I spent some time in Bari last month and absolutely loved the city. It receives far fewer tourists than other Italian cities like Rome, Florenceand Naples is much cheaper and has a really authentic and relaxed atmosphere.
Where is Bari?
Bari is the capital of the Puglia region in southeastern Italy, located in the heel of the country’s “boot”. It is a bustling port city on the Adriatic Sea.
Known for its atmospheric old town, medieval churches, stunning beaches and delicious food and wine, there are so many incredible things to do in Bari.
In this article I will describe some of the main things to see and places to visit in Bari. Some of them are free, some of them are paid, but all of them are awesome and definitely worth it!
Best Things to Do in Bari
Regardless of how long you plan to stay in Bari, I recommend checking out at least some of the following sites.
1. Explore the Old Town
Most of the best places to visit in Bari are located in its Old town – Old town – a maze of narrow, winding streets and alleyways that lies just south of the modern port area. It’s a fascinating place, with over 2,000 years of history. Needless to say, I spent most of my time in this beautiful area.
The majority of Citta Vecchia’s historic buildings are intact and the whole area has a wonderfully unique atmosphere. It’s easy to get lost wandering the alleys, but that’s part of the fun.
Around every corner you will see something new. Women sit at wooden tables on the street and make handmade products Orecchiette pasta, the quaint little squares are decorated with flowers and locals sit down to chat over coffee or a glass of wine.
I felt like I was traveling through time – I felt like life hadn’t changed much here in hundreds of years. It’s an incredible place to spend a few hours and exploring it is one of the best activities in Bari. Click here for a popular guided tour of the old town.
2. Visit the Basilica of San Nicola
Dating from the 12th century, the Basilica of Saint Nicholas was built on the site of a church destroyed by an earthquake in 1089.
The exterior of the basilica is incredibly ornate, with two large towers and a stunning facade. The interior is equally impressive, with beautiful mosaics and paintings adorning the walls and ceilings.
It is dedicated to Saint Nicholas (aka Saint Nick, or Father Christmas, famous for Christmas Eve), who was born in Patara, in what is now Turkey, and later became bishop of Myra.
The remains of Saint Nicholas are actually buried in the crypt of the basilica and it is a place of pilgrimage for Orthodox Christians from around the world. This rickshaw tour of the old town is actually home to the Basilica of Saint Nicholas.
Address: Largo Abate Elia, 13, 70122, Bari BA, Italy
3. Discover Bari Cathedral
Another church in Bari that I think is worth visiting is the Primatial Metropolitan Cathedral of San Sabino (or Bari Cathedral for short), which dates back to the 11th century.
The cathedral is located in the heart of Citta Vecchia and is a fine example of Romanesque architecture. Inside, the treasure of the cathedral (Treasure) contains a series of precious relics and other historical objects, as well as a museum.
Beneath the cathedral are a series of archaeological digs showing the remains of an ancient Roman road from the 2nd century and a Byzantine church from the 9th century. There are also the remains of a beautifully ornate mosaic.
Address: Piazza dell’Odegitria, 70122, Bari BA, Italy
4. Take a walking tour of Bari
One of the best ways to discover the rich and fascinating history of this amazing city is to take a historical walking tour of Bari.
I thought I knew a lot about what to do in Bari, but after taking this walking tour, I realized there was so much more to do in the city! The walking tour was very informative and definitely worth it. There are several different tours to choose from, but I recommend this one.
The passionate local guide will take you on a tour of the city’s most important and iconic sites and teach you about the history, culture and way of life of the people of Bari.
If it’s really hot outside, or you have mobility issues…or you’re just feeling lazy…this rickshaw tour is a great way to get around the Old Town!
5. Relax at the beach
Puglia is home to some of the best beaches in Italy. Many of them are located a short distance from Bari and make a perfect day (or half-day) trip away from the city.
Perhaps the most famous beach near Bari is Monastic Blade (also known as Cala Porto), in the pretty little town of Polignano a Mare. This small white pebble beach is located at the end of a rocky canyon with steep walls, framed by vertical cliffs and has magnificent turquoise water.
Other great beaches near Bari include Cala Paura (also in Polignano a Mare), Otranto beach (in Otranto), and Cala Porta Vecchia (in romantic Monopoly). These are all easily accessible by public transport (train or bus) from Bari. Or, better yet, rent a car like I did.
