Ever heard of Bari? It’s this gem in Italy’s heel, flying under the radar — a chill escape for those who’ve had their share of Naples and Palermo’s buzz and now crave something a whole lot different. 

Is Bari even worth visiting? What is there to see? In this piece, we’ll give you all the reasons why this charming city deserves a prime spot on your travel bucket list. Plus, we’ve lined up the best train day trips to amp up your adventure. Bari’s calling — are you in? 

 Image Credit: Getty Images, L V / 500px. Image Location: Bari, Italy

Where is Bari, Italy? 

If you’re scanning a map of Italy, head down to the heel of the boot — that’s where you’ll find Bari. It’s right on the edge of the Adriatic Sea, the laid-back capital of the Puglia region. Think of Bari as the cool, less crowded alternative to the usual hotspots of southern Italy. 

Is Bari worth visiting? 

Totally! Bari’s this hidden gem where you can soak up authentic Italian vibes without tripping over tourists. Here, you’ll find a vibrant mix of old and new, rich history, stunning architecture, beautiful beaches, and top-notch Italian food — all to yourself. 

What is there to see in Bari? 

Definitely check out the Basilica di San Nicola where the relics of Saint Nicholas (yep, Santa Claus) rest. Don’t miss the Castello Normanno-Svevo, a fortress steeped in history and intrigue. For a real taste of Bari’s daily life, spend some time at Piazza Mercantile — it’s the beating heart of the city, filled with shops and cafés. 

Image Credit: Getty Images, Westend61. Image Location: Bari, Italy

Where to stay in Bari, Italy 

Choosing where to stay in Bari? If you love history, the Old Town, Bari Vecchia, has charming hotels nestled among ancient buildings. For those who prefer a more contemporary scene, the Murat district is lively with trendy hotels and vibrant nightlife. Beach lovers should aim for accommodations near Pane e Pomodoro beach for easy access to the sea and sand. 

Does Bari have a beach? 

Yep, Bari’s got beaches! Pane e Pomodoro beach right in the city is a popular spot for a quick swim or sunbathing. And if you’re up for a little adventure, there are some amazing beaches just a short trip away. Check out what the stunning coastlines around Bari have to offer with our guide to the best beaches in Puglia — you’re in for some real seaside gems. 

What to do in Bari, Italy 

  1. Explore Bari Vecchia. Kick off your Bari adventure in the Old Town. This is where medieval Italy comes alive with its narrow streets and historic charm. Each turn reveals a story, and you’ll get a feeling like you’ve stepped back in time.  
  2. Savor the focaccia barese. Foodies, listen up! Bari’s focaccia barese — crispy on the outside, soft inside, and loaded with tomatoes, olives, and oregano — is a taste of local tradition you can’t miss. 
  3. Stroll along the waterfront promenade. For those perfect sunset views, hit the waterfront promenade. It’s the ideal spot for a relaxed evening walk. The sea, the sky, and the setting sun create an Instagram-worthy backdrop. 
  4. Dive into local markets. Want to feel the real pulse of Bari? The local markets are buzzing with life. From fresh produce to unique crafts, these markets are a sensory overload in the best possible way. 
  5. Indulge in orecchiette pasta. When in Bari, eating orecchiette is obligatory. These “little ears” of pasta, often served with a simple yet delicious sauce, are a staple of Pugliese cuisine. 
  6. Visit Bari’s bustling port. Don’t skip Bari’s port, a vital Mediterranean hub. It’s not just about boats and cargo; the port area is a blend of maritime trade, culture, and history. 

Insider’s tip. Craving authentic Italian flavors in Bari? Dive into the heart of the city’s culinary scene at Panificio Fiore, a local legend for the most mouth-watering focaccia barese you’ll ever taste. But wait, there’s more! Just a minute away, there’s Ristorante Antò - Cucina e Sapori Tipici, where the orecchiette pasta is nothing short of a taste revelation. So, loosen that belt and get ready to indulge in Bari’s best! 

