Things To Do
in Bari

Bari, located on the Adriatic Sea in southern Italy, is the capital of the Apulia region. Known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture, it combines ancient traditions with modern life. The city is famous for its picturesque old town, Bari Vecchia, where narrow streets are lined with charming shops and eateries.

With its beautiful coastline and bustling port, Bari serves as a gateway to discovering the stunning landscapes of Puglia.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Bari Vecchia
morning
:

Start your day with a stroll through Bari Vecchia, exploring the Basilica di San Nicola and the Castello Normanno-Svevo.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local trattoria, then visit the Pinacoteca Provinciale di Bari for a taste of local art.

evening
:

Dine at a seaside restaurant and enjoy the sunset over the Adriatic, followed by a leisurely walk along the Lungomare.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural and Culinary Delights
morning
:

Visit the Mercato del Pesce to witness the local seafood trade and enjoy a traditional breakfast pastry.

afternoon
:

Take a cooking class to learn how to make orecchiette pasta and enjoy your creations for lunch.

evening
:

Explore the nightlife in the Murat district, where you can find bars and live music venues.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍕Pizza Margherita$7
Cappuccino$2
🍝Pasta Dish$12
🥖Focaccia$3
🍷Glass of Wine$4

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical and cultural heritage.
  • Delicious local cuisine.
  • Beautiful coastal views and beaches.
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist season.
  • Some areas may be less clean than expected.
  • Limited English proficiency in some local areas.
  • "Buongiorno" - Good morning
  • "Grazie" - Thank you
  • "Dove si trova...?" - Where is...?
  • "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Bari

Visit one of these nice places.

Basilica di San Nicola

A stunning Romanesque church, its intricate architecture makes for beautiful photographs.

Castello Normanno-Svevo

The medieval castle offers a great backdrop, especially during sunset.

Lungomare

The waterfront promenade is perfect for capturing sunsets and the Adriatic coastline.

Culinary Guide

Food in Bari

Bari is a culinary haven, offering a rich tapestry of flavors that reflect its coastal heritage and agricultural bounty.

Bari Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Orecchiette con Cime di Rapa

A traditional pasta dish made with orecchiette, broccoli rabe, garlic, and anchovies.

Must-Try!

Focaccia Barese

A soft, olive oil-rich bread topped with tomatoes, olives, and herbs, perfect for snacking.

Panzerotti

Fried or baked dough pockets filled with cheese and tomato, a popular street food.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercato del Pesce

A vibrant fish market where you can find the freshest seafood and local delicacies.

Via Sparano Street Food

A street lined with food stalls offering a variety of local snacks and quick bites.

Climate Guide

Weather

Bari has a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summer temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F), while winter averages around 10°C (50°F). Rainfall is more frequent from October to April, with the driest months in July and August.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

It is customary to greet people with a friendly 'Buongiorno' in the morning and 'Buonasera' in the evening.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to begin the meal before you start eating and try to finish everything on your plate.

Dress Code

Dress neatly and conservatively, especially when visiting religious sites.

Safety Guide

Safety

Bari is generally safe for tourists, but like any city, petty crime such as pickpocketing can occur, especially in crowded areas. It is advisable to stay alert, keep valuables secured, and avoid poorly lit areas at night.

Tipping in Bari

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is common to leave a small tip, around 5-10%, in restaurants if service is not included.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer

Hot and sunny, perfect for beach days, though it can be crowded with tourists.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and harvest season, great for food lovers and fewer crowds.

Winter

Mild winters with occasional rain; fewer tourists but a charming holiday atmosphere.

Nightlife Guide

Bari at Night

Bari offers a vibrant nightlife scene, particularly in the Murat district, where bars, clubs, and live music venues thrive. You can enjoy everything from relaxed wine bars to energetic dance clubs. The atmosphere is lively, especially on weekends, with locals and tourists mingling in the streets over drinks and music.

Hiking in Bari

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Gargano National Park

A short drive from Bari, this park offers beautiful trails through forests and along the coast.

Murge Plateau

Known for its unique landscape, the plateau features a network of trails for hiking and exploring.

Airports

How to reach Bari by plane.

Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport

Located about 8 km northeast of the city center, it serves both domestic and international flights, making it convenient for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Bari is quite walkable, particularly in the historic center where narrow streets and pedestrian-friendly zones make it easy to explore on foot. Most attractions, restaurants, and shops are within a short walking distance, enhancing the charm of discovering the city at a leisurely pace.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

Bari is home to a diverse population, with a mix of traditional Apulian culture and modern influences.

Students

The presence of several universities attracts a significant student population, adding vibrancy to the city.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is immensely popular, with local teams like SSC Bari having a devoted fan base.

Basketball

Basketball also has a strong following, with local teams competing in various leagues.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Bari can be hectic, especially during rush hours. Public transportation includes buses and a metro system that connects different parts of the city. Walking is often the best way to navigate the city center due to narrow streets and limited parking.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Bari.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, particularly pasta and vegetable-based plates.

Gluten-Free Options

Some eateries provide gluten-free pasta and bread; it's best to ask in advance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Italy has a high standard of healthcare, and Bari is no exception. There are several hospitals and clinics where travelers can receive medical attention. It’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, and EU citizens may use their European Health Insurance Card for basic services.

Discover Italy

Read more in our Italy 2025 Travel Guide.

Italy Travel Guide