However, if you don’t have time to leave the city, you can always enjoy some time at the beach. Check Pane and Pomodoro Beacha sandy beach 3 kilometers southeast of the city center. The name translates to “Bread and Tomato” (don’t ask me why).
6. Take a street food tour
I ate in Bari and I highly recommend it too! Bari is famous for its delicious street food, so be sure to try as much as possible while you’re in town. One of the best ways to taste the best street food in Bari is to take a tour street food tour.
This is a great option and introduce you to some of the city’s most famous dishes. You’ll visit popular local spots and immerse yourself in Bari’s rich culinary culture. Plus, you can book now and pay later (with cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour), which is ideal if you’re unsure of your plans.
Some of my favorites local specialties of Puglia include:
- Orecchiette fried pasta broccoli rabe (also known as I was kidnapped).
- Tiella – a hearty traditional dish made with rice, potatoes and mussels (think Apulian paella).
- Barese Focaccia – probably the best focaccia you will ever eat, topped with ripe tomatoes, olives, olive oil and oregano.
- Meatballs – fried cheese dumplings made from stale bread (and sometimes fish, meat or vegetables), either served crispy on their own or in a rich sauce.
7. Explore Svevo Castle
Bari Swabian Castle is one of my favorite places to visit in Bari! It is a Norman castle which was built, destroyed and then rebuilt in the 12th and 13th centuries.
It is an imposing structure located right by the sea, and with its thick walls and moat, it’s easy to imagine how this castle was one of the main points of defense for the old town over the centuries.
The castle has gone through many historical trials and has been damaged several times by earthquakes. Despite this, the entire structure is surprisingly well intact.
Today, the castle is used as an exhibition center and museum dedicated to the history of the castle, as well as that of the city of Bari more broadly.
8. Take a stroll along the seafront promenade
Bari has a beautiful, long promenade (called Nazario Sauro Beachfront) which runs along the seafront. It’s a great place for shopping. Come on, relax and admire the view. There are also several cafes and restaurants along the promenade, so you can stop for a coffee or a bite to eat if you wish. If you want pasta, check it out Antica Caffeterria dell’Angelo.
You can also extend the walk until Molo Sant’Antonio Lighthousewhich is located at the end of the dike marking the entrance to the marina and marina. It was the city’s main port until Bari’s largest commercial port was built in 1850.
Here you’ll likely see people fishing and hanging out with friends, painting boats, or taking sailing lessons in the sheltered marina. I love to sit and watch it all unfold while enjoying the fresh sea air.
In the evening, the promenade comes alive with locals and tourists, and people come to admire the spectacular sunset. This is one of my favorite things to do in Bari at night – there’s just a really great vibe here.
9. Join a Puglian cooking class
One thing to be aware of is that Puglia food is not like other regions of Italy – they are not known for their wide variety of pastas, pizzas and risottos – which actually surprised me.
Puglian cuisine tends to be quite simple and highlights the freshness and high quality of local and seasonal ingredients, including tomatoes, beans, artichokes, peppers and seafood.
For an unforgettable experience where you can learn how to prepare classic and delicious local dishes, take a traditional Apulian cooking class. There are several different classes to choose from, but I recommend this onewhich takes place at the host’s home.
During the class, you will learn how to make 2 fresh pastas, including Orecchiette (the famous Apulian pasta that looks like little ears), tiramisu and of course prosecco, snacks and wine are included. This is one of the most fun things to do in Bari – I highly recommend it! Click here to find out more and reserve your place.
10. People-watch in Piazza Mercantile
Commerce Square is one of the main squares on the edge of Bari’s old town. It’s a place where I sit and relax with an ice cream and people watch.
This historic medieval square has been a meeting place for centuries. People have been coming here to trade their goods since the 14th century, and even today it is a popular place for locals to meet and spend time together.
The buildings around the square are incredibly picturesque, including the Palazzo della Dogana, the 16th-century clock tower, and the baroque Fontana della Pigna fountain. Sitting back and enjoying this cute little corner of the city is one of the best free things to do in Bari, Puglia.
11. Discover Bari on a Segway tour
Segways can be very controversial: some people like them, and others really don’t. If you are in the first camp like me, consider join this tour.
After a brief briefing, you’ll set out to explore some of the city’s best-known sights, as well as some hidden gems and secret spots. You will visit places in the old town and the modern city, including the Petruzzelli Theater and the main fish market of Bari.
