21 Best Things To Do In Bari, Italy: Complete Travel Guide 2025

This travel guide covers the best things to do in Bari, Italy. It also includes where to eat and a few helpful tips so you have all you need to have the best trip to this beautiful medieval Italian city!

things to do in bari puglia

Rome, Venice, Florence, Naples, and Bologna are where most travellers to Italy spend their time. Bari gets skipped over, which honestly works in its favour because it sees far fewer tourists than other Italian cities.

Sitting on the Adriatic Sea, Bari is the capital of Puglia, a region known for incredible food, 800km of coastline and wine that doesn’t cost a fortune. Most people use Bari as a quick stopover to reach the famous beach towns, but they’re missing out. The city has a charming old town where locals actually live, some of the best food I’ve had in Italy and beaches you can walk to from the center.

I wasn’t expecting to fall for Bari as much as I did but eating burnt spaghetti that somehow tastes amazing and wandering the maze like old town won me over. It’s also the perfect base for day trips to Polignano a Mare, Monopoli, the trulli village of Alberobello and the cave city of Matera.

This guide covers everything you need to know including the best things to do in Bari, where to eat, day trip options and practical tips for getting around.

Some links in this post are affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you

Bari Essentials

Travel Insurance: I recommend True Traveller for EU/UK citizens and World Nomads for anyone outside of here.

Car Rental: DiscoverCars for the best prices.

Omio is the easiest way to book any buses and trains around Europe. It’s also super handy to have your tickets on your phone.

Best Tours: Bari Vecchia walking tour, Bari to Matera, Bari street food tour

Getting To Bari

Bari’s airport Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport (BRI) is located just 8km from the city centre, a 25 minute drive or 17 minutes on the train.

The FR2 train departs from Bari Aeroporto station, which is approximately a 10-minute walk from the arrivals hall via a covered walkway. Single tickets cost €9.10 and the train arrives at Bari Centrale station, from where the old town is a 20-minute walk away.

Where To Stay In Bari

The best area to stay in Bari is, Bari Vecchia, the old town. A maze of rustic cobblestone alleys full of restaurants, delis and bars. It’s full of life, you will fall asleep and wake up to the sound of locals chatting on their terrace in that charming Italian cadence. It also doesn’t hurt that every few steps is a focacceria or cafe with fresh cornetti.

We stayed in Arco Meraviglia House, a stone house which dates back to the 1300’s. Located in old town beside the romantic Arco delle Meraviglia, we were in the heart of it all. This spacious, two bedroom self-catering house had everything needed for a comfortable stay including a coffee machine, TV and AC. The owner is so kind and super helpful.

If you prefer a quieter stay, the new town (Murat) has more modern accommodation, wider streets and is closer to the water. You can also find cheaper restaurants that cater more for locals than tourists.

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Grande Albergo Delle Nazioni

luxury hotels in bari

Upscale waterfront hotel with sea views and a rooftop pool. Best for those wanting luxury and close proximity to beach. Breakfast is included.

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Arco Meraviglia House

best places to stay in bari italy

1300’s stone house in old town beside the romantic Arco Meraviglia. Perfect for couples and families wanting to experience authentic Bari.

Budget-friendly guesthouse close to the train station. Breakfast is provided and rooms are equipped with a hot tub. Just a 10 minute walk to old town.

21 Best Things To Do In Bari

Explore Bari Old Town (Bari Vecchia)

old town bari puglia

Bari Vecchia is one of the nicest old towns I’ve visited. Sitting on a peninsula jutting into the sea, the tall buildings shade you from the sun and the sea breeze snakes through the narrow streets to cool you off.

Many old towns are incredibly touristic, most accommodations are holiday rentals, the shops are all keyrings and magnets, but not in Bari. I was surprised to find that local life still has a strong heartbeat here. Locals still live here, clothes are hung out to dry from windows and people sit outside their houses sharing an afternoon beer. The feeling of community is what makes it special.

things to do in bari
baril alley

The authentic atmosphere is why the best thing to do in Bari is to get lost in this old town. Put your map away and aimlessly wander.

