bari italy travel

Bari: Planning Your Trip

The region of Puglia is still a relatively undiscovered gem for international tourists in Italy. If you journey down to the area better known as the heel of Italy's boot, it's likely you'll at least start your journey in Bari, the capital of Puglia and one of the biggest cities in southern Italy. The large seaside city has the area's biggest airport, and the charming town center, medieval castle, and local cuisine alone are worth making the journey. Bari also makes a great starting point for exploring the rest of the region and traveling down to the famed beaches of the Salento Peninsula .

Planning Your Trip

• Best Time: This coastal town is often visited in the summer to take advantage of the nearby beaches, but it can get uncomfortably hot and also crowded with Italian tourists. August is the month when most Italians are on vacation from work and rates skyrocket, so wait until fall when there are fewer crowds and milder weather. The Fiera del Levante is a massive annual exposition that takes place in September and also brings huge crowds, so check out the dates if you're planning a September trip.
• Language: While there is a specific Bari dialect spoken by the locals, standard Italian is also spoken and understood by everyone so it's worth trying to learn a few phrases before your trip.
• Currency: The currency used is the euro just as in the rest of Italy and most of Europe, although credit cards are widely accepted.
• Getting Around: There is a train line that connects to the Bari Airport and buses throughout the city, but the heart of Bari is easily walkable on foot. You can also rent a bike for the day to cruise around the city.
• Travel Tip: While Bari is definitely worth some time on your itinerary, it also makes a great jumping-off point for exploring the rest of the Puglia region.

Things to Do

Bari holds the typical Italian mix of Old World charm with a modern touch. Many of the buildings in the city center date back centuries, including parts of the original medieval walls that once surrounded all of Bari. While the city definitely has an antique feel to it, it's also filled with modern stores for those who want to shop, especially on Corso Cavour or Via Sparano.

• Basilica di San Nicola: The Church of Saint Nicholas, better known around the world as Santa Claus, is the top tourist attraction in Bari. The church was built in 1087 and supposedly houses the remains of St. Nick in the crypt, surrounded by beautiful mosaics. The church features several different architectural styles and also houses a number of artworks.
• Castello Svevo: This 12th-century castle was originally constructed in 1131 on the remains of Byzantine dwellings and an 11th-century religious complex and after being badly damaged, was renovated from 1233 to 1240 by Frederick II. Later, it was used as a royal residence, a barracks, and even a prison. Today it's open to visitors and includes an interesting Museum of Gypsum Works.
• Seaside Promenade: The Lungomare Imperatore-Augusto promenade is just outside the historic center walls and makes for a scenic walk along the Adriatic Sea. In the morning you can see fishermen unloading and selling their fish in the small fishing harbor near the Margherita Theater.

What to Eat and Drink

As a coastal city, you can expect to find lots of fresh seafood in Bari. One of the local specialties is tiella , a rice dish that's made with potatoes and mussels. If seafood isn't your style, don't worry as there is plenty more to enjoy. The tiny ear-shaped orecchiette pasta is most associated with Puglia and you'll likely see it served alla cime di rape e salsiccia , with turnips and sausage. Walk around the residential neighborhoods and you'll likely see local women set up with their pasta-making tables in the street. Another delicious speciality of Bari is one you may already be familiar with: burrata . This creamy ball of mozzarella-like cheese is nothing short of decadent, and there's no better place to try it.

When the weather is nice—which it often is—you'll see people sipping on drinks on outdoor terraces. Puglian wines may not have the international recognition as those from Tuscany in the north, but the wine-lovers are picking up on what the region has to offer . One type of local wine that's celebrated by sommeliers is Negroamaro, and very little is exported so it's difficult to find outside of the region.

Where to Stay

The city center is pretty small, so staying anywhere in the Old Town of Bari makes for convenient access to the main sights. While Bari makes a great base to begin your trip in Puglia, many of the best places to stay are outside of Bari proper. Nearby seaside towns such as Monopoli or Polignano a Mare are better for travelers seeking a beach vacation, since the beaches in Bari can feel a bit industrial.

About an hour outside of Bari in the Itria Valley are one of the most iconic attractions in Puglia: the cone-shaped buildings known as trulli . They're away from the coast, but spending the night in one of these rustic homes is a perfect way to disconnect and enjoy the Puglian countryside.

Getting There

Bari is on the rail line running along the eastern coast from Rimini to Lecce and about four hours by train from Rome on the rail line across Italy. The train station is centrally located in the city, a short walk from the historic center, and next to the bus station. It's one of the busiest stations in Italy outside of the biggest cities and it's the transportation hub for trains serving the rest of southern Italy. Public buses also run throughout the city, many departing from the train station.

The Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport is one of the biggest airports in southern Italy and has service to cities all over Italy and Europe. Low-cost airlines like Ryanair and Wizzair both fly to Bari, so it's often possible to find very affordable flights.

Money Saving Tips

• July and August are the busiest tourist months in Bari and the entire Puglia region, and hotel rates shoot up during these two months. Travel in the shoulder season of late spring or early fall for ideal weather with fewer crowds.
• If you're planning to reach Bari by train, don't wait to buy your train tickets . Prices go up as the date gets closer and seats sell out, so you'll save money if you plan ahead.
• Bari has a reputation for pickpockets, especially around the city center. Make sure to keep your valuables safely guarded so you don't lose anything during your stay.

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If Lecce is the south’s Florence, Bari is its Bologna, a historic but forward-looking town with a high percentage of young people and migrants lending it vigour. More urban than Lecce and Brindisi, with grander boulevards and better nightlife, Bari supports a large university, an opera house and municipal buildings that shout confidence.

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Experience the real Bari. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Basilica di San Nicola

Bari's signature basilica was one of the first Norman churches to be built in southern Italy, and is a splendid (if square and solid) example of Pugliese…

Museo Archeologico di Santa Scolastica

Housed in a well-preserved 16th-century defensive bastion, this excellent museum reopened in late 2018 and features a superbly curated overview of the…

Museo del Succorpo della Cattedrale

This subterranean museum beneath Bari cathedral reveals well-preserved remnants of an ancient Christian basilica and various Roman ruins. This fascinating…

Built over the original Byzantine church, the 12th- to 13th-century Romanesque cathedral, dedicated to San Sabino, is technically Bari's most important…

Teatro Margherita

Originally constructed from 1912 to 1914, this historic theatre was restored and reopened in 2018 and is now used for travelling art and photographic…

Spazio Murat

Check out this repurposed heritage building for an ever-changing series of interesting and innovative cultural and art displays, part of the nexus of…

Castello Svevo

Roger the Norman originally built this castle in the 12th century over the ruins of a Byzantine structure. Later, Frederick II of Swabia built over the…

Piazza Mercantile

This beautiful piazza is fronted by the Sedile, the headquarters of Bari's Council of Nobles. In the square's northeast corner is the Colonna della…

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Latest stories from Bari

Mar 18, 2019 • 5 min read

Previously overlooked as a gritty, working-class port, the authentic and welcoming city of Bari is now infused with a new energy and vibrancy.

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The Perfect 1, 2 or 3 Days in Bari Itinerary

Last Updated on January 11, 2024

by Olivia Ellis

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When thinking about Italy, it’s highly unlikely that the region of Puglia first comes to mind, let alone planning a Bari itinerary. Tourists typically flock to Rome , Florence , Venice and Milan , missing a side of the country that is incredibly rich, delicious, full of history, divine architecture, and quite empty of tourists.

Bari, a port city, and the capital city of Puglia is located on the east side of the country facing the Adriatic sea and is a delightful destination for anyone interested in visiting Italy off the beaten path.

Spending 1, 2, or 3 days in Bari will give you a new insight into beloved Italy and is a great starting point in discovering Puglia as well as other neighboring regions in Southern Italy!

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Bari?

The amount of time that you will spend in the city of Bari will likely depend on a few different factors.

You may be arriving in Bari as a port and would like to explore the city a bit before heading onward, or you may have a keen curiosity about the city and would like to spend the necessary amount of time in Bari. This is a great place to begin when deciding how many days to spend in Bari.

With one day in the city, you’ll have the opportunity to explore most of the city, eat classic Barese food, and feel better acquainted with the Puglia region.

With 2 days in Bari, you’ll have enough time to explore the city but also spend time along the coast and enjoy one of the beaches the city has to offer.

With 3 days, you’ll manage to see most of what makes Bari the city that it is, as well as head out to one of the neighboring Puglian towns to enjoy another slice of this special region of Italy.

Getting To & Around Bari 

You’ll likely be arriving in Bari either by plane, train, or ship. 

Bari Airport is quite large in comparison to many of the other smaller international airports in Italy, making it an easy destination to fly into from other destinations in Europe.

The best way to reach the Bari city center from the airport is by the Terravision Shuttle Bus . It costs 4 euros per trip and takes just under half an hour. If you prefer to get out of the airport quickly, you can organise a private transfer here.

If traveling by train, there are extensive routes throughout Italy reaching Bari’s main train station, Bari Centrale. Bari Centrale is located just outside of the historic center, making it about a 20-minute walk after getting off your train. You can view train schedules here.  

As Bari is one of the major port cities in Italy, you may also be arriving in the city by ship. All-year-round ferries run from Greece , Croatia , Albania and Montenegro to Bari, making it a great destination if you love traveling by ship. You can view ferry schedules here.

Fortunately, Bari’s port is located within the historic center so once stepping off your ship, you’re already where you want to be! 

As for getting around the city, the center of Bari (where we will be on this itinerary) is quite small so walking around during your trip is quite feasible. If you’re not too keen on walking throughout the trip, Bari also has a wonderful transportation system!

Each 90-minute ticket is 1 euro and can be purchased at local tobacco shops throughout the city.

1, 2 or 3 Days in Bari Itinerary

No matter how long you spend in Bari, it will surely capture all of your senses. In this itinerary, we will spend time in the historical center, eat delicious classic Barese and Puglian foods, spend time at the sea, and if you decide to stay for 3 days, we’ll take advantage of the brilliant location of Bari and head on a day trip. 

Day 1 – Bari Old Town and Center

Bari vecchia (bari old town).

Bari is an ancient city in Italy that traces 2,000 years back. Spending time in the historic center can give you a good look into how life was in Bari years back as well as the character that it has today.

Bari’s old town is incredibly charming and feels like you’ve stepped back in time, but differently in comparison to other parts of Italy. From the winding maze of its narrow streets to grandma’s rolling pasta outside their homes to the small piazzas full of locals and streets covered in pops of color.

Basilica di San Nicola & Bari Cathedral

The Basilica of Saint Nicholas is an incredibly important location for both Roman Christians as well as Orthodox Christians. Built between the years 1087 and 1197, the basilica was originally built with the purpose to receive St Nicholas’ relics from Byzantium, what we know today as modern Turkey.

This led to what some say was the beginning of Christmas, making it an interesting spot to visit during your visit to Bari. While the outside of the Basilica looks quite simple, the inside is an incredible display of Romanesque architecture, giving visitors the feel of a castle rather than of a church.

It’s possible to visit the Saint Nicholas Basilica every day and you can also book a guided tour here.

After visiting Saint Nicholas Basilica, take the short walk away over to the Bari Cathedral (also known as the Cathedral of Saint Sabinus). Originally built in the 13th century, it is less famous than the SAint Nicholas Basilica but still very much worth visiting.

Castello Normanno-Svevo (Bari Castle)

Another place of interest in the center of Bari and about a 5-minute walk from the Saint Nicholas Basilica is the Normanno-Svevo Castle. Likely built in 1132 in the Middle Ages, this castle has been rebuilt time and time again by different leaders and royalties of the region at the time.

The castle is surrounded by a moat on all sides and is now filled with greenery rather than the water that was there once upon a time.

The castle is an incredible representation of the history of the city and a visit is is one of the best things to do in Bari. Today the inside is used for a museum and various exhibits, offering an even deeper look into the castle and the history of Bari.

Strada delle Orecchiette

One of Puglia and Bari’s names to fame is Orecchiette pasta (or little ears pasta). When spending time in Bari or anywhere in Puglia, you must taste Orecchiette pasta for yourself. These little ears capture all the delicious flavors of the sauce and make an experience that you’ll want to have time and time again.

The Strada Arco Basso in Bari’s Old Town is likely one of the most unique pasta experiences you’ll have in your life. Once passing through the small arch opening up to the street, you’ll be greeted by numerous women making Orecchiette pasta by hand on the street.

This kind of creates a special experience that combines the touristy side of Bari as well as gives a glimpse into what life is like for locals. The women will gladly bag up as much of the pasta you’d like, giving you one of the tastiest souvenirs from your trip to Bari! 

After your immersive experience in watching the process of Orecchiette being made, you’ll likely have built up an appetite to savor a bowl of it for yourself.

A good way to wrap up your first day is to walk about 5 minutes to end up at Mastro Ciccio . Here you’ll find a tasty assortment of local orecchiette dishes as well as other Italian favorites if that is what you fancy. 

You can also book a guided pasta walking tour where you make your own pasta and learn more about the history of the food in Bari.

Day 2 – Bari Seaside 

Day 2 of this itinerary will be spent at the sea. If you’re just spending one day in Bari and would prefer to follow this route for day 1, feel free to switch it around as you please. 

Lungomare Nazario Sauvo

The seaside promenade of Bari is quite a wonderful characteristic of the city. Some say it’s one of the most beautiful promenades in all of Italy and is also the winner for one of the longest in Europe.

The promenade begins at the port of the city and runs down to the Pane e Pomodoro beach, where you’ll have the opportunity to spend time later in the day. Lining the promenade are the quintessentially Barese black lamp posts giving the walk quite a picturesque feel.

Whether you’re looking to just go for a stroll or run, get some air and space away from the center, or make your way to the beach to spend the rest of your day, the seaside promenade of Bari is a key point that can’t be missed. 

A great way to start your day is at Bakery Santa Rita . This bakery is quite close to the beginning of the promenade at the port and is known to have some of the best focaccia Barese in the city. While most of us mainly know focaccia as the oily fluffy bread from Liguria, focaccia Barese is a league of its own.

What makes this bread unique is that its dough includes mashed potato, in comparison to plain flour focaccia that we’re used to. On top of the bread are many baby tomatoes just bursting with delicious juice waiting to be savored. 

Pane e Pomodoro Beach

If you’re spending 3 days in this lively city, there will be options for a day trip with fantastic beach options. But, if you’re only spending one or 2 days, Bari has a few good beach options as well if you’d like to get some vitamin sea during your trip.

One of the most well-known and loved beaches in Bari is Pane e Pomodoro Beach, or Bread and Tomatoes Beach. The beach is located towards the end of the promenade and is a wide and long sandy stretch of beach.

It’s a public beach, meaning there aren’t any umbrellas or chairs to rent so you must bring your own towel for your stay. There is also a beach bar offering drinks and snacks if you’re looking to have a quick lunch, coffee, or drink during your stay.

Piazza Mercantile

After spending a day at the seaside, we’ll head back to the Bari historic center and make our way to Piazza Mercantile, likely the most important square of the city. Dating back to the 14th century, the Piazza Mercantile was the city’s commercial center and is now the main hub for Barese life and locals.

Surrounded by historic buildings, the Piazza Mercantile is a great place to enjoy some people-watching, maybe listen to some live music, and grab a drink or two while immersing yourself in local Bari life.

Day 3 – Day Trip from Bari

Thanks to being the capital of the Puglia region, a major benefit to staying in Bari is having numerous captivating Puglian cities at your doorstep.

After exploring the city of Bari for two days, you’ll have the opportunity to choose a day trip for your 3rd and last day in the city.

If the city of Bari captivates you so much and you want to stay for your third day, go ahead. Otherwise, let’s head out into Puglia.

One of the most popular day trips from Bari is to the incredible cave city of Matera. Though not technically in the Puglia region (it is in neighboring Basilicata), this historic city and UNESCO World Heritage site is still easy to reach from Bari and is well worth visiting.

Visitors could easily spend a couple of days here, but you can cover a lot of ground and see the majority of Matera in one day . Trains go directly from Bari in about 1.5 hours, there are also bus options available and you can book a guided tour here.

Polignano a Mare

The town of Polignano a Mare is truly an enchanting gem of the Adriatic sea and Puglia. Dating back to the 4th century BC, this town has a lot to offer.

From its white-washed streets to blue flag beaches, and awe-inspiring views, Polignano a Mare makes a great day out from Bari.

Trains go directly from Bari Centrale to Polignano a Mare frequently throughout the day, take 45 minutes in each direction or you can book a guided boat tour from Bari.

The incredibly photogenic town of Monopoli is also a great option to visit from Bari. The town of Monopoli is just past Polignano a Mare and is located around 43 miles from the center of Bari.

If you’re looking for a smaller town with few tourists and more locals to visit during your day trip, Monopoli is the perfect option with its delicious food, quaint corners, and a calm seaside.

Direct trains from Bari to Monopoli are around every 20 minutes and the trip takes just about 30 minutes.

Lecce 

Another great day trip option is the historic city of Lecce . While Bari and the other cities on this list are all seaside locations, Lecce is located inland Puglia in the Salento peninsula and is about an hour and 20 minutes from Bari by train.

Lecce is known for its baroque buildings, limestone facade, and its laid-back lifestyle in its old town. Trains run directly from Bari to Lecce just about every half an hour.

Where to Stay in Bari

B&B Dolce Incanto – This mid-range bed and breakfast is an excellent option for those looking for a central, comfortable base in Bari. They have a great location for exploring the city, lovely rooms and a great breakfast included each morning.

Fourooms Bari – For those after a luxury stay in Bari, this hotel is the perfect choice. They have countless plush rooms available, a wonderful location for getting the most out of the city and tons of amenities to ensure you have a fabulous stay.

Olive Tree, Bari – If you’re travelling solo or on a tight budget, then this hostel is a great choice. They have both dorm beds and private rooms on offer, fantastic common areas for meeting other travellers and a great location for exploring Bari.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Bari hotels!

While the region of Puglia and the coastal town of Bari tend to get overlooked quite often by tourists visiting Italy, they definitely shouldn’t be missed. Bari is a deliciously historic city in Italy with so many corners yet to be discovered.

Are you planning a visit to Bari? Have any questions? Let us know in the comments!

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About Olivia Ellis

Olivia is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from Michigan, USA, she is currently living in Athens, Greece exploring Europe and filmmaking. When she’s not travelling or writing, Olivia can be found cooking delicious new recipes from around the world, reading, and spending time outdoors.

Hi Guys, Great Bari article. We are Tony and Wendy from the Gold Coast Qld, we are in the planning stages of heading to Bari and Puglia in April / May 2025. we were thinking of spending 10 to 14 days exploring Puglia. Do have any suggestions for a town in the north and south that would make good bases to explore from by car. Kind regards, Tony and Wendy

Hi Tony! Happy you found this helpful and sounds like you’re planning a great trip 🙂 Have a look at our Puglia itinerary and our Lecce itinerary for some more ideas.

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17 Best Things to Do in Bari, Italy

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Bari is a common entry point to the Italian region of Puglia with train, flight, and ferry connections to the rest of the country and beyond.

Visitors used to just pass through Bari on their way to nearby scenic hill towns, but that is changing, and the city is well worth including in your Puglia trip.

Bari’s old town features a maze of picturesque lanes, impressive churches, and delicious street food. We love immersing ourselves in the lively atmosphere.

In this Bari Italy travel guide, I share our favourite things to do in Bari including the best food, how to get there, where to stay, and a map with all our recommendations.

Where is Bari, Italy?

What is bari known for, best things to do in bari puglia, day trips from bari, where to stay in bari italy, how long to spend in bari, getting to bari, bari italy map, is bari worth visiting, more puglia posts.

Bari is the capital city of Puglia (also known as Apulia), a region in the far south of Italy (in the heel of its boot).

It’s located a five-hour drive southeast of Rome (four hours by train) and three hours from Naples.

Towards the end of this post, I share a map and details on how to get to Bari.

Back to Contents

Bari is known as a major transport hub in southern Italy with an international airport, major train station, and ferry port.

It’s also known for its charming old town with a maze of narrow streets where local women make fresh pasta outside.

The Basilica of Saint Nicholas is one of Bari’s most famous sights as it houses the remains of St Nicholas. It’s an important pilgrimage destination for Roman Catholics and Orthodox Christians.

1) Get Lost in Bari Vecchia (Old Town)

My number one pick of the best things to do in Bari is to wander the streets of Bari Vecchia , the compact old town on a peninsula jutting into the sea.

The labyrinth of narrow lanes is very different from the wide, orderly grid of streets in the newer part of Bari.

It has a lively, lived-in feel. This isn’t just a place for tourists to admire the beauty of the tiny piazzas, churches, and archways. When you duck down a side street you feel like you’re walking through someone’s living room.

Life is lived on the streets here. Doors are open, elders sit outside, kids play on the street, washing dangles from lines. You can hear families arguing and cooking and laughing.

Bari Vecchia has a slightly chaotic vibe, but the energy is fun to immerse yourself in. And as it’s mostly pedestrianised, it’s a pleasure to wander.

Most of the top Bari attractions detailed below are in Bari Vecchia.

2) Take a Walking Tour with Food Tastings

Taking a food tour is one of our favourite ways to explore an Italian city, so we signed up to this Bari Street Food Tour by Velo.

It was the least food-focused of the culinary tours we’ve taken in Italy, and the only one where we’ve gone hungry (until the very end).

I do still recommend the tour, but it’s best to think of it as a cultural walking tour with a few food tastings.

If you are short on time, the tour takes you to the main Bari sights and teaches you about its history in just three hours. You’ll also try some of Bari’s most famous foods including focaccia and sgagliozze (more on those below).

Our guide was friendly and knowledgeable and we did learn a lot about the city.

We also got to join in with a local musician playing traditional tarantella music, which is not something we’d have been able to do on our own.

Check availability for the Bari Street Food Tour here .

3) Watch Fresh Pasta Being Made

Space is limited in Bari Vecchia, so local women began making and selling fresh pasta on the street outside their homes.

Now nicknamed Strada delle Orecchiette after the regional “little ears” pasta they make, the pasta street is one of the most famous places to visit in Bari.

You’ll find the pasta stalls on a tiny street called Arco Basso, named for the archway that leads from Piazza Federico II Di Svevia (where you’ll find Bari’s Castle).

Please be respectful when taking photos of the pasta makers and buy something from the stalls.

The fresh pasta is dried and lasts up to 15 days without refrigeration (orecchiette cost €2.50 for half a kilo on our visit), so you can take some home. They also sell sun-dried tomatoes and taralli (a crunchy local snack).

We stayed at B&B Murex , which is conveniently located right on Arco Basso.

4) Hang Out in the Main Squares

An Italian piazza or square is always a hub for meeting friends and having drinks or dinner.

The two main squares in Bari Vecchia are Piazza Mercantile and Piazza del Ferrarese , which sit side by side.

In Piazza del Ferrarese you can see where the old indoor markets used to be, now the Spazio Murat contemporary art gallery.

Just south is Corso Vittorio Emanuele II , the dividing line between the old and new towns. There was once a gate here to separate the two. You can see where the old walls were and the remains of the first street from the 13th century.

In Piazza Mercantile you can see the disturbing Colonna della Giustizia (Column of Justice). In the 16th century, the column was used to punish debtors by tying them naked to the column for three days. You can still see the marks from the ropes on the stone.

There are plenty of bars and restaurants in the two piazzas. We especially enjoyed sandwiches at Voglia Pane e Vino and antipasti at La Cecchina .

5) Sample Local Focaccia

Trying focaccia is a Bari must do as the city has some of the best focaccia in all of Italy (only Liguria rivals it).

The bread is topped with tomatoes and olives and glistens with local olive oil.

The best places to try Focaccia Barese are Panificio Fiore (our walking tour stopped at this bakery that used to be a Byzantine church) and Panificio Santa Rita (our B&B bought it from here every morning).

Both are best in the morning when it’s freshly baked and still warm, but expect to queue. It’s worth it!

6) Try Bari Street Food

Bari is known for its affordable, tasty street food. As well as focaccia, you can try sgagliozze , squares of fried polenta.

We tried them on our walking tour from Le Sgagliozze di Donna Carmela on Largo Albicocca. You can grab a bag to take away from the stall outside the restaurant. Maria delle Sgagliozze is another popular spot.

Honestly, we found sgagliozze a little boring, but some people love them.

Even tastier (in our opinion) are panzerotti , fried dough stuffed with various fillings such as mozzarella and tomato. It’s like a fried version of a calzone (stuffed pizza) or a savoury doughnut.

You can find panzerotti all over Bari. The best we had was at Pizzeria di Cosimo .

7) Feast at Largo Albicocca

Largo Albicocca is a tiny, picturesque piazza in Bari Vecchia that’s known as Piazza degli Innamorati (Square of the Lovers).

It certainly has a romantic vibe with its strings of lights and old-fashioned lanterns.

Quiet by day, it comes alive in the evenings when locals flock here for delicious food.

Pizzeria di Cosimo serves up some of the best pizza we’ve ever had. It’s affordable (€4.50 for a margherita), simple, and perfect.

This isn’t a fancy place to eat. You queue to place your order at the counter and get given a number, which you need to listen out for (in Italian) or watch for on the screen.

The pizzas come in a box so you can grab a seat at one of the plastic outdoor tables or perch on the steps in the piazza.

On a Sunday night, it was pure chaos, and it took us an hour to get our pizza. Luckily, we’d ordered a panzerotto as well, and these come out more quickly than the pizza. It was worth the wait, and we returned a few days later (much quieter on a Tuesday).

Pizzeria di Cosimo is open from 6.30pm to midnight and is closed on Mondays.

If you get hungry waiting for your pizza, grab some takeaway scagliozze from the stand next door.

8) Visit Basilica di San Nicola

Basilica di San Nicola is the city’s most famous church and one of the top things to see in Bari.

The 12th-century church has a simple but imposing Romanesque facade. The soaring interior is crossed with arches, and the austere stone contrasts with the gold frescoed ceiling.

The crypt downstairs houses the bones of St Nicholas (yep, the one known as Father Christmas), which were stolen from Turkey in 1087.

Many Orthodox pilgrims come here, and it’s also important to locals, who celebrate St Nicholas with a big festival every May.

Entry to Basilica di San Nicola is free, and it’s open from 7am to 8.30pm.

9) See the Duomo

Bari’s Cathedral or the Basilica Cattedrale Metropolitana Primaziale San Sabino is commonly referred to as Il Duomo.

It has a similar Romanesque facade to Basilica di San Nicola and is surprisingly plain (if immense) inside.

Entrance is free, but it closes in the afternoons.

The bar on the piazza, Stefy’s Cathedral Coffee , is a good spot for a drink and to admire the carvings on the front of the Duomo.

10) Walk on Bari’s Old Walls

Past Basilica di San Nicola you’ll find stairs that take you up to the old city walls, which are a good place for a walk with sea views and a higher perspective of the city.

You can also access the walls from further down at B&B La Muraglia .

A good place for a drink is La Ciclatera Sotto il Mare , a bar with outdoor seating overlooking the marina. Afterwards, if you want to continue walking, head down to the Lungomare.

11) Stroll the Bari Lungomare

Bari’s Lungomare (seafront promenade) is the longest in Europe at 15km (9.3 miles).

The wide walkway is ideal for a stroll, especially around sunset. In the mornings, it’s in full sun and a bit intense in the summer heat.

The best section to walk is from near Piazza del Ferrarese and past Teatro Margherita and the old port with colourful fishing boats.

You could continue all the way to the popular Bari beach, Pane e Pomodoro, which is 2km (1.2 miles) and 25 minutes from Teatro Margherita.

