9-Day Family Road Trip from Ljubljana to Southern Italy Itinerary

Begin your journey southward towards Calabria. After an early start, take breaks along the way to stretch and enjoy the scenic landscapes. Stop for breakfast at a charming roadside café like Café Central in one of the small towns you pass through.

Arrive in Calabria by early afternoon. Head straight to Scilla and enjoy lunch at Ristorante Il Pirata. Afterward, join Scilla - Tour Grotte + Cala Jankulla Escursione + bagno for an exciting boat tour exploring hidden caves and enjoying a refreshing swim.

In the evening, relax with dinner at Ristorante Glauco, known for its fresh seafood dishes. Take a leisurely walk around Scilla's picturesque streets before heading back to your accommodation.

Depart from Calabria early in the morning and drive towards Basilicata. Make sure to have breakfast on-the-go or stop by a local bakery like Pasticceria Bella Napoli along the way.

Arrive in Matera by noon and have lunch at Trattoria del Caveoso. In the afternoon, explore Matera's famous Sassi district with Sassi di Matera Walking Tour. This guided tour will take you through ancient cave dwellings and provide fascinating insights into Matera's history.

For dinner, indulge in traditional Italian cuisine at Osteria Al Casale. End your day with a peaceful evening walk through Matera's historic streets before retiring for the night.

Start your day with a scenic drive from Matera to Bari. Upon arrival, enjoy a hearty breakfast at Caffè Vergnano 1882. Afterward, embark on Bari: Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Walking Tour. This interactive tour will take you through Bari's historic sites, including the St. Nicholas Basilica and the Swabian Castle.

For lunch, head to Ristorante La Cecchina, known for its delicious Apulian cuisine. In the afternoon, join Bari: Rickshaw Street Food Tour to explore Bari's vibrant street food scene while riding through its charming streets.

In the evening, dine at Ristorante Biancofiore, offering a fine dining experience with local flavors. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along Bari's waterfront promenade before heading back to your accommodation.

Begin your day with breakfast at Pasticceria Boccia in Bari before driving to Monopoli. Once there, join Walking Tour In The Wonderful Monopoli to explore this picturesque coastal town and its historic landmarks.

Enjoy lunch at La Locanda Sul Porto, which offers stunning views of the harbor and delicious seafood dishes. In the afternoon, head back to Bari for an exciting experience with Bari: Pasta Experience Walking Tour. Learn how to make traditional pasta while exploring more of Bari's charming streets.

For dinner, visit Al Pescatore, renowned for its fresh seafood and delightful ambiance. Conclude your day with a relaxing evening walk through Bari's old town before returning to your accommodation.

Drive from Bari to Lecce early in the morning and have breakfast at Caffè Alvino. Begin your exploration with a visit to Lecce's stunning Baroque architecture by joining Lecce: Market Tour and Private Home Cooking Class. This tour will give you an insight into local culinary traditions while exploring Lecce's vibrant market.

For lunch, dine at Osteria degli Spiriti, known for its authentic Salento cuisine. Spend your afternoon visiting Lecce's historical sites such as Piazza del Duomo and Basilica di Santa Croce on foot or by renting a bike.

In the evening, enjoy dinner at Le Zie Trattoria Casereccia, offering traditional homemade dishes in a cozy setting. Take an evening stroll through Lecce's illuminated streets before heading back to your accommodation.

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Tripoli before diving into the rich history of Matera. Join Matera: Walking Tour with Entry to Cave House and Rock Crypt to explore the ancient cave dwellings and rock churches that make Matera so unique.

For lunch, head to Ristorante Francesca, known for its traditional Basilicata cuisine. In the afternoon, take part in Matera: Authentic Italian Cooking Class. This hands-on experience will allow you to learn how to prepare classic Italian dishes while immersing yourself in local culture.

Enjoy dinner at Osteria Pico, which offers a cozy atmosphere and delicious local dishes. End your day with a leisurely evening walk through Matera's historic streets, soaking in the ambiance of this ancient city.

Begin your journey back towards Slovenia with an early start. Stop for breakfast at a charming roadside café like Café Centrale as you make your way north.

Arrive in Calabria by early afternoon and enjoy lunch at Ristorante La Lampara. Afterward, join Scilla - Aperitivo al tramonto in barca for a relaxing boat tour that offers stunning views of the coastline as the sun sets.

For dinner, visit Ristorante Il Casato, known for its fresh seafood and delightful ambiance. Take a leisurely evening stroll along Scilla's picturesque streets before heading back to your accommodation.

Start your final day with breakfast at Pasticceria Bella Napoli before continuing your drive back to Ljubljana. Enjoy the scenic landscapes along the way and take breaks as needed.

Arrive in Ljubljana by early afternoon and have lunch at Gostilna As. Spend some time relaxing or exploring any last-minute sights you may have missed earlier in your trip.

Conclude your journey with a farewell dinner at Hiša Franko, known for its exquisite Slovenian cuisine. Reflect on the wonderful memories made during your road trip as you enjoy one last evening in Ljubljana.