Want to learn more about Bari’s history and hidden corners? This walking tour of the old town takes you through the narrow alleyways with a local guide who’ll share stories you’d never discover on your own. It’s especially helpful for understanding the significance of the basilicas and finding those tucked away spots like the pasta ladies.

10 things to do in bari
best things to do in bari

Pasta Street

pasta street bari
orecchiette bari

Every morning in Bari Vecchia, elderly women set up wooden boards outside their homes and start kneading the region’s most famous type of pasta, Orecchiette. It has become one of the most famous attractions in Bari.

Translating to “little ears” due to their shape, orecchiette are made from just semolina and water. These small, pale circles of pasta have thick edges that give them a slightly chewy texture, perfect for catching sauce. It’s said these pasta ladies knew how to make orecchiette before they could even read or write, a skill passed down through generations since the 8th century.

orecchiette

Although they’re the best souvenir from Bari, these pasta veterans don’t just make them for tourists. Local restaurants buy in bulk, and many menus feature several orecchiette dishes. Orecchiette with broccoli rabe and orecchiette with braciole are both must-tries.

Watching the grannies knead and rhythmically slice the pasta, surrounded by mounds of fresh Orecchiette, I was looking forward to buying a bag. It’s not everyday you get to watch such a delicacy being made. Unfortunately, when we approached a lady making it fresh, she disappeared out back and handed us a clearly factory packaged bag. It cost €4, so it wasn’t the end of the world, but it’s something to watch out for.

The exact location in old town in Strada Arco Bassa, click here for the Google Map link.

pasta street bari
standing with my “scam” bag of pasta

Basilica di San Nicola

things to see in bari Basilica di San Nicola

Built between 1087 and 1197 to house the remains of Saint Nicholas (yes, the guy who inspired Santa Claus). Local fishermen smuggled his relics out of Turkey and brought them back to Bari. It has now become something of a pilgrimage for Catholics and Orthodox Christians.

Every year on May 9th, an oily and fragrant liquid called the Manna of Saint Nicholas apparently seeps from his tomb. Monks collect it and treat it as a sacred relic. Scientists actually studied this in 1925 and discovered it was water, likely condensation.

Basilica di San Nicola

The Basilica di San Nicola, with its eye catching white limestone facade and twin towers, is one of the top things to see in Bari. It has two levels: the upper church where services happen and the lower crypt where Saint Nicholas’ ashes and his relics are kept along with the Polish Queen Bona Sforza. Interestingly, Catholic masses are held upstairs and Orthodox masses on the lower floor.

Inside it’s all white marble and gold ceiling. It was pretty full when I visited, people were actually praying rather than just us tourists taking photos. The dim lighting makes it feel peaceful, a nice break from the blazing sun outside.

Entrance is free but donations are welcome.

Arco delle Meraviglie

things to see bari

One of the most picturesque locations in Bari. Arco delle Meraviglie, also known as the arch of wonders, has a romantic tale attached to it.

Believed to be built 500 years ago, in just one night so two lovers could meet. Living opposite one another, the girl’s family prevented them from getting close. So, the guy built the bridge to meet the lady of his dreams and lived happily ever after.

Ladies, if he wanted to, he would!

tara o'reilly travel blogger

The area itself is not only picturesque but has some really great eateries. It’s a quieter part of old town where many locals reside. The evening is especially atmospheric, sitting out on the cobblestones under the arch with an aperitif is the perfect way to unwind. It’s a place not to miss when visiting Bari.

👍 Beside Arco delle Meraviglie, Salumeria Meraviglie does incredible sandwiches while Lo Svevo – Birra e Cucina is great in the evening.

Eat Spaghetti all’Assassina

things to do in bari italy

This was the Bari food I was most looking forward to trying, and it did not disappoint. Spaghetti all’Assassina is burnt spaghetti. Trust me, it’s sooo much nicer than it sounds.

This dish has crispy bits of charred black spaghetti is lightly coated in a garlic, oil and chilli flavoured tomato sauce. This slightly spicy and smoky pasta is typically served with a large dollop of stracciatella or burrata. This adds another flavour dimension of sweetness which makes the dish so much richer.

The best Spaghetti all’Assassina in Bari is at La Baresana (I tried a lot). Expect long queues as it’s a popular spot, or try to arrive 10 – 20 minutes before opening to minimize time spent in the line. The tiramisu is also a must try.