And at the end you can enjoy delicious traditional homemade ice cream. I had a great time on the segway, but maybe the ice cream was my favorite part.
12. Relax in the park June 2
Park on June 2 is a public park just south of central Bari. It’s a popular spot with locals and is the perfect place to relax and take a break during a busy day of sightseeing.
The park has a variety of different plants and trees, as well as a lake that is home to turtles, ducks and other birds. If you are looking for things to do in Bari for families, I recommend visiting this place.
There is also a children’s play area and a small cafe kiosk selling coffee, water, beer and other refreshments.
13. Go on a sailing trip
Bari is located on the Adriatic Sea, so it’s no surprise that sailing is a popular pastime here. Several operators offer sailing excursions from Bari. You can relax on the deck and enjoy the beautiful coastline as you pass by.
Being on the water gives you a unique perspective on Bari itself, and many sailing excursions allow you to swim in the clear blue waters of the Mediterranean. It’s also quite common to see dolphins and other aquatic life while you’re on the boat.
It’s a great sunset trip which has fantastic reviews and is one of the best things to do in Bari for couples or groups of friends. What could be more romantic than sitting on the deck of a vintage gozzo boat, watching the sunset over the sea, with a aperitif in hand? Click here for more details.
(To be honest, even if you travel alone, it’s still a pretty awesome experience!)
14. Shop at Poggiofranco Market
The Mercato di Poggiofranco is one of the largest open-air markets in Bari and is the perfect place to buy souvenirs. The main market takes place on Saturday mornings, from approximately 8:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
To find the market, go to Mother Teresa Avenue of Kolkatalocated 2.5 kilometers south of the central station, in the Poggiofranco district. You can walk, take a bus or a taxi.
Here you will find a huge range of items from clothing, shoes and accessories to food and drinks, homewares and kitchenware. You name it, you’ll probably get it here.
You’ll also find stalls selling locally made goods, which make great gifts to take home. If you’re in town on a Saturday and looking for a good deal and a glimpse into the lives of locals in Bari, I recommend heading to Mercato di Poggiofranco.
15. Take a trip to Monopoli
Monopoli is a beautiful coastal town and one of the best places to visit near Bari. It takes around 40 minutes to get there, or you can take the regional train from Bari Central Station, which takes around 35 minutes.
In the heart of Monopoli lies the historic centeror historic center – a maze of beautiful whitewashed old buildings, with green shutters, colorful flower boxes and cobbled streets polished by hundreds of years of passage.
There is also an old fishing port still in use today, where you can see local fishermen bringing in their catch, ready to be taken straight to the town’s restaurants.
If you want to spend some time at the beach, check out Cala Porta Vecchialocated just south of the main old town. For a drink and dessert, I loved the tiramasu and espresso with a view of Red Port.
I also recommend taking a stroll along the cobbled pedestrian walkway that runs along the old town, next to the waterfront. It’s beautiful here at any time of the day, but it’s especially magical and atmospheric at sunset.
See the full article: 15 Best Things to Do in Monopoli.
16. Visit the Civic Museum
THE Civic Museum is a small museum dedicated to the history of Bari. It is located in a former palace in the old town and is definitely worth a visit if you want to learn more about the city’s past.
I didn’t get here on my trip to Bari, but the museum houses a collection of historical artifacts, as well as a library and archives. There is also a section dedicated to the traditional culture of the city, which is really interesting.
The museum hosts numerous events and exhibitions throughout the year. See here for more information on what happens during your visit.
Address: Street. Sagges, 13, 70122, Bari BA, Italy
17. Take a day trip to Alberobello
Alberobello is a small town in Puglia famous for its “trulli“Houses – traditional cone-roofed dwellings made entirely of stone. It’s one of the most unique places I’ve ever been!
If you have time, there are plenty of things to do near Bari, and Alberobello is one of the most interesting.
It’s about an hour from Bari by car, and there’s also a bus that connects the two places (although it takes almost twice as long). A simpler option if you don’t have your own car is to take a guided tour from Bari (see below).
No matter how you get there, be sure to take time to wander the narrow streets and have a drink at the Bar Enoteca in Casedd (ignore the reviews, the staff were great and I thought it was a nice place to people watch and have a drink). Learn more about Alberobello in this message.
18. Discover the Petruzzelli Theater
THE Petruzzelli Theater is one of the most important cultural institutions in Bari. This is a large theater and opera house that regularly hosts numerous theater, ballet, opera and concert performances.