Image Credit: Getty Images, libero_monterisi. Image Location: Bari, Italy

Bari’s best-kept secrets and hidden gems 

  1. Santa Maria del Buon Consiglio Hypogeum. Right next to Santa Scolastica in Bari Vecchia, you’ll stumble upon this cool open-air church ruin. Think old columns and walls under the sky, showing off what was once a three-naved building. This local gem was a playground for football star Antonio Cassano back in the day. Totally free and usually not too crowded, it’s a neat little detour when you’re exploring Bari. 
  2. Villa De Grecis. A little outside the city hustle, Villa De Grecis is a quiet, classy retreat. With its elegant architecture, lush gardens, and a chill vibe, it’s a cool place to unwind and soak up some of Bari’s architectural beauty. 
  3. The Fortress of Saint Anthony. Off the usual tourist track, this fortress is a peaceful spot with awesome views. It’s perfect for some quiet reflection and shots of the city and sea. 
  4. Pane e Pomodoro Beach. A local favorite, this beach is ideal for a laid-back day by the sea. It’s close to the city, yet far away enough to escape the crowds. Sunbathe, swim, and chill — Bari style. 
  5. The Murat District. Step into the 19th century in the Murat district. It’s a fab mix of classy architecture and shopping streets — a cool change of pace from the old town vibes. 
  6. Parco 2 Giugno. Need a green break? Parco 2 Giugno is your go-to spot in the city. It’s great for picnics, walks, or just lounging under a tree. 

5 of the best day trips from Bari

1. Lecce

Best for architecture aficionados 

Lecce is a baroque beauty that’s less crowded but might be just as grand as major Italian cities. Did you know the locals call it “The Florence of the South”? Wander around and you’ll stumble upon Roman amphitheaters alongside coffee shops. Don’t miss the pasticciotto — it’s a sweet little secret of Lecce. 

2. Alberobello

Best for fairy tale believers

Looking for a quicker route to take in your surroundings? In this case, we'd recommend taking the bus from Bari to Alberobello for a shorter journey and a chance to soak in local sceneries. 

Alberobello is like stepping into a kids’ storybook, except it’s real. These trulli houses aren’t just cute and quirky; they might’ve been a clever tax-avoidance scheme from back in the day. Who knew dodging taxes could create a UNESCO World Heritage Site? Perfect for a whimsical walk down history lane. 

  • Travel time from Bari by bus: ~1 hour 5 minutes 
  • Single bus ticket price: from $3.40

Image Credit: Getty Images, Westend61. Image Location: Polignano a Mare, Italy

3. Polignano a Mare

Best for beach lovers and foodies 

Polignano a Mare is a stunning town where spectacular cliffs meet the deep blue sea. Ever wanted to dine in a cave? Here’s your chance at Grotta Palazzese. And let’s not forget the Instagram-worthy beach, famous for its dramatic cliff dives. 

4. Ostuni

Best for romantic explorers 

Ostuni is a white-washed dream on a hill, offering views for days. It’s like someone spilled a giant bucket of white paint over an ancient town. Perfect for those who love to get lost in narrow, winding streets with a gelato in hand. 

Image Credit: Getty Images, Westend61. Image Location: Bari, Italy

5. Trani

Best for serene seekers 

Trani is the chill seaside town you’ve always dreamed of. Its cathedral by the sea is so close to the water, you might want to check you’re not on a boat. Ideal for a laid-back day, capped off with some of the best seafood pasta you’ll ever taste. 

So, there you have it, Bari in a nutshell: not just a city, but Italy’s best-kept “sea-cret”, brimming with charm and history. And when you’re done soaking up the city vibes, hop on a train for some nearby destinations — it’s like the cherry on top of your Apulian spumone (a delightful ice cream dessert). 

Header Image Credit: Getty Images, Sky_Blue. Image Location: Bari, Italy

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