12) See Museo Teatro Margherita

On your walk along Bari’s Lungomare you’ll come across Teatro Margherita , a distinctive pink building overlooking the fishing harbour.

It was built in 1912 after the original wooden theatre burnt down in a fire just a year after opening.

It’s on pillars in the sea as there was already another large theatre in the city and no other theatres were allowed to be built on Bari land.

While it no longer functions as a theatre, there are sometimes contemporary art exhibitions inside (check in the nearby tourist information office).

13) Relax on the Beach

While the best Puglia beaches are further from the city, if you are looking for some relaxation, Spiaggia Pane e Pomodoro (Bread and Tomato Beach) is a decent option.

It has powdery white sand and shallow clear water. We thought it was busy on a weekday morning in July but later realised how Puglia beaches get much busier than this.

Unlike many beaches in Italy, Pane e Pomodoro is free, and you’ll need to bring your own chairs and umbrella if needed.

It’s a 30-minute walk from Bari Vecchia, or there’s paid parking nearby.

14) See Bari Castle

I wouldn’t say the castle is a Bari must see, but it’s worth walking past this imposing fortress on the edge of Bari Vecchia.

Castello Svevo di Bari was originally built by Norman King Roger II in 1132 and destroyed a few decades later before being rebuilt by Holy Roman Emperor Frederick II in 1233.

It’s surrounded by a moat except on the side that borders the sea.

There’s a small museum inside with changing exhibitions, but we skipped it. Reviews are mixed and you can’t walk on the castle walls.

15) Eat a Gelato

Opposite the castle is the best gelato in Bari at Antica Gelateria Gentile . The Chocolate Africano flavour with chunks of chocolate and cherry was amazing.

This place gets busy so expect to queue, especially on weekend evenings.

When we couldn’t get in on a Sunday night, we walked to Gelateria Piccinni in the new part of Bari. It wasn’t as good as Gentile, but it was still enjoyable and excellent value (€1 for one flavour).

16) Shop on Via Sparano

While most of these top things to do in Bari are in the historic centre, if you like shopping, head to Via Sparano in the modern part.

This pedestrianised shopping street features a mix of designer names (Prada, Louis Vuitton) and more affordable brands, as well as pavement cafes spilling out from Art Nouveau palaces.

17) Enjoy an Aperitivo

An evening aperitivo is one of our favourite rituals in Italy. Enjoying a pre-dinner drink with snacks is a great way to take a break, watch Bari life unfold, and tide you over until the post 8pm dinner time.

Bari is not short of places to partake in the classic Aperol Spritz. Piazza del Ferrarese is a lively spot to head to with many bars with outdoor seating.

We enjoyed Voglia Pane e Vino (also great for a sandwich lunch) and Mercantile Nove .

For a sea view, head to La Ciclatera Sotto il Mare instead.

Or if you are on a tight budget, El Chiringuito is a very simple bar next to the old port where young Barese hang out.

You’ll have to sit on the steps, but you won’t find cheaper than the €1.20 bottles of Peroni (it’s all about the beer here).

Note that unlike in northern Italy, you’ll need to pay extra for your aperitivo snacks.

Bari can make a great base to explore Puglia, especially if you don’t want to hire a car.

Here are some of the best day trips from Bari:

• Trani – An elegant seaside town 30 minutes north on the train.
• Polignano a Mare – A spectacular small town perched on rocks above the sea. It takes 15 to 45 minutes on the train south from Bari.
• Monopoli – A pretty seaside town just south of Polignano.
• Matera – This city of caves in neighbouring Basilicata is a must see. It’s worth spending a night or two here, but it is possible as a day trip from Bari. It’s a one hour drive or 1 hour 45 minute train trip from Bari. Or take this Matera day trip by minivan . See our Matera Italy travel guide for more details.
• Alberobello – The picturesque town of trulli is touristy but worth visiting. It’s easier by car from Bari (50 minutes), but buses and trains are available (check schedules in advance).

Our guide to the best places to visit in Puglia has many more ideas for exploring the region.

While staying close to Bari train station is convenient if you plan to take day trips, I highly recommend staying in the much more charming Bari Vecchia.

On our latest visit, we stayed at B&B Murex and couldn’t have asked for a better location. It’s on the pasta street and around the corner from our favourite piazza Largo Albicocca. We could easily walk everywhere and it’s only 15 minutes from the station.

It’s run by a friendly young couple who gave us lots of tips and food recommendations.

There are four simple but lovely rooms with a clean, fresh feel. There’s a shared fridge with free bottled water (unusually in glass, not plastic) and soft drinks.

Breakfast on the roof terrace is good and includes freshly baked focaccia from a local bakery.

Another B&B that looks lovely is La Muraglia , which is right on the city walls with sea views.

Check out more accommodation options in Bari here .

Bari Vecchia is compact and you can see the main sights in half a day.

For most visitors who are trying to see as much of Puglia as possible in a week or two, one night will be enough in Bari.

We stayed three nights on our last visit, though, and enjoyed having more time to wander and eat.

If you want to use Bari as a base to explore Puglia, you could easily spend 4-7 nights here.

Bari is a great access point to Puglia.

Bari Karol Wojtyla International Airport  (BRI) has flights from all over Europe with budget airlines like Easyjet, Ryanair, and Wizzair. It’s a 20-minute drive outside the city and taxis, buses, and a train are available.

Bari Centrale station has trains to Lecce (90 minutes), Rome (4 hours), Bologna (6 hours), and Milan (7.5 hours). To get to Naples (4 hours), you’ll likely have to change in Caserta or take a bus.

Bari port has ferries to Greece, Albania, Croatia, and Montenegro.

While I recommend hiring a car to explore Puglia, you might want to pick it up when you leave the city as parking can be a challenge.

If you do need to park, Piazzale Cristoforo Colombo Parking on the edge of the old town is one of the best options (paid during the day and free at night and on weekends).

On our latest trip, we flew into Bari, took a private transfer to Matera and back to Bari (after 4 nights in Matera) and only collected our hire car when leaving Bari. The taxi made the journey easy and we didn’t have to worry about parking in either city.

We usually use Rental Cars and Kayak to find the best deals on hire cars.

Yes, Bari is well worth visiting on your Puglia trip! The old town is a wonderful, chaotic maze to explore, the food is superb, and it’s easy to head out on day trips.

I hope this post has given you some ideas on what to do in Bari. While there aren’t a ton of major sights, it’s an excellent place for wandering and eating.

• 15 Towns Not to Miss in Puglia, Italy
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Best Things to Do in Bari, Italy

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Located in Southern Italy in the heart of Puglia is the enchanting port city of Bari. As the capital of one of the larger regions of Italy , the charming Bari offers many unique attractions, including the winding streets of Bari Vecchia, delicious street food featuring the spoils of the Adriatic Sea, and stunning landmarks.

With much to see, from the 12th-century Basilica di San Nicola to the central Piazza Mercantile, and the lively Porto Vecchio Fish Market, where friendly local fishermen sell excellent fresh fish. Visiting Bari is not only a must-do, but it’s also very accessible. After hopping on a high-speed train from Rome or Naples, it takes around four hours to reach Bari Central Station.

As you can tell, this beautiful coastal city is full of delights, and this guide has the top things to do in Bari, Italy.

Article contents

Explore Bari Vecchia

Bari Old Town, or Bari Vecchia, is the historic city center and a sight worth seeing, with its landmark buildings, maze-like cobbled streets, and hidden gems. So, if you’re asking what to see in Bari first, old Bari is a great place to start.

Stroll around Narrow Streets

A terrific way to acclimate yourself to the capital city of Puglia is to wander around the narrow streets of Bari Old Town. While here, snap some shots of picturesque stone-adorned buildings, wrought-iron balconies, and laundry lines stretching above alleyways.

To get a rest from all the walking, stop at a neighborhood café to try delicious food or local wine. For another exceptional glimpse into local life, join a Bari Old Town street food tour.

Strada Arco Basso

One part of Bari worth visiting is the delightful Strada Arco Basso in Old Town Bari, where Orecchiette pasta is made and sold by local women. This is a highlight of being in the Puglia region, famous for various fresh pasta varieties.

Buy some to take home and make Orecchiette con Cima di Rapa – with broccoli rabe, anchovies, garlic, and, of course, olive oil.

Piazza Mercantile

Another spot that you can’t miss in the Old Town of Bari is Piazza Mercantile – a meeting place for many locals to enjoy their morning espresso or an evening meal. It’s also a pivotal point in Bari’s history, dating back to the 14th century.

Piazza Mercantile is surrounded by ornate palaces and numerous Bari attractions, such as the Palazzo dei Sedile and the Muraglia di Bari . It’s similar to many Italian piazzas, with its traditional clock tower, a water fountain, and a bustling atmosphere at night.

Basilica of Saint Nicholas

The Basilica of Saint Nicholas, or Basilica di San Nicola , is another beautiful landmark in Bari Vecchia. With its grand facade, gold ceiling, and delightful mosaics, it’s one of the city’s most famous sights.

This Romanesque church holds the bones of Saint Nicholas (aka Santa Claus) in its crypt. They were moved from Turkey by Christians after Muslim Turks took power from the Orthodox Christians. This guided tour of the Basilica  includes a visit to the crypt.

Castello Svevo

Castello Svevo is a Norman castle, almost 900 years old. Built in the 1100s by King Roger II, it stands out in Bari Vecchia with its impressive towers and fortified ramparts. Interestingly, it was rebuilt by Holy Roman Emperor Frederick II in 1233 after it experienced some significant damage.

If you want to explore these remnants of the Roman Empire, you’ll need a ticket to enter. Additionally, you could go on this guided tour of the castle for a fantastic time.

Take a Walking Tour

A terrific way to experience all of the above in the Old Town of Bari is by embarking on a walking tour. In doing so, you’ll see the city center through the eyes of a local guide (plus some hidden gems).

This Bari walking tour involves the city’s top attractions, such as the Norman Castle, Basilica di San Nicola, and the Bari Cathedral, or Cathedral of San Sabino, plus focaccia and gelato. It’s one of the best Bari tours.

Try the Local Food

One of the top things to do on a Bari, Puglia trip is to savor some of the most delectable food in the city.

Visit the Porto Vecchio Fish Market

Southern Italy’s Puglia region is famously known for featuring fresh fish, olive oil, fresh pasta, and wine on its tables. One way to experience this is by buying or sampling seafood at the Porto Vecchio Fish Market.

You’ll find many local fishermen selling oysters, octopus, sea urchins, and fresh catches of the day.

TOP TIP: If you’re looking to get the best pick of fish, go early to secure a great deal. 

Take a Food Tour

As previously mentioned, the Pugliese cuisine is packed full of flavor, texture, and aroma, so a brilliant way to see this in action is by taking a street food tour around Bari. There are various options, whether you want to try a pasta experience walking tour or see the hidden spots on a walking street food tour .

Some Delicacies to Taste

Bari has some of the best street food on offer in southern Italy, so here is what you must try:

Orecchiette

Orecchiette is a pasta type that resembles a small ear, and that is what it directly translates to in English. If you want a hands-on experience of how to make orecchiette, join this traditional pasta-making class and learn from a nonna.

Another delightful snack in Bari is sgagliozze, a square of polenta fried in olive oil and topped with salt. 

Popizze are fried dough balls often eaten for aperitivo. These are sometimes mixed with anchovies, olives, tomatoes, and herbs. 

LISTEN: To our podcast on Foodie adventures in Puglia .

Focaccia Barese

This leavened baked bread is a staple in the region, and one of the best places to try this delicacy is Bari. This Bari rendition varies quite a bit from other geographical styles, as it has a thicker base and is often served with herbs, olives, garlic, onions, and tomatoes. Some great spots to visit for Focaccia Barese are Panificio Fiore and Panificio Santa Rita.

Another regional specialty Puglia is known for is Crudo – fresh raw seafood that you can try while walking along the seafront promenade, Bari Lungomare, or the Bari Harbor. Crudo varies from raw octopus, squids, mussels, prawns, and fish.

EXPLORE: Burn off all those tasty treats around Bari on this Street food tour by bike .

Enjoy the Coast

There are a few places in Bari that have brilliant Adriatic Sea views.

Walk Along the Lungomare Nazario Sauro

Enjoying the incredible Lungomare Nazario Sauro, the city’s wonderful seafront promenade should be on your Bari to-do list. No matter what time of day you take a walk here, you can soak in the city’s atmosphere, from the smell of the salty air to the sound of seagull’s calls.

That said, the best time to visit the Lungomare is either for an evening leg stretch before dinner or a morning stroll to start your day right.

Go to the Beach

Excellent news for beach lovers – Bari is a lovely gem in southern Italy, perfect for sunbathing. It has two terrific spots: Pane e Pomodoro Beach and Lido San Francesco alla Rena. Pane e Pomodoro is the primary spot for beach lovers, as it’s your typical Mediterranean sandy beach. In comparison, Lido San Francesco is a private beach with an entrance fee of around €10 per person. Included in this fee is access to a pristine beach, ample changing rooms, snack stands, and a bar.

Take a Boat Trip

What to do in Bari, Italy, for an unforgettable experience? Why not take a boat across the Pugliese coast?

Head up the coast to Polignano a Mare for this coast and cave boat tour . It includes a dip in the Adriatic Sea, exploring local caves and grottos and a sip of Prosecco as you admire the stunning coastline.

Historical Sites and Museums

You can’t visit Bari without checking out its incredible historical sites and museums, from age-old Roman ruins to Bari Cathedral. 

Cathedral of San Sabino

Bari Cathedral , locally known as Cattedrale di San Sabino, is one of the major attractions in Old Town Bari. With its minimalistic yet elegant Romanesque exterior and well-preserved frescoes and mosaics inside, this sight in Bari is worth visiting.

Often overlooked by tourists for Basilica San Nicola, it would be a mistake not to visit this incredible church, as it has a hidden delight inside it – a crypt. Here, you’ll find the Museo del Succorpo della Cattedrale , which has the remnants of Roman ruins and an ancient Christian basilica.

Teatro Petruzzelli

In terms of culturally delightful things to do, Bari has plenty. One brilliant spot to visit in Bari is the Teatro Petruzzelli – a theater open since 1903. This historic theater has hosted world-famous musicians, such as Frank Sinatra and Liza Minnelli.

Nowadays, you can catch opera performances and musical concerts, but if you’re short on time, a quick guided tour is ideal. The theater offers a 30-minute tour, which costs €5 per person, or this walking tour with Opera tickets includes aperitivo and balcony seats to enjoy the opera at this magical theatre.

Archeological Museum of Bari

In terms of Bari museums to visit, the Museum of Santa Scolastica should be high on your Bari what-to-do list. Browse incredible archeological finds and dive deep into the city’s history. You can even spot a medieval church’s remains.

LISTEN: To our podcast on Bari and other Picturesque towns in Puglia .

If you’re looking to get some souvenirs or chic clothing on your Bari holiday, here are two fantastic areas to visit:

Murat District

For fabulous designer stores and local fashion, head to the Murat District. This quarter has ornate Baroque buildings, charming cafés, and superb boutiques. The two main shopping streets are Corso Cavour and Via Manzoni. Corso Cavour has several well-known European designer stores, while Via Manzoni offers more budget-friendly options.

Bari Vecchia

If you’re more interested in finding locally-made gifts to take home, then Bari Vecchia is the place for you. Here, you can get souvenirs and crafts in Piazza Mercantile, which has various local gift shops. Pop into Made in Puglia or Puglia Ceramiche . 

READ: Our guide to the Best places to stay in Puglia .

Take a Day Trip

Another brilliant thing to do near Bari, Italy, is to plan a day trip to one of the nearby towns.

Valle d’Itria and Alberobello

About an hour’s drive from Bari, you’ll find the charming town of Alberobello in the Valle d’Itria, known for its iconic trulli huts and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This town is home to spectacular landmarks, like the Church of Saint Anthony of Padua , and some of the best agriturismo in Puglia . Take this day tour to Alberello, which includes a stop at the beautiful, unique city of Monopoli as well as the stunning white cliffs of Polignano a mare.

Another of the exceptional day trips from Bari is Matera, one of the world’s oldest settlements. It takes around an hour to drive here, so a more leisurely option is to take a Matera day trip tour . On this tour, you’ll see caves inhabited in the 900s and a church from 1230.

As a central transport hub, Bari has access to some incredible Pugliese towns , including the fishing village of Monopoli. By train, it takes about 30 minutes to get to Monopoli, and it’s a great day trip option. With its whitewashed buildings, a gorgeous cathedral, and colorful fishing boats, it’s a picturesque scene.

Polignano a Mare

Polignano a Mare is another coastal delight, from its white-pebbled cove Cala Monachile to its hidden grottoes. You can experience this all on this speedboat cruise . It takes around 40 minutes to get to Polignano a Mare by train.

Castellana Caves

Located an hour’s drive from the capital city, the Castellana caves are a natural highlight of Puglia. They go down over 400 feet and are around two miles long. With some incredible stalactites and stalagmites, it’s a beautiful sight to behold and one of the best things to do in Puglia .

Bari Things to Do – All Wrapped Up

Now that this guide has surmised all the best things to do in Bari, Italy, what are you waiting for? Start packing your bags for Bari International Airport for an unforgettable trip to the Puglia region. Delicious street food and stunning historic buildings await you! 

If you want more info on this region, check out our Puglia travel guide .

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17 Unexpected Things To Do In Bari, Italy

You might be wondering about the things to do in Bari. After all, it’s in a part of southern Italy that visitors are only beginning to discover compared to more popular destinations in Italy.

I’ve been fortunate enough to visit Bari and the Puglia region countless times because it’s where my parents were born and where some of my family still lives. Through this guide, I’m sharing my first-hand knowledge of Bari so that you can experience what makes this city such a special place to visit in southern Italy.

So, in this Bari travel guide, you’ll learn:

• the best of what to do in Bari,
• local tips learned from my Barese roots,
• how to get to the old city center and other important travel logistics, as well as,
• where to stay in Bari whether you’re staying a night or planning to use it as a base for your Puglia itinerary.

17 Unexpected Things to Do in Bari, Italy

Bari and the Puglia region have been largely overlooked by many Italy visitors. However, the area of Puglia, Italy has grown as both a cultural and historic spot to visit in Italy, as well as a great place for beach lovers and those hoping to have a more authentic Italian experience.

If you’re planning a trip, you’ll quickly come up with a long list of the best places to visit in Puglia, Italy!

Where is Bari, Italy?

Bari is the capital city of Puglia Italy and a bustling port town that sits on the Adriatic Sea. Puglia is the southwestern region of Italy, or what you may know as the “heel of the boot.”

The city is a major ferry port in the southern Adriatic. The port is used for connecting Italy with numerous destinations including Croatia, Greece, Montenegro, and Albania. There are up to 15 ferry crossings daily from Bari, including the popular Bari to Dubrovnik ferry which sails overnight for a morning arrival.

Bari is also home to Puglia’s largest and busiest international airport, a gateway into an unspoiled region home to white-washed towns, some of Italy’s best beaches, and endless groves of olive trees lining the countryside.

On top of its prime location along the coast and within the region of Puglia, there are also plenty of things to do in Bari itself!

How to Get to Bari, Italy

Bari is well-connected to other parts of Italy with an airport, trains, buses, not to mention an active port.

Flights to Bari are operated by ITA-Airways from Milan and Rome. Budget carriers like EasyJet and Ryanair also operate flights to Bari from Milan, Venice, and Rome.

Do a cheap flight search or perhaps even use airline miles to book an ITA flight to Italy and Bari. Once you arrive, the Bari airport is a 20-minute car ride to the Old Town.

The Bari to Rome train and vice versa takes just under 4 hours to and from Bari Centrale Station.

What to Do in Bari

You can see the best of Bari in a day although there are plenty of things to do in Bari to warrant a longer stay!

Focus your visit on the Bari Old Town or Bari Vecchia. This part of the city dates back to ancient times and is layered in a rich history. Given its prime coastal location, it was conquered again and again until it became part of the Roman Empire. The old town is best to explore on foot, while getting lost in the maze of streets and piazzas.

As you stroll the Old Town Bari, you’ll find a tight-knit community with doors and windows wide open, random bursts of loud Italian conversation, and buzzing Vespas whirling the smell of garlicky tomatoes and freshly baked bread through the narrow streets.   

1. Focus on the Old Town (Bari Vecchia) & the Murat (Centro Storico).

The Old Town (Bari Vecchia) and the Murat both essentially connect and blend into each other. This is where you’ll find the most historic buildings and authentic sightseeing locations, making it seem as if you’ve been transported back to medieval times.

In Bari Vecchia and the historic Murat, you’ll discover narrow streets lined with buildings adorned with stone and wrought-iron balconies and colorful shutters. You’ll be reaching for your camera around every other turn!

Bari has a certain character to it that differs from other cities in Italy, especially those to the north. It has a grittiness and authenticity to it but I think that’s part of the charm and what has since escaped more popular cities like Venice, Milan , Florence & Rome . 

If you’d like to go with a guide, there are Bari bike tours and even segway tours (gelato included!) to help you discover Bari through the eyes of a local. Either way, exploring the old town is one of the best things to do in Bari!

ProTip: If you’re planning a Puglia itinerary, plan to stay at least 1 day in Bari. You can easily spend the night or drive to nearby Polignano a Mare or Monopoli to position yourself for the next day or use Bari’s old town as a base to day-trip around the area.

2. Learn about the City’s Patron Saint at Basilica di San Nicola.

The first thing to grab you when you come upon the Basilica San Nicola (Basilica of Saint Nicholas) is it looks like an imposing fort. The facade is truly impressive without anything overly ornate adorning the exterior like you’ll find in further south in Lecce .

Once you enter, you’re not overwhelmed with dozens of frescoes but the gold ceiling is just spectacular in combination with the sculptures and mosaics throughout the sanctuary and crypt.

The Romanesque architecture style church took over 100 years to build and was completed in 1197. Aside from the architecture, the Basilica is unique because it’s shared among the Catholic and Orthodox faiths. (Bari also has a separate Russian Orthodox Church (Chiesa Ortodossa Russa di San Nicola) honoring Saint Nicholas and the connection between Bari, Roman Catholics, and the Orthodox church.)

The relics of Saint Nicholas (yes, where the legend of Santa Claus comes from) are in the crypt. They were rescued from their original resting place after Saint Nicholas Church in modern-day Turkey was thought not safe for the Saint after Muslim Turks came to power over the Orthodox Christians.

To this day, the Basilica of San Nicola is visited by Catholics and Orthodox Christians alike. And it’s a must on your Bari sightseeing itinerary.

ProTip: Don’t confuse Basilica San Nicola with the Cathedral of San Nicola Pellegrino in nearby Trani . But definitely make time to visit both on your Puglia trip! They’re equally gorgeous.

3. Visit Bari Cathedral a.k.a. the Cathedral of San Sabino.

Considered the Bari Cathedral, San Sabino is another Romanesque-style church dating back to the late 12th century. While it’s widely considered the main Cathedral of Bari, it’s taken second place to the Basilica San Nicola and its compelling story of Saint Nick. 

The beauty of strolling through Bari Vecchia is that nothing is too far away so San Sabino Cathedral is a just short walk from San Nicola.

As you approach San Sabino, you’ll undoubtedly recognize the simple shining white exterior. However, it’s this simplicity that gives it a noble and attractive look. Inside the church, the well-preserved mosaics and frescoes are worth a look. 

4. Uncover History in the Bari Cathedral Crypt.

The real gem of  San Sabino is the archeological museum in the crypt featuring the ancient relics of Saint Sabinus and the foundations of an older church originally built on this site.

When you’re standing there, stop and consider what you’re looking at! This Bari gem holds 2000 years of preserved history. The roman road & stunning mosaics, likely dating back to the original church, are fascinating!

The small museum is open from 9:30 am -12:30 pm and costs just 3€ to enter. This Bari hidden treasure is absolutely worth the price of entry and should not be missed. It may be small but it’s also one of the best things to do in Puglia, too!

5. Admire the Bari Castle a.k.a Castello Normanno-Svevo.

From Bari’s Lungomare or the seafront promenade, the commanding Castello Svevo di Bari comes into view.

One of the first things you’ll notice is how well the exterior of this Norman castle has weathered the years given that it’s nearly 900 years old. It was built in 1132 by the Norman King Roger and refortified 100 years later in the 13th century after coming under attack.

Today, you won’t find the interior of the Castello furnished as it once was. Instead, it’s used for permanent and temporary art and archaeological exhibitions, some of which contain artifacts unearthed from the Castello itself.

Exploring around the outside ramparts, towers, and moat is free, but the museum requires a ticket to enter. Also notable, unlike many things to do in Bari, the castle does not close for the afternoon. It’s open all day. For more context on the castle’s history, consider visiting with a guide .

Whether you’re spending one day in Bari or even just a couple of hours in the Old Town, add the Castello to your list of Bari sights.

ProTip: While you’re near the castello, wander over to largo albicocca. This small piazza is aptly nicknamed the “square of lovers.” At night with the glow of the lights, this romantic square looks to be straight from movie scene.

6. Glimpse Daily Fisherman Life at the Porto Vecchia. 

The Porto Vecchia or old port is where the local fishermen head out in the blue boats you’ll see throughout the Puglia region to catch fresh local fish.

Perhaps it’s because my grandparents and great-grandparents came from Bari and worked at the port, but just a simple walkthrough to hear the chatter of the local fishermen is entertaining in itself. It’s one of the most authentic things to do in Bari to get a glimpse of daily life, not to mention hear how different the Barese dialect is from the Italian language!

Porto Vecchia is also a great spot to grab a coffee, take a stroll, & enjoy the view. You can also go for a guided walking tour for a local look at daily life.

ProTip: Porto Vecchia is not the port where the giant cruise ships are parked or where the ferries depart and return from destinations like Greece, Montenegro, and Albania. If you make that mistake, you’ll find yourself wondering where all the adorable little blue boats are! 

7. Taste Oysters, Sea urchins, Octopus & Any Other Catch of the Day.

While you’re at the port, you might as well try the fish that the fishermen have literally just caught! You can see the fishermen do their work right in front of you as they bring their catch ashore. From the boat to your hand, you can eat it right at the port sushi-style. You won’t find fish any fresher or a more delicious street food!

Go earlier in the day to guarantee the fish will still be available.

8. Watch the Women of the Old Town on Strada delle Orecchiette. 

No trip to Bari Vecchia is complete without a visit to Strada Arco Basso, better known as Strada delle Orecchiette. I’ve tried to make potato gnocchi . It was fun and delicious but having done so I had an even greater appreciation for the talent and artistry on display in Bari as the women effortlessly shaped the pasta into a shape that looks like little ears.

With cameras clicking just inches away, the local women of Strada delle Orecchiette sit unconcerned making homemade orecchiette pasta, barely noticing that you’re there.

If you have Italian ancestors like me, it’s easy to watch these women work and realize they’re continuing a cultural tradition that a grandmother or aunt in your family tree would have also done generations ago.

One woman I came across was singing as she made her orecchiette, although I think she was saying if you’re going to take 20 pictures of me at least buy something!  So I did. 😉

If you’d like to go deeper, you could learn how to make the pasta you see the women making in a local home, all while sipping a glass of Primitivo wine. (Yes, please!) You won’t find a more fun thing to do in Bari!

9. Join the Locals at Piazza Mercantile.

Considered the most important square in Bari, Piazza Mercantile sits at the center of the Old Town. It’s been the city’s commercial center since the 14th century, and today is a perfect place to eat, drink, people-watch, and attend events.

You’ll notice the facade of the Palazzo del Sedile (Palace of the Seat) one of Bari attractions today, but a place where nobles would meet in the old town hall. A 16th-century clock tower stands on the left side of the building and a water fountain sits at the center perfect for refilling your travel water bottle as you explore the Old Town.

