Host Bari Centrale

There are two train stations in the same place, but that isn’t explained anywhere. On our first day, we spent half an hour looking for our regional train before finding it tucked away in a corner of the station.

This is one of Bari’s best-known areas, and it’s generally crowded. You can get where you’re going by bus or taxi, but be careful on the buses here, as some accidents have happened in the area. Take care crossing the road too, even at pedestrian crossings. Bus and train tickets are sold here, but check your destination carefully: one station serves northern Italy and the other serves southern Italy.

The station itself is okay, but the ticket cabin staff were beyond awful. The vending machines inside weren’t working, and there was no notice on the machines or at the entrance. I tried to buy a drink and lost both the drink and my money. I told the desk staff. They acknowledged that the machines had been broken for days, then said it wasn’t their problem and I had to call client service. I pointed out that, since they knew about it, they could at least put up a warning so people wouldn’t waste money. They just repeated, “That’s not our problem. You have to call the client service.” So I’m supposed to believe they can’t write a sign, and don’t give a f*** about anything beyond doing exactly what their job description says, “sell tickets.” I hope they don’t get mad when a ticket machine replaces them. They’re clearly incapable of using any of the skills humans are known for. They were also disrespectful and bossy. Well done.

The trains were nice, clean, and spacious. We took one to POlignano a mare. For Matera, we used the station next to Centrale, Appulo Lucane Railways Srl, Stazione FAL di Bari C.le. It goes directly to Matera and was a very good deal at 6eur per person, instead of 15 or more.