The building itself dates back to 1904 and its interior is incredibly ornate and beautiful. Even if you don’t plan on attending a show there, it’s still worth taking a look inside.
Address: Corso Cavour, 12, 70122, Bari BA, Italy
19. Join a bike tour
Another fun way to see the top tourist attractions in Bari, Italy is to take a bike tour. You’ll cover a lot more ground than you could on foot, so it’s a great way to see more of the city, especially if you only have a short amount of time.
This tour has excellent reviews and will introduce you to the old town of Bari, as well as some of the other less visited areas of the city. Your guide will also take you to one of their favorite ice cream parlors to cool off and enjoy a well-deserved treat.
Alternatively, you can always rent a bike and explore on your own. But for the tour, Click here for more information.
20. Take a day trip to Matera
Matera is a town in the neighboring Basilicata region – don’t miss it, it was one of the highlights of my trip to the region. Historians believe that Matera is the third most anciently inhabited city in the world and that people have lived there for at least 9,000 years.
Built on top of a rocky hill, it is truly spectacular and definitely worth a visit. The city is best known for its Sassi Districtwhich is home to a complex of prehistoric cave dwellings and a medieval cave church carved into the mountain.
Tip: When deciding on things to do around Bari, if you had to choose just one Alberobello or Matera to visit, personally, I would. go with Matera. I found it more atmospheric and less touristy. However, if you want to visit both cities in one day, consider joining this guided trip.
21. Bonus!
When traveling to Italy, you can’t have “too much food”! Check this fun trip which combines eating, drinking wine and walking – which is great because you’ll want to lose some calories. You will visit popular monuments, taste traditional dishes and also drink local wine. Click here for more details.
Travel itineraries for Bari
Here are some suggested itineraries to help you decide what to see and do in Bari.
One day itinerary in Bari
You can see most of Bari’s main attractions in one day. Join a walking tour allows you to see the main tourist sites and discover the city and its history.
Start your day by exploring the old town. Visit the Basilica of San Nicola, the Normanno-Svevo Castle and the Cathedral of San Sabino. Then head to the Murat district for shopping.
Later, head to the beach for a swim and end your day with a meal at one of Bari’s excellent restaurants.
2-3 day itinerary in Bari
If you have two or three days, you can explore the surrounding areas of Bari as well as the city itself.
Spend the first day exploring the city, following the itinerary above. On the second day, take a day trip to Matera or Alberobello (or, if you want to see both places in one day, consider joining this tour).
If you have a third day, take the train to the nearby town of Polignano a Mare, perfectly picturesque and home to some of the best beaches in southern Italy, including Monastic Blade And Cala Paura. You can get there by boat, including an aperitif and an exploration of caves and coves. with this much appreciated trip. End your last day with this amazing sailing trip at sunset.
One week itinerary in Bari
In one week, you can comfortably do all the activities in Bari that I’ve described in this article, and still have free time to spend as you wish.
I recommend spending at least two days in the city itself, essentially following the itinerary above but allowing yourself more time to enjoy each activity and spend more time in each location. One of your days in Bari, rent a bike will allow you to see even more of the city.
With the extra days, I would recommend taking day trips to Monopoly And Matera/Alberobello. Another option is this day trip which actually includes Polignano a Mare, Monopoli and Alberobello! And if you want to spend a whole day at the beach, don’t hesitate.
Where to stay in Bari (best areas)
These are some of the best areas of Bari for tourists.
Bari Vecchia – Ideal for first-time visitors and sightseeing tours
Bari Vecchia (old Bari) is the historic center of Bari and is where you will find many of the city’s most famous sites and attractions.
It’s super atmospheric, with a maze of cobbled lanes and lots of quaint restaurants and cafes spilling out into the pretty little squares. Check this superb accommodation in Bari Vecchia.
Murat – Great for shopping and nightlife
Located just south of Bari Vecchia, Murat is the modern heart of Bari. Here you will find many of the city’s best shops, restaurants and bars. This is a great place to stay in Murat.
Madonnella – Ideal for beach lovers
If you want to be close to the beach, I recommend staying at Madonella. Here you will be near Pane and Pomodoro Beach (the best beach in town), as well as the Nazario Sauro Beachfront seaside promenade where there are also numerous cafes and bars particularly popular with locals. Take a look at this excellent apartment in the region.