Similar to Piazza del Ferrarese, Piazza Mercantile is a bustling area with restaurants, bars, and cafes all located in the heart of Bari Vecchia. Be sure to have a gelato in hand and stroll aimlessly with the couples and families through this historic piazza.

10. Indulge at a Bari Restaurant.

Of course, this is on a to-do list for any place in Italy. But, indulging in traditional Pugliese regional specialties is a must.

Puglia is known all over Europe for its deep agricultural roots. If you’re planning a Puglia itinerary to drive through the area, you’ll be surrounded by sprawling plains, rolling hills, and endless olive groves.

In fact, there are an estimated 50 to 60 million olive trees in Puglia and the region accounts for 40% of Italy’s olive oil production. 

Plus, given Puglia’s location on the Adriatic coast, you can add incredible fresh fish to the region’s specialties. The Puglia seacoast is the longest in Italy and nearly every morning fishing boats return to the port ready to sell their fish.

What kind of deliciousness can you expect in Puglia? Here’s just a sampling!

• Fresh fruits & vegetables (My Bari-native mother can go on for hours about how amazing the fresh fruits and veggies are in Puglia!)
• Fresh fish, especially squid, shellfish, cod, and branzino
• Olives & olive oil
• Orecchiette with vegetables like rapini, aged cheeses, pureed white or fava beans, and mussels
• Burrata 
• Panzerotti, which looks like a small calzone stuffed with mozzarella and tomato and then fried.
• Focaccia and bread, especially Pane di Altamura, a naturally leavened bread native to the region.

And of course, every good meal has to include a glass of Italian wine! Puglia’s most famous grape is the  Primitivo, whose wines include the Primitivo di Manduria. It’s a full-body wine, generally high in alcohol content. 

ProTip: If you prefer to combine walking and tasting as you explore the Old Town, consider a food walking tour with a local guide.

11. Tour Teatro Petruzzelli.

The Teatro Petruzzelli is an eye-catching building from the outside even though the exterior is not overly ornate. The original theater, which was finished in 1903, was burned completely in 1991. The building today is the rebuilt structure finished in 2008.

The theater has opera and ballet performances today but has had many world-famous artists perform on its stage including Frank Sinatra, Ray Charles, Liza Minnelli, and Luciano Pavarotti.

If you don’t have enough time to see a show, you can still do a 30-minute guided tour for just 5€. You’ll see the interior decorated in gold and the red seats and giant curtain combine for a compelling visual, as well as learn about the art and history of the theater. Check the website for tour times.

12. People watch at Piazza del Ferrarese.

Piazza del Ferrarese is a good center point in Bari and sits right on the edge of the Old Town. The piazza is close to the Porto Vecchia & Lungomare, which means it also connects to most of the streets that lead to the sights of Old Bari.

During the day, the piazza is quieter and perfect as a place to sit, relax, and do some people-watching. It’s lined with restaurants, bars, and cafes, which are much busier at night and make for a lively evening hangout. 

Piazza del Ferrarese is also where Bari holds its celebration for the city’s patron saint, Saint Nicholas. Celebrations happen in May and December every year.  So, if you happen to be there during that time, you’re in for a party!

ProTip: When you’re in the piazza, take note of the archaeological finds the city has highlighted. These sites can be found throughout the old town, sometimes with signs explaining the significance. History-lovers wanting to go deeper should head to the free Museo Archeologico di Santa Scolastica on the coastal edge of the old town’s promontory. You’ll find artifacts from Bari going back to the time of the Byzantines, Normans, and ancient Greeks. The museum is most-definitely a hidden gem thing to do in Bari!

13. Eat Focaccia Barese-Style.

This is a must! Focaccia is a flat oven-baked Italian bread similar in style and texture to pizza. Growing up with a mother from Bari, the crispy outside and doughy inside combined with the delicate taste of tomato holds a special place in my heart.

But you don’t need to be Italian to melt over your first bite of Focaccia, especially when it’s done as well as they do it in Bari! Stop by Panificio Fiore on Str. Palazzo di Città for some of the best Focaccia in Bari Vecchia.

14. Walk the Bari Lungomare.

Bari is a seaside Pugliese city with long, deep roots to the Adriatic. To understand the city and its connection to the water, take an evening stroll before or after dinner along this seafront promenade.

Or perhaps stroll in the morning after stopping by the Old Port to buy some fresh fish. You’ll hear the call of the seagulls, breathe in the salty air, and relax with the azure views of the Adriatic.

Or if you’d like to sit back and relax, sightsee from the back of a rickshaw.

15. Photograph the Views of Teatro Margherita and the Sea.

Teatro Margherita is one of the other historic theaters in Bari and at the very least is worth a photo opp given its position along the sea in Bari’s old harbor. Built between 1912 and 1914, the building has an interesting history that includes a rivalry with the Teatro Petruzzelli. As you can imagine, the Petruzzelli family wasn’t thrilled to have a competing theater. 

Teatro Margherita was used as a theatre and cinema until 1979. Afterwhich, it was closed to the public for years. It’s since undergone renovations and has been converted into an art gallery space where temporary rotating exhibitions from Van Gogh to works of photography are occasionally on display.

16. Go to Bari Beach.

Puglia has many, many beautiful beaches not too far from Bari which will be much better than the beaches in Bari. Look no further than the spectacular Gargano and the Isole Tremiti in northern Puglia or Gallipoli and Otranto in southern Puglia.

But if you’re just in Bari for the day and want to take a break from sightseeing, eating Focaccia, & dodging Vespas then head to the local beach called Pane e Pomodoro.

Pane e Pomodoro Beach is a 10-minute car ride from Bari Vecchia or a 30-minute walk along the Lungomare Nazario Sauro depending on where you are in the Old Town. It’s a public beach so it can get a little crowded on the weekend but if you’re there during the week, you’ll likely have your own sandy real estate with views of the Adriatic.

There’s a cafe for refreshments and food, showers, and changing rooms. They don’t supply towels or umbrellas so you may want to come prepared if you plan to stay for a while on a hot, sunny day. 

17. Take a Bari Day Trip

Bari is just a gateway into the culturally and historically rich Puglia region! If you were thinking to use the city as a base to explore the immediate area for a few days, you have no shortage of possible day trips from Bari.

Keep in mind, the best way to explore Puglia is by car. There are some trains and buses but it can be hard, if not impossible, to access small countryside villages and see the surrounding region.

Polignano a Mare , Monopoli , Locorotundo, Martina Franca, and Alberobello are all within a 30-60 minute drive from Bari. And, in just over an hour, you can go from Bari to Ostuni.

Archaeological sites like Egnazia and Parco Rupestre Lama D’Antico are all under an hour’s drive from Bari, as is UNESCO World Heritage Site Castel del Monte.

And just over the Puglia line to the southwest, the famous ancient city of Matera is also about an hour’s drive and perhaps one of the most popular Bari day trips.

Even if you haven’t rented a car, Bari to Matera by bus is just an hour and 15 minutes away! (Unfortunately, there’s no Bari to Matera train.)

Hotels in Bari Italy

Deciding where to stay in Bari is an easy choice! The Old Town of Bari is the most convenient area to explore the city’s historic center and not far from the train station. The list below has a few of the best hotels in Bari.

iH Hotels Bari Oriente – This accommodation in Bari is located in the Murat area of the Old Town, just a 10-minute walk from Bari’s train station. The hotel and its guest rooms have been restored and breakfast is included with the rate. Check current prices. | Book now.

iH Hotels Bari Grande Albergo delle Nazioni – This 5-star hotel sits along the Lungomare and has views overlooking the sea. The rooms are decorated in a modern style and guests can access the rooftop pool. The hotel is within a 15-minute walk of both the Bari Cathedral and the train station.  Check current prices. | Book now.

Palace Hotel – Located in the heart of Bari Vecchia, this hotel is just a 5-minute walk to Basilica San Nicola and Bari Cathedral. The hotel has a rooftop terrace and breakfast is included.  Check current prices.  | Book now.

Is Bari Worth Visiting?

Yes! I admit I’m biased given it’s where my family is from. But, the coastal city of Bari and the Puglia region are rich in cultural and historical treasures not fully discovered by travelers planning a typical trip to Italy. But with so many things to do in Bari and Puglia, it’s a great city to include in your itinerary.

Not to mention how easy it is to visit more of southern Italy after Bari and the Puglia region. For example, Bari to Naples is less than 3 hours by car, making it easy to hop from one popular destination to another.

Given its beaches, local food, authenticity, and ancient past, the Puglia region has something for everyone to discover. And, this list of what to see in Bari is just the start!

What things to see in Bari are on your list?

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2 thoughts on “17 unexpected things to do in bari, italy”.

Thank you for your detailed things to do in Bari.

I’m travelling to Bari from 23-25 Dec, where should I base my family in Bari being Christmas and we have a rental car? We are starting and ending our Puglia trip in Bari. Travelling from Rome to Bari by train and arriving late Friday afternoon. Do you suggest we stay a night in Bari then pick up our rental car the next morning (Sat) then drive to Monopoli or drive direct to Monopoli on Friday night? Is it safe and easy drive in the night from Bari to Monopoli?

Anything we should watch out for?

Hi Janette, thanks so much for reading. 🙂 If you want to visit Bari’s old town, I would visit first before getting your rental car. Parking is difficult there. but if you want to go straight to Monopoli, the drive between Bari and Monopoli is not difficult. Most of it is on the major route along the coast. In my experience having driven all over Italy from north to south, major highways are no problem at night, well-lit, etc. Small country roads, though, may not have much if any lighting. If you have time, be sure to visit Locorotondo! It’s just 30 minute from Monopoli and is beautifully decorated at Christmas!

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Best of Bari: Our Travel Guide, Tips & Favourite Spots

Ciao Bari! As the second-largest city in Southern Italy and the capital of Puglia , Bari greets you with a genuine Italian vibe. If you’re planning a road trip through Puglia , you’ll likely start in Bari, as most flights land here.

If we’re being honest, it took us a bit of time to warm up to Bari. Unlike other Puglian cities, it’s not as polished and neat. But, what Bari lacks in polish, it makes up for with some stunning sights (the massive Cathedral of Saint Nicholas is a must-see) and, of course, the authentic Southern Italian charm off the beaten path in Puglia.

In this travel guide, we’ll introduce you to the top attractions for your time in Bari. We’ll also share our personal travel tips, such as must-visit restaurants and great day trip destinations.

1. Bari: Handy Facts & Travel Tips Before You Go

2. bari travel guide: best attractions & our tips, 3. food & drink: bari culinary travel guide, 4. day trips around bari, 5. staying in bari, 6. map: attractions and tips for bari at a glance.

Fascinating Facts & Useful Info About Bari

• Bari, the bustling capital and largest city of Puglia , is home to around 300,000 people.
• It’s a coastal city with a significant port.
• The city can be divided into the Old Town (“Bari Vecchia”) and the New Town . The Old Town is an almost endless maze of dark, narrow alleys, while the New Town is pretty modern.
• Until not so long ago, Bari had a bit of a reputation for being somewhat dangerous . However, this has drastically changed over the past 10 to 15 years. We never felt unsafe in Bari, but it’s still wise to follow common safety tips (keep your valuables safe, don’t leave anything in your car, etc.).
• Surprisingly, compared to other cities in Puglia, Bari remains quite un-touristy . Sure, you’ll find the typical souvenir shops, but overall, the city has maintained a very authentic vibe.

How Much Time Should I plan for Bari?

As the largest city in Puglia, we recommend setting aside a full day for exploring Bari. This should give you plenty of time to check out the main attractions and soak in the city’s ambiance without having to rush anything.

If you want to stay longer (like overnight) , that’s definitely doable. From Bari, you can make some day trips (e.g., to Polignano or Monopoli ). But we reckon you don’t necessarily need to plan a stopover in Bari.

What Are the Must-Dos in Bari?

Before we delve into Bari’s attractions in more detail in the next section, here’s our compact yet handy bucket list for a perfect day in Bari:

• Marvel at the gigantic Basilica San Nicola and visit the crypt below.
• Stroll down the “Pasta Street” ( “Strada delle Orecchiette” ) and maybe even buy some pasta.
• Walk along the ancient city walls and enjoy the view down to the harbour.
• Treat yourself to a delicious ice cream at Gelateria Gentile .
• Visit the Old Port at sunset and relish the seaside atmosphere.

Old Town of Bari

Most of the attractions we’re about to introduce you to are located within Bari’s Old Town, also known as “Bari Vecchia” . We first want to share some general thoughts about this part of Bari.

The Old Town of Bari, situated on a peninsula, is largely closed to regular car traffic . What you’ll notice immediately is that “Bari Vecchia” is different from other old towns in Puglia. It’s less polished , with even narrower and darker alleys.

Wandering through this labyrinth of lanes , you can easily imagine what life must have been like here decades ago. In some spots, it feels like little has changed.

The Old Town of Bari has managed to preserve its largely authentic flair . You’ll find souvenir shops, but not nearly as many as in other Puglian cities. (This is also because Bari’s Old Town is somewhat more spacious.)

Basilica of San Nicola

The Basilica of San Nicola is the most significant sight in Bari and, as the name suggests, is dedicated to Saint Nicholas of Myra (yes, THAT Saint Nicholas).

As the largest and most important religious building in Bari , we definitely recommend not just admiring it from the outside but also taking a look inside.

The vast interior of the church is incredibly impressive, with its large size, massive columns and arches, and the stunning Baroque ceiling. For many, the real highlight is in the basement. There, you’ll find the crypt holding the mortal remains of Saint Nicholas.

Entry : Free

Cathedral of San Sabino

The Cathedral of San Sabino, the another significant church in Bari, should not be missing from your must-see attractions either. Its bright façade , made of white-grey limestone, immediately catches the eye.

The Cathedral of San Sabino is famous for its museum located in the basement . There, you can marvel at archaeological excavations, such as early Christian floor mosaics . Note: The museum’s opening hours are different from those of the cathedral.

Entry : Free, 3 Euros for the church museum

Piazza Mercantile & Piazza del Ferrarese

Two of the most famous squares in the Old Town of Bari are Piazza Mercantile and Piazza del Ferrarese. They are located very close to each other, so we’ll cover them together in this section. Both squares are situated in the eastern part of the Old Town, close to the sea.

Piazza Mercantile has been used as a marketplace since the Middle Ages. Today, it’s filled with cafes, restaurants, and bars, making it a popular spot for gathering and relaxing. Here, you’ll also find the Colonna infame (Pillar of Infamy), the ancient pillory of Bari.

Walking further south takes you to the expansive Piazza del Ferrarese . This square is lined with several pretty buildings, such as the one that formerly housed the fish market . The tourist information office is also located here.

City Walls of Bari

Around the Old Town of Bari, parts of the historical city walls still stand. Along Via Venezia , on the eastern side of the Old Town, you can walk atop these walls.

From up here, you get a great view of the harbour (especially from the square near the Fortino di Sant’Antonio fortress) and can also spot some attractions from a new angle – like the backside of the imposing Basilica of San Nicola.

We personally really enjoyed this short walk. You can start, for example, at Piazza del Ferrarese (heading north from there) or near the Museo Archeologico di Santa Scolastica (heading south from there).

Santa Maria del Buon Consiglio

A unique attraction in Bari are the ruins of the Church of Santa Maria del Buon Consiglio, nestled amidst the maze of alleys on a small square.

The church was likely built in the 9th or 10th century. Today, only a few columns and remnants of the mosaic floor remain, hinting at its past glory. Overall, it’s a quite atmospheric spot that’s worth a quick visit.

Castello Svevo di Bari

Just outside the gates of the Old Town stands another key attraction of Bari: the medieval fortress known as Castello Svevo di Bari. You can walk around the fortress along the former moat to get a sense of its size.

This imposing castle dates back to the 13th century . Its purpose has evolved over time, serving variously as a military base, a prison, and a barracks.

Today, its rooms host exhibitions , primarily featuring archaeological finds, ceramics, and sculptures. It’s definitely a spot for those interested in art.

Strada delle Orecchiette

Just a stone’s throw from Castello Svevo di Bari, you’ll find the so-called Strada delle Orecchiette, or Orecchiette Street. Its official name is “Arco Basso”.

And guess what you’ll find here? Orecchiette, the pasta specialty of Puglia . In this narrow, dark alley, you’ll see women sitting and making orecchiette and other pasta right before your eyes. They knead, shape, and chat with their neighbours.

Locals and tourists alike can take home fresh orecchiette. But be cautious: the pasta isn’t fully dried, so it needs to be cooked fairly quickly. Unfortunately, it’s not the best souvenir to bring back home.

Old Port & Fish Market

In the eastern part of Bari’s Old Town, you’ll reach the Old Port, known as Porto Vecchio . On a jetty extending into the sea (Molo San Nicola), Bari’s famous fish market (“N‘ dèrr’a la lanze”) takes place during the day.

You can watch the fishermen bringing in their fresh catch and preparing it for sale. There’s also the option to eat something on the spot.

We ourselves were there in the evening for the sunset, after the vendors had packed up. At that time, you can expect a truly stunning sunset atmosphere.

Lungomare (Seafront Promenade) & City Beach

South of the Old Port, you’ll come across another of Bari’s attractions: the seafront promenade , known as Lungomare. It takes you southward to Bari’s city beach, named Pane e Pomodoro.

The promenade is one of the longest in Italy. However, it’s good to know that it doesn’t just run along the sea, but also beside a busy road . So, especially on a hot summer day, there might be more pleasant spots to pass time in Bari.

Also, it’s actually nicer to walk in the opposite direction (from the beach towards the Old Town) because you always have a view of Bari. The walk from the Old Town to the city beach takes about 20 to 25 minutes (one-way).

If that seems too long, you can just walk to the small viewing platform (“Largo Luigi Giannella”), which is a maximum of 10 minutes from the Old Town.

Shopping Street & Palazzo Mincuzzi

If you want to see the modern part of Bari , head south from the Old Town towards Via Sparano da Bari, the city’s top shopping street.

We personally were drawn to it mainly by one particular attraction: The Palazzo Mincuzzi . This splendid Art Nouveau building was constructed in the 1930s as a luxury department store and today houses a Benetton shop.

Also highly recommended is a detour to the Teatro Petruzzelli , which is just a few steps away from the shopping street. It’s a famous opera house that was destroyed by fire in 1991 and subsequently rebuilt.

Tours in Bari

Are you looking for unique experiences in Bari? We can recommend these tours.

Gelateria Gentile: For outstanding ice cream, head to this traditional gelateria located right by the Castello. They’ve been making ice cream since 1880. The shop has a very trendy design now, and the prices are on the higher side. Our favourite: Pistachio!

Vettor Ristorante: If you’re up for a special dinner, this is the place. Italian fusion cuisine (e.g., with an Asian twist) is served in a stylish setting. The prices are high, but so is the quality.

Flowerburger : This one’s for those who eat vegan/vegetarian. In this fast-food joint, you’ll find some really good burgers. Everything is plant-based and delicious. Perfect for a hassle-free lunch or dinner.

Polignano a Mare

About a 40-minute drive southeast of Bari, you’ll reach one of the most famous places in Puglia: Polignano a Mare. This town has become a magnet for visitors, thanks to its stunning location on the cliffs.

In the middle of the old town, you’ll find one of the most photographed beaches in Puglia: Lama Monachile. For a great view of the beach, head to the viewpoint “Belvedere su Lama Monachile”.

A little tip: For dinner, we highly recommend the restaurant Mint Cucina Fresca . They don’t serve classic Italian cuisine; instead, it’s more modern and very creative fusion cuisine.

For more tips, check out our detailed travel guide: Polignano & Monopoli

Monopoli is just about a 15-minute drive further than Polignano, making it perfect for a combined visit to these two places.

Here, you’ll be welcomed by a really polished, charming coastal town that’s simply photogenic with its white-limed house facades. Classic attractions aren’t the main focus here, although the Cathedral of Monopoli is admittedly quite worth seeing.

In our opinion, though, it’s more about the special atmosphere of Monopoli with its really nice city beach, the abundance of cacti, and pretty alleys that make the town so special.

Our Tip: Stay Outside in Putignano

We set up camp in the small town of Putignano and explored various destinations and attractions in this part of Puglia from there – including Bari (about 45 minutes away). For us, visiting Bari as a day trip was perfect, and we’d do it again in a heartbeat.

We stayed at the wonderful Dimora Clementina – a gem of an accommodation that we highly recommend. You get top-notch standards at a really fair price here.

In terms of design and amenities, many hotel chains could take a leaf out of their book. From the comfiest bed of our Puglia trip to slippers and heating/air conditioning – you really feel at home here.

The place is run by an incredibly lovely lady who is very accommodating and serves up a fantastic breakfast in the morning. Everything is homemade with lots of love. And if there’s Tiramisu: you must try it! It’s delicious.

The only tiny downside: Our room was quite noisy due to a connecting door. But that’s nitpicking at a high level. Overall, we were absolutely thrilled.

You can book the accommodation here: Dimora Clementina

Hotel Tips for Bari

Prefer to stay right in Bari? We’ve picked out two great accommodations for you in different price ranges.

VIS Urban Suites&Spa

This stylish, small design hotel opened in Autumn 2022. It’s quite centrally located, so you can easily walk to all the important sights in Bari.

You can book the hotel here: VIS Urban Suites&Spa

B&B Murex

A lovingly furnished bed & breakfast offering great value for money. It’s located very close to the Old Town of Bari.

You can book the hotel here: B&B Murex

To help you get your bearings on-site, we’ve marked all the attractions and tips of our Bari travel guide on this map. Little tip: Click on the rectangle in the top right to save the map to your Google Maps app on your smartphone.

Disclaimer: Affiliate Links

This travel guide contains our personal recommendations in the form of affiliate links. If you book or purchase something through these links, we receive a small commission. This doesn’t change the price for you at all. A massive thank you from us both!

Have you been to Bari? How did you find the city? Do you have any more tips for attractions, restaurants, or other places you’d like to share with us? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below!

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25 Best Things to Do in Bari, Italy (Puglia’s Capital)

Puglia’s capital might not be the most famed destination, but those headed to the southern Italian city will surely find plenty of reasons to love it. From unique medieval landmarks to exquisite food to amazing day trips, here are some of the best things to do in Bari.

* This post may contain affiliate links from which I earn a commission (for more info, read my disclosure ). As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

* I try to keep the information on this blog as updated as possible, but I still recommend consulting the latest prices, opening hours, and other details on the official website of each site, hotel, and tour, as well as checking the updated public transport routes and timetables.

Quick suggestions for your trip to Bari Highly-rated central hotels in Bari: 1. B&B Alighieri 97 (a simple B&B where I stayed as a solo traveler) 2. TRESCA CHARME luxury Rooms (apartment-like rooms in the old town) 3. BARI 102 (rated 9.9 and located near many restaurants and shops)

Highly-rated day tours from Bari: 1. Alberobello , the town of the UNESCO-listed  Trulli houses 2. Matera , a UNESCO site and one of the oldest cities in the world 3. Alberobello, Monopoli, and Polignano a Mare , two dreamy coastal towns

Top experiences in Bari: 1. Dining experience at a local’s home 2. Street food tour 3. Boat tour with aperitif

My favorite carb in Bari: There are so many good options, but the typical dish of Orecchiette with broccoli rabe at Mamapulia was spot on.

Table of Contents

Best Things to Do in Bari, Italy

Wander through the old town’s streets and piazzas.

At first sight, Bari is definitely not as impressive and striking as other cities in Italy like Florence, Rome, or Siena, but if there’s one area that’ll steal your heart, that’s the Old Town – Bari Vecchia.

This medieval maze of quintessential Apulian streets and squares is dotted with traditional restaurants, lovely churches, and little moments of everyday life with locals chatting outside their doors. Take your time to roam it properly to soak in the atmosphere.

If you love people-watching as much as I do, spend some time at Piazza Federico II di Svevia (near the entrance to Strada Arco Alto), Piazza Mercantile, and Largo Albicocca – Piazza degli Innamorati (the latter is charming specifically in the evenings).

Stuff Your Face with Street Food

I know it’s a cliche, but Italian cuisine is my absolute favorite, and I love trying each region’s typical foods.

Puglia is no exception, and it doesn’t take long to see that Bari is home to some top-notch restaurants, but it also excels in the street food department.

My favorites were  Panzerotto , fried dough filled with tomato and mozzarella, and  Focaccia Barese , topped with cherry tomatoes (fun fact: some recipes add mashed potatoes to the dough). For the best, head to the bakeries of Santa Rita and Magda.

You should also try deep-fried polenta squares called  Sgagliozze .

To learn more about these delicacies and explore the best spots with a guide, book yourself a street food tour !

Be in Awe of the Norman Swabian Castle (Castello Svevo)

Having been under the rule of the Greeks, Romans, and Normans, among others, Puglia’s capital (and the entire region) boasts a rich historical and cultural tapestry.

Its castle is one of my favorite landmarks, and I have to say it’s much more impressive in real life than in photos.

This fortress was commissioned by Norman King Roger II in the 12th century and was later rebuilt and remodeled by Frederick II of Swabia, Isabella of Aragon, and her daughter Bona Sforza.

It currently hosts temporary and permanent exhibitions, so if admiring its exteriors is not enough for you, visit its museum on your own or  take a guided tour .

Admire the Basilica di San Nicola and its Crypt

Built over 1,000 years ago, the Basilica di San Nicola is one of the most prominent landmarks in the city (and the region).

It boasts an imposing location in the old town, as well as a unique Romanesque style, and its crypt houses the relics of Saint Nicholas, making it a significant pilgrimage site.

You can visit it on your own or  opt for a basilica & crypt guided tour .

Visit the Cathedral of San Sabino and its Underground Museum

Just 5 minutes away, you’ll find another notable Romanesque site, the Cathedral of San Sabino (or Bari Cathedral), constructed in the 13th century.

If you love hidden gems as much as I do, know that for a small fee, you can access a secret archeological area called Museo del Succorpo, where you’ll find remains of an ancient Byzantine church, mosaics from the 6th century, and other unique relics.

Watch the Nonnas Making Pasta at Strada delle Orecchiette

If there’s one unique street you cannot miss in Bari Vecchia, it is Arco Basso, also nicknamed “Strada delle Orecchiette” (Street of the Orecchiette).

Here, you’ll see the nonnas sitting in the open air, making this famous Apulian pasta by hand and selling it and other treats like the savory snack Taralli.

These lovely women have become quite a tourist attraction in Bari, so buy something if you’re taking pictures and videos.

Fun fact: Some say that the pasta shape of Orecchiette, translating to “little ears”, was inspired by the Jewish sweets we eat on Purim, “Haman’s Ears” (Hamantaschen).

Relish a Gelato

A trip to Italy is never complete without a few gelato tastings, and Bari has got you covered with several must-try spots.

My absolute favorite is Antica Gelateria Gentile, not only because the gelato is heavenly (the nocciola and ricotta with pistachios were sooo good) but also because it has a perfect location right next to Bari’s castle.

Visit the Museo Archeologico di Santa Scolastica

If you want to dive deeper into Bari’s past, head to the Archaeological Museum, which is housed in a former Benedictine monastery and bastion.

I’m not sure if it’s a hidden gem or if most travelers just don’t bother visiting it, but it boasts a great collection of artifacts from prehistory to the Middle Ages. Plus, it’s free!

Discover the Remains of a Medieval Church

You might pass by this spot, marked on the map as Ruderi di Santa Maria del Buon Consiglio, and think there’s nothing special about it, but I found it enchanting.

All you can see now are a few columns, but it’s incredible to think that they’re the only remains of a church that was originally built in the 9th or 10th century.

