from 0 review
12 days / 10 nights
Daily Tour
56 people
English, Italian
Bayard Pilgrimages invites you to embark on an unforgettable pilgrimage to southern Italy and Sicily. This pilgrimage will offer you the chance to walk the quiet streets of picturesque towns like Ostuni, pray within the iconic rock churches of Matera, descend into the cave of St. Michael, and pray at the tomb of Padre Pio – among so much more. This pilgrimage was designed to take a slow, deliberate pace that will offer our pilgrims the chance to truly experience the vibrant faith and culture of the towns and regions they visit during their travels. With a dedicated chaplain who is fluent in Italian, pilgrims can look forward not only to daily Mass celebrated within iconic churches, but also an enriching cultural experience that will stay with them long after our time together ends.
Along the way, we will celebrate Mass at holy places connected to Ireland’s rich spiritual heritage, including Clonmacnoise Abbey and the renowned Marian Shrine at Knock. We invite you to deepen your faith, build lasting friendships, and create memories that will remain in your heart long after we return home.
Spiritual Director:
Fr. Eric Berns
Today, we begin our long journey to Bari while doing our best to get some rest in anticipation of our arrival the following day.
Upon arrival in Bari, you will be transferred to your hotel and have the remainder of the day at leisure to relax or begin exploring this vibrant seaside city at your own pace. In the evening, gather with your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner at a traditional local restaurant, where you will enjoy your first taste of Apulian cuisine.
This morning, discover the historic heart of Bari on a guided walking tour. Highlights include the magnificent Basilica of Saint Nicholas and the Cathedral of San Sabino, both treasured landmarks rich in history and architectural beauty. In the afternoon, travel to the elegant coastal town of Trani, renowned for its stunning Cathedral of San Nicola Pellegrino, a masterpiece of Apulian Romanesque architecture dramatically positioned along the sea. After time to explore, return to Bari for the evening.
Enjoy a full-day excursion to the extraordinary city of Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its ancient “Sassi,” cave dwellings carved directly into the limestone cliffs. Accompanied by a local guide, explore this fascinating city, including a visit to a traditional Casa Grotta and one of Matera’s remarkable rock churches. Lunch will be served at a local restaurant featuring regional specialties and authentic Matera products. After the visit, return to Bari.
Today’s journey takes you into the beautiful landscapes of Gargano National Park. Your first stop is San Giovanni Rotondo, one of Italy’s most important pilgrimage destinations and closely associated with Saint Padre Pio of Pietrelcina. Visit the historic Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie as well as the modern Sanctuary of Padre Pio. Continue onward to Monte Sant’Angelo, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you will visit the awe-inspiring Sanctuary of Saint Michael the Archangel, built within a natural cave. Return to Bari in the evening.
This morning, visit the enchanting town of Ostuni, famously known as the “White City” for its dazzling whitewashed buildings perched high above the countryside. Wander through its charming alleys and stairways leading to the impressive Cathedral. Continue to Locorotondo, a picturesque circular village celebrated for its flower-lined streets and panoramic views. In the afternoon, enjoy a guided visit of Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its more than 1,400 iconic trulli houses with their distinctive conical roofs. Return to Bari for the evening.
Transfer to the airport for your flight to Palermo, Sicily’s vibrant and historic capital. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel before heading out for an afternoon street food tour through the lively Vucciria Market. Discover Palermo’s rich culinary traditions as you sample authentic Sicilian specialties and experience the city’s colorful atmosphere.
Begin the day with a guided tour of Palermo, a city layered with centuries of history and cultural influences. Visits include the magnificent Palermo Cathedral and the Norman Palace, home to the dazzling Palatine Chapel adorned with exquisite Byzantine mosaics. In the afternoon, travel to nearby Monreale to admire its world-famous Cathedral and elegant cloister, considered among the finest examples of Norman architecture in Sicily. Return to Palermo for dinner at a local restaurant.
Today, enjoy a full-day excursion to the charming town of Marsala, renowned for its rich history and celebrated wines. Spend the morning exploring the historic city center before visiting a traditional winery in the afternoon, where you will learn about local winemaking traditions and enjoy a tasting of the region’s famous Marsala wines. Return to Palermo in the evening.
Spend a relaxing day along Sicily’s beautiful Tyrrhenian coast with a visit to the picturesque seaside town of Cefalù. The town’s crown jewel is its magnificent Norman Cathedral, a UNESCO-listed masterpiece overlooking the sea. After our visit to the Cathedral, lunch will be served at a local restaurant featuring regional cuisine. We then enjoy some free time to wander through Cefalù’s medieval streets, browse local shops, or simply soak in the coastal atmosphere before returning to Palermo.
Travel today to Castellammare del Golfo, a charming coastal town known for its scenic harbor, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and authentic Sicilian ambiance. Enjoy time to explore the waterfront and relax in this picturesque setting. Return to Palermo for a special farewell dinner celebrating the end of your Sicilian journey.
