to ride: coastal loop via Gallipoli, Santa Maria di Leuca and Otranto, returning via the splendid Ionian coast.
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This itinerary highlights rural Puglia. You'll explore the Itria Valley, dotted with trulli, stone houses with conical roofs that are unique in the world.
White villages like Locorotondo, Alberobello and Ostuni offer timeless charm.
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Road to Bari along the Adriatic coast.
In the afternoon, discover the historic center with the Basilica of San Nicola, the old town with its lively alleyways and the seafront.
A final evening of conviviality in the warm atmosphere of southern Italy.
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Free time in Bari according to your transport schedule. Return of rental bikes or preparation for the return journey for those who have brought their own bikes.
End of trip.
Program subject to change.
Rates
Price for 11 nights / 12 days in a single room,
excluding ferry crossings and motorcycle rental.
Guided group tours
and all-inclusive
From :
4.290 € / Solo
5.990 € / Duo
Fully organized à la carte tour
From :
3.190 € / Solo
3.490 € / Duo
A la carte travel to organize yourself
From :
Not available for this tour
See our other tours