Have an Aperitif in Murat

Immersing yourself in the aperitivo tradition of enjoying a pre-meal drink alongside some snacks is a must when traveling to Italy. While it was born in northern Italy, it became a popular cultural ritual all across the country.

I loved seeing the locals getting together to have an aperitivo in the Murat district, which seems lively throughout the week and not just on weekends.

Almost every bar, cafe, and restaurant offers an aperitivo deal, so you’ll be spoiled for choice.

Check out Teatro Petruzzelli

The striking Teatro Petruzzelli is Italy’s 4th-largest theatre, still functioning after 120 years. Beyond the ballet, opera, and classical music concerts you can attend, it’s also possible to  take a behind-the-scenes guided tour .

Go Shopping on Via Sparano

If you’re craving some shopping time, Via Sparano and its surrounding streets (in Murat) are the spot to splurge. While wandering this area, don’t miss out on admiring the beautiful building Palazzo Mincuzzi.

Fun fact: Murat was named after Joachim Murat, the ruler of the Napoleonic Kingdom of Naples. He was the first to commission construction outside the walls that surrounded Bari Vecchia (back in the early 19th century).

People-Watch at the Gardens of Corso Vittorio Emanuele II

While I wouldn’t it a garden, this part of the avenue Corso Vittorio Emanuele II is definitely prettier thanks to the palm trees that adorn it. 

It’s a nice place for a little break or a leisurely stroll towards the waterfront. If you head in the opposite direction, you’ll see two of Bari’s loveliest buildings – Teatro Piccinni and Palazzo del Governo.

Admire the Teatro Margherita and the Old Port

Corso Vittorio Emanuele II will lead you straight to Teatro Margherita, a beautiful Art Nouveau theatre that now functions as a contemporary art museum.

I haven’t visited the museum itself, but I did enjoy marveling at this stunning building overlooking the old port.

Head to the Fish Market

Puglia is THE region to indulge in fresh fish and seafood, and the morning-time produce at the  N’ dèrr’a la lanze Fisherman’s Market  is as fresh as it gets.

Located next to Teatro Margherita, it might not be everyone’s cup of tea because this is a place to try raw seafood, but it’s still worth visiting as it provides a glimpse into the everyday life of local fishermen.

Try Regional Delicacies at the City’s Best Restaurants

From pasta to seafood, Puglia’s traditional dishes do not disappoint. You’ll want to devour:

• Orecchiette with cime di rapa (broccoli rabe)
• Tiella Barese  or  riso, patate e cozze , a unique baked dish made of rice, potatoes, and mussels
• Spaghetti all’Assassina , a dish where raw pasta is cooked in spicy tomato sauce until slightly burnt (unconventional but amazing, as long as it’s not too burnt)

It’s obviously also important to choose the right places to eat, so my personal recommendations include Mamapulia, La Baresana, and Ristorante Antò, though I also had my eyes on La Cantina dello Zio and Ristorante Tiella.

Have a Morning Coffee with a Pasticcioto

Starting my morning at cozy neighborhood cafes is one of my biggest travel joys, especially in Italy, where the cappuccino is delightfully perfect and breakfast is all about delicious baked goods.

Some of my favorites in Bari include Florian Caffè, Mozart Caffé, and Antico Caffè del Carmine.

Alongside your coffee, a regional treat you must try is Pasticcioto, an oval-shaped pastry filled with ricotta cheese or vanilla custard. You’ll find it in most cafes and pasticcerias in the city, though the best one I tried was actually in another town.

Take a Free Walking Tour

As much as I love exploring a city on my own, I also enjoy taking guided tours, especially themed ones.

If you’re like me, you’ll be glad to know that despite its relatively small size, Bari offers three different free walking tours, which you can  check out here .

I really wanted to take the unconventional “The Jungle” tour, but it wasn’t available on the dates of my trip, so please take it for me and let me know how it was!

Walk on Via Venezia

On Via Venezia, you will find the restored city walls that once surrounded all of Bari Vecchia, originally built in the 4th century BC. 

Stretching from the Archaeological Museum to Piazza del Ferrarese, this short street is a great spot for a leisurely stroll with views over Bari’s seafront.

Get on the Ferris Wheel

It was closed during my trip, but I would have loved to take a ride on Bari’s Ferris wheel. Situated on one of the promenades, I’d like to see the city and sea views it offers, whether in the morning or at sunset.

Walk Along the Lungomare Nazario Sauro

From the Ferris wheel, you have to stroll all the way to Bari’s beach on the promenade Lungomare Nazario Sauro.

Dotted with plenty of benches, it’s one of the best places to visit in Bari if you want to fully soak in the sea views. Its only downside is that cars pass right alongside it, but that didn’t stop me from enjoying the experience.

Visit the Pinacoteca Metropolitana di Bari

While walking on the promenade, you’ll see the beautiful building of the Pinacoteca Metropolitana, an art museum mostly dedicated to Italian paintings and applied arts.

While it’s not necessarily a must-visit in my eyes, especially after seeing other art museums in Italy, avid culture and history buffs might find it more appealing.

Go to the Beach

The Puglia region boasts the longest coastline in mainland Italy, and it is home to some of the dreamiest beaches in the country.

While the ones often considered the best in Puglia are found in the Salento and Gargano peninsulas, you can still soak up some sun in Bari itself at Pane e Pomodoro Beach (translating to Bread and Tomato) or in the city’s surroundings.

Explore the Weekly Markets

As long as they’re authentic and not too touristy, markets are always a highlight for me. I love seeing what’s on sale, whether it’s antiques or food, and I enjoy watching the locals doing their market shopping.

Even in a relatively small city like Bari, you’ll find a few places to check out, like Campagna Amica, an incredible monthly farmer’s market that takes place all across the country. The dates can vary from one city to another, so consult the latest editions  here .

Also, Piazza Giuseppe Massari is supposed to host an antique market every first Saturday and Sunday of the month, but I wasn’t there personally as I traveled to Bari towards the end of the month.

Take a Day Trip

Coming to Bari for a laid-back weekend getaway is a good idea, but I highly recommend adding a few extra days to explore more of Puglia.

Although renowned for its beaches, it also encompasses whitewashed towns, archaeological marvels, medieval castles, olive groves, vineyards, and even national parks.

You can take quite a lot of day trips from Bari by train (at the Bari Centrale train station), by car, or with a guided tour, so if you can only pick a few, don’t miss out on Alberobello with its UNESCO-listed Trulli houses, Polignano a Mare, and Trani, a hidden gem in Puglia .

Go back to the top of the post to see the top-rated guided day tours from Bari.

Other Bari Tips

How many days do you need:  I’m all for slow travel, but I think you can enjoy Bari in about two days. Dedicate the first to the old town and its landmarks and the second to the beach and the Murat district.

When to visit:  I visited Puglia in March . It’s a bit unusual, but there are very few tourists, and it’s already getting warm, though not warm enough to go for a swim. To avoid the big summer crowds yet also enjoy some beach time, you might want to travel to Bari in mid to late spring or early fall.

Getting around:  While Bari has its bus system, it’s such a walkable city that you don’t really need to use public transport to get around. Plus, the old town is mostly pedestrianized. As for day trips, there’s a variety of bus and train lines that will take you to nearby towns and cities.

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About Or Amir

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I'm a passionate traveler obsessed with traveling in Europe and discovering hidden gems in each place I visit. For me, it's not about ticking destinations off the bucket list but experiencing each one of them to the fullest. Read more about me and my story.

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Ultimate Old Town Bari Travel Guide: Best Things to See, Do & Eat

This post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you buy or book through one of these links, I may earn a small commission .

Bari, the capital of Italy’s Puglia region, is not on most people’s radar, especially if you live outside of Europe. However, this southern Italian town is a hidden gem that offers access to unique cuisine, intriguing local history, and plenty of character. If you want something different from the typical Italy trip , a stay in Old Town Bari is the perfect place to start.

While beauty and historical sights are my usual draw, I visited Bari primarily to eat octopus. I first glimpsed this Puglian specialty while watching an episode of Andrew Zimmern’s Bizarre Foods.  As octopus is one of my favorite seafood dishes, I knew I had to visit Puglia sooner rather than later.

My husband, Aaron, and I finally booked five days in the region, combining it with a stay in the Greek islands . We left wishing we had more time to enjoy Bari’s local, low-key feel and access to locally-sourced, delicious food. If a stay in Bari is calling your name as well, below is my comprehensive guide to exploring the city’s charming Old Town. 

The Ultimate Guide to Old Town Bari

Bari background.

A port city on the sapphire blue Adriatic Sea, Bari is the capital of the Puglia region.  Records from 180 BC indicate that it was an important harbor city under Roman rule, when the city was called Barium.  Although today you are likely to see ferries and cruise ships at port, in ancient times this would have been a center of fishing and trade.

After the Roman times, the city changed hands over the centuries between the Byzantines, Normans, and various other rulers.  In 1558, Bari became part of the Kingdom of Naples and later part of Italy in 1860.

Today, the city is divided into the Old Town (Barivecchia) , with its tangle of narrow streets, and the new section (Murat) , which is more modern with a planned grid.  This article focuses on Old Town Bari, which is mildly gritty with a unique local spirit. 

What to do in Bari

1. wander the maze of streets.

Once plagued with petty crime, today Old Town Bari is transformed with a renewed focus on historical preservation and tourism. As one local noted, “Now you can walk around wearing three Rolex watches and be fine” (though I don’t recommend doing this anywhere).

While wandering, look for respite in the beautiful piazzas (or squares) to find eateries or simply a place to sit. One example is Piazza del Mercantile, which is full of life in the evenings and home to the 16th century “column of justice”. This is where criminals were once tied for public shaming and assault.

2. Walk on the Wall

The Bari city walls, or muraglia, date back to the 4 th century BC, although today’s walls reflect a 12 th century construction.  Built for the city’s defense, at one point they extended 1.2 kilometers and wrapped around the entire city. 

The walls were restored in the 19 th century, but now only extend about 400m.  Today, you can climb a staircase to stroll along the wall and take in gorgeous views of Bari’s waterfront and the Adriatic Sea.  When entering the Old Town by Basilica San Nicola, turn left and you will encounter a staircase on your left tucked into the city walls.

3. Stumble Upon Medieval Church Ruins

You can find the open-air ruins of Santa Maria del Buonconsiglio in the site’s namesake square within the oldest part of Bari. A curiosity, they sit lonely and mysteriously available to the average onlooker to wander and touch without much description as to what they are.

During later research, I discovered that the ruins encompassing Roman columns and mosaic tiles once belonged to a medieval church. The actual construction dates vary and happened in phases, with some elements being added as “late” as the 11th and 12th centuries.

The church went to ruin and was mostly demolished in the 1930’s. Sadly, the ruins’ easy accessibility means they lie unprotected, and are often subject to vandals and litter.

4. Visit Castello Svevo

Castello Svevo, or Swabian Castle, was built by Roger II of Sicily around 1131, but was subsequently destroyed during a siege of the city in 1156.  Frederick II of Hohenstaufen rebuilt the castle between 1233 and 1240.

During the 16 th century, Isabella and Bona Sforza of Aragon added defensive reinforcements around the castle, including a curtain wall and bastions. Not sacrificing style for substance, they also decorated the interior to match their renaissance tastes.

After that era, the castle was largely abandoned, save for being used as a prison and later, barracks.  Today the castle houses a museum , which you can visit for 6 euros.

5. Admire the Arches

A surprising element of Bari’s stone architecture you’ll encounter are the charming archways. While you are bound to pass through a few while simply walking around, here are a couple hidden ones to look out for:

• Arco del Carmine: book a romantic dinner under this arch at Osteria Le Arpie
• Arco dei Meravigli (“Wonder Arch”): Local legend says the arch was built in one night to facilitate the passage of two lovers. In reality, the arch connected homes belonging to the Meravigli family during the 16th century.

6. Visit Bari Cathedral

Bari Cathedral, or the Cathedral of San Sabinus (San Sabino), is the most significant church in Bari. Construction originated in the 11th century for a Byzantine cathedral. When it was destroyed in 1156, a Romanesque cathedral was rebuilt upon the original ruins between 1170 and 1178. The church was consecrated on October 4, 1292. 

From the outside, visitors can appreciate the cathedral’s Romanesque façade and rose window. Head inside to see sections of the original structure’s pavement, as well as visit the crypt, which houses the relics of Saint Sabinus.

Additionally, forgotten ancient structures lay beneath the cathedral at the Museo del Succorpo . Pay the 3 euro entry fee to see extensive ruins of an excavated ancient Christian basilica, an intricate mosaic floor, part of a Roman road, and more.

7. Check out the Basilica di San Nicola

Although Bari Cathedral is the most important church in the city, the Basilica di San Nicola overshadows it in fame. The church first began in 1087 to receive the remains and relics of St. Nicholas (yes, the Christmas one). They had just been stolen from Myra in present-day Turkey after the city fell to anti-Christian rulers.

The crypt was built first, but the simple Norman church facade we see today was not finished until the 12th century. Today, the site still draws Catholic and Orthodox Christian pilgrims who come to worship and receive the Saint’s “manna”, or water that forms around St. Nicolas’s bones each year. The manna is mixed with holy water and used for “protection and health in mind and body”.

8. Do a Walking Tour

Old Town Bari feels very much like a maze with its chaotic network of streets and pathways. It can be hard to know where you are or what you are looking at. Doing a walking tour will help you understand the significance of Old Town Bari and its place in history.

At the very least, I recommend doing a food tour! The food tour Aaron and I did ensured we tried all of the specialties of Bari and Puglia as a whole. The tour provided so much food that I couldn’t eat for hours and took a three hour nap afterwards. You will definitely get your money’s worth, while also learning some light history about Bari!

9. Stroll Along the Sea

One of the best perks of Bari is its location right on the Adriatic Sea.  There is a walkway along the water right outside Old Town Bari that is incredibly pleasant to stroll in the evening around sunset.  It also happens to be a very popular gathering spot for locals on the weekend.

In the morning, a stroll on this waterfront path might lead you past fisherman catching fresh octopus.  On a calm day, you might even see some confident locals doing laps in the water close to shore.

10. Go to the Beach

If you are craving easy beach access during your stay in Bari, check out Pane e Pomodoro (literally bread and tomato) beach just kilometers outside the Old Town.  This popular local beach offers a grassy picnic area, golden sand, a seasonal beach bar, and restroom/shower facilities. However, you will need to bring your own chairs and umbrellas.

The beach is reachable from Old Town Bari in about 40 minutes on foot or 10 minutes driving, and parking is available for 1 euro/day.  Although this beach is convenient to Bari, it is not the cleanest or most pristine in Puglia.  If you rented a car, there are plenty more beaches along the Adriatic coast to check out.

11. Explore the Museum of Archeology

Journey through Pulgia’s settlement and development through the ages, beginning with the Neolithic era through modern day. Located in the northernmost tip of Old Town Bari, visitors to the Museo Archeologico di Santa Scolastica can view ancient artifacts and walk through various ruins. Highlights include a monastery, defensive bastion, and settlement ruins dating back to Protohistory (the time immediately before written records). 

12. Eat the Local Specialties

With so much delicious local food, you will not go hungry during your stay in Bari.  After all, what drew me to Bari was fresh octopus, and you can even see fisherman tenderizing their fresh catches along the Adriatic.  Another local favorite is focaccia, traditionally dough with a crispy bottom topped with tomatos and herbs, and consumed virtually any time of day. 

Finally, you will see orecchiette pasta on most menus, as well as for sale in various colors at shops and stands all over Bari.  Oh, and what’s better with pasta than Italian wine?  Definitely try primitivo at least once during your stay, which is made with grapes grown either in Gioia delle Colle or Manduria.

Restaurants in Old Town Bari

While this is by no means an exhaustive list, here are some enticing eateries you must try while in Bari:

• Antico Caffe del Carmine: Cafe bustling with activity and bumping dance music that’ll wake you up along with your espresso.  We got our cappuccinos and cornettos here each day.
• Black and White: Sitting on the edge of Piazza del Mercantile, this restaurant is the perfect choice for an elegant date. You’ll find modern Puglian fare on the menu, with plenty of wines from the region to choose from. Reservations recommended.
• La Tana del Polpo : If you like octopus as much as I do, then this is the place for you! The seafood platter is where it’s at, consumed of course under a giant octopus decoration. Reservations highly recommended.
• Panificio Fiore: A local institution for fresh, perfectly crisp focaccia that often draws a long line out the door.
• Antica Gelateria Gentile: The smooth, creamy gelato flavors made here will cure any sweet tooth.  Be sure to order it topped with fresh whipped cream.
• Mastro Ciccio : Located just outside Bari’s Old Town, this casual eatery offers an array of sandwiches, but the octopus-filled one is the star.  Another unique menu item is the panzerotto, which is fried dough filled with ingredients like traditional mozzarella and tomato.

Day Trips Near Bari

Polignano a mare.

Medieval seaside town about 40 kilometers southeast of Bari that boasts the photogenic Lama Monachile beach. Don’t forget to stop at Focacce Memorabili for an array of different focacce (focaccias in Italian).

Visit the Sassi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site consisting of intricate cave homes dating back to prehistoric times. 

Gioia del Colle

If you are looking to taste local wine of Puglia, Gioia del Colle is a great place to start.  Specializing in Primitivo, stop into Polvanera Winery for an enlightening tasting to see how grapes grown in rock verses clay produce very different flavor notes (our favorite red was the Polvanera 17).

Alberobello

UNESCO site famous for its trulli, or homes built employing a unique mortar-less type of construction that dates back thousands of years.  The resulting streets of little white-washed homes with conical-shaped roofs looks like something out of a fairy tale. 

Suggested Stay in Old Town Bari

To fully immerse yourself in the charm of Bari’s Old Town, book a few nights at Octopus House .  This chic, cave-like flat sits right above a darling square featuring an excellent cheese and meat shop and a chill beer bar.  The flat’s giant windows look out onto the square below, and the best sights and restaurants of Old Town are within a five-minute walk.

Parking Near Bari’s Old Town

Parking in Bari might seem impossible at first, but it’s really just a practice in patience.  First of all, it is virtually impossible to park within Bari’s Old Town, since it’s mostly blocked off to cars.  There is street parking all along the outskirts of town, but it can be very difficult to find a spot. 

My husband and I ended up finding this nearby lot , which only charged to park during business hours.  Therefore, if you left in time for day tripping and stayed out all day, you could largely avoid paying at all.  Plus, sitting right on the Adriatic, this lot actually had a lovely view out to the sea.  We embraced the opportunity to walk along the water back to Old Town Bari in the evenings.

Getting to Bari

• Air: Bari has its own airport, called Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport. It is possible to get a direct flight into Bari from Rome, as well as other Italian and European cities.
• Train: More time consuming, but less expensive than flying, it’s also possible to connect to Bari by train. Tickets to Bari Centrale can be booked on the Trenitalia website . Keep in mind that delays and cancellations due to strikes are common.
• Ferry: There are several ferry routes to Bari from other countries and cities, such as Croatia, Greece, and Albania. Head to Ferryhopper to check prices and times, as well as book tickets.
• Vehicle: Driving in Bari is not for the lighthearted. While doable, be prepared for lots of lawlessness, ie. running red lights, ignoring lanes, cutting you off, etc. Also, watch out for pedestrians crossing the street at the last minute! We rented our sedan from Avis at the airport.

Now you are all set to see the best that Old Town Bari has to offer. To me, it is such an underrated foodie destination, and there is plenty to explore even beyond the culinary scene. After experiencing Bari, chances are you’ll be yearning to come back for even more adventures in Puglia.

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Bari blog — the fullest bari travel guide & what to do in bari, italy for first-timers.

I will start a series of articles about beautiful Italy with the first city of Bari, the capital of the Puglia region – the heel of the boot-shaped country. Hopefully the Bari travel tips in the article will be useful for those who are planning to travel to Bari. Just like any city in Italy, Bari is full of the taste of the sea, sometimes noisy and joyful, sometimes thoughtfully nostalgic for the past. At the age of 27 and having visited nearly a dozen countries, it’s hard for me flutter by a new city. But in the end, what does this important port city after Venice in the Adriatic Sea make my heart lost a beat? So, is Bari worth visiting, what to do in Bari, Italy and how to plan a perfect budget trip to Bari for the first-time? Let’s check out our Bari blog with the fullest guide to Bari (Bari travel guide, Bari guide, Bari tourist guide, Bari Italy guide) from how to get there, best time to come, where to stay, best places to visit, what to eat and things to do in Bari Italy to find out the answer!

• Sardinia travel blog — The fullest Sardinia travel guide for first-timers
• Alberobello travel blog — The fullest Alberobello guide for first-timers
• Bergamo travel blog — The fullest Bergamo travel guide for first-timers
• Milan blog — The fullest Milan travel guide for a great budget trip for first-timers
• Verona itinerary 1 day — Suggested Verona one day trip & how to spend 24 hours in Verona

Bari blog: Overview of Bari

Where is bari.

Bari is the capital of the Apulia (Puglia) region, located by the Adriatic Sea, Italy. It is the second most important economic center in mainland Southern Italy after Naples, and is a famous port and university city. Moreover, Bari is known as a great tourist destination with its unique architectures and beautiful romantic scenes.

Bari is just a small port city, right in the heart of beautiful Puglia region. In Bari, life is not rushed, hasty, seems gentle like most cities in the south of Italy. Here, looking around, only old people and children, gathered at the station and squares, it was rare to see young people.

The people here are very lovely, if you ask for directions, they will lead you to the place. The street is large with many shops and shopping centers, but the rhythm is quite leisurely and quiet. In the region of Puglia, compared to neighboring villages, Bari can be considered a city, only inferior to Lecce. Bari has an airport, also has a seaport, yachts in and out, going down from Croatia, or going up from Greece. Therefore, tourists often come here, but not to visit this city, but only as a resting place before a journey to places like Alberobello or Ostuni, for example. But, Bari has its own beauty that you should visit once if you have an opportunity to come here. It would be most ideal, you should spend 1 night here.

Why should we travel to Bari?

Bari was first known by the name of the city’s football team of the same name. If you are a fan of the Serie A football league, you will definitely know this Southern Italian team.

Due to its prime location, Puglia was regularly annexed by empires, from the illustrious Byzantine empire in the East, and then back under the ruling of Rome. In the 9th century Bari served as a transit station for the slave trade route from Eastern Europe to Western Europe.

My Italian friend once said: Personally, he found that there are two regions with the most beautiful scenery in Italy, which are Tuscany and Puglia, myself after two visits to Italy, I agree with him 90% of the time. He also especially likes Puglia because the people here are very warm, a little bit of ‘wear one”s heart upon one”s sleeve’ because since ancient times, the Puglia people mainly lived by sailors, very generous and hospitable.

Guide to bari: When to come?

Referring to Italy is referring to the Italian Summer, so come to Italy in the summer to fully enjoy the beauty of this country. Bari is a port city, can’t go to a place with the sea in winter, it’s not suitable at all.

Bari travel guide: How to get to Bari?

Bari has Karol Wojtyła International Airport (BRI) (this is Pope Jean Paul II’s real name) connecting to many major cities around the world. When I went to Bari, I chose the low-cost airline Volotea, the service quality was good and there was no delay. If you depart from another country, you can choose Turkish Airline, transit in Istanbul.

Traveling to Europe, traveling by train is the most convenient and cheapest way. Italy has an affordable Trenitalia train system that can be booked and paid online very easily. Please stop at Bari Centrale station.

Bari guide: Getting around Bari

Bari’s central district is quite small, so you can explore this lovely city on foot. If you book a hotel in a new neighborhood or suburb, you can buy single bus tickets to go and return. Buses in Italy are generally not as modern as other European countries, but they are also very comfortable.

Bari blog: Where to rent a room?

Bari is divided into 2 parts: Bari Vecchia (Old Town), which we mainly visit here and Bari Nuova (New Quarter), this is a residential area so you can find cheaper hotels and B&Bs than in the old quarter. In my opinion, compared to the common price in Europe, the price in Bari is at a more comfortable level, so go ahead and book a room in Bari Vecchia. There’s nothing better than waking up in a beautiful little B&B with a balcony overlooking the thousand-year-old neighborhood. During the trip to Bari, I stayed at Uncle Gennaro and Anna’s house, so I can’t share more hotel information with you. I usually book a room at Booking.com because the refund option is quite flexible.

Below we recommend more best budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

• The Nicolaus Hotel ( Agoda , Booking )
• Hi Hotel Bari ( Agoda , Booking )
• Mercure Villa Romanazzi Carducci Bari ( Agoda , Booking )
• Parco Dei Principi Hotel Congress & Spa ( Booking )
• iH Hotels Bari Oriente ( Agoda , Booking )
• Zodiacus ( Agoda , Booking )
• iH Hotels Bari Grande Albergo delle Nazioni ( Agoda , Booking )
• Hotel City Bari ( Agoda , Booking )

Check out more top and best hotels in Bari on Agoda.com or Booking.com .

Bari travel guide: What to do in Bari and top things to do in Bari Italy?

Strolling around old town of bari.

Bari’s Old Town is a bit smaller than Hanoi Old Quarter and you only need one day to visit all the most important sites. Bari today is probably not much different from Bari in the Middle Ages with rare Roman architectural features remaining. The characteristic of this architectural style is simple, solid lines, patterns and few cumbersome details or curves. In Europe, the important position of Christianity made all typical buildings more or less related to churches or monasteries.

Basilica San Nicola

Address: Largo Abate Elia, 13, 70122 Bari BA, Italy Hours: 7:15AM–8:30PM

Unlike every other city in Italy, the patron saint of Bari is Saint Nicolas, a saint of Russian origin. As I said above, because it is a port city, Bari’s cultural exchange with Eastern European countries is very strong and long in history. This is a rare case of a saint of foreign origin patronizing an Italian city. The inside of the church has an extremely impressive dome. Every year, Russians also make pilgrimages to Bari to visit the church. Even in 2009, Russian President Mervedev also visited Bari, enough to see the importance of Bari in East-West European diplomacy.

Cathedral of San Sabino

Address: Piazza dell’Odegitria, 70122 Bari BA, Italy

Another interesting thing is that Bari is patronized by up to two saints (normally just one). This church of Saint Sabino is the place of worship of the saint associated with Saint Nicola above. The architecture of these two churches is quite similar, even looking at the photos it is difficult to distinguish.

Swabian Castle of Bari

Address: Via Pier l’Eremita, 25/b, 70122 Bari BA, Italy Hours: 8:30AM–6:30PM/Tuesday: Closed

This is an ancient fortress, if you like to explore deeply about military architecture, then come here. That day, my companions and I went in a hurry, so we skipped this place.

Typical Bari style apartment

A typical Bari family will live in an apartment in a small alley of 4 to 5 households, called Corte. All activities have share in common and separate but very cozy like the subsidized dormitory in Vietnam in the past. I didn’t ask Gennaro carefully whether had to be live with family to live in a Corte or not, but this is a very Baritian style of living, not common in all of Italy.

Pane e Pomodoro Beach

For those who love the sea, do not miss Pane e Pomodoro beach. Breathing in the fresh air, walking along the beach and listening to the breath of the sea will make your soul become calm and peaceful. The romantic Pane e Pomodoro beach will be an interesting destination for you.

Planetario Sky Skan

Address: Fiera Del Levante, Lungomare Starita, 4, 70123 Bari BA, Italy

If you are a science and natural history enthusiast, then the Bari planetarium will definitely be your first stop. This place will give you a complete look at the natural sciences and the history of their formation.

