Last weekend, I finally decided to escape the cold up here in the north. Rain, wind, grey skies… it was too much. So I thought, “Why not go somewhere warmer?”.
Five hours to the south, and I knew exactly where I wanted to go: Bari.
I jumped on the Frecciarossa, the fastest train in Italy. Five hours, comfortable seat, and almost no people. Honestly, it felt like I had booked a private train. I spent most of the ride relaxing, thinking about food (obviously), and dreaming of sunshine.
I arrived around midday, and the weather was already giving me life: warm, bright, and kind of… welcoming. Bari has that vibe like it’s happy you came.
My first stop was Mastro Ciccio, a famous spot right in the city center, close to Bari Vecchia, the old town that everyone wants to see. When I got there, the line outside was insane. People everywhere, waiting patiently. That’s always a good sign.
Their specialty? Gigantic octopus sandwiches stuffed with stracciatella cheese. They looked unbelievable, like the kind of food that makes your friends jealous on Instagram.
But you know me… I went for something different. I always want to be the different one.
I ordered orecchiette con cime di rapa, the most traditional dish of Puglia, and some mozzarella fritta on the side. Let me tell you… everything was incredible. Simple, local, rich in flavor. That meal alone made the whole journey worth it.
After eating, I started walking to digest. Then I got lost inside the small streets of Bari Vecchia again. And when I say lost, I mean 100% Google Maps refused to help me.
I walked around the old town, took photos, and eventually reached the Basilica di San Nicola. It was beautiful, one of those places that makes you stop and stare without even realizing it. The colors, the atmosphere, the silence inside… Bari knows how to impress you without trying.
Somehow, I managed to find my way out, and I reached the port. I started walking toward the castle, and I encounter this café which I found out was pretty popular online.
That’s when I discovered caffè pugliese. I have no idea how they make it, but it was delicious. I drank it while sitting outside, staring at the castle like a movie character pretending to have deep thoughts. I also ordered a pasticciotto, a traditional Puglian pastry, mine was filled with pistachio. My brain just said: “Yes. This is life.”
After that, I was pretty tired. I went to my Airbnb, right in the city center.
The next morning, I woke up early and went for a walk. I wanted to see the university, which is very famous there. Students everywhere, young energy, good vibes.
Then I decided to try the legendary Spaghetti all’Assassina, a spicy, crunchy pasta that is born in Bari. I also ordered bombette, a popular meat dish from Puglia. Super flavorful, small bites of happiness.
Before leaving, I had to try the octopus sandwich I kept seeing everywhere. Finally. A small local kiosk, very popular. Warm bread, grilled octopus, stracciatella cheese inside… Pure magic. If Bari was a person, that sandwich would be its handshake.
And that was it...my whole trip.
Not even two days, less than 40 hours actually, but full of food, sunshine, and peace.
Sometimes the best escapes are the shortest ones.
Before I forget, I want to thank my precious friend @fola.aina (who always has my back) who recommended me this platform
Alright guys, I’ll see you soon in my next blog. Stay tuned!
[//]:# (!worldmappin 41.11593 lat 16.87300 long d3scr)