👍 Spaghetti all’Assassina was invented in 1967 in the restaurant Al Sorso Preferito by chef Enzo Francavilla. The restaurant is still open today, located close to Bari’s promenade.

Basilica San Sabino

things to see in bari

Sitting in Piazza dell’Odegitria in the centre of old town, Bari Cathedral is actually one of the oldest buildings in Bari, dating back to the 5th or 6th century. It was built on the ruins of an older Byzantine cathedral that was destroyed in 1156 by William I of Sicily (who went by the nickname “the Wicked”, which pretty much tells you everything).

The exterior looks similar to the Basilica di San Nicola with its rose window and Romanesque style, but it’s much simpler. Inside, it’s not the most grand basilica I’ve visited, it’s more subdued with stone walls and intricate stone carvings

Basilica San Sabino
Basilica San Sabino

The crypt has much more grandeur. It’s softly lit and houses the relics of Saint Sabinus along with two stone coffins, one containing the relics of Saint Columba. There’s also a bell tower you can climb for views over the old town’s rooftops.

Entrance cost €7 to visit the church and crypt, it’s an additional €2 to visit the small museum.

Walk Bari’s Walls

attractions in bari

Bari was once a fortified city with a 1.2 kilometre defence wall protecting it. The city’s location on the Adriatic coast puts it at the crossroads of major trade routes. Invaders have been eyeing it up for centuries (the Normans, Franks and Germans all invaded Bari over the years).

Today, only 400 metres remain. The walls, also called “Muraglia di Bari” divide the old town from the more modern part of the city, running along the seafront to the port area. It’s one of the best free things to do in Bari.

thinsg to see bari

Start at Piazza Ferrarese and walk up a ramp to an elevated platform that brings you to Fortino of Saint Antonio Abate. This fort, along with the Fort of St. Scolastica, are the only two that survived. Fortino of Saint Antonio Abate can’t be accessed as it’s now used for events, while St. Scolastica is an archaeology museum.

As you walk down the elevated path it’s lined with cute stone houses, mostly overlooking the old town. It’s a peaceful stroll of white stone, wind, sea and culture. What more could you want?

bari old city walls
bari old city walls

👍 La Ciclatera Sotto Il Mare is a lovely resting stop along the walls for a small bite and a cocktail.

Bari Castle

bari castle

Bari Castle (officially Norman-Swabian Castle) dates back to 1132. It was destroyed in 1155 and restoration only finished in the 13th century.

The castle is well preserved and they’ve done a good job with the exhibitions. Audio and visual projections show what life was like centuries ago, which sounds gimmicky but actually works. I spent longer here than expected.

The coolest thing to see is the 3D mapping city model showing Bari and Puglia’s history and development. You can also visit the subterranean areas where archaeological excavations have taken place.

is bari castle worth visiitng

Unfortunately, you can’t walk the castle walls, which is a shame as the views would be nice.

Entrance costs €12 and is a good place to spend 30 – 40 minutes to escape the summer heat. You can book tickets online or purchase at the entrance.

Ride The Ferris Wheel

things to do in bari

Orange skies, boats bobbing in the water and the white hue of old town in the distance. I went at sunset and it was absolutely worth the €10. Three slow rotations give you enough time to actually take in the view without feeling rushed.

Located on Bari’s promenade at approximately 50 metres tall, this ferris wheel is the highest viewpoint in Bari. If you go during the day you’ll have views of the turquoise Adriatic ocean, during sunset the city is under a romantic orange glow, or at night the lights along the promenade and city are so pretty.

bari sunset

The wheel does three slow laps, lasting approximately 15 minutes. It costs €10.

Lungomare Promenade

Lungomare Promenade

At 3 kilometres, Bari’s Lungomare promenade is one of Italy’s longest seaside promenades, stretching from the old town to Pane e Pomodoro (bread and tomato) beach.

The promenade is lined with black street lamps and benches that give it an air of elegance when contrasted against the white path and walls.

It’s very busy with people exercising, going for a stroll or just resting on the walls along the many beaches. There are also many bars and cafes that spill out on the other side of the street.