Provincial Archaeological Museum

Address: Via Venezia, 73, 70122 Bari BA, Italy Hours: 9AM–7PM/Sunday: 9AM–1PM/ Monday: Closed

Another interesting place when you travel and explore the city of Bari is the Provincial Archaeological Museum. At the Provincial Archaeological Museum, you will be able to observe various artifacts in the natural environment as you across the exhibits.

People’s History Museum

Address: Left Bank, Manchester M3 3ER, United Kingdom Hours: 10AM–4PM/Monday, Tuesday: Closed

If you want to learn about the history of Bari, don’t forget to visit the People’s History museum. As one of the region’s important historical museums, the museum offers visitors the opportunity to learn about its extensive collections.

Norman-Hohenstaufen Castle

Address: Piazza Castello, 70028 Sannicandro di Bari BA, Italy Hours: Monday: 10AM–12PM, 6–8PM

Make a visit to an old castle in Bari intrigue you? Norman Castle with its ancient and quaint architecture will surely captivate you. More than that, it will be interesting if you learn about the historical stories about it.

Watch the sunset in Lungomare

As the sun began to sink into the deep blue sea in the distance, Uncle Gennaro and Uncle Anna took us for a walk down Lungomare Road, which is actually like a main street looking towards Bari Harbour, where the sun was dyed yellow each brick every afternoon. The sea breezes from the Adriatic Sea will help you cool off immediately.

Bari guide: What to eat in Bari?

Speaking of Bari, we must immediately mention Orecchiette, a signature pasta made by Bari women sitting on the porch in every small street. The name orecchiette means small ears, reflecting the shape of this pasta. Orecchiette pasta have more flour than normal pasta, so they are quite dry and must be eaten with a lot of sauce.

Italians always proud of the quality of their seafood. In Bari that pride still exists in the most intact form: eating raw. Yes, the Bari are proud because they have a type of sushi as unique as the Japanese: octopus sushi. Octopus is put in a bowl, served with salted olives and white wine. OMG, I almost made a joke when I put that raw octopus piece in my mouth in front of my Italian friends. When you pass by the seafood shops, you will be invited to try raw clams. Yes, I lived those “eating raw” days without diarrhea. In addition, during my stay at Uncle Gennaro’s house, I ate seafood pasta every day. Life will be paradise when you can eat fresh seafood every day, right?

I got to eat bread at a bakery that dates back to 1508 called Boulangerie Fiore (Panificio Fiore) (Address: Strada Palazzo di Città, 38, 70122 Bari BA, Italy/Hours: 8:30AM–1:30PM, 5–8:30PM; Thursday: 8:30AM–1:30PM; Sunday: 9AM–2PM), which is listed in the Lonely Planet book. You also call Pizza here. The bread here is sandwiches, inside including fresh tomatoes and lettuce with sauce. Sometimes, a bakery is as simple as that but becomes a symbol of the cuisine of that city.

This is a deep-fried pockets of dough which quite similar to the fried dumplings in Vietnam, inside with cheese, tomatoes and meat. Panzerotto is a popular street food in Bari. Here is the restaurant you should come The Big Panzerotto (Address: Via Sergio Pansini, 2D, 70120 Bari BA, Italy/Hours: 6PM–12AM; Monday: Closed)

Guide to Bari: What to buy in Bari as a gift?

There are two things you should buy as gifts in Bari: white wine and olive oil. The soil and climate here have created the best quality grapes and olives in the country.

Family of Uncle Gennaro and Anna

Uncle Gennaro and Aunt Anna were always smiling as if the Bari were born with a kindness that could not be hidden. Together they travel around the world and take photos as well as young people. Uncle Gennaro is a very good in cooking, he can make beer, bake cakes at home and assign us to help in the kitchen for him. Italian men cook so well that the kitchen has never been the domain of women. Uncle Anna is small but extremely resourceful. The two of them have been to Vietnam and after the Covid epidemic they will come to Vietnam, intending to stay for a month to explore.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Bari and Puglia you can refer to

• Private Bari Old City Guided Walking Tour
• Bari City Walk, by Bike or Segway
• Matera Tour from Bari
• Bari Street Food Walking, Bike, or Segway Tour
• Alberobello Walking Tour from Bari
• Castel del Monte Tour from Bari
• Bari City Walking, Bike, or Segway Tour with Pasta Making Experience
• Lecce: Baroque Architecture and Underground Walking Tour
• Polignano a Mare: Speedboat Cruise to Caves with Aperitif
• From Bari: Pasta Experience Walking Tour
• Alberobello: 2-Hour Guided Trulli Tour
• Ostuni: Olive Oil Tasting Tour
• Polignano a Mare: 1.5-Hour Boat Cave Tour
• Alberobello: History Walking Tour with Olive Oil Tasting
• Bari Walking Street Food Tour
• Apulia: Bike Tour through the Treasures of Bari
• Lecce: Walking Tour
• Lecce: Guided Rickshaw Tour
• Bari Rickshaw Street Food Tour
• Bari: Segway Tour & Gelato Tasting
• Bari Walking Tour
• Bari Street Food Tour by Bike
• Bari: Bike-Rickshaw City Tour

Read more Italy guide here .

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A Solo Woman Traveling

Boutique Travel Guides & All-Female Luxury Tours

7 Best Things to Do in Bari, Italy Itinerary

So you are going to Italy and have decided to visit the magical Bari? What you can expect from this part of Southern Italy is more authenticity. Don’t get me wrong; there are places on the Almfi coast that offer some traditional Italian stereotypes.

Though, from my experience, the Amalfi Coast is more for the tourists than the locals . The east coast of Italy has more to offer! This guide will focus on what to do in Bari, Italy.

Use this post to craft your own itinerary in Bari Italia! Included are all the best sites, restaurants, and hotels for the Puglia region.

When I visited the east coast of Italy, specifically Bari, Italy, it was less traveled and filled with far fewer tourists. I visited in what would be the high season, the summer.

You can count on it at the end of August to be hot as hell. My advice is to be SURE to find a place with air conditioning. 

Bari is a great spot to spend a mini-break weekend, but I really recommend a to spend 3 weeks in Italy to get an excellent overview of the country.

Human-written content, by me, and nearly all original images, unless stated. Posts could have affiliate links to help offset the cost of maintaining this blog. When you click on a link we receive a small commission. This is at no extra cost to you. See Our Affiliate Policy and Advertiser Disclosure for more info.

As a solo traveling lady, I must share that I felt very safe, even at night. I stayed right in the center of the historic old town of Bari. The evenings are when the streets would come alive with the locals.

A typical Italian tradition is for mature ladies to take their chairs out on the pavement and chat with their neighbors. I witnessed this every night, and seeing it made me feel like I was visiting the “real” Italy.

🚗 Best way to explore the Puglia Reigion is by renting a car!

7 Best Things to Do in Bari, Italy

• Get a Tour of the Cyrpt in Bari’s Famous Basilica
• Marvel at the Cathedral of San Sabino
• Explore the Norman-Swabian Castle
• Eat Your Way Through Old Town Bari
• Experience The Seaside Promenade
• People Watch in Piazza Mercantile
• Beachtime at Lindo San Francesco

Get To Bari, Italy | Transportation

When arriving at Bari international airport, you have the following choices of transit to the old town of Bari:

Airport Transfer

Taxi – If you want to take a taxi from the airport to Old Town Bari, it should cost approx. 20 euros.

However, websites warn that all taxis cannot be trusted to give you an honest price . My advice is to confirm with the driver the cost before getting in. 

🚕 Or just book a secure transfer so that you can be assured a fixed price !

Train – Taking the train from the airport is what I did, and I can recommend it. From the airport, you will follow the signs for the train that lead you underground.

There was an attendant at the desk at the entrance to the train selling tickets. Also, you could use the machines to get a ticket. 

The clean and efficient train felt safe for a single woman traveling. Taking the train to Bari is a journey of about 25 mins, and ticket costs were approx. 7 euros. 

After arriving at the central train station, the walk to the old town is 20 mins. I highly recommend it if the weather is beautiful and you don’t have much luggage. 

Renting a car is a great idea for this area of Bari, you can easily see so much of the country this way! I usually just take trains, but in an area like this, I would rent a car.

📲 Downloadable Map of Bari

📍 Download my pre-pinned Google map of all the best locations in this post!

My favorite restaurants, bars, hotels and top sights are all saved and ready to use!

👩🏻‍💻 Need Help Planning Your Trip? Get a customized itinerary !

Top Attractions in Bari, Italy

Wondering what to do in Bari? One of my many draws to Italy is the architecture. Baroque  city architecture can be seen all throughout this region of Southern Italy.

Appearing in the early 17th century, the baroque city architecture style is decorative and theatrical.

Some of the Basilicas of Bari represent the Baroque style. Here is a list of the most popular and must-see Basilicas and the best in the Bari region of Italy.  

Best Food Tour In Bari

See all the sites in Bari while trying some of the best street food in the Puglia region! This highly-rated tour takes you on a journey through Bari on a rickshaw!

Itinerary Ideas for Bari, Italy

#1. BASILICA SAN NICOLA

Construction started in 1087 and was completed in 1197.

St. Nicholas, a Patron Saint, was known for many miracles and was referred to as the wonderworker.

This impressive church, dedicated to St. Nicholas has a rich history and is located in the heart of Bari’s old town.

What is a Patron Saint? It is defined as protecting or guiding a person or place.

You can get all the history and VIP access to the crypt on a guided tour! Seeing the church through the eyes of a local is an incredible way to explore this Basilica.

Guided Tour of St. Nicholas Basilica and Crypt

Learn about St. Nicholas from an expert tour guide who will take you around the Basilica and under to get to see the Crypt!

#2. CATHEDRAL OF SAN SABINO (BARI CATHEDRAL)

This Romanesque-style basilica was constructed in the late 12th to late 13th centuries.

The most notable and interesting thing about this church is the underground crypt. The entrance fee is 1 euro.

#3. BARI CASTLE (CASTELLO NORMANNO-SVEVO)

If you are a castle lover like I am, you will want to check out the enormous Bari Castle which is said to have been built in 1132 by King Roger II.

Destroyed by King William in 1156 and then rebuilt in 1233 by the Holy Roman Emperor Frederick II.

You can walk the interiors and marvel at this castle’s sheer size and age. 

🎟️ Get Tickets: Get a fully guided 80-minute tour of this iconic castle! Check Rates & Availability !

#4. EXPLORING THE OLD TOWN OF BARI

Love to eat? Lose yourself in the small winding streets of the old town of Bari while eating along the way. Walking Street Food Tour

Authentic little Italian markets selling olive oil and soap can be found throughout this area. Enjoy an espresso or, my fav, an Aperol Spritz!

The small old town of Bari still has a feeling of true Italian authenticity. You can really feel the love of the community that resides here. Other coastal cities in Italy can be all of the tourists, but here in Bari, it feels local.

Walking Street Food Tour in Bari

Eat your way through Bari on this walking food tour! It is the perfect way to see all the sites and try the local cuisine.

#5. LUNGOMARE NAZARIO SAURO (SEASIDE PROMENADE)

The promenade is the perfect place to enjoy a sunset or a stroll along the Adriatic Sea on the coast of Southern Italy.

The seaside promenade is about 1000 meters long, packed with beautiful scenery of whitewashed architecture.

A walk along this promenade is a great place to start or end your day. Take the opportunity to enjoy a coffee or cocktail with a view. 

Another way to enjoy the sites of Bari is by bike! Bicycle tour of Bari

#6. PIAZZA MERCANTILE

The most impressive square in the heart of the old town of Bari is Piazza Mercantile.

Piazza Mercantile is close to the harbor and lively after sunset. Many of the most popular restaurants in the old town can be found here.

Find a place to sit, enjoy bread soaked in olive oil, and watch the world go by. 

#7. BEACH TIME AT LIDO SAN FRANCESCO

Did you come to Italy to relax? No better place to chill than the beach!

Bring your book and some sunscreen and enjoy the crystal blue waters.

Beach Lido San Francesco is the closest beach to the old town of Bari. It is not the most impressive beach in the area, but it is the closest you can get to by foot.

Looking for Art Galleries?

There are several museums and other sites to be seen in Bari. For your weekend break in Bari, you can also consider  Art Gallery Provincial Bari .

Best Hotels in Bari

B & z luxury ($$$).

A modern hotel highly rated for its great location and high-end finishes.

Reasonably priced accommodations in the heart of Bari! Check Rates & Availability !

Dimora Arco Basso ($$$)

A one-of-a-kind apartment located near Pane E Pomodoro Beach. Lofted ceiling and skylight!

This exceptionally highly-rated apartment is worth booking! Check rates & availability!

Lullaby Room($$)

A stylish loft apartment in the best area of old town Bari! Rated highly by couples and solo travelers!

Check rates & availability!

Puglia Region Hotels

If you are touring around the Puglia region of Italy there are some incredible places to stay. Check out some of the best Masserie hotels in Puglia !

Pro Tip:  Even though I found solo travel to be super safe, I ALWAYS recommend getting   travel insurance  to avoid any mishaps. Lost luggage or getting sick can happen at any time.

Bari Itinerary Best Restaurants

If you are a single woman traveling like myself, looking to stuff your face with a load of Italian food, keep reading. 

The food of the Puglia region is rich in seafood ! The most famous dish of Italy’s eastern coast is “Riso al Forno Alla Barese”. It consists of rice, potato, mussels, and so many spices. 

Osteria Vini e Cucina

The reviews online on Osteria Vini e Cucina are mixed. There is some truth to the service, and I would say the ambiance is not very cozy.

I thought the food was delicious. This is where I had the famous “Riso al Forno alla barese,” which consists of rice, potato, and mussels.

It can be hard to trust reviews about restaurants. I find the person posting the review might be giving it a bad review because of circumstances that have nothing to do with how good the cuisine actually was.

Urban l’ assassineria Urbana

If you are visiting Bari, you simply must try the restaurant made famous by Stanley Tucci and get the burnt pasta .

With your first bite, you discover the magic of this seemingly unconventional preparation. The burnt edges of the pasta create a delightful contrast to the tender strands, infusing each mouthful with a smoky and slightly caramelized essence.

The flavors are robust, with the sweetness of the tomatoes complemented by hints of garlic, herbs, and perhaps a touch of chili for a subtle kick.

As you savor the dish, you understand why Stanley Tucci has fallen in love with this burnt pasta. It’s a dish that captures the essence of Italian cuisine—the use of simple, high-quality ingredients, expertly prepared to create bold and unforgettable flavors.

Be sure to book the table in advance online!

L’Osteria Del Borgo Anitco

The best pizza I had in Bar was here at L’Osteria Del Borgo Antico . Usually, I avoid any restaurant sitting in the “tourist area,” but I am glad I made the exception. It was the best pizza I’ve had…ever. 

La Cantinia Dello Zio

I am a sucker for spicy arrabbiata sauce, and La Cantina Dello Zio doesn’t disappoint.

The pasta was so good; I ate here three times!! I also had their version of Riso al Forno alla barese, which I highly recommend. 

Al Pescatore

If you are a fish and seafood lover, Al Pescatore is the restaurant for you!

Located very close to the ferry port and promenade. It is a great place to dine after a sunset stroll along the water.

Biancofiore

Restaurant Biancofiore is your more upscale seafood restaurant. You will find it conveniently located just off the main road heading into the old town of Bari.

The perfect place to share a romantic dinner or treat yourself after a long day of sightseeing.

My Favorites Cafes in Bari

Veronero caffé.

Does the idea of eating a chocolate croissant make your mouth water? Yes? Visit Veronero Caffé , a modern and swanky-style cafe serving the world’s best croissants!

The delicious croissants are available in 2 sizes, large and small. It is also worth mentioning that they serve soy milk , which can be very hard to find at other cafes.

Caffe Vergnano 1882

Caffé Vergnano 1882 is the perfect place if you want more than just a great espresso. Perfect for breakfast or lunch, but it does get busy, so be advised.

I am an early riser, so I would show up just when they opened for my coffee.

Frulez 

Frulez has all healthy options for when you can no longer zip up the jeans after eating all the burnt pasta.

Cafe Frulez has a variety of juices, teas, and coffee. Satisfy your craving for fresh vegetables, salads, and sandwiches here. If you are looking for the place with the most options for vegans, you have found it.

Is Bari Safe For Solo Travel?

I visited Bari as a solo woman and I have to say I felt very safe. Even in the evening, I felt comfortable walking alone.

Since I am a seasoned solo traveler I know how to research the safest cities, and I always stay in the center of the tourist area.

More often than not, the tourist area will be the safest in any city. If you are a woman traveling alone in Bari be sure to keep vigilant, but I see no reason you should be concerned.

Solo Female Travel Safety Gear

Secondary Lock

Feel extra secure in your accommodations with this affordable secondary lock.

Portable Safe

Want to protect your valuables anywhere? This portable safe will do the trick!

Portable Wifi

Being connected makes me feel safe! Get a portable Wi-Fi device and have the internet everywhere!

Travel Insurance

I don’t care how safe the city is, things happen. I always get travel insurance anytime I travel!

Travel Apps for Women

Download 13 must-have travel apps for women

Emergency Numbers

Emergency Number in Europe : Dial 112 & Emergency Number in the United States: Dial 911

The Best Day Trips From Bari, Italy

Nothing completes the Bari, Italy itinerary quite like a day trip tour . And, what I loved most about staying in Bari was that it was so close to the most beautiful coastal towns, without the costal price.

A very simple day trip will take you to an Italian paradise along the sea. I have some suggestions if you want to see more of Puglia on your east coast Italy trip from Bari! 

Take the train from the Bari central station to both Polignano a Mare and Monopoli. The first stop is Polignano a Mare, and the next stop is Monolopi. 

The journey from Bari takes only about 30 mins and costs less than 4 euros.

A Solo Woman Traveling Tip : Get your train tickets online .

If you buy them at the station, give yourself an extra 20 mins to wait in line. I have never seen a machine take longer to produce a ticket than these.

Even someone who knows exactly what they are doing could grow old waiting for the machine to spit it out.

Save yourself time and frustration by having it ready to go before you get there. 

Once you have arrived at either station, it is a quick walk to the old towns. Most amazing views from both these seaside towns! 

Day Trip to Polignano a Mare

A little slice of Italian heaven can be found here in Polignano a Mare ! I enjoyed a few hours of walking the streets of this enchanted village. If you have time to stay a night, I would highly recommend it!

An incredible way to spend 1.5 hours in Polignano a Mare is doing a boat tour .

If your time is limited and you don’t want to miss anything, check out this highly-rated Walking Tour .

Bari Italy Itinerary | Day Trip to Monopoli

Embarking on a day trip from Bari to Monopoli is a delightful way to explore the enchanting coastal charm of southern Italy.

Just a short distance away from Bari, Monopoli beckons with its picturesque streets, ancient architecture, and serene beaches.

The journey begins with a scenic train ride or a leisurely drive along the Adriatic coast, allowing you to soak in the breathtaking views of the azure sea.

Upon arrival, you are greeted by Monopoli’s historic center, where narrow alleys wind their way through whitewashed buildings adorned with vibrant flowers.

Stroll along the cobblestone streets, visit the Cathedral of Maria Santissima della Madia, and discover hidden gems tucked away in charming piazzas.

Indulge in a leisurely lunch at a local trattoria, savoring fresh seafood delicacies that exemplify the coastal region’s culinary prowess.

As the day unfolds, make your way to the beach, where the crystal-clear waters invite you to relax and soak up the Mediterranean sun.

A day trip to Monopoli promises a delightful blend of history, culture, and coastal beauty, leaving you with cherished memories of this captivating Italian gem.

Day Trips From Bari, Italy | Quick Tips

• Be conscious of your arrival time. Many shops and restaurants close up between 2 pm-6 pm . As a result, you should plan your time accordingly.
• f you plan to visit both places on the same day, plan to get to Polignano a mare early .
• Make reservations for lunch & and dinner for wherever you will be at the time.
• Bring a little cash, just to be safe.

Top Rated Day Tours From Bari

If you would rather save yourself the hassle of doing a self-guided tour, check out the top-rated organized tours from Bari!

On most of my trips, I base myself in a main city near an airport and then make day trips.

When I visited Bologna I made a day trip to Verona and Florence.

I hope you enjoyed the Bari, Italy itinerary! For more ideas on where to visit in Italy, be sure and check out the post of Hidden Gems of Italy .

Final Thoughts About Visiting Bari Best Things to Do

Bari is one of the more authentic cities in Italy that I have visited. I would highly recommend making a trip if you are looking for a slower-paced destination.

Of the 7 best things to do in Bari, exploring the old town on a food tour was the highlight for me.

And although I would recommend visiting the Almafi Coast too, I had a much more relaxed experience visiting Bari.

Looking for help planning your trip? There are expert trip planners like The Gallivanting Spoon .

FAQ’s

Bari is a great city for tourists! It is rather cheap compared to other cities in Italy. There are far fewer tourists as well.

Three days in Bari is enough time to see all the small city has to offer. If you have more than 3 days in Bari, I recommend you make day trips to other places in the Puglia region.

Bari is extremely walkable and easy to navigate. If you fly into the Bari airport you can take the train to the old town of Bari and walk to the city center.

Ready to Explore

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Melissa Byron, a seasoned solo traveler since 2009, is the founder & visionary behind A Solo Woman Traveling. Drawing from her extensive personal experience globetrotting solo to over 40 countries, she has dedicated herself to a mission: crafting invaluable guides and itineraries for women who embark on solo adventures.

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I’m in Bari solo until I pick up a bike tour. My client sent me your list and it’s great! Thanks

That’s great! How many days are you there for??

Hi, just came across your blog – travelling to Bari tomorrow. Any tips on a nice place to stay (hotel/b&b)?

My top recommendations would be these here https://asinglewomantraveling.com/best-hotels-bari-italy/

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What To Do in Bari Italy: A Full Guide To Puglia’s Capital

Last updated on March 26th, 2024 at 11:59 am

Port cities, in general, are fiercely underrated and Puglia’s capital is no exception but this guide is here to show you what to do in Bari and why this charming city is absolutely worth visiting. Keep reading for the best things to do in Bari and all the practical information you need to plan the perfect trip.

The second-largest city in Italy’s South after Naples, vibrant Bari is not only the perfect base from where to explore the stunning region of Puglia but also Italy’s all-time gateway to the East, from ancient times to the Roman Empire and beyond. Frequent ferries that arrive at and depart from Bari Port connect Italy to some of its closest neighbours such as Greece, Albania, Croatia and Montenegro.

Sadly, the fact that Bari has always been one of Italy’s major ports is a curse for the city. Visitors tend to overlook Puglia’s capital while nearby towns and cities flourish. But with so many amazing things to see in Bari, it turns out that planning a trip there is one of the best things to do in Italy. So, here’s what to do in Bari for a trip to remember.

Some of the links in this article are affiliate ones. This means that if you click through them to make a purchase, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you . Also, this article contains sponsored content. For more information, visit our Disclosure page .

If you’re headed to Rome, check out our complete Rome Travel Guide and 4-Day Itinerary!

Travel Resources For Bari

• Find the best deals for your flight with cashback from/to Bari here .
• Book your airport transfer from Bari Airport to your accommodation.
• Plan your trips within Italy by Flixbus here .
• Buy your rail pass to get three to eight travel days across Italy within one month.
• Find the best deals at  Booking . com  for your accommodation in Bari.
• Rent a car in Bari to continue your trip across Puglia.
• Book the best tours with GetYourGuide or Viator in Bari.
• Travel without a worry in Bari. Click here to buy your travel insurance .
• Ready for your holidays in Italy? Here’s our list of the best books set in Italy to keep your wanderlust going.

How Many Days & What To Do in Bari

Home to one of the busiest passenger ports in Europe and an international airport alike, Bari is the entry point to Italy for a lot of travellers. That said, not many of them choose to spend time in the city itself. That is a great shame if you ask us.

If you’re wondering what to do in Bari, you should know that not only is the city itself worth spending as much time at as possible but Bari is also the ideal base from where to explore one of Italy’s most authentic regions: Puglia. Therefore, make sure you spend at least 2 days in Bari for the city’s charms alone, adding a week or two if you’re planning to see the best of Puglia as well.

As far as the city itself is concerned, you only need to explore two districts if you want to check out the top things to do in Bari. First and foremost, you have the medieval Old Town which is built on a peninsula overlooking the Adriatic Sea.

Then, there is the Murat Quarter (Borgo Murattiano) . Built in the 19th century, this is the heart of modern Bari and the city’s main shopping district. Murat is located south of the Old Town of Bari. It extends from the promenade to Bari Centrale, the city’s main railway station.

Top 15 Things To Do in Bari Italy

1. get lost in the old town’s quaint alleys.

Walking aimlessly around the enchanting narrow streets of the Old Town definitely and indisputably tops the list of best things to do in Bari. Although we travel extensively across Italy and have fallen in love with many a quaint Italian Old Town, there is something about Bari that makes it stand out from the rest.

Built between the city’s two ports (the modern and the old one), Bari Vecchia , as locals call the historic centre, is a maze of narrow alleys lined with beautiful buildings that have remained the same since the medieval times when the city was constructed.

While strolling around Bari Old Town, you’ll be impressed by the countless small yet ornate shrines on the city’s walls. Far from being neglected, these shrines are decorated with fresh flowers and they give the city a very special touch.

What we love about Bari Vecchia the most, though, is its authentic ambience. All across the city, there are children playing football in picturesque piazzas while people of all ages engage in lively conversations from makeshift living rooms right outside their front doors. To be honest, nothing feels more nostalgic than this.

Check out the best of the city’s attractions in just 2 hours with this tour!

2. Step Inside The Basilica di San Nicola

One of the best places to visit in any city is usually its Cathedral. Yet, in Bari’s case, the Basilica of San Nicola is the church that steals the Cathedral’s thunder. For good reason.

Built in the 11th century to provide shelter to some of the relics of Saint Nicholas of Bari, the Basilica is an important religious site for both Roman Catholics and Orthodox Christians. Saint Nicholas is the patron saint of Bari and legend has it that he was a fan of secret gift-giving. Does this ring a bell? Exactly! We’re talking about Saint Nick himself aka Santa Claus!

3. Visit The San Sabino Cathedral

Although overshadowed by the Basilica of Saint Nicholas and the legends that go with it, Bari Cathedral is worth a visit all the same. Situated at the quaint Odegitria Square, Bari’s Cathedral is dedicated to Saint Sabinus. Constructed between the late 12th century and 13th century, the Cathedral is a fine example of Apulian Romanesque Architecture.

Other beautiful places in Puglia, such as  Ostuni  and the coastal towns of  Otranto and Trani , are also home to gorgeous Cathedrals built according to the same architectural trend.

Visit the Cathedral of San Sabino and any other major tourist attraction in the city on a bike tour!

4. Say Hi To The Sweetest Ladies at Orecchiette Street

The word orecchiette means little ears in Italian. Yet, in Puglia, orecchiette always refers to a kind of handmade pasta that is typical of the region. This pasta is shaped like, you guessed it right, small ears.

Orecchiette Street or Strada delle Orrechiette is located directly across from the entrance to Bari Castle. However, this isn’t the picturesque alley’s official name. But why would a street be named after pasta?

If you walk along Orecchiette Street from about 10 AM to 5 PM (probably earlier in autumn and winter) every day, you will stumble upon the sweetest local women who set up tables outside their front doors and make fresh pasta while chatting with neighbours and passers-by.

Yes, this is how magnificently stuck in the past Bari is. And, yes, you MUST buy fresh pasta from these local ladies. Apart from orecchiette pasta, the ladies also make cavaletti (yet another of Puglia’s signature pasta types) and tarallini, Puglia’s go-to snack that can become seriously addictive.

By the way, the street’s actual name is Arco Basso . It takes its name after the low arch that marks the entrance to the alley. Arco Basso is only one of fifty medieval passageways of this kind that are scattered across Bari Old Town.

