How to get to Foggia

Foggia is the colourful heart of the Tavoliere plain, situated in the sunny region of Apulia. Surrounded by golden wheat fields, the city is often referred to as the "granary of Italy," yet it offers much more than just its agricultural heritage. Here reigns a special atmosphere of warm southern hospitality, and the streets bear the marks of a rich history rooted in antiquity, despite the devastating earthquake of 1731.

Travellers value Foggia as a symbolic gateway to the picturesque Gargano peninsula. It is a place where urban rhythm meets natural tranquillity, offering an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in the region's culture before heading to the Adriatic coast or the national park. A walk through the city will allow you to appreciate the local architecture, taste traditional cuisine, and enjoy the authentic spirit of the south.

A direct flight is the fastest and most comfortable way to reach Foggia. The city is served by its own airport, Gino Lisa (FOG), located just a few kilometres from the historic centre. Despite its modest size, this air hub provides convenient connections to several cities, allowing tourists to save valuable travel time.

If suitable direct flights are not available, travellers often choose to fly into major international hubs in neighbouring Italian provinces. Excellent alternatives include the airports in Salerno, Bari, or Naples, all located within a two-hour drive. Stable transport links are established from these cities, making the final leg of the journey a pleasant sightseeing tour through the picturesque southern regions.

The Foggia railway station is one of the key transport hubs in Southern Italy, making train travel a simple and convenient option. The station serves as a vital link on the Adriatic line and the route connecting the Tyrrhenian and Adriatic coasts, so travellers will face no logistical issues.

The city boasts excellent direct connections with the country's largest metropolises. High-speed trains regularly arrive here from Rome, Bari, Naples, Bologna, and Milan. Travelling on modern express trains offers a high level of comfort and allows you to reach your destination in a matter of hours, enjoying scenic views of the Italian nature along the way.

Bus services connect the "granary of Italy" with many corners of the country, offering an economical and scenic alternative to other modes of transport. The fastest and most popular route leads from neighbouring Bari: a journey of about 130 km takes less than 2 hours, allowing you to enjoy the changing landscapes of Apulia, from the coast to the endless fields.

Travellers heading from the Tyrrhenian coast should consider direct routes from the Campania region. The road from colourful Naples, spanning about 180 km, takes approximately 2.5–3 hours, while the journey from Salerno requires between 2 to 2.5 hours. Modern buses make these transfers comfortable, turning the road trip into a small excursion through southern landscapes.

Travelling by car along picturesque roads is an excellent way to reach Foggia and enjoy the southern scenery. The fastest route leads from Bari: covering a distance of about 134 km takes just 1 hour and 25 minutes via a convenient motorway. This road is ideal for those arriving in the regional capital who wish to head straight into the peninsula, admiring views of olive groves and vineyards.

If you are coming from the Tyrrhenian Sea side, a convenient starting point is Naples, from where the 173 km journey takes about two hours. An alternative option from Salerno (153 km) requires slightly less time and passes through beautiful sections. It is worth noting that a taxi ride or booking a private transfer for such distances can be significant—the average fare typically ranges from 160 to 250 Euros one way.

When planning a trip to Foggia, it is worth preparing in advance for the unique features of this southern city to ensure your journey goes as smoothly as possible. Following simple recommendations will help you adapt faster to the local pace of life and enjoy the hospitality for which Italy is famous.

1. Clothing and Essentials. The climate here is typically Mediterranean, so it will be hot in summer (June to August): choose light clothing made from natural fabrics, a hat, and sunscreen. In winter, the weather is mild but humid, so a waterproof jacket and comfortable shoes for walking on the cobblestones of the historic centre will be useful.
2. Transport. The city centre is compact and best explored on foot. For trips to outlying districts, use the orange urban buses operated by ATAF. It is important to remember: tickets must be purchased in advance at newsstands or tobacco shops (Tabacchi) and must be validated upon boarding to avoid fines.
3. Finances. The official currency is the Euro. Although hotels and large restaurants accept cards, Foggia is a city with traditional ways, so always carry cash. You will need it for payments in small cafes, souvenir shops, and local markets.
4. Health and Safety. The city is generally safe for tourists and families; however, as everywhere, keep an eye on personal belongings in crowded places and around the train station. Pharmacies are marked with a "Farmacia" sign featuring a green cross; many medicines are sold without a prescription, but for specific medication, it is better to have a doctor's note.
5. Communication. The official language is Italian. In tourist spots, staff may speak English, but in ordinary shops and on the streets, the level of foreign language proficiency is lower. Download an offline translator and learn a few polite phrases—locals greatly appreciate such efforts.
6. Local Etiquette. Keep the siesta (riposo) in mind: many shops and institutions close for a break roughly from 13:00 to 16:00. When entering small shops, it is customary to greet people ("Buongiorno" or "Buonasera"). Also, observe the dress code when visiting churches: shoulders and knees must be covered.
7. What to Avoid. Do not attempt to dine early: restaurants here open for dinner no earlier than 19:30–20:00. Also, avoid buying tickets from the bus driver—this is often impossible or more expensive. Do not leave valuables in plain sight in your car if parking on the street.
8. Extra Tip. Be sure to visit the local food markets in the morning. Foggia is in the centre of an agricultural region, so they sell the freshest vegetables, fruits, and famous cheeses (burrata, caciocavallo) at very affordable prices—this is a great way to taste the true flavour of the region.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid minor misunderstandings and focus on the main thing—exploring the architecture, history, and gastronomy of this colourful corner of Apulia. Foggia opens up to those who respect its traditions and are ready to immerse themselves in the unhurried rhythm of southern life.