Along the Adriatic Coast to Southern Italy

For anyone who loves exploring Europe by train and enjoys a slow, intentional way of traveling, the journey to Apulia — all the way down in southern Italy — is a real highlight. Whether it’s a cozy night train ride or a scenic daytime adventure, this route shows just how beautiful sustainable travel can be. From Alpine views to high-speed trains and the warm charm of southern Italy, the journey is just as special as the destination.

Starting in Munich: Day Train or Night Train?

Leaving from Munich comes with a choice: night train or day connection? The night train might sound tempting — departure at 20:08, arrival in Bologna at 05:38 the next morning. A practical way to cover a long distance while sleeping. But here’s the thing: that early morning arrival might be a bit too early, and anyone who doesn’t want to miss the stunning Alpine views or the South Tyrolean landscapes might want to look into the daytime options.

There are 2–3 brand-new ÖBB Railjets running daily from Munich to Bologna during the day. The trip takes just under seven hours — exactly 6¾ hours. For those a bit flexible, there’s also the option to switch trains in Verona. Either way, daytime travel offers incredible views of mountains, valleys, and charming villages along the route.

From Vienna: Night Train Is the Best Choice

The story’s different if the trip starts in Vienna. Here, the night train is clearly the better choice. It departs daily at 19:18 and arrives in Bologna early the next morning. Even if the arrival is a bit on the early side, it’s the most relaxed and convenient way to go. Sleep through the journey and wake up in Italy.

From Bologna: Heading South Fast

From Bologna, it’s time to head deep into the south — to Lecce, the heart of Apulia. High-speed trains run almost hourly and take between seven and eight hours, depending on the route. It might sound long, but with the comfort and scenery, the time flies.

For anyone who’d rather travel overnight or avoid daylight travel, there are options here too: three night trains run from Bologna to Lecce daily. They depart between roughly 23:30 and 00:30, with a journey time of about nine to ten hours — perfect for arriving rested and refreshed.

All night trains offer a variety of options: regular seats, couchettes, and sleeper cabins. Whether traveling on a budget or in search of more comfort, there’s a setup for every need.

Costs and Booking Tips

Round-trip fares for the whole route start at around €140 per person. Prices vary a lot depending on when the tickets are booked, the season, and the travel class. Booking early really pays off — especially for sleeper and couchette spots, which tend to sell out fast.

A quick tip: night trains are not just convenient, but also a great value for long distances. For those who don’t mind skipping the daytime views, it’s often cheaper — and you basically get a night’s stay included with the ride.

Sustainable, Relaxing, and Beautiful

Taking the train to Apulia is all about choosing a slower, more sustainable way to travel — with atmosphere and intention. Whether rolling through the countryside by day or snoozing in a sleeper car by night, this route blends comfort, adventure, and environmental awareness in the best way.

The mix of modern Railjets, fast Italian trains, and nostalgic night trains keeps the journey varied and full of character. And the reward at the end? Apulia — with its coastline, trulli houses, olive groves, beaches, and that laid-back lifestyle that instantly resets the pace.

For anyone aged 20 to 35 who’s after authentic experiences, this is the route to take. No packed airports, no rush — just the kind of slow-building excitement that grows with every passing mile.

19.06.2025