Join the most amazing pasta experience walking tour!

5. Stroll Along Bari’s Splendid Promenade

Bari is a coastal city. As such, it’s home to a gorgeous promenade with jaw-dropping views of the Adriatic Sea. Most guides will tell you to walk along Lungomare Nazario Sauro which has a total length of about 1 kilometre .

However, keep in mind that, although Lungomare Nazario Sauro is indeed the best part of the entire promenade, it is still just one part of Bari’s long promenade. The latter, according to Google Maps, takes up a different name every 1000 metres or so.

We would recommend walking all the way from Piazza del Ferrarese to Pane e Pomodoro Beach, covering a total of about 3 kilometres, so that you can admire some of Bari’s landmarks along the way.

The first building you will come across if you follow this route is the superb Teatro Margherita , a former theatre that now operates as a small museum. Right next to this magnificent building, you can walk along the Old Port of Bari where local fishermen hang out next to Bari’s iconic blue fishing boats.

Walking past the San Nicola Pier, you will soon reach Bari’s Ferris Wheel . Keep walking but try to take your eyes off of the sea every now and then. This way you’ll get to admire the fabulous architecture that lines the other side of the promenade.

End your stroll at Pane e Pomodoro Beach so that you get a glimpse of what the city’s beaches look like. Admittedly, it’s not one of the most beautiful beaches you’ve ever seen, but it’s ideal for a relaxing walk. Nearby Torre Quetta Beach is a lot more pleasant but you’ll have to walk an extra one and a half kilometre to get there.

6. Ride The Bari Ferris Wheel

Riding the Ferris wheel is one of the top Bari activities you can try while in the city. The Bari Ferris Wheel reaches a maximum height of 55 metres, allowing you to marvel at Bari from above. It’s open every day, from 10 AM to late at night. Yet sunset is hands down the best time to enjoy a ride.

7. Eat Focaccia Barese

No trip to Bari is complete without eating your body weight in focaccia barese. You’ve probably tried focaccia elsewhere in Italy or even in other countries as well. Yet nothing’s quite like the real thing. And by the real thing, we mean the absolutely scrumptious version made in Bari and the rest of Puglia.

You can taste focaccia barese at any bakery in the city. During our short trip to Bari, our personal favourite focaccia place was Diana at Piazza del Ferrarese.

Read our guide to the best local food in Puglia!

8. Mingle With Locals at Piazza Mercantile & Piazza del Ferrarese

To be honest, it took us a while to realise that Piazza Mercantile and Piazza del Ferrarese were actually two different squares. It’s hardly a 200-metre walk between the two and, well, it feels as though it’s just one and the same square. One way or another, this is the perfect place to go if you want to be among locals. Especially in the evening and at night.

Early in the evening, grab some freshly made gelato from Sandrino and follow in the locals’ footsteps as they enjoy their quintessentially Italian passeggiata, past the unassuming Colonna della Giustizia. At night, head back to the two squares where locals flock, drinks in hand, to catch up with their friends and loved ones.

9. Spend an Evening At Largo Albicocca

We can safely say that this tiny square hidden in the maze of streets that comprise Bari Old Town took our breaths away and helped Bari find its way to our hearts and stay there for good. This formerly neglected open space in the historic centre is now turned into an urban garden of sorts that comes alive with laughter and animated conversation every evening.

Apart from its inescapable charm, Largo Albicocca is an essential stop in Bari for yet another reason. This romantic square is a great place to taste the city’s most delicious street food . By the way, if you thought that street food in Puglia is all about the focaccia and nothing but, you couldn’t be more wrong.

At Largo Albicocca, you can taste two of Puglia’s most popular street food dishes. The iconic panzerotto and the sgagliozze. The panzerotto is the Pugliese take on calzone. Think of mouthwatering pizza dough filled with tomato and mozzarella and then deep-fried to perfection. This is the panzerotto and Pizzeria di Cosimo in Largo Albicocca is a great spot to try it in Bari.

On the other hand, sgagliozze are slices of polenta that are deep-fried and seasoned with salt. Simple though it may sound, this is a very popular snack in Bari and some of the most delicious food you can try in the city.

Taste the city’s scrumptious treats while cycling around the city! Book the best street food tour by bike now!

10. Check Out Castello Normanno-Svevo

Built around 1132, the Norman Swabian Castle of Bari is an impressive construction encircled by a moat on almost all of its sides. One of the best attractions in Bari, the Norman castle became a centre for the arts in the 16th century. It now serves as an exhibition centre and events venue. For more information about the opening hours and admission fees of Castello Svevo di Bari, visit the official website .

11. Walk Along Via Sparano da Bari

Do you like to shop till you drop during your travels? If so, you will absolutely love the shiny Via Sparano , the main street for shopping in Bari . If you don’t care about shopping, you should take a stroll along Via Sparano anyway. The street’s unique vibes and wonderful architecture are definitely unmissable.

Sparano Street is lined with historic buildings such as the ornate Palazzo Mincuzzi . The latter was built as a luxury department store at the beginning of the 19th century when commercial architecture flourished.

Another construction not to miss while walking along Via Sparano is the imposing San Ferdinando Church , which is a superb example of Italian Rationalist architecture and one of the most beautiful churches in Bari.

12. Admire Teatro Petruzzelli

It was in 1903 that Teatro Petruzzelli , the largest theatre in Bari and the fourth-largest in Italy, opened its gates to the public for the first time. The theatre hosted countless performances and eminent artists like Luciano Pavarotti and Frank Sinatra throughout the decades that followed before a fire destroyed it completely in 1991.

Nowadays, Teatro Petruzzelli is restored to its former glory. It hosts concerts and ballet performances. It also serves as the city’s opera house. If you don’t have time to attend a live show, you should at least join a 30-minute tour that will take you on a journey across the theatre’s rich history.

13. Get in The Depths of Castellana Caves

If you’re wondering what to do in Bari in case you’re spending more than a couple of days there, you should know that there are countless amazing things to see in Puglia and Bari is the optimal base from where to explore the surrounding region.

Among the best places to visit on a half-day trip from Bari are the impressive Castellana Caves . This massive complex of underground chambers was first explored in 1938. However, it’s estimated that it has been around for more than 90 million years.

You can visit Castellana Caves on a guided tour only. There are two itineraries available. The complete itinerary covers a distance of three kilometres and lasts for about two hours.

Alternatively, the partial itinerary covers a distance of one kilometre and lasts for 50 minutes. It goes without saying that we highly recommend the 3-kilometre tour. During that, you’ll get the chance to marvel at the best chambers, including the impressive White Cave .

The complete itinerary starts from the so-called Grave . This is a huge chamber that features an opening on its roof through which bright sunlight enters the cave and illuminates its walls in the most fantastic way.

Then a magical journey through chambers and corridors begins. Throughout the tour, you’ll get to marvel at beyond-words gorgeous natural masterpieces while your knowledgeable local guide narrates stories related to the stalactites, stalagmites and other formations you come across along the way.

Our personal favourite part of the tour was walking along the Desert Corridor . The latter is a dark 500-metre-long passageway that feels as though you’re inside a canyon somewhere in the desert.

The complete itinerary ends at the White Cave . The latter is regarded as the most impressive chamber of the Castellana complex and the brightest cave in the world. Words can’t really describe the impossibly white stalagmites and columns that adorn this chamber. As if that wasn’t enough, the contrast between the shining White Cave and all the other chambers that are dark and dimly lit is utterly fascinating.

Castellana Caves are open all year long. Keep in mind that, inside, there’s a constant temperature of 14°C to 18°C so dress accordingly. Also, be aware that the floor is quite slippery so wear trainers or hiking boots. Check out ticket prices and opening hours and get ready for a unique experience!

14. Take a Day Trip To Polignano a Mare or Monopoli

When it comes to amazing yet easy day trips from Bari, the sky’s the limit. Yet the most obvious choice is to head to either Polignano a Mare or Monopoli. Or both.

Polignano a Mare and Monopoli are probably the most enchanting seaside towns you have ever laid eyes on. They are both less than 40 minutes from Bari either by car or by public transport.

You can read our guide about what to do in Polignano a Mare in one day here!

If you google Puglia and press the Images tab, Polignano a Mare will most probably be the first result to pop up. Actually, it’s no wonder that Polignano a Mare is among the most photographed places in Southern Italy. The coastal town is utterly mesmerising. This is why it attracts hordes of visitors, especially at weekends and public holidays.

With a stunning Old Town perched on a dramatic limestone cliff and a fantastic beach below, Polignano a Mare and its charms will definitely make you regret you didn’t spend more time there than just a day. That’s how we felt for sure.

Equally charming but with fewer crowds, Monopoli boasts a compact historic centre and a glorious promenade. Yet the ultimate highlight in this small town on the Adriatic Coast is the Old Port with its postcard-perfect blue fishing boats.

Although Monopoli is very compact, don’t underestimate the amount of time you’ll need to enjoy it. Make sure you spend a full day soaking up its unique ambience and unparalleled beauty.

15. Explore Valle d’Itria

Itria Valley is probably the most quintessentially Apulian part of the entire region. This is the very land which is dotted with countless trulli. The latter are the iconic and utterly charming buildings with conical roofs that are unique to the Puglia region. Moreover, Valle d’Itria boasts spectacular countryside where century-old olive groves and vineyards are abundant.

There is yet another thing that renders Itria Valley absolutely irresistible. This is no other than the picturesque towns that are scattered across the area. If you’ve ever dreamt of visiting Alberobello, Cisternino, Locorotondo or Martina Franca, you should know that they are all within a short distance from one another and, at the same time, conveniently located about an hour drive from Bari.

After Bari what? Continue your trip across Southern Italy! Check out our complete guide to Matera!

How To Get To Bari

You can get to Bari by plane from many European cities. Bari International Airport is situated a mere 8-kilometre drive from the city centre.

Alternatively, you can get to Bari by ferry from Greece, Albania, Croatia and Montenegro. The ferry is the optimal way if you’re planning a road trip across Puglia to check out all of the region’s picture-perfect villages and some of the best beaches in Puglia, just like we did.

Last but not least, Bari connects to countless destinations within Italy by frequent train service. Train travel is one of the best ways to see Italy anyway.

Find the best deals for your flight with cashback to Bari here . Alternatively, if you prefer to travel to Bari by ferry , you can buy your tickets here .

If you are on a train trip across Europe, you can buy your one-month Italy rail pass here . On the other hand, if you are on a longer trip across Italy or Europe, Flixbus is a great way to get to Bari .

Parking in Bari

If you’re driving around Puglia, as we did, keep in mind that you won’t be needing your car within Bari. While you’re spending time in the city itself, it’s best to leave your car at a safe parking space and only drive when you want to travel outside Bari. The area of interest for all Bari visitors is quite compact and best enjoyed on foot.

For the entire duration of our trip to Bari, we parked the car at Saba Parking and we can’t recommend it enough. This parking lot is very close to the port as well as within easy walking distance from Bari Old Town. It’s open 24/7 and you can check its rates here .

Where To Stay in Bari

Hands down the best place to stay in Bari is the city’s charming historic centre. Not only is this area the most beautiful part of the entire city but it’s also the one that feels the safest of all. As a port city like Marseille , Bari does have a few sketchy neighbourhoods which might make you feel uncomfortable, especially at night. To avoid that, make sure you choose one of the hotels within Old Town Bari.

• Situated in the heart of Bari’s Old Town, Cattedralflats offers spacious apartments with fully equipped kitchens. Their large terraces offer spectacular views of the Cathedral and the city. Click here to check availability and prices .
• Porta Piccola Luxury Home is a guesthouse located in the historic centre of Bari that features comfortable luxury suites. Every suite has a charming balcony and all the amenities that will make your stay unique. Click here to check availability and prices .

Are You Now Convinced That Bari Is Worth a Trip in Its Own Right?

Now that you’ve made it to the end of our guide on what to do in Bari, Puglia’s charming capital, we hope that you are convinced that it’s worth spending at least a couple of days in the city itself.

If you choose to add this fascinating medieval gem to your Puglia itinerary, you certainly won’t regret it. Although not a popular destination by Italian standards, Bari is a great city with loads of well-kept secrets waiting patiently to reveal themselves to you.

Bari was the city from where our 2-week road trip across Puglia started. Read here everything you need to know to start planning your Puglia road trip.

WORDS & EDITING: Maria IMAGES: Katerina

Disclosure:  Castellana Caves kindly offered us the 3-kilometre tour on a complimentary basis to assist us in writing this guide on what to do in Bari Italy. However, as always, we express nothing but our very own and honest opinion about the experience we had.

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Where can I get that focaccia recipe in the picture?

I’m afraid we don’t have this piece of info – although we’d love to!

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good reportage but for more detailes one,,please 😉 Puglia tour guide services, experiences & more

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Home » Travel Guides » Italy » 15 Best Things to Do in Bari (Italy)

15 Best Things to Do in Bari (Italy)

Bari is a city located on the south eastern coast of Italy facing the Adriatic see and opposite Dubrovnik in Croatia . With a population of 320,400 it serves as the second largest economic centre of the southern region of Italy behind Naples. The old town centre of Bari is nestled around the harbour and the wider residential and business area spreads out from this point into the mainland.

In early years, Bari was part of the Roman Empire and served as a major gateway to the Adriatic Sea, as time progressed its importance continued and the cities ownership changed hands many times during incidents such as the Siege of Bari in 1071 and the Bari Civil War in 1117. As a coastal city with access to many shipping routes, Bari has a varied economy that includes the agricultural and textile conversion industry, clothing and of course the large port.

The old town of Bari provides a fantastic display of historical architecture, important buildings such as the Castel Svevo, whilst the modern town hosts some fine museums and shopping streets. The combination of old and new is ever apparent in this wonderful coastal city.

Lets explore the best things to do in Bari :

1. The Basilica of San Nicola

This immense church in the centre of Bari is renowned for its fantastic design, opulent interior, and is an important place of pilgrimage for Roman Catholics in Europe.

Constructed in 1197, this basilica dedicated to Saint Nicolas has a Romanesque style and stands proudly in the centre of the old town of Bari near the harbour.

The front façade has some fantastic small details and sculptures and the interior has a simply stunning gold ceiling with painted artwork.

Inside you can also find the tomb of Saint Nicolas and a plethora of notable sculptures and mosaics.

2. The Church of San Sabino

Although considered to be less famous and well-known than the Basilica of San Nicola, the Church of San Sabino is still a fantastic building in its own right.

Located a short walk from the basilica of Saint Nicola, this church is another imposing building in the centre of Bari old town.

The front façade of the church features a similar design and is made of white stone and has several sculptures and ornate windows.

A later addition to the town of Bari, San Sabino was constructed in 1292 and is an important example of Romanesque architecture.

Inside there is a myriad of white stone and marble designs, and also an elaborately decorated crypt.

Furthermore there are many religious relics including the tomb of Saint Columba.

3. Bari Castle

This Norman castle has stood for hundreds of years and was supposedly built in the 1100’s by King Roger II. It features a traditional design with a central courtyard, four main guard towers and is surrounded by a moat on three sides.

Despite the castles immense age, it still remains in fantastic condition and has its original walls and towers.

Sat in an elevated position to the west of the old town centre, the castle provides a fantastic viewing point of the city.

You can walk through the courtyard, passages and on the walls and admire the fantastic architecture; there is also a selection of information boards and several interior rooms containing artefacts and exhibitions about the history of the castle.

4. Bari old town

The old town centre of Bari remains very much intact and is clearly distinct from the modern developments that surround it.

Whilst the old town has a maze of small, narrow cobbled streets that wind in an almost circular pattern, the modern town has a series of straight, parallel streets that speak of modernism and organization.

It is a true pleasure to explore the narrow streets of the old town to see the local culture, marvel at the fine buildings and see where this great city arose from.

Consider starting at the Basilica San Nicola and work your way towards the other cathedral and the castle whilst walking through the side streets and maybe finding a quaint café to enjoy a drink in.

5. Lungomare Nazario Sauro

Bari is a coastal resort, therefore it stands to reason that it should have a fantastic promenade, and it does – The Lungomare Nazario Sauro.

This walkway stretches for approximately 1000m from the harbour to the Parco per Cani and offers a truly scenic patch of promenade to enjoy in the Mediterranean sun.

Lined with fantastic architecture and white washed buildings, the promenade has a pleasant atmosphere and the views out to the sea are sublime.

If you are looking for a place to stroll, sit back and take in the scenery or even stop and have a drink, the Lungomare is the perfect choice.

6. Piazza Mercantile

Bari old town centre is full of hidden gems and the Piazza Mercantile is one such find – Located to the east side of the town near the harbour, this square is a charming place to visit and the architecture is quaint and endearing.

This square will transport you to a different time and truly looks like a typical Mediterranean coastal resort – Different coloured shutters cover the windows, washing hangs out on small balconies and plants and shrubs line the rooftops.

Consider finding a place to eat or sit under one of the shaded canopies and enjoy a coffee, or admire the decorative fountains.

7. Bari Provincial Art Gallery

Located on the brilliant Lungomare promenade, the Pinacoteca Provinciale is a fantastic modern gallery that hosts a wide variety of art works ranging from the 11th century right up to the 19th century.

The building itself takes pride of place on the promenade and has a series of archways on the front façade and a great deal of ornate detail.

Inside, the various exhibitions provide a wealth of high-quality art including paintings from medieval times, and a host of artwork centred on the Apulian school of art and notable Italian artists.

Work from artists such as Paolo Veronese, Giovanni Bellini and Tintoretto are particularly interesting.

8. Via Sparano

If you are looking for a spot of retail therapy, the Via Sparano will satiate your needs.

Located in the “new” district of Bari, this street runs from the epic Corso Vittorio Emanuele right through to the Piazza Aldo Moro.

Lining the street you will find a plethora of high street shops and also designer brands – particular shops of interest include the Disney Store, Emporio Armani, Pandora, H&M, Michael Kors and Zara.

Aside from the fantastic shopping opportunities, the street also offers a range of bars, cafes and restaurants and is a truly trendy place to visit.

9. Lido San Francesco

If you are looking to soak up the sun and enjoy the sea air, the Lido and beach of San Francesco is the perfect place to visit.

This stretch of beach lies to the east of the old town centre and offers a great deal of activities.

The beach features perfect golden sand and a stretch of clear blue water to take a dip in.

Here you can relax on one of the many sun loungers available, play some ball games or even build a sandcastle.

Surrounding the beach is also a myriad of shops, beach bars and restaurants to enjoy.

10. Visit the town of Altamura

Travel approximately an hour inland and you can find the entrancing town of Altamura – This town retains its historical charm and some of its original city walls are still standing today.

Famous for its delightful variety of bread, Altamura provides a fantastic place for a day trip and has a myriad of interesting sights.

Altamura cathedral is a fine building located in the town centre and is one of the main attractions and there are also a number of other fantastic churches.

Walk through the winding streets and take in the sights of this truly wonderful town.

11. Egnazia

Egnazia is an ancient ruin that once stood as a thriving coastal town of the Messapii people – Findings date human settlements as far back as the Bronze Age and the town is dated to the 8th century BC. Thousands of years old, all that remains of the town now are the foundations and remains of the building walls but it is still an interesting site to visit.

Approximately an hour to the east of Bari, Egnazia is a rare find and for those who are interested in ancient history is a great attraction.

Aside from the ruins, there is also a museum that showcases some of the artefacts found at the site, together with information about its history.

12. Parco Nationale Alta Murgia

The Alta Murgia National Park is one of the finest parks in the Apulia region and offers a different kind of attraction to the usual sight-seeing that Bari offers.

Located to the south of Bari, this expansive park covers a vast area of 677km square and offers a variety of different outdoors experiences.

The park has a varied landscape from forests and open pastures to rocky outcrops and old abandoned villages.

Here you can truly explore the Italian countryside and make use of the hiking and cycling trails.

Furthermore there is also a myriad of wildlife species including the wild boar, Kestrels and the Gray Wolf.

Guided tours are also available of the park that will provide you with a comprehensive insight into this natural region.

13. Borgo Murattiano

You might wonder why the business and commercial centre of Bari is listed as an attraction, but it provides a stark contrast to the old town and also offers some great buildings and sights.

A clear divide exists between the two centres in the form of the Corso Vittorio Emmanuele Street.

Cross over from the old town to this modern district and see a different side of Bari.

The streets are all aligned perfectly and laid out in a grid format and the architecture is fantastic.

19th Century architecture is present and the contrast to the historical buildings of the old town is evident.

14. Museo del Succorpo della Cattedrale

Although part of Bari Cathedral (Cathedral of San Sabino), these archaeological excavations offer an attraction in their own right.

Enter the Cathedral and take time to view this impressive structure, but also travel underground to view its unique subterranean world that features a myriad of Roman Ruins.

Included is part of a 2nd century road, a detailed mosaic from a previous basilica and also elements of a 9th century Byzantine church.

These different findings showcase the intricate history of Bari and how it has changed over the years.

15. Teatro Petruzzelli

As the largest theatre in Bari, the Teatro Petruzzelli is actuall the fourth largest theatre in the country.

Located in the new part of Bari, the theatre stands out from the surrounding buildings and features a magnificent orange façade with a great deal of sculptured detail.

Inside, the decoration is fantastic and the auditorium features typical details expected from a high quality theatre including a huge amount of red velvet and gold trimmings.

If you have the chance, check out what shows are playing and consider buying tickets to this amazing venue.

15 Best Things to Do in Bari (Italy):

• The Basilica of San Nicola
• The Church of San Sabino
• Bari Castle
• Bari old town
• Lungomare Nazario Sauro
• Piazza Mercantile
• Bari Provincial Art Gallery
• Via Sparano
• Lido San Francesco
• Visit the town of Altamura
• Parco Nationale Alta Murgia
• Borgo Murattiano
• Museo del Succorpo della Cattedrale
• Teatro Petruzzelli

• Lazio and Rome
• Travel Services

Bari: Ultimate Travel Guide to Puglia’s Capital

Bari is the capital of Puglia and one of the most important seaports of Italy. It has an international airport, so the city becomes the starting point for many travelers eager to explore the region. It has a reputation as a dangerous city (like any seaport in Italy), but don’t believe those rumors. Bari is a unique place. Being a popular tourist destination, it remains a traditional southern city with an authentic atmosphere.

How to get to Bari

From the airport, what to do and see, take a tour, explore bari vecchia, visit bari cathedral and il succorpo museum, visit basilica di san nicola, get to know the history of castello svevo, go backstage of teatro petruzelli, contemplate art at pinacoteca provinciale di bari, enjoy fresh seafood, where to eat, where to stay, bari airport hotels, beaches near bari, places to visit near bari, castel del monte, polignano a mare, gravina in puglia.

When you drive a car, the most difficult question is not how to get to Bari but where exactly to park your car. If you stay in the city for a night, ask your hotel if they have parking available. Note that Bari has a special area, so-called ZTL (Zona Traffico Limitato), where no one without special permission can drive-in. In general, all Bari Vecchia, the old town, is a restricted area. Check this map of ZTL in Bari .

The nearest parking to the old town is on Via Ruggiero Il Normanno . It costs 1 euro per hour, BUT I don’t recommend parking your car on the streets of Bari. There are several private garages, like Parcheggio Saba Porto and Garage Vittoria , near the city center where you can leave your car without worrying that it gets damaged or stolen. The usual cost for the private garage is 2 euro per hour.

I left my car at Parking Quick St. Francis and was satisfied with the service. The guys were friendly and understanding. Don’t be afraid to leave your keys inside the car. The garage is not huge, so they might need the keys to move the cars. Imagine that their work reminds a Tetris game during the summer period when they need to fit as many cars as possible.

You can get to Bari by train from any major city in Italy. For example, you can take a fast train Frecciargento from Rome and arrive in Bari in just 4 hours. Or take the Intercity train, which is slower and cheaper. Both Frecciargento and intercity belong to Trenitalia, so you can plan your trip and buy the tickets online . If you want to get to Bari from Matera (Basilicata region), you may want to choose direct trains or busses operated by Ferrovie Appulo Lucane .

If you need to get to Bari from a small city with no train station, you can go by bus. So, check www.omio.com for local bus operators.

Bari is an international seaport, so that you can get to Bari by ferry. There are up to 12 ferries arriving to Bari every day from the following destinations: Durres and Saranda (Albania), Bar (Montenegro), Dubrovnik (Croatia), Igoumenitsa & Patras (Greece), Corfu and Zakynthos (Ionian Islands), and Sami (Kefalonia). You can check the connections on www.directferries.com .

Finally, for all the international travelers who arrive in Bari by plane, there is a Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport (also called Palese airport), located just 8 km (~5 miles) away from Bari city center.

From the airport to the city center you can get by bus line 16 that goes to the central train station Bari Centrale (~50 min). You can plan your trip online . Single ride ticket costs 1 euro if purchased before departure and 1,50 euro if purchased on board. A Terravision bus brings you from the airport to the city center a bit faster (~30 min). You can book your ticket online . A single ride costs 4 euro.

Even faster way to get from Bari Airport to the city center is to take a train . It brings you to Bari Centrale in only 20 min and costs 5 euro. Check the timetable and buy your tickets on the official website of Ferrotramviaria .

Don’t forget about a taxi . There is a fixed price for the Airport – Central station route that is 23 euro. However, if you would like to go somewhere else in the city, the price can go as high as 35 euro. Make sure that a taximeter is on before departure.

If you don’t want to be tricked by a taxi driver but still prefer comfort, check out this private transfer .

Bari has a relatively small old town so you can explore it in just 2-3 hours if you know where to go. So, I’d recommend taking a bike tour or a walking tour in Bari for those who don’t like too much searching on every attraction. You can even choose a tour with pasta making experience or a street food tasting .

Most highlights of Bari are located in Bari Vecchia, the old town of Bari. Here you can see the authentic life scenes here and the most touristic attractions together. Sometimes you can’t understand if local people live their lives this way or they play their roles like actors. Is it all authentic or fake?

Roaming through the winding streets of the old town, don’t miss a chance to see how a traditional pasta orecchiette is made. From Piazza Federico II di Svevia go through Arco Basso , and you will find yourself on a street where women make this amazing ear-shaped pasta.

Bari Cathedral that’s dedicated to Saint Sabinus was built between the late 12th and late 13th centuries on the ruins of the Byzantine church destroyed in 1156. During the restoration in 1995-1998, an early medieval church’s remains were found under the existing cathedral. It belongs to the period of the IX-XI centuries.

You can observe some parts of its walls, arches, and mosaic floors in the archeological museum (called il Succorpo) under the cathedral. Some of the ruins even belong to the Roman period of the I-IV centuries AD. The entrance ticket costs 3 euro, and you can explore the museum on your own, as the signs are both in Italian and English.

The present building is an example of the Apulian Romanesque style, with a simple facade, three portals, and a rose window. Inside there are three aisles divided by sixteen columns with arcades. Even though there are not many decorations in the interior, the simplicity, height of the ceilings, and the natural light make it incredibly beautiful and sublime.

Basilica di San Nicola is even more popular than the Cathedral because it’s an important destination for pilgrims from all over the world. The basilica’s crypt houses the relics of Saint Nicholas, also known as Santa Clause or Nicholas the Wonderworker, for many miracles attributed to him. He is the patron saint of children, students, unmarried people, sailors, and merchants.

The basilica was specially built to shelter Nicholas’ remains that were brought here in 1087 from Myra, located on today’s territory of Turkey. The building was officially consecrated in 1197. It is a great example and a prototype of Apulian Romanesque architecture. The interior is simple yet breathtaking, with a gilded 17th-century wooden ceiling.

