Tour Of Padre Pio: From Pietrelcina To San Giovanni Rotondo

Naples , Italy

Tour Of Padre Pio: From Pietrelcina To San Giovanni Rotondo

Active

(5 reviews)

1h - 10h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

The journey to Puglia takes us to this town in the province of Foggia, which receives 6 million visitors every year. All thanks to the figure of St. Pius, who lived and did good works here. Beloved and controversial figure, he is undoubtedly the great protagonist of the history of Catholicism of the last century. A reputation that lasts for decades, if not centuries, to come. He thanks a small town in the Gargano, which saw its tourism explode thanks to the portentous presence of this man. In San Giovanni Rotondo, Padre Pio spent almost all his life, and he did the works there. The faithful look to miracles, but even those who do not believe cannot deny the influence that the humble Capuchin friar has had on the masses. A great personality. Whether you are believers or not, the cult of San Pio can be an excuse to visit a delightful village in the country, those that can only be admired if you opt for holidays in Italy.

Available options

tour by car

Duration: 10 hours<br/>car<br/>Pickup included

Tour with minivan

Duration: 10 hours<br/>minivan<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Bottled water

Air-conditioned vehicle

parking - fuel - tolls

Detailed itinerary

Padre Pio in the century Francesco Forgione was born in Pietrelcina, a small town on the outskirts of Benevento, on 25 May 1887, from Grazio (known as "Orazio") Maria Forgione and Maria Giuseppa (known as "Peppa") of Nunzio. The house where Padre Pio was born in the century Francesco Forgione Pio that of Zì Grazio. It is located in Vico Storto Valle 27 in Pietrelcina. Only one compartment, accessed by three external steps. To the right of the person entering, a night table and a double bed in wrought iron. Facing the four-glazed window, this is a much used washbasin and an old chest, from there a square table covered with a faded carpet, on which books are stacked, those used by Padre Pio when he went to school by the master Caccavo; within a modest frame, a photograph of him sent to the mother by a young lady from San Giovanni Rotondo.

To the left of the entrance, of the house where Padre Pio was born, another chest that, with two chairs, completes the furnishing of the room. On the wall, at the head of the bed, four lithographs of Madonnas and two Crucifixes. In the floor of the house where Padre Pio was born there is a trap door that leads to a room below, used as a warehouse and donkey barn, which can be accessed also for an external door on the side of the house.From the tender age, Francis experienced in himself the desire to consecrate himself totally to God that distinguished him from his peers. This "diversity" was the object of observation by his relatives and friends. Mom Peppa used to say - "she did not fail, she did not quirk, she always obeyed me and her father, every morning and every evening she went to church to visit Jesus and the Madonna. During the day he never went out with his companions. Sometimes I would say to him: "Francì go out a little to play. He refused saying: "I don't want to go because they blaspheme".

In the spur of the Gargano, in Puglia, among the undisputed natural beauties and characteristic villages, there is one of the greatest places of faith in Italy, we are in San Giovanni Rotondo where the Shrine of Padre Pio rises, visited every year by millions of faithful. and prefabricated pillars, decorations of brilliant mosaics with iridescent color, polychrome stained glass whose designs are sharp and sometimes abstract, in short, a slightly different sanctuary than those that come from past centuries, a place where it is difficult to get lost among stuccos and frescoes, but where the strength of faith feels strong and clear.

Going up the stairways that lead from the square to the town, you reach another square overlooking the church of Santa Maria delle Grazie, the conventual complex where Padre Pio da Pietrelcina lived. and the new church, the two churches, both dedicated to Santa Maria delle Grazie, stand nearby due to the request of the friar who asked for the construction of the new church to accommodate the ever increasing number of pilgrims who came to visit him.
On the lower floor is the sarcophagus in which the friar was buried, a tomb that guarded his remains from his death in 1968 until 2008, when the body was transferred to the crystal case of the new sanctuary.