Lungomare Promenade

La passeggiata is the Italian tradition of strolling after dinner to help digestion. It’s practiced by many locals, so taking a stroll down Lungomare at night means you’ll be surrounded by people out for their evening walk.

Try Braciole

what to eat in bari

Oh, the Bari delicacy I swore I would not try. Braciole is none other than horse meat. In my home country of Ireland, this particular meat is frowned upon. .

I didn’t think I would try it, but I definitely didn’t think I’d enjoy it. Braciole are thin slices of horse meat stuffed with garlic, parsley and cheese, rolled up and covered in a rich tomato sauce. It’s divine, and trying this dish is one of the tastiest things to do in Bari!

With some courage from my 3rd or 4th Aperol I took a bite. I hated myself but the horse meat was rich, very tender and tasted similar to beef. It has happened with duck, rabbit and now horse meat, a bit of sauce is all I need to upend my morals.

Restaurants often serve it with orecchiette for the ultimate Bari food experience.

👍 If you don’t have much time in Bari a street food tour is the best way to try the tastiest food in a short amount of time. Wander the old town with a friendly local who will show you the best spots for focaccia, panzerotto, orecchiette and more.

Visit A Beach

beaches in bari

Puglia has many beautiful beaches such as the ones in Polignano a Mare and Monopoli, but Bari can also hold its own with a handful of beaches within walking distance from the town.

  • Lido San Francesco – the best beach in Bari if you want proper sand and space to spread out. It gets packed in summer, especially on weekends, so go early or you’ll be squeezed between umbrellas. The water is clear and calm, perfect for swimming. Lounge chairs cost €25 (Monday to Friday) or €30 (weekends) for two, plus €1 for showers and €5 for towel rental. It’s a 50 minute walk from old town or a 15 minute bus ride. Worth it if you want a proper beach day rather than just a quick dip.
  • Bread and Tomato – small, free beach that’s popular with locals. It gets very crowded, especially in summer, but the fact that it’s free and has facilities (toilets and storage lockers) makes it convenient if you just want a quick swim. The beach is a mix of sand and pebbles, nothing spectacular but decent enough. It’s a 40 minute walk from old town or a 15 minute bus ride. Good for a few hours if you don’t want to commit to a full beach day or pay for lounge chairs.
  • Spiaggia Torre Quetta – long but rocky, which makes getting into the water a bit of a mission. You’ll be navigating over rocks to get in, so not ideal if you want an easy swim. It’s less crowded than the other beaches, probably because of the rocks. It’s a 1 hour walk from old town or a 12 minute bus ride. I’d skip this one unless you specifically want to avoid crowds and don’t mind the rocky entry.

If you only have time to visit one beach then I recommend Lido San Francesco, but get there early to get a good spot.

Panzerotta La Puccia

bari street food

Another Apulia speciality. I told you this region has some spectacular dishes, and panzerotti is one you should not miss out on when visiting Bari.

Similar to a small calzone but instead of being baked, panzerotti are fried. The outside is crunchy while the inside is pillowy and stuffed with tomato sauce, cheese and meat. It’s one of the tastiest street foods in Bari. Simple ingredients that create a flavour bomb.

bari street food

La Puccia on Piazza Mercantile may not look like much from the outside but it’s the place to go for authentic panzerotti in Bari. They don’t cheap out on the fillings and it’s genuinely tasty. Prices are between €2.50 and €3.

Murat

what to do in bari

I’ll be the first to admit the new town, also known as Murat, is nowhere near as pretty as the old town. But it’s still worth a visit to see a different, more modern side to Bari.

These are some of the places to visit in this area:

  • Teatro Petruzzelli – beautiful opera house with a lavish interior. Tickets are €5. The website also lists upcoming opera shows.
  • Palazzo Mincuzzi – 1928 art nouveau on Bari’s main shopping street. Although today it just houses a Unitied Beneton it’s worth it to look at the exterior. The juxtaposition of this old time elaborate palace on a modern shopping street is interesting.
Palazzo Mincuzzi
  • Parco Piazza Umberto I – long palm tree lined park which makes for a relaxing stroll, there are often musicians.
  • Palazzo Fizzarotti – 1900’s former Gothic-Venetian palace. Can only enter as part of a guided tour, worth a visit even just to see the exterior.