Castello Svevo, or the Norman-Hohenstaufen Castle, was built in 1132 by Norman King Roger II, destroyed in 1156, and then rebuilt and reinforced in 1233. During its history, it served as a castle, a prison, barracks, and today different kinds of exhibitions take place here.

The castle is mainly composed of the Aragon walls and the main tower. There is also a moat that surrounds the castle from all sides. You can visit the castle every day, except for Tuesdays, from 8:30 am till 6:30 pm. The entrance fee is 6 euro or 9 euro if an exhibition takes place.

Teatro Petruzzelli is the fourth largest theater in Italy. Its history started in 1903. Today the theater offers its visitors to admire operas, ballets, and symphonic concerts. You can discover more during a guided tour inside the theater .

Pinacoteca Provinciale di Bari is one of the most important art galleries in Puglia. Visitors can admire the collections of paintings from the 15th century to the modern and contemporary arts. For more info, visit the official website .

The best way to start your day in Bari is to eat some fresh seafood on Lungomare Araldo di Crollalanza. A small fish market is located right next to Teatro Margherita. It’s perfect for seafood lovers as a second breakfast. Come between 9 am and 12 noon.

Mastro Ciccio is one of the best street food restaurants in Bari. Here you can try such a local specialty like a sandwich with octopus. So tasty and affordable.

Bakery Santa Rita offers the best focaccia in Bari.

Ristorante Opera is a great place for seafood lovers with a nice atmosphere and friendly staff.

Ristorante La Muraya offers local, Mediterranean, and seafood dishes. If you look for a fancier place, don’t miss this restaurant.

Mamapulia Food & drink was my personal choice in Bari. It’s an affordable restaurant with local food and nice service.

La Ciclatera is a nice bar for a late-night cocktail. Friendly service and good music.

San Sebastiano Apartment is affordable yet authentic. Located in the very heart of Bari Vecchia, the apartment is perfect for anyone who wants to experience the real life of the old city. You can enjoy the atmosphere on a balcony, drinking your morning coffee.

As you can guess from its name, Central Station Suite Apartment  is located near the Bari Centrale train station. It’s perfect if you prefer to travel by train. It takes only a 10 min walk to reach the city center.

Filioli Apartment is small and authentic, located right near the Bari Cathedral in the very center of Bari Vecchia.

Just Here Apartments – La terrazza is a stylish apartment located near the central train station. It’s fully equipped and has a nice terrace with a city view.

Cattedralflats offers luxury apartments in Bari Vecchia near the Cathedral. Some of them have a terrace with a city view.

iH Grande Albergo Delle Nazioni 5* is a modern hotel located right on the seafront, just 15 min walk from the old city center. Some of the rooms have an amazing sea view. There is also a great rooftop restaurant and an open-air swimming pool.

iH Hotels Bari Oriente 4* is located next to the Petruzzelli Theatre, 10 min walk from the old city center, and close to the seafront. The hotel offers a rooftop bar with a beautiful city view. Note that there is no free car parking (blue line or a car valet service available).

Hotel Moderno 3* is located near the central train station and only 15 min walk from the old city center. Perfect for the overnight stay if you travel by train.

Hotel City 2* is an affordable but very nice and old-style hotel near the central train station. Ask for a room facing the inner yard if you’re sensitive to street noises during the night.

Parco Dei Principi Hotel Congress & SPA is located right next to the airport and offers a free shuttle and free parking. It’s a modern hotel with clean rooms, a gym, and a swimming pool. Perfect for the airport stop-over.

Vittoria Parc Hotel is only 2 km from the airport, located in the small town Bari Palese from which you can get to Bari city center by train. It also offers a free shuttle and parking.

Puglia is famous for its beautiful beaches with crystal clear water. However, beaches in Bari are not like this. I recommend you not wasting your time sunbathing here, but rather going to the south part of Puglia and enjoy the sea there. In the following list, you will find the nearest beaches to the city center where you can go if you really can’t wait anymore.

Spiaggia Libera Provolina is a tiny free beach, the closest to the city center. Not recommended for proper sunbathing and swimming, but if you can’t wait to dip your toes into the sea, you can do it here.

Pane e Pomodoro is the most famous beach near Bari. It can be very crowded and noisy during the high season as tourists and local people like it here.

Spiaggia Torre Quetta is a pebbly beach that in July 2020 became municipal property. After that, it stays abandoned and is not recommended to visit. Once, it was a great alternative to more crowded Pane e Pomodoro. I hope they will reopen it again in the new beach season.

Lido San Francesco is a classical italian “lido” where you need to pay for lettino and ombrellone. Right next to it, there is a tiny free beach Spiaggia Libera Lato S.Francesco .

Spiaggia Canalone is another small free beach, and Lido Adria is right next to it.

Lido ilmaredentro is a beach club with restaurants and a saltwater pool, the sea can be dirty here. The lido stands on a concrete platform, so there is no real beach here.

Spiaggia libera Riva del Sole is a wide free beach, placed on rocks.

Lama Monachile is the most famous beach in Puglia located in Polignano a Mare that is only 30 min by train from Bari.

If you have extra days on your journey, you can visit some places near Bari. Not all of them are on my must-see list in Puglia, but some are real gems of the region, such as Castel del Monte, Monopoli, and Polignano a Mare.

Castel del Monte is a 13th-century castle that Emperor Frederick II built. Today, it belongs to UNESCO world heritage. It’s a unique piece of medieval architecture of a perfect octagonal shape full of symbolic significance.

As there are no trains or buses that go from Bari to Castel del Monte, it’s very hard or even impossible to get here. If you are not traveling in a car, the best way to visit Castel del Monte is to get a tour with a transfer from Bari .

If you travel from Bari to other towns along the sea, you can catch the trains of Trenitalia. Check the schedule and buy the tickets online .

Trani is a beautiful town located by the sea. The city’s main sights are the Cathedral, dedicated to Saint Nicholas the Pilgrim, and an old fort Castello Svevo, commissioned by Frederick II of Swabia. Don’t forget to roam around the city center and you will see that many streets remain almost as they were in medieval times.

Giovinazzo is a small town with a fishing port. Enjoy slow life, fresh seafood, and medieval architecture here. One of the main sights of the city is the Cathedral dedicated to Santa Maria Assunta. Located by the sea, it has a typical Apulian Romanesque architecture.

Monopoli is one of the must-visit cities in Puglia with an old port, medieval castles, and beautiful churches. It was one of my Puglia road trip highlights, so read more about it in my guide to Monopoli.

Polignano a Mare is probably the most famous city in Puglia with one of Italy’s most beautiful beaches. Read more in my guide to Polignano a Mare.

If you decide to explore the inland part of Puglia, choose the train of Ferrovie Appulo Lucane .

Gravina in Puglia is the city that stands on the rocks, connected by the old Roman bridge, dating to at least 1686. The word gravina comes from Latin and means rock or shaft . The city got such a name probably due to the unusual landscape. If you visit the town in April, don’t miss the Saint George’s Fair, one of the oldest fairs in Europe, celebrated each year since 1294.

Altamura is located on one of the hills of the Altopiano delle Murge plateau. The city is famous for its special bread called Pane di Altamura that in 2003 received a PDO (Protected designation of origin) status in Europe.

Matera is one of the hidden gems of Southern Italy. It’s located in the region Basilicata, close to the borders with Puglia. If you don’t plan to go back to this area of Italy after your trip to Puglia, you should include this city in your itinerary.

On the map below I’ve put all the places mentioned in this article. You can switch between the layers to see only the needed points. I hope this map will help you orientate in Bari and plan a perfect trip.

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Bari (Italy) – 11 Reasons To Visit Bari, Italy

• Post author: angelo
• Post published: December 29, 2020
• Post category: Bari / Italy

Nestled along the Adriatic Sea, Bari (Italy ) is a charming harbor town well worth a visit. With some of Italy’s most picturesque beaches nearby and a stellar food scene, you’re sure to enjoy this hidden gem in the Puglia region. This guide to Bari provides a basic history and essential information about the city, along with a list of must-see sights and things to do in Bari (Italy) .

How to get to Bari

There are several ways on how to get to Bari :

• By plane : Bari has an international airport, Bari Karol Wojtyla Airport, which is served by several airlines. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle bus to reach the city center.
• By train : Bari is well-connected to the Italian rail network, and there are several trains that run to and from the city. You can take a train from major Italian cities like Rome, Florence, Milan,Venice and Naples to Bari.
• By bus : There are several bus companies that operate routes to Bari from other Italian cities. You can also take a bus from other European cities like Paris, Berlin, and Munich.
• By car: Bari is connected to the Italian highway network, and you can reach the city by car from major Italian cities like Rome, Florence, Milan and Naples.

Where to Stay in Bari

The basics about bari, italy.

Bari has a population of some 320,400, making it more manageable than mega metropolises like Rome. Don’t equate its smaller size with lack of importance, however: Bari is the capital of Italy’s Puglia region (Apulia) and second-largest economic center in the Italian south, after Naples.

Bari’s old town is nestled around the harbor, a thriving point of imports and exports. It’s located across from Dubrovnik, making it possible to hop on a ferryboat and make your way to Croatia from here.

History of Bari

Bari was part of the Roman Empire, serving as a gateway to the Adriatic Sea. As the Roman Empire grew, Bari became increasingly essential, and leaders competed for the city’s ownership. This resulted in turmoil like the Bari Civil War of 1117 and the Siege of Bari in 1071.

Today, however, Bari is a peaceful place. The local economy includes textiles, agriculture, and all manner of import-exports. The Bari old town features fantastic historic architecture, while the newer parts of town offer contemporary shops and dining.

Must-See Sights in Bari, Italy

Bari combines old world and modern sights and offers something to suit every traveler’s style. Here are our top ten highlights.

1. Lungomare Nazario Sauro

The Lungomare Nazario Sauro is Bari’s main promenade along the sea. Go for a nighttime stroll for beautiful views of the lit-up coastline or plan your walk for the day, when you can soak up the Mediterranean sun. The walkway is about 1,000 meters (about .62 miles) long. It’s lined with beautiful architecture, including small cafes and bars where you can stop for a drink or snack.

2. The Old Harbor

Bari’s working port is a chaotic scene full of ferries leaving for Croatia, Greece, Albania, and beyond. Skip the mayhem and head to the city’s old harbor instead. This is where you’ll find traditional fishers selling their catch of the day straight off the boat. From the old port, you can check out Lungomare , the imposing seafront resort built by Mussolini.

3. The Basilica of San Nicola

This monumental church is located in Bari’s center. It features an opulent interior and a Romanesque style facade. Constructed in 1197, this church is dedicated to Saint Nicolas . You can find his tomb inside.

Fun fact: The Saint Nicolas relics were initially housed in modern-day Turkey but later stolen and brought to Bari. Today, the Basilica remains an important pilgrimage destination for Roman Catholics in Europe.

4. Stroll Through the Bari Vecchio

This walled part of the city sits on a small peninsula overlooking the old harbor. Step inside the walls, and you’ll discover a labyrinth of cobbled streets, small piazzas, and twisting alleyways. This little part of town includes 40 churches and the Basilica of San Nicola.

5. Soak Up the Sun On Bari’s Beaches

You can’t spend time in the seaside town of Bari, Italy, without a trip to the beach. Take a trip to Beach Lido San Francesco . This stretch of sand is set east of the old town center. You’ll find clear blue water and golden sand. Rent a sun lounger and watch the action, from ball games to kids building sandcastles. There are also many restaurants, beach bars, and shops nearby.

6. Visit the Bari Cathedral

Although less famous than the Basilica of San Nicola, the Church of San Sabino is well worth visiting. Constructed in 1292, this is another example of Romanesque architecture. The cathedral’s front facade features a design similar to San Nicola’s, featuring imposing white stone, ornate sculptures, and carved windows. Inside, you’ll find an elaborately decorated crypt.

7. Museo del Succorpo Della Cattedrale

While you’re at the Cathedral of San Sabino, set aside time for a visit to Museo del Succorpo Della Cattedrale . This archeological excavation is located underground. You’ll find ancient Roman ruins dating back as far as the second century. If you want to know more about Bari’s history, this is a must-visit attraction.

8. Get Your Culture Fix at Bari Provincial Art Gallery

Set on the Lungomare promenade, the provincial gallery (“Pinoteca,” in Italian) provides you with a selection of art ranging from the 11th to the 19th centuries. The building itself is noteworthy, featuring impressive archways and ornate detail. You’ll find artwork from the Apulian school alongside pieces from notable Italian artists like Paolo Veronese and Tintoretto.

9. Do Some Shopping on Via Sparano

Had enough culture for the day? Head to Via Sparano for some retail therapy. This is in the newer part of Bari and is lined with all kinds of modern shops, from Armani, Gucci, Max Mara, Benetton and so many more. In addition to stores, you’ll find trendy bars, cafes, and restaurants, perfect for refueling if you need to rest during your shopping spree.

10. Hike to Bari Castle

This castle has been standing for hundreds of years yet remains impeccably preserved. Reportedly built by King Roger II, the castle features a traditional Norman design, with a central courtyard, four guard towers, and a moat on three sides. It’s set in an elevated spot in the old town center, making for a great viewing point.

11. Take a Day Trip to Altamura

If you’re up for a short trip beyond Bari’s city limits, head to Altamura . Located about one hour inland from Bari, this town is renowned for its unique architecture, the beautiful cathedral, and fantastic churches. It’s also famous for its bread, so make sure to visit a bakery while you’re here.

The Final Word

Bari, Italy is well worth a visit if you’re planning to travel to the south of Italy. This bustling port town offers an impressive mix of old-world charm and modern flair. As the list above makes clear, you won’t be at a loss of sights to do and things to see when you’re there. We hope that our simple guide on what to see in Bari will help you plan your visit to this wonderful town. For more tips and advice on places to visit in Italy check our blog list here .

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Bari Travel Guide

Explore bari on the puglia coast.

Bari , on Puglia’s east coast, is one of the most important port and university cities in southern Italy. Bari’s medieval historic center, Barivecchia , is one of the most fascinating in Puglia. Once completely enclosed by walls, the old town is a warren of narrow, winding streets and small squares. Bari has a harbor, seaside promenade, pedestrian shopping street, opera house, and plenty of good places to eat.

Top Things to See and Do in Bari

For a good introduction to Bari, take a 3-hour Bari History and Culture: Walking or Bike Tour .

• Via Sparano , between Bari’s historic center and Piazza Umberto I near the train station, is a good place to start your visit. The lively pedestrian street is lined with modern shops, bars, and places to get gelato.
• Wander through Barivecchia , the old town that juts out into the sea. Walking along Strada Arco Alto, you may see women making orecchiette pasta (Puglia’s typical pasta) or see it for sale, drying on racks outside houses. Top churches to visit are the Basilica of Saint Nicholas and the Cathedral.
• The Basilica of Saint Nicholas , a pilgrimage church, was built in the late 11th century to hold the remains of Saint Nicholas, or San Nicola, the patron saint of seafarers who is more commonly known as the Saint Nicholas associated with Christmas. Mosaics and columns with Byzantine and Romanesque capitals decorate the crypt below the basilica where Saint Nicholas’ relics are kept. On December 6, Feast Day of Saint Nicholas, a flask is lowered into his tomb to extract some of the myrrh believed to exude from his relics. Other highlights of the church are an 11th century Romanesque bishop’s throne and the Renaissance marble tomb of Bona Sforza. The Basilica Museum houses more art works from the church, including an exhibit of 12th century candlesticks.
• The Cathedral of San Sabino , constructed in Apulian Romanesque style in the 12th century, originally dates back to the 7th and 8th centuries. Baroque features were added later but much of it was returned to its original Romanesque appearance when it was restored. The interior has 14th century frescoes and mosaic floor remnants from the original cathedral. Go down into the crypt to see the relics of Saint Sabino and the icon of the Madonna Odegitria, said to have been brought there in the 7th century. The Diocesan Museum displays religious artifacts including the Exultet, an illuminated manuscript of Byzantine origins.
• Between the cathedral and the old port is Bari’s Svevo castle , built by the Normans in the 12th century and enlarged by Frederick II in the 13th century. A Roman fort originally stood on the site and remains of what may have been a Byzantine Church were found below the castle. Inside the castle is an art exhibit and plaster museum.
• Walk along the Lungomare , the seaside promenade between the walls of the old town and the sea. In the morning, you may see fishermen arriving in the harbor with their daily catch. It’s also a good place to stroll in the evening and see the sunset.
• Petruzzelli Theater , a historic opera house, is Italy’s 4th largest theater. It’s used not only for opera but also for concerts and other performances. They often offer afternoon guided tours, listed on the web site.
• Piazza Mercantile is a lively square with restaurants and bars with lots of outside seating in nice weather. Corso Cavour is a good street for gelato shops and shopping. Il Baretto and Stoppani pastry shop are historic cafes on Via Roberto di Bari, between the old town and the train station.

Where to Stay in Bari

• Palazzo Calo’ , in the old town, has a terrace with great views.
• Bozzi 1910 is a condo hotel near the old town and seaside promenade.
• 200 Rooms & Terrace is a bed and breakfast with easy access to the train and bus stations.

Getting to Bari

Bari can be reached by train directly from Rome or from cities along Italy’s east coast . From the train station it’s a short walk into the old town. The bus station, connecting to the airport and other towns in Puglia is by the train station. Top east coast towns in Puglia to visit by train are Trani and Giovinazzo to the northwest and Polignano a Mare and Monopoli to the southeast. The rail line runs all the way to Lecce at the start of the Salento Peninsula. See Puglia Train Map for more about taking the train.

A private train, Ferrovie Appulo Lucane runs to inland towns such as Altamura and Gravina in Puglia and Matera in the nearby Basilicata region. The small station is around the corner from Bari Centrale.

Bari-Palese airport has flights from other Italian airports and European airports. The airport is connected to the train station via metro line trains . Ferries leave from the port on the west side of the old town for Greece, Albania, Croatia, and Turkey. City bus 20 runs between the train station and the port and buses cover most parts of the city.

• Check Bari weather before you go.

Puglia Books and Guides

• Salento by 5
• National Geographic Traveler Puglia
• The Mini Rough Guide to Puglia

This post may contain affiliate links to sites I believe are of benefit to travelers. There is no cost to you but the small amount of revenue helps defer the cost of bringing you this free information.

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Author Martha Bakerjian Categories Puglia , Cities

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Aug 2, 07:33 AM (1730 days ago)

is there still a train station AT THE AIRPORT ? the last time I visited I believe I saw a sign for the ‘train’. so much better than the bus!

Aug 2, 04:03 PM (1730 days ago)

There’s a line of the metro train (not the national rail line) at the airport, it’s about a 10 min walk to the airport station I think.

Commenting has expired for this article.

Bari Travel Guide originally appeared on MarthasItaly.com Jul 30, 2019 , updated: Aug 23, 2023 by Martha Bakerjian .

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• An All-inclusive Bari Travel Guide For An Unforgettable Experience In Italy

Situated on the Adriatic Sea, Bari is the capital of Apulia, Italy. It is the second largest city in southern Italy with a population of more than one million. This port city is also known as the heart of the metropolitan region as it is the hub to various commercial points and economic centers. The city is famously titled as one of the exit doors of the area as many travels from here to other neighboring countries via waterways. This Bari travel guide will give you a brief overview of this lesser-known city of Europe to help make most out of your trip.

How To Reach Bari

Image Source Bari is well connected to various European cities. About 40 flights travel in and out of Bari on day to day basis. The city also has a well-established network of roads with a great transportation system including trains. A taxi/cab from the airport to the main town would cost approximately INR 2000 to INR 2500. The city administration is working intensively to promote tourism in old Bari town due to modernization and development that has taken place.

Best Time To Visit Bari

Image Source Bari can be visited throughout the year but, May and June are the most favorable months to visit the city. During the season, days are comparatively warm and nights are cold. The old Bari town, which was the core of pre-Roman and Roman Bari has still managed to retain its medieval planning that includes numerous historical and cultural sites.

This Bari travel guide will help you decide the best time to visit Bari. The temperature remains around 26 degree Celsius during the summer season (starting from May till August). In winter season (December to February), the temperature drops below 15 degree Celsius, and there are increased chances of rain during this time. The spring season starts from March and stays till February. During this season, the temperature ranges around 17 to 24 degree Celsius. And, during Autumn the weather begins to change, and the temperature begins to dip.

Must Read: Only For 2 Weeks In Italy, These Charming Places Should Be On Your Itinerary

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Places To See In Bari

According to Bari travel guide lonely planet, a budget of INR 8000 per is sufficient to enjoy the sightseeing, food, and lodging. Here are the few places you can visit:

1. San Nicola

Image Source San Nicola basilica is the leading site in our Bari tourist guide. It was constructed between 1087 and 1197. The massive basilica was built to preserve the relics of St. Nicholas. It has immense religious importance all over Europe, and that is why it is a significant pilgrimage destination for Catholics and Christians from the Eastern part of Europe. The basilica seems more of a castle than a church due to its appearance (having a square shape). The highlight of the place is two low towers surrounding the facade.

The ancient basilica houses the Romanesque sculpture arts from south of Italy, mosaic pavements, a bishop’s throne from the 11th century, mythological structures and animal figures etc. The church also acquires a 16th century Renaissance tomb made of marble. Whereas, the museum has an incredible collection of candlesticks from the 12th century and some precious artworks and paintings.

Timings: 7 am to 8 pm, and 7 am to 6 pm on Sundays Entry fee: INR 240 approx.

2. Castello Svevo

Image Source The second must-visit destination as per our Bari travel guide is Castello Svevo, which is a castle built in 1132 by King Roger II. The castle was destroyed by King William I of Sicily in 1156, which was reinforced by Roman Emperor Frederick II in 1233. The castle had undergone several transformations after Duke Ferdinand of Aragon acquired it. It was finally taken by King of Naples which was later converted into barracks for the prisoners.

The medieval castle is now being converted into a museum used for exhibitions. It can be accessed from the southern gate. The northern side of the castle is bordered by sea while a moat surrounds rest of the sides. The main features of the castle are the Hohenstaufen tower and the Aragon walls.

Timings: 8:30 am to 7:30 pm Entry fee: INR 480 approx, free for children under 18 and physically challenged.

Suggested Read: Lake Como In Italy: Here’s Everything You Should Know Before You Head Out To Explore It

3. Lungomare Nazario Sauro

Image Source Lungomare Nazario Sauro is a stunning coastal promenade that stretches to 1000 meter approximately starting from harbor to the Parco per Cani. This seaside resort has a lot to offer, apart from a walking alley one can relish the magnificent architecture and gorgeous white buildings. The place is perfect to sit back and relax while enjoying the Mediterranean sunset.

4. Pinacoteca Metropolitana di Bari

Image Source Pinacoteca Metropolitana di Bari is also known as the Painting Gallery of the Metropolitan City of Bari. It is the art gallery of Bari that holds a collection of fabulous paintings and artworks. The painting gallery was named after the famous painter Corrado Giaquinto. It was founded on 12th July 1928 and was initially placed at the Government Palace and later on moved to Province Palace in 1936 along the seaside.

Some of the artworks from the collection are Venetian paintings of the 15th and 16th centuries, a section for Corrado Giaquinto's arts, a medieval section, paintings from the Tuscan School of the Macchiaioli and much more.

Timings: 9 am to 7 pm and closed on Mondays. Entry fee: INR 240 approx.

Suggested Read: Do Not Forget To Visit These 10 Incredible Castles In Italy On Your Next Trip!

5. Piazza Mercantile

Image Source Piazza Mercantile, Piazza Grande or Piazza Maggiore is the ancient city square used by merchants of the medieval times for trading and business. Many names were in use to address the place in ancient times. In April 1958, it was decided to be called as Piazza Mercantile finally. The square is described as the main trading point in the history of Bari, but it is more popularly known as the meeting point today. This usually busy meeting point offers numerous attractions such as the Clock Tower from the 16th century, the Palazzo Della Dogana built in 16th century by Duchess Isabella Sforza, the Palazzo Sedile and the Colonna inflame or the stone lion.

Suggested Read: 10 Amazing Museums In Bari That Unfold Italian History Like Never Before

6. Bari Cathedral

Image Source Bari Cathedral or the Church of San Sabino is situated in the southern part of Italy , Apulia. The cathedral was built between 12th and 13th centuries, majorly towards the end of the 12th century. The cathedral is not as famous as St. Nicholas Cathedral located in the same city. It is named in honor of Saint Sabinus, who was a bishop of Canosa. Moreover, it is home to many relics of Saint Sabinus that were brought here in the 9th century. The present building of the cathedral was constructed over the ruins of Imperial Byzantine Cathedral which was destroyed by King William I in 1156.

Suggested Read: Italian Cuisine: Top 10 Dishes That Let You Taste The Authentic Flavors Of Italy!

7. Altamura

Image Source Altamura is situated in the southern part of Italy at a distance of 45 km from Bari city. Altamura city has a population of 70,595 according to the survey conducted in 2017. The city is divided into two parts: the ancient town and the new town. The new or the modern town was thickly populated during the Bronze Age. It is well known for a certain quality of bread called as Pane di Altamura. The bread is sold in many other parts of Italy. It is interesting to know that a 130000-year-old calcified body of Altamura man was found in Grotta di Lamalunga ( limestone caves) near the city.

The city is also home to scores of ancient landmarks like Romanesque Cathedral, the cathedral of Acquaviva Delle Fonti, a church of Monte Sant'Angelo sul Gargano and so on. The construction of this cathedral city is influenced by gothic architecture from the time of Frederick II.

According to our Bari travel guide, this destination should surely be included in your travel list for an unforgettable experience.

8. Alta Murgia National Park

Image Source Alta Murgia National Park takes the last, yet a very important spot, in our Bari travel guide. This national park is located in the southern part of Italy and was established in the year 2004. The national park spans over an area of 677.39 square kilometers. This huge national park promises to offer mesmerizing landscapes, ancient disowned villages and rocky structures. It is also a great site to enjoy countryside atmosphere where one can indulge in a wide range of outdoor activities like cycling and hiking. Many tour operators from Bari city offer guided tours to this natural region.

Further Read: Nightlife In Italy: 17 Cities That Are A Must On Every Party Starter’s Bucket List!

These are some of the top tourist attractions listed by our Bari Puglia Travel Guide. The city is also known to be a prime site for the study of dinosaurs. Nearly 30,000-footmarks of dinosaur were discovered here in Contrada Pontrelli, which is in Altamura territory. One cannot experience the real taste of Bari city without visiting these attractions. Contact TravelTriangle to plan a trip to Italy and enjoy your holidays like never before!

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Bari Tourist & Travel Information

Busy city on the Adriatic with a port, atmospheric ‘Old Bari’ and useful transport links

Bari is a big port city on the Adriatic coast; the capital of the Italian region of Puglia. It’s not a major tourist destination, but it does have an airport with budget flights from the UK, and as well as having a few sights of interest it is well-placed for exploring this attractive part of Italy. Bari doesn’t have a great reputation within Italy (you’ll be warned to hold your valuables tightly), but it is actually a decent place to spend a night or two before moving on to Puglia’s greater tourist attractions.

Things to see in Bari

Bari offers about a day’s worth of sightseeing – that is, if you want to explore thoroughly, enjoy a long lunch and visit the local art gallery. If you have less time, you’ll find that you can see Vecchia Bari – Old Bari – and the town’s highlights in just a couple of hours. The interesting bits of town can all be visited on foot, though if you get bored of trekking through the newer car-filled streets you could catch one of the local buses.