What's not included

Tips are not included - meals and anything else that may be considered extra

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Naples

Naples, Italy's third-largest city, is a vibrant and chaotic metropolis known for its rich history, incredible food, and vibrant street life. As the birthplace of pizza, Naples offers a unique blend of ancient ruins, stunning coastal views, and a bustling urban atmosphere.

Top Attractions

Naples National Archaeological Museum

One of the most important archaeological museums in the world, housing a vast collection of artifacts from the Roman era, including those from Pompeii and Herculaneum.

Museum 2-3 hours €15

Pompeii

The ancient Roman city of Pompeii, preserved by volcanic ash from the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world.

Historical Half day to full day €15

Castel dell'Ovo

A medieval castle located on the former island of Megaride, connected to the mainland by a causeway. It offers stunning views of the Bay of Naples and a rich history.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Mount Vesuvius

The famous volcano that erupted in 79 AD, destroying Pompeii and Herculaneum. It's an active volcano and offers a unique hiking experience with breathtaking views.

Nature Half day €10

Galleria Umberto I

A beautiful 19th-century shopping gallery with a stunning glass and iron roof, elegant shops, and cafes. It's a great place to experience the city's vibrant atmosphere.

Architecture 1-2 hours Free to enter

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pizza Margherita

The original Neapolitan pizza, made with simple ingredients: tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and olive oil. It's a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage and a must-try in Naples.

Dinner Contains gluten and dairy.

Spaghetti alle Vongole

A classic Neapolitan dish made with spaghetti, clams, garlic, white wine, and parsley. It's a delicious and simple representation of the local seafood cuisine.

Dinner Contains gluten and seafood.

Sfogliatella

A traditional Neapolitan pastry made with layers of crispy, flaky dough filled with sweet ricotta cheese and semolina. It's a popular breakfast or snack item.

Dessert Contains gluten and dairy.

Babà al Rhum

A small, rum-soaked cake that's a popular dessert or afternoon snack in Naples. It's often served with whipped cream or pastry cream.

Dessert Contains gluten and dairy.

Popular Activities

Hiking Mount Vesuvius Boat tours to nearby islands Scuba diving in the Bay of Naples Beach relaxation on the Amalfi Coast Spas and wellness centers Coffee and pastry at historic cafes Visiting museums and historical sites Attending local festivals and events

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

The peak season offers the best weather for exploring the city's attractions and enjoying outdoor activities. The weather is warm but not too hot, and the crowds are manageable.

15-28°C 59-82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Italian
Widely spoken: English, Napolitan (local dialect)
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Naples is a vibrant and exciting city, but it can also be chaotic and overwhelming. While violent crime is relatively low, petty crime such as pickpocketing and scams is common, especially in tourist areas. It's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep your valuables secure and out of sight.
• Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation.
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services, and always ensure the meter is running.

Getting there

By air

Naples International Airport • 5 km from city center

By train

Napoli Centrale, Napoli Garibaldi

By bus

Napoli Centrale, Napoli Garibaldi

Getting around

Public transport

The metro system is clean and efficient but has limited coverage. It's useful for reaching major attractions and connecting to other public transport.

Taxis

Available • Apps: MyTaxi, FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Historic Center (Centro Storico) Chiaia Posillipo Quartieri Spagnoli

Day trips

Pompeii

25 km • Half day to full day

Herculaneum

15 km • Half day

An ancient Roman town, also preserved by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Herculaneum is smaller and less crowded than Pompeii, offering a more intimate and well-preserved look at Roman life.

Sorrento

50 km • Full day

A charming coastal town known for its stunning views of the Bay of Naples, lemon groves, and historic center. It's a popular destination for day trips from Naples.

Festivals

Festa di San Gennaro • September 19 Pizzafest • June Napoli Teatro Festival • June to July

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Italian phrases to communicate with locals and enhance your experience.
Try the local specialties, such as pizza, seafood, and pastries, and support local businesses.
Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation, and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
Visit the historic center and other attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the heat.
Use public transportation, walk, or bike instead of driving to reduce your environmental impact and experience the city like a local.