Piazza Mercantile

best things to do in bari

The oldest square in Bari, Piazza Mercantile has been the heart of the city’s social life for centuries. The grand Palazzo del Sedile dominates one side of the square with its elegant arches, while a clock tower from Germany (dating back to 1604) stands as a reminder of Bari’s trading history.

One of the many things I adore about Italy is the late night culture. Dinner is around 8 PM but restaurants are still buzzing at midnight. Italians love to socialise and it’s contagious. Piazza Mercantile is especially lively at night with people spilling out of the bars with drinks or just sitting on the steps with a quiet beer. It’s the perfect spot to people watch and soak up that effortless Italian evening vibe.

Palazzo del Sedile
Palazzo del Sedile

El Chupito and MercantileNove are both solid spots for drinks on the square.

Gelateria Piccinni

gelato bari

I take my obligatory evening gelato very seriously when I’m in Italy. It can’t be from a chain store, it has to be locally owned. Located away from old town in the new part of town, Gelateria Piccinni is the perfect choice for artisanal gelato.

Only opened in 2012, this gelateria somehow feels older. I think it’s because the owners take their craft seriously. No fuss, just excellent gelato. Although I didn’t try it, they are also well known for their tiramisu.

best gelato in bari

This is genuinely one of the best gelatos I’ve tried in Italy. The secret is that Gelateria Piccinni uses much less sugar, around 15% less than their competitors. The result is a creamy, well balanced flavour that isn’t too sweet. They also have dairy free gelato which isn’t easy to find in many gelaterias.

My favourite flavours were the Bacio and pistachio. Two scoops cost €2.50 and three scoops €3, which is incredibly reasonable for the quality.

Pasta and Tiramisu Class

fun things to do in bari

I took a pasta and tiramisu making class at a family-owned restaurant near the old town and it was genuinely one of the best things I did in Bari. We kicked things off with Prosecco while learning how to make tiramisu from scratch, then moved on to fresh pasta. Throughout the class we were served three glasses of local wine, I did not complain.

The restaurant is just a few minutes walk from Teatro Petruzzelli and the beach. At the end they gave us the recipes to take home which was handy because I plan to make that tiramisu part of my Friday night routine (minus the 3 glasses of wine)

cooking class bari

If you want to actually learn something useful while eating well and drinking wine, I highly recommend this class. They do vegetarian options too if you ask.

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Day Trips From Bari

As I’ve mentioned, Puglia has no shortage of jaw droppingly beautiful “is this out of a postcard” type beaches. The most famous beachside towns are Polignano a Mare and Monopoli, both easily reached from Bari as a day trip.

You can easily combine the two towns in one day as the train goes directly from Bari Centrale Station. Visiting these nearby towns are some of the most memorable things to do in Bari.

Polignano a Mare + Monopoli

Polignano a Mare

bari day trips

I would start the day in Polignano a Mare as it’s the busier of the two. Arriving in the morning means you’ll have a bit of time before the main bulk of crowds arrive.

This small clifftop town is famous for whitewashed buildings which line the narrow sun-coloured streets that eventually lead you to the edge of the rugged limestone cliffs.

The most famous beach is Lama Monachile, a cove that looks like it was carved out of the cliff by God. It is pebbly and super crowded but there’s an excellent viewpoint on Ponte Romano where you can look down to all the colourful umbrellas and aquamarine coloured water.

There’s not too much to do here, the beauty is in being here and taking in the scenery, however these are some spots I recommend you see:

  • Arco Marchesale – 14th century gate that acts as the main entrance to the old town.
  • Grotta Palazzese – iconic restaurant built into the cliffs. It’s very expensive but would be amazing at sunset. Booking in advance is a must.
Polignano a Mare old town
Polignano a Mare old town
  • Monumento a Domenico Modugno – statue of local Italian musician stuck in his famous pose against an ocean backdrop, it almost looks like he is flying in the sea breeze. Known for his hit Volare which has become one of Italy’s most internationally successful songs.
  • Scogliera del Lungomare Modugno – nice viewpoint of the town and cliffs.
  • Boat trip – explore hidden caves and coves around 11 km of the sea. Includes time to swim and an apertif.
Polignano a Mare old town

Polignano a Mare is somewhere you visit and never want to leave. I spent a large portion of the day picturing my days wandering the cobblestones, lazing on the beaches overlooking turquoise waters and seeing out the evening with an Aperol. Oh, a girl can dream.