Bari’s historic nucleus is on a headland reaching into the Adriatic Sea. This area has been built on for millennia, but most of the archaeology is buried under the cluster of narrow lanes which make up Vecchia Bari. This part of Bari has a very doubtful reputation. The quarter is famous for being confusing and visitors are almost certainly going to lose their sense of direction. Petty crime is traditionally a problem here, and most guidebooks will warn you not to venture into the district after dark. It is however, the main tourist destination; we visited in the daytime and found the area much less slum-like than expected. The historical lanes were mostly smart and cleaned up. Local people live their lives almost communally, with doors open, women making pasta in the doorways and lots of comings and goings. It is obviously an area with a tight-knit community, perhaps living by their own rules. Two urban police officers, looking hopelessly at a melee of illegally-parked cars, warned us to be careful and hold our bags securely in front of us. We didn’t actually witness any crime or feel threatened, though, and the headland is so small that you can’t get lost for long.

Between the heart of the Old Town and the sea is Bari’s most famous church, the eleventh-century Romanesque Basilica di San Nicola . It is dedicated to St. Nicholas, also known as Santa Claus, and was specially built to house his remains, which still lie in the crypt. This is an important religious destination, and not just for Catholics: there is a chapel in the crypt dedicated to Orthodox pilgrims. The saint’s body is supposed to exude a kind of holy oil and you can actually buy bottles of this remarkable liquid in the church shop next door. In the main part of the church are several notable sights, including an elaborate stone canopy over the altar and a marble bishop’s throne, known as the Cattedra di Elia , dating to the eleventh or twelfth century, which features straining, grimacing little men supporting the seat. Make sure you tour the exterior of the church to see the carved stone doorways.

The lanes of Vecchia Bari nearest to the church are the most touristy, with a line of little souvenir shops. On the other side of the church is a pleasant walkway along the old town walls with views over a road to the sea: this is a nice stroll if the narrow lanes are making you feel claustrophobic.

Bari’s other great church is the Cattedrale di San Sabino . This – and not the Basilica di San Nicola – is Bari’s cathedral. It is another massive building in the Romanesque style, dating to the late twelfth century. Close by is Bari’s castle, the Castello Svevo (‘Swabian Castle’), an imposing fortress by the sea which is open to the public. Dotted through the alleys of the Old Town are many other churches, chapels and ruins (generally closed): there are enough sights to merit a short exploration.

On the neck of the headland, and safely out of the lanes of ill repute, are a couple of pleasant interlocking public squares, Piazza del Ferrarese and Piazza Mercantile . This is a good place to stop for lunch or a drink, with a choice of restaurants and cafes with outside tables. The squares are elegant and are historic hubs of the town. The small column protected by a very worn-down lion is called the Colonna della Giustizia : debtors were reputedly tied and flogged here.

Heading inland you cross a busy street to the new town. This ‘new’ town mostly consists of wide nineteenth-century streets busy with traffic. The most pleasant thoroughfare – largely because it has been pedestrianised – is Via Sparano , a high street lined with shops including big high-street brands. It is worth heading out to the seafront to the east of town, by the old port, the Porto Vecchio . Here in the mornings you can see fishermen landing in small wooden boats with their catch – and then selling it directly on the waterfront.

Bari’s town art gallery is the Pinacoteca Provinciale ‘Corrado Giaquinto,’ located on the seafront at Lungomare Nazario Sauro, 27. It exhibits paintings and sculptures from the eleventh to the nineteenth century, including works by Luca Giordano and Giovanni Bellini. Bari also has an archaeological museum , but at the time of writing it is closed awaiting completion of new premises in the Old Town, in the Monastero Santa Scolastica. Until it re-opens a limited number of exhibits are on display in the archaeological HQ at Palazzo Simi on Strada Lamberti (Old Town). This is an interesting building with several layers of history to be seen thanks to excavations.

If you have the time in Bari you may be interested in attending a football match at Bari’s futuristic stadium, designed by Renzo Piano for the 1990 World Cup. It’s called the Stadio San Nicola and is just outside town in the direction of Bitritto. Another alternative Bari activity is to spend time on the beach (although you will find better beaches elsewhere in Puglia). There’s a public beach on Lungomare Perotti.

Bari food, drink and practicalities

There are a couple of tourist information offices near the railway station in Bari, and while staff may not be able to provide much English-language help, they should have a stack of maps and bilingual leaflets about the town and surrounding province. When you’re planning your day, bear in mind that shops and churches – including the two major tourist destination churches – close in the middle of the day for several hours.

Our top food tip for Bari, recommended to us by an Italian-in-the-know, is a cheap and unpretentious eating place in the newer part of town. El Pedro (Via Piccinni, 152) is a self-service canteen/restaurant where you collect a tray, and file past mouthwatering selections of pasta (€3 per portion), contorni , desserts, salads and more. The staff are efficient and ready to help out confused foreigners; we ate extremely well for around 12 euros for two including a little wine. For a more traditional, though touristy, restaurant meal, try the pleasant squares at the edge of the Old Town, Piazza Mercantile and Piazza del Ferrarese. Around the railway station there are the usual fast-food type eateries. In addition, there are various restaurants scattered around town, and the usual Italian array of cafes where you can fill up with a hot drink, croissant or sandwich.

Around Bari

Outside the centre, most of Bari’s outskirts are appallingly ugly: unpleasant tower blocks, heavy industry and wasteland bizarrely dotted with allotments. Once you’re beyond the sprawl though, the countryside is green and attractive, covered with olive trees. There are some interesting day trips which can be made from Bari using public transport; though we’d recommend you move on to a more attractive location after a day or two, rather than basing yourself in the city.

Bari is an important transport hub. As well as mainline FS railway services, it is also the terminus for several private railway lines which connect some of the area’s inland towns, including the cave city of Matera (in the neighbouring region, Basilicata) and the trullo town of Alberobello . By catching a train to Andria and then a bus (or driving) you can visit Castel del Monte , Frederick II’s famous castle on a hill which is now a UNESCO site. Another short train ride away is Trani , which is a very attractive seaside town with a fishing harbour and a cathedral poised above the sea. Beyond Trani is Barletta , another historic coastal town, which can be combined in a day trip with Castel del Monte and/or Trani.

Bari travel

Bari Airport (Bari Palese) is just outside town, with two different bus services running from the airport to Piazza Aldo Moro, outside the railway station. More details of the airport and transport links can be found on our Bari Airport page.

Several different railway lines terminate in Bari, and there are three different central railway stations all clustered together at Piazza Aldo Moro. The mainline railway services run by the FS, Italy’s national rail network, use the main station, Bari Centrale, and they connect Bari with other Italian destinations. Beyond the FS platforms are a couple of platforms used by the Ferrovie Sud Est (FSE). FSE operate little trains which wind through inland Puglia, stopping at useful tourist destinations like Alberobello and Martina Franca. There is a separate ticket office on the platform for these trains – ask which train to get on, as there’s not much signage.

Alongside the main railway station are two other small stations, with separate entrances and ticket offices. The first of these is operated by the Ferrovie Nord Barese , with trains taking an inland route north-west to Barletta via Ruvo di Puglia and Andria (for Castel del Monte). Next to this station, and up a flight of steps, is the terminus for Ferrovie Appulo Lucane . This is where you catch trains heading to the region of Basilicata, stopping at Matera. The ticket office is on the ground floor below the platforms. Whichever train service you are catching, remember to stamp your tickets in the machines provided before you board your train. Note that the private railway lines generally don’t operate on Sundays and public holidays – some are replaced by bus services, but do check the latest timetables before you plan your travel (see our links panel on the right).

Within Bari there are urban bus services operated by a company called AMTAB, but if you’re staying in the city centre you’ll find you can explore the bits of Bari worth seeing on foot.

Bari accommodation

Bari is not a great city for hotels. There aren’t that many, and those there are tend to be over-priced and mediocre. Still, as the rest of Puglia develops its tourist hospitality, maybe Bari will begin to catch up. In any case, we wouldn’t really recommend staying more than one or two nights – see the local sights, perhaps fit in a day trip, and then move on to see more of the region.

> Bari accommodation > More Puglia hotels

Puglia destinations

• Puglia region – an intro
• Abbey of San Vito
• Alberobello
• Castel del Monte
• Locorotondo
• Martina Franca
• Polignano a Mare

Bari Airport

• Brindisi Airport
• Puglia & Matera – a travel itinerary

Useful external links

Ferrotramviaria – Ferrovie Nord Barese (timetables are under orari )

Ferrovie Appulo Lucane

AMTAB urban buses

Basilica di San Nicola

Tempesta airport shuttle

Puglia hotels

Italy car hire

Hello Positive Mindset

Taste of Italy: Journey Through Hidden Culinary Treasures

Posted: April 26, 2024 | Last updated: April 26, 2024

Discover Italy’s rich culinary heritage with me as we explore its hidden gems from sunrise to sunset. From the tantalizing aromas of breakfast pastries to the savory delights of mid-morning snacks, the flavors of lunchtime feasts, and the indulgent treats of the afternoon, our journey will unveil the essence of Italy’s culinary tradition. Join me as we savor each moment and uncover the stories behind Italy’s most beloved dishes, one delicious experience at a time.

1. Dawn: Breakfast Bites Beyond the Ordinary

Italians typically enjoy a light breakfast, often consisting of coffee and a pastry, such as a cornetto (similar to a croissant) or biscotti dipped in coffee. Breakfast is usually quick and simple, as Italians prefer to savor their morning coffee at a local café while catching up with friends or reading the newspaper.

Pistoccu in Sant’Antioco, Sardinia

Start your day with pistoccu, a traditional Sardinian flatbread made from durum wheat flour and baked to perfection in a wood-fired oven. Savor the rustic flavors of this ancient bread, best enjoyed with a drizzle of local honey or a sprinkle of sea salt, as you bask in the tranquil beauty of Sant’Antioco’s rugged coastline.

Tigelle in Modena, Emilia-Romagna

Dive into the culinary heritage of Emilia-Romagna with tigelle, small round discs of bread cooked on a special terracotta griddle. Fill these warm and pillowy pockets with a variety of savory spreads, from creamy cheese and cured meats to tangy pickles and fresh herbs, for a breakfast experience that’s as delightful as it is distinctive.

2. Mid-Morning: Satisfying Snacks Off the Beaten Path

Around mid-morning, Italians often enjoy a light snack known as merenda. This may consist of a slice of freshly baked focaccia, a handful of nuts, or a piece of fruit, providing a quick energy boost to carry them through the rest of the day. Merenda is more than just a snack; it’s a moment to pause and recharge, whether enjoyed alone or shared with colleagues or friends.

Panzerotti in Bari, Puglia

Treat yourself to panzerotti, a beloved street food from Bari, Puglia, reminiscent of a miniature calzone. These deep-fried pockets of dough are filled with a savory mixture of tomato, mozzarella, and your choice of fillings, ranging from spicy sausage to tender eggplant. Grab a few from a local bakery or street vendor and savor their crispy exterior and gooey center as you explore the historic streets of Bari.

Focaccia di Recco in Recco, Liguria

Indulge in focaccia di Recco, a Ligurian specialty that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds with its delicate layers of thin dough and creamy cheese. Unlike traditional focaccia, this version features two paper-thin sheets of dough filled with tangy stracchino cheese, creating a heavenly combination of crispy crust and molten cheese. Sample this culinary masterpiece at a local trattoria or bakery in Recco, where it’s been a beloved tradition for centuries.

3. Noon: Lunchtime Delights with a Twist

Lunch is the most important meal of the day in Italy and is often enjoyed as a leisurely affair. It usually consists of multiple courses, starting with antipasti (appetizers) such as bruschetta or cured meats, followed by a primo piatto (first course) of pasta, risotto, or soup. This is followed by a secondo piatto (main course) of meat or fish, accompanied by contorni (side dishes) such as salad or vegetables. A meal is typically finished with a refreshing dessert or a shot of espresso.

Culurgiones in Ogliastra, Sardinia

Dive into the flavors of Ogliastra with culurgiones, a traditional Sardinian pasta filled with a tantalizing mixture of potato, pecorino cheese, and fresh mint. These handcrafted dumplings are shaped into intricate designs, symbolizing the region’s rich cultural heritage and culinary traditions. Savor them with a drizzle of fragrant olive oil or a sprinkle of zesty lemon zest for a lunchtime delight that’s both comforting and complex.

Cazzimperio in Lecce, Puglia

Discover the bold flavors of Puglia with cazzimperio, a traditional dish from Lecce that celebrates the region’s abundant produce and vibrant culinary scene. This colorful salad features a medley of raw vegetables, such as cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, and red onions, dressed with olive oil, vinegar, and a pinch of salt. Enjoy it as a refreshing appetizer or side dish, perfect for a leisurely lunch under the warm Mediterranean sun.

Tiella in Gaeta, Lazio

Delight your taste buds with tiella, a rustic dish from Gaeta that combines layers of tender rice, fresh seafood, and ripe tomatoes, all baked together in a clay pot until golden and bubbling. Let the flavors of the sea and the earth mingle in each mouthful, transporting you to the sun-drenched shores of the Tyrrhenian coast. Pair this hearty dish with a glass of crisp white wine for a lunchtime feast fit for a king.

4. Afternoon: Indulgent Treats for the Senses

As the afternoon rolls around, Italians look forward to la merenda, a time-honored tradition of indulging in sweet treats and savory delights. This could include a creamy tiramisu slice, a gelato scoop, or a crispy arancini. 

Granita in Noto, Sicily

Cool off with a refreshing granita, a Sicilian specialty that’s as vibrant and flavorful as the island itself. Made from freshly squeezed fruit juice or coffee, sweetened with a hint of sugar, and frozen until slushy, granita is the perfect afternoon pick-me-up on a hot summer day. Sample it in Noto, where the tradition of granita-making dates back centuries, and savor the authentic flavors of Sicily in every spoonful.

Arancini in Palermo, Sicily

Satisfy your afternoon cravings with arancini, a Sicilian specialty that’s both delicious and satisfying. These golden orbs of goodness are made from seasoned rice, stuffed with a savory filling such as ragù (meat sauce), mozzarella, and peas, then coated in breadcrumbs and fried to perfection. Sample them in Palermo, where arancini are a beloved street food favorite, enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. Let each bite of these crispy, flavorful treats transport you to the sunny shores of Sicily, where the culinary traditions are as rich and vibrant as the island itself.

5. Dusk: Dinner Delights and Divine Desserts

Dinner in Italy is a more relaxed affair compared to lunch, with lighter dishes and smaller portions. It often begins with an aperitivo, a pre-dinner drink enjoyed with friends and family to stimulate the appetite. This is followed by a light meal, such as pizza, bruschetta, or a simple pasta dish. Italians prefer to dine al fresco during the warmer months, enjoying the cool evening breeze and the company of loved ones.

Crescia Sfogliata in Urbino, Marche

As the sun sets over the rolling hills of Marche, indulge in crescia sfogliata, a traditional flatbread that’s as light and airy as a summer breeze. Made with layers of paper-thin dough and filled with savory ingredients like cheese, herbs, and cured meats, this delicate bread is a beloved specialty of Urbino. Pair it with a glass of local wine and watch the colors of the sky change as you savor every bite.

Zabaione in Turin, Piedmont

Treat yourself to zabaione, a luxurious dessert from Piedmont that’s as rich and velvety as a golden sunset. Made with egg yolks, sugar, and Marsala wine, this luscious custard is whipped to airy perfection and served warm or chilled, depending on your preference. Sample it in Turin, the capital of Piedmont, where it’s a beloved tradition during the city’s annual chocolate festival. Close your eyes and let the decadent flavors of zabaione transport you to a realm of pure indulgence.

6. Evening: Drinks to Toast the Day’s Culinary Discoveries

After dinner, Italians often indulge in a digestivo, a post-meal drink believed to aid digestion and soothe the stomach. Limoncello, a tangy lemon liqueur made from the zest of Amalfi Coast lemons, is a popular choice, with its bright flavor and refreshing finish. For those seeking something with a bit more depth, amaro, a bitter herbal liqueur, offers a complex and intriguing taste experience. Whether sipped neat or enjoyed over ice, these after-dinner libations provide the perfect ending to a memorable meal.

Negroni in Florence, Tuscany

Raise a glass to a day well spent with a classic Negroni, a timeless cocktail that’s as iconic as the city of Florence itself. Made with equal parts gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth, this bittersweet concoction is the perfect way to unwind and toast to the magic of Italy’s culinary heritage. Sample it at a historic bar in Florence’s bustling city center and let the vibrant flavors of Tuscany linger on your palate long into the evening.

Limoncello in Sorrento, Campania

End your culinary adventure on a sweet note with a sip of limoncello, a tangy liqueur made from the fragrant lemons of the Amalfi Coast. Sample it in Sorrento, where the tradition of limoncello-making dates back centuries, and savor the citrusy flavors that evoke the sun-drenched shores of Campania. Let the golden hue and zesty aroma of limoncello transport you to a realm of pure bliss as you bid farewell to Italy’s culinary delights.

Italy’s Gastronomic Treasures

Discover Italy’s hidden gastronomic treasures, uncovering rich flavors, traditions, and stories that define its culinary heritage from dawn till dusk. So, pack your appetite and sense of adventure, and let’s dive into this extraordinary journey through the heart and soul of Italy. Buon viaggio e buon appetito!

The post Taste of Italy: Journey Through Hidden Culinary Treasures first appeared on Hello Positive Mindset .

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / RossHelen.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

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Italy deal alert: Fly to Venice, Milan, and Naples for as low as $479 round-trip

We've spotlighted a few sales with great prices on flights to Rome , but this time, we've found a sweet deal for travel to other much-desired destinations in Italy. Airfare to Venice, Milan, Naples, Bari, Genoa, and Turin is now available at substantial discounts.

You can depart from a number of East Coast cities, including Boston, Miami, New York City and Washington, D.C. There are even some sale fares from San Francisco.

The travel window for this deal is primarily from November through March 2025. You may get lucky and find some sale fares for last-minute travel in late April and May this year. Also, just about every flight in this sale has layovers each way, although we did find the occasional nonstop flight at a lower-than-normal price.

This sale is for basic economy tickets. You get a free carry-on with these airlines. It will cost you between $65-$85 each way to upgrade and get free checked luggage and seat selection.

Deal basics

Airlines : Air Canada, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, ITA Airways, TAP Air Portugal and United Airlines

Routes : Flights from various U.S. cities to Bari, Genoa, Milan, Naples, Turin and Venice

How to book : On Google Flights then book directly with the airline

Travel dates : Mostly between November 2024 and March 2025; some routes include Thanksgiving

This deal was originally sent out by Going . Sign up for Going to get up to 90% off select flights via its Premium membership , which users can try for free for 14 days and then $69 per year. You can also upgrade to the Elite tier for $199 per year for access to all the Premium deals, plus premium economy, business-class and first-class alerts.

Sample flights

This sale includes round-trip flights to Milan, Italy (MXP) from U.S. airports, including:

• Baltimore Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI)
• Boston Logan International Airport (BOS)
• Dulles International Airport (IAD)
• John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
• LaGuardia Airport (LGA)
• Miami International Airport (MIA)
• Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
• Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA)
• San Francisco International Airport (SFO)

Round-trip flights to Turino Airport (TRN) from:

Round-trip flights to Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE) from:

Departure airports to Bari International Airport (BRI) include:

Departure airports to Genova City Airport (GOA) include:

Departure airports to Naples International Airport (NAP) include:

Related: From Venice to Naples: 6 cities you can easily visit on Italy's high-speed train

There is good availability from Newark to Milan in November. We found flights from EWR to Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP) on TAP Air Portugal for only $479 round-trip. There is a layover each way. Also, note that you get a free carry-on, but it will cost you a lot to check a bag. In other words, pack light to take advantage of this deal.

We also stumbled across this nonstop flight on United in December from Newark to Milan for $581 round-trip.

According to Google Flights, this route during the holidays should cost about $1,000, so if the timing works, it's one to consider.

TAP Air Portugal has flights from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to Milan in November for less than $500 round-trip — another solid discount. If you live in San Francisco, the flights to Milan in this deal were the best bargains by far.

ITA Airways has November flights from Boston to Naples for $531 round-trip.

We saw lots of flights to Naples in November and December for that price, which Google Flights data indicates is about half the usual cost.

There are lots of flights on sale from Boston to Venice as well. We found itineraries in late November after Thanksgiving to Venice for less than $600 — a big discount from typical prices.

Maximize your purchase

When you book this deal or any flights, be sure to use a credit card that earns bonus points on airfare purchases, such as:

• Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card : 2 points per dollar spent on travel
• American Express® Gold Card : 3 points per dollar spent on airfare when booked directly with the airline or through amextravel.com
• The Platinum Card® from American Express : 5 points per dollar spent on airfare when booked directly with the airline or through American Express Travel (on up to $500,000 of these purchases per calendar year, then 1 point per dollar)
• Citi Premier® Card (see rates and fees ): 3 points per dollar spent on airfare
• Chase Sapphire Reserve® : 3 points per dollar spent on travel

Bottom line

Act quickly with this sale. Availability is already drying up for certain destinations like Venice. So, if you live in one of the departure cities listed above, start searching to find the best trip options.

Related reading:

• Here are the best current credit card welcome offers
• 7 things to understand about credit before applying for a new card
• How to apply for a credit card
• What is APR on a credit card?
• How to check your credit score for free

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My four-day rail and ferry adventure from the UK to Albania

From London to Tirana, via Chambéry’s medieval streets, bustling Bari and Albania’s dynamic capital, this trip across Europe has treats at every turn

M y overriding memories of crossing countries by train, on a trip from London to Albania, are of half-empty carriages and countryside sweeping past windows bathed in the soft orange glow of sunset. I remember cypress trees, red-roofed villages with square churches, farmland in neat strips and row upon row of vineyards.

On my London-Paris-Chambéry-Turin-Bari-Tirana journey over land and sea, there was, for long stretches, little to do. The wifi was patchy. It took a while to adapt to having so much time to simply watch the world go by, travelling through landscapes without having to navigate them.

The biggest stress happened long before I set off, when a landslide not far from the French border with Italy blocked the rail line between Chambéry and Turin, forcing a closure that continues today. Byway, the no-fly operator I had booked with, offered to reroute me through Nice and on to Turin via the Vermenagna valley (with changes in Tende and Cuneo), or book me on the FlixBus service over part of the Mont Blanc massif. I was keen to see Chambéry and the Alps, so I chose the bus.

People seemed surprised when I told them I was travelling overland to Albania. As I gushed about the romance of slow travel by train and sleeper ferry, and my excitement about Tirana, I got comments about being “brave”. I didn’t feel especially brave: all the planning, tickets and hotel bookings were done for me, and friendly help was a WhatsApp call away if needed.

I just had to download the Rail Planner app for my Interrail pass and make sure I was at the right station at the right time (Turin was the biggest challenge: it has four main railway stations and taxis scream between them bearing anxious-looking passengers).

The entire journey took four days. If I did it all again, I’d stay longer in Puglia, the heel of Italy’s boot – and remember to buy my Paris Métro ticket from the cafe on the Eurostar.

Day one: London to Chamb éry

First to Paris’s Gare du Nord, then the metro to Gare de Lyon, where I make a beeline for a cafe opposite the station. Noise pervades the pavement tables of Café Terminus, but the cacophony is delightful – an atmospheric place for a citron pressé .

I’m in plenty of time for the train to Chambéry and, excitingly, am on the upper deck. Soon, we break free from the suburbs to trace huge stands of forest. Beyond Lyon begins a ripple of hills, lazy rivers and thickly forested slopes. As evening approaches, it’s all Alpine scenery. I arrive at an almost-empty station and walk to the boutique Hotel des Princes in Chambéry’s old town.

Chambéry has an Italian feel – it was the seat of the House of Savoy before the dynasty moved on to Turin – and its medieval alleys, cathedral and pastel-coloured townhouses are quietly impressive. The 1838 Fontaine des Éléphants sits in the middle of the closest square to the old town, and peeking from the end of every street are the Bauges and Chartreuse mountain ranges. My stay is peaceful and easy.

Day two: Chamb éry to Turin

From Chambéry, the train to Turin would take about 2½ hours, but the bus takes double this. I’m on the top deck again, which is worth it for the sight of misty fingers of early morning light breaking across the mountain ridge. Snoozing backpackers rouse themselves to snap pictures of remote Mont Blanc peaks, before slumbering once more through the tunnel to Italy. In Turin there’s perfume in the air from the blossom-covered trees.

Turin’s grid of long, straight boulevards is testament to its development by the Romans – the redbrick Palatine Gate is another Roman relic – and its grand piazzas, royal palaces and graffitied colonnades date from the city’s Savoy heyday in the 16th and 17th centuries. Today, the number one attraction is the Museo Egizio (Egyptian Museum).

My favourite moments? Ricotta and fig ice-cream on Piazza San Carlo, an aperitivo on off-the-beaten-path Via Sant’Agostino and the towering neoclassical Mole Antonelliana (national museum of cinema). I eat Turin’s famous doughy pizza al padellino (pan pizza) and spend a comfortable night in the eaves of Hotel Urbani in 19th-century residential streets close to the grand Porta Nuova train station.

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Day three: Turin to Bari

The views from my next train are of cinematic Tuscan scenes. Scorched fields, vines and Italian cypress trees. Neat red roofs and shabby-chic farmhouses. Fluffy clouds cling to hills that Google Maps tells me are the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines. After hours of soothing golden landscapes, the opal-blue Adriatic wallops into view just north of Ancona. Beach bars whip by and cypress trees are replaced with palm trees: I’ve arrived in the south of Italy.

Bari is hands down my favourite stop. The noise, heat and energy as we step off the train in the early evening are joyous. After Chambéry and Turin, Bari feels brash, a little rough around the edges even; a proper port city. The labyrinthine alleyways of the whitewashed old town are almost cliched in their cuteness. Despite the troupes of tightly packed headphone-wearing Americans following guided tours, it somehow manages to retain a tranquil atmosphere.

Old ladies yawn from the shade as tourists surreptitiously snap pictures and laundry flutters from balconies. I could stay for ever, but after 24 hours (which includes a lot of pasta, a stroll along the posh promenade to the not-so-posh city beach and a night in an elegant aparthotel, Residence Zodiacus , halfway between the station and the old town), it’s time to board the night ferry to Albania.

Day (and night) four: Bari to Tirana

I arrive at the ferry on foot and am escorted through the car deck to jokes about going in the wrong direction (to Albania, instead of from it). In the early morning I spot a pink sky through the cracked window of my comfy en suite cabin, and head to the top deck to see the sun rise over the distant outline of Albania. Disembarking in the port of Durrës is a bit of a scrum and there’s a bus to the capital waiting, but I opt instead for a five-minute taxi ride to the centre of town and breakfast of pastries and espresso on a dazzling white road lined with boutiques and palm trees. I later regret this though, as the aircon on the grubby public bus I eventually take to Tirana is more tired than I am, and drops me in an urban sprawl miles from the centre.

Tirana itself is a revelation. My hotel, Padam Boutique , is a grand villa with handsome rooms and floor-to-ceiling windows, and there’s striking new skyward architecture on every nearby street. A short stroll away is the landmark Pyramid of Tirana , which stands as a symbol and monument to change (and is fun to climb at sunset). Skanderbeg Square – a jumble of buildings erected on a roundabout at the time of the celebrations to mark the fall of communism in 1992 – is now a pedestrianised, glossy public space. There are nods to Albania’s recent, wretched history behind the iron curtain, of course – the Bunk’Art and Bunk’Art 2 museums, in nuclear bunkers are unmissable – but Tirana and the country are more than just the last century. My journey is done, but it feels like Tirana is just getting into its stride.

The trip was provided by Byway , which offers sustainable travel and accommodation packages across the UK and Europe. Its Alps to Albania trip costs from £679pp

• Slow Travel
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