Best Restaurants in Bari
There is delicious food all over Bari. If you’re looking for specific recommendations, check out these places.
To the fisherman
Located right next to Castello Svevo, To the fisherman serves some of the best fresh fish and seafood in town. The quality is excellent and the prices are reasonable. Try the traditional local raw fish and mixed fried (fried seafood mix).
Savor the delicacies of Puglia
This This small, traditional restaurant is located in a small square next to the Metropolitan Cathedral, in the heart of Bari’s old town. They serve delicious pastas and a range of other local specialties, all cheap and fantastic.
Their menu changes frequently, but I had the Orecchiette pasta with broccoli rabe and it was incredible. It’s also a nice place to sit with a spritz and watch the world go by.
For Bacchus
In the new part of the city, near the Lungomare seafront promenade, For Bacchus is an intimate mid-range restaurant with a very warm atmosphere and wonderful owners.
The menu is small and offers traditional Puglian specialties – try the ravioli stuffed with turnips and anchovies. Prices are average and very fair.
Magda
Magda is a bakery and café located on the bustling Via Prospero Petroni. It’s a popular spot with locals and serves a range of focaccias, flatbreads, sweet and savory pastries and other traditional snacks.
This is the perfect place if you’re looking for a cheap and delicious place to eat in the center of Bari. I had the best focaccia of my life here, and their arancini the balls are also incredibly good.
Getting to Bari
Bari has an international airport with flights from all over Europe, including budget airlines Ryanair, EasyJet and Wizz Air. If you’re flying from outside Europe, you’ll probably need to connect via Rome, Milan, or another major European city.
You can also reach Bari by train. The city is a major stopover in Frecciargento high-speed rail network, which connects it to various other major Italian destinations such as RomeVenice and Naples.
Alternately, you can reach Bari by ferry from Albania, Greece, Montenegro and Croatia. These ferries also carry cars.
Once you arrive in Bari, the city center is within walking distance and you can reach most other main destinations via public transport. I’ve found that having data as soon as you arrive is a lifesaver in navigating the labyrinth of the old city; it’s much simpler to set up a digital system eSIM for Italy like Saily before leaving the house than finding a local store while carrying your luggage.
However, if you would like to explore more of the surrounding area, including more isolated locations, you can also rent a car (often the cheapest at the airport).
Activities in Bari: FAQ
Still wondering what to do in Bari? Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about visiting Bari and things to do in Bari.
What is Bari known for?
Bari is known for its beautiful architecture, atmospheric old town, good cuisine and beautiful beaches. It is also one of the main ports in southern Italy and a major transport hub for the region.
When is the best time to visit Bari?
The best time to visit Bari is spring (April-May) or autumn (September-October), when the weather is warm but not too hot and there are fewer tourists. However, Bari is a great year-round destination, so visit when you can.
Is Bari worth the detour?
Absolutely! Bari is a charming city with lots to see and do. Whether you’re interested in history, art, food or just relaxing on the beach, Bari has something for you.
How many days should I spend in Bari?
You can see most of Bari’s main sights in one day. However, I advise you to spend two or three days there if you can, to really soak up the atmosphere of the city and its region.
Is Bari safe?
Yes, Bari is like on like any other big Italian city. Of course, petty crime can happen anywhere, but as long as you take the usual reasonable precautions, you should have no problems while you’re there.
What is the most popular activity in Bari?
The most popular thing to do in Bari is to stroll through the atmospheric old town, which is full of beautiful medieval buildings and winding streets. Here you can watch women making pasta by hand on the street – one of the most iconic things to see in Bari, Italy.
What is the most beautiful beach in Bari?
The best beach in Bari itself is Pane and Pomodoro Beach. However, the most famous beach in the area is Monastic Bladein the neighboring town of Polignano a Mare.
What foods should I try in Bari?
Orechette pasta is probably Bari’s most iconic dish and is usually served with broccoli rabe (Or I was kidnapped). Other must-try dishes include tiella (a rice dish with potatoes and mussels), naked focacciae, and meatballs (fried balls with cheese).
Now you know what to do in Bari
These are just some of the top things to do in Bari, Italy. It’s a great city and I would love to go back.
The vibe is friendly and relaxed, the weather is sunny most of the year, and you’ll be surrounded by far fewer tourists than in many other popular Italian cities. If you have the chance to visit Bari, I highly recommend it.
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