Monopoli

what to see in bari

Monopoli is Polignano a Mare’s calmer and larger counterpart. This fishing village has a romantic harbour lined with colourful boats and honestly, I preferred it.

Don’t get me wrong, Polignano is stunning but Monopoli felt more peaceful. Fewer tourists, more locals going about their day and you could actually breathe without bumping into someone taking a photo. It’s bigger so it loses some of that compact charm but it’s still beautiful with plenty of nice restaurants along the waterfront.

The beaches are also easier to access than Polignano’s dramatic cliffs. Cala Porta Vecchia is right in the old town if you fancy a quick swim between wandering the streets.

  • Basilica Cattedrale Maria SS. della Madia – Baroque catholic cathedral with a stunning interior that you might not expect from such a small town. It’s so grand, I could feel my jaw drop when I entered.
basilical monopoli
Basilica Cattedrale Maria SS. della Madia
  • Palazzo Palmieri – 18th century palace, over hundred rooms many have frescoes. Cannot go inside.
  • Castello Carlo V – 16th century castle with good views.
  • Porta dell’antico Porto  – 16th century town gate that leads to the fishing port. When you’re walking through it look up and see an an old painting of Madonna della Madia, the patron saint of the city.
  • Boat trip – shared boat tour on a small speed boat. Takes you around both Monopoli and Polignano
bari to monopoli

Trulli Village

Trulli Village

Dating back to the 1500s, the UNESCO trulli village is a remarkable place. Located in Alberobello, around 55km from Bari, it’s like nowhere else on earth.

Lining the streets are 1,500 unique buildings called trulli. These drystone huts are made from roughly worked limestone boulders with conical roofs built from corbelled limestone slabs. Honestly, they look like something a smurf would live in.

Walking through trulli village feels surreal. The narrow cobblestone streets wind between these whitewashed cone-shaped houses, many of which still have families living in them. Others have been converted into shops, restaurants and guesthouses where you can actually stay the night in a trullo.

Alberobello

The most photogenic area is Rione Monti, where trulli cluster together on a hillside. It gets packed with tourists during the day but if you go early morning or late afternoon you’ll have the streets mostly to yourself. The golden hour light hitting the white walls and grey stone roofs is unreal.

Alberobello makes for an easy day trip from Bari by train (around 1.5 hours) or you can hire a car and combine it with other towns in the Valle d’Itria like Locorotondo or Martina Franca.

Matera

bari to Matera

Matera is one of the most unique places you’ll visit in Italy and it’s an easy day trip from Bari. Located around 65km away, this ancient city is carved entirely into limestone cliffs and has been continuously inhabited for over 9,000 years. The Sassi districts (literally meaning stones) are a maze of cave dwellings, churches and tunnels that stretch deep into the rock. It’s otherworldly and honestly feels like you’re on a film set, which makes sense because it’s been used in loads of movies like The Passion of the Christ and No Time to Die.

Getting to Matera from Bari takes around 1.5 hours by car or you can take a train to Matera Centrale station. The city is split into two main Sassi districts, Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano, plus the newer town perched on top. You can wander the alleyways aimlessly but you’ll miss so much of the story without context.

Matera

I’d really recommend taking a guided tour. The history of Matera is fascinating and heartbreaking. In the 1950s it was considered Italy’s national shame, with 15,000 people forcibly evacuated from the caves due to poverty and disease. Now it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and European Capital of Culture. A guide takes you into cave churches with ancient frescoes, explains how families actually lived in these dwellings and shows you hidden spots you’d never find on your own. Without the context, it’s just pretty caves. With a guide, you actually understand what you’re looking at.

