Train ROme to Bari

Get on line and book your reservation on the fast train from Rome Termini to Bari. I'd suggest getting to the train station at least 30 minutes before your train is schedule to leave. http://www.trenitalia.com/cms/v/index.jsp?vgnextoid=ad1ce14114bc9110VgnVCM10000080a3e90aRCRD Fares go UP as you wait to get a ticket. Book soon, get your seat assignment and PRINT OUT a copy to take with you. I guarantee the conductor will check your papers several times during the trip. It's about 4 hours from Rome to Bari. Note that even when the information tells you the train is leaving from a certain "binaro" (Track) make sure you double check before boarding. There should be a conductor outside the train who can help you. In Bari there is one main train station, if you have luggage, take a taxi. FYI, we did this trip in May this year...Rome Termini to Bari (then we took another train to Polignano a Mare)

The port area would be a fairly long walk from the train station. There is bus service to the port, but it may or may not stop near your hotel. If you do opt for the bus, you can buy tickets at the news stand (octagonal kiosk) in the piazza in front of the station (past where the buses stop).

why do they check your papers so many times?

Certain tickets are e-tickets. You don't need to print e-tickets, just carry the validation code with you (written, displayed on a smartphone or else). Only print-at-home tickets need a paper version.