Where To Eat In Bari

  • La Baresana – the best Spaghetti all’Assassina I had in Bari, the pizza is also super tasty. Relaxing outdoor seating, gets busy so allow time to queue.
  • Colibrio – one of the best gluten free bakeries I have ever visited. Focaccias, paninis, croissants, cakes all amazing.
  • Martinelli Bari – delicious fresh fish sandwiches, so much seafood. The mercantil with tuna, stracciatella and pistachio cream is divine.
  • Mastro Ciccio -super famous Bari streetfood shop known for their octopus sandwiches. Try the burrozza deep fried parcels filled with burrata cheese, and the deep fried meatballs.
  • Pieno o Ripieno – incredible Mortadella sandwich, very generous fillings. Best sandwich in Bari.
  • Panificio Fiore Bari – historic focacceria, needless to say it’s extraordinarily good. The smell alone is enough to draw you in.
  • Lo Svevo – Birra e Cucina – craft beers, small food menu that is highly rated. Dishes to try are the Baked octopus, braciole and orecchiette. Romantic setting under Arco delle Meraviglie.

Thank you for reading my list of best things to do in Bari, Italy. Keep reading for FAQ’S to help you plan your Bari trip itinerary.

bari at night

Getting Around Bari

Bus: Bari has a good bus network that’s run by AMTAB. Operating from 5 AM – 11 PM across 33 lines, it will take you to all the top attractions in Bari including the old town and beaches.

€1 – single ticket (€1.50 if purchased on the bus), €1.20 – 90 minutes, €2.50 – day ticket. The easiest way is by downloading the MUVT app.

Train: you won’t need a train to get around Bari but you will likely use it to visit other Puglia towns. The easiest option is to book through OMIO, tickets will be on your phone and you won’t have to queue at the ticket office for ages.

Car: a car is not a necessity in Bari as the city is walkable. A car is useful for day trip and exploring the wider Apulia region with freedom. You can check DiscoverCars for the best car rental prices.

Bari FAQ

Is Bari worth visiting?

100% Bari is worth visiting. It’s the perfect base to explore the Puglia region while also having interesting attractions, a fantastic seafront and a strong food scene. Not only that but it’s a real, lived in Italian city that has a good ratio of locals to tourists, this means tourist traps are few. Furthermore, it’s not as expensive as other cities in italy and along the Mediterranean, accommodation, food and drinks are all budget friendly. If that doesn’t make Bari worth visiting, I don’t know what would.

How many days in Bari?

You only need 1-2 days to see the attractions in Bari, but I recommend 4-5 days so you can visit the surrounding Puglia region. Bari is an excellent base, it’s one of the most affordable places to stay on this side of Italy, has incredible food and lively nightlife.

Best time to visit Bari?

The best time to visit Bari is during spring (April to June) or early autumn (September to October). The weather is warm but not unbearably hot, sitting around 20-25°C, perfect for wandering the old town without melting. The sea is warm enough for swimming and you’ll avoid the peak summer crowds that arrive in July and August. Accommodation prices are also more reasonable during these shoulder seasons, you can find decent hotels for €60-80 a night compared to €100+ in peak summer.

If you don’t mind the heat and crowds, summer (July and August) is when Bari truly livens up. Temperatures regularly hit 35°C+ and the beaches are packed, but there’s an energy to the city that’s hard to beat. Locals are out late, restaurants spill onto the streets and the evening passeggiata along the promenade is in full swing. Just be prepared to book accommodation well in advance and pay premium prices. Winter (November to March) is the cheapest time to visit with hotel prices dropping significantly, but many beach clubs close and it can be quite rainy. That said, the old town is still charming and you’ll have it mostly to yourself.

What is Bari known for?

Bari is famous for its historic old town with narrow paths that zigzag to the city wall that overlooks the long promenade. It has a thriving food scene with local dishes like spaghetti all’Assassina, braciole, panazerotti, orecchiette and a plethora of fresh seafood.

Is Bari a walkable city?

Bari is not only walkable but it’s highly enjoyable to walk around. The diverse areas create an interesting landscape of sea view, old town and the edgier new town. The paths are wide and there are many pedestrian crossings.

Can I drink the water in Bari, Italy?

Water across all of Italy, including Bari, is safe to drink. You can find water fountains around the city where you can fill up your bottle for free, along with coin operated ones where 1 litre costs just 5 cents.

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