Why Visit Bari?
Visit Bari for its living old town, honest Apulian food and quick access to the Adriatic coast. Bari Vecchia rewards walkers with narrow lanes, street‑side orecchiette makers and the Basilica di San Nicola. Stroll the lungomare at sunset, buy fresh fish at the port market at dawn and sit for a slow espresso under arcades.
The city is compact and easy to navigate: Bari Centrale links to Polignano a Mare, Alberobello and regional beaches, while ferries connect you across the Adriatic. Practical tips: visit in spring or early autumn, join a pasta workshop, and reserve an evening for seafood at a neighbourhood trattoria. Expect a working city — immediate, unpolished and deeply rooted in local rhythms.
The Basilica di San Nicola keeps the relics of St Nicholas in its crypt, drawing both Catholic and Orthodox pilgrims since 1087.
Where to stay
Choose a practical, comfortable base close to Bari’s transport links and historic centre. For an easy arrival and a neighbourhood feel, consider Travel B&B or the centrally placed BARI ROOMS - Reception / Deposito bagagli . If you prefer a minimalist, well-located option near the station, B&B Viasparano Bari is a reliable choice. These options put you a short walk from the old town, restaurants and onward trains, so you can drop bags and start exploring within minutes. Practical details — compact lifts, street noise management and in-room breakfasts — are handled with straightforward hospitality, letting you focus on the immediate logistics of your stay.
Bari’s seafront stretch along Lungomare Nazario Sauro was laid out in 1927–1928, shaping the city’s signature waterfront walk.
Eat and drink
Bari’s food scene is immediate and approachable — from hearty Apulian plates to inventive sweets. For regional warmth and well-crafted mains, try Honèst & SolHo or the casual pizza focus at SOLHO - Pizza e Apulian Food . For a sweet pause, the patisserie Jérôme Chocolat offers playful confections. For a buzzy breakfast or aperitivo, stop at Bright Café - Apericena Pugliese to sample local brunch flavours. If you want something a little different, Old Tbilisi serves generous Georgian plates — great for groups and curious eaters. These spots are walkable from main squares and practical for a one-day or longer visit.
After an arson fire in 1991, Teatro Petruzzelli was rebuilt and reopened in 2009; it now anchors Bari’s opera, ballet, and concert seasons.
Markets and essentials
For everyday needs and quick shopping, Bari delivers efficient options close to transport hubs. Stock up at Despar - Groceries or choose organic and vegan-friendly finds at NaturaSì . For international ingredients, browse Asian Foods for pantry staples and culinary inspiration. If you need to move luggage while you explore, drop bags at Bounce Luggage Storage - Near Bari Centrale for a quick, secure solution. These stops are practical, quick to navigate and positioned so you can combine errands with a walk through the neighbourhood.
At the old port’s Molo San Nicola, the open‑air fish market known in dialect as “N’derr a la lanz” still sees fishermen sell the morning catch straight from small wooden boats.
Parks and landmarks
When you need fresh air or a quick photo moment, Bari has compact green space and an instantly recognisable city landmark. Take a stroll or let kids play at Parco Rossani , a community park with sports facilities and a dog run. For a dose of civic theatre near the station, pause at the Fontana Monumentale Piazza Aldo Moro — it’s a convenient meeting point and a good introduction to Bari’s lively streets. Both spots are useful orientation markers and work well as a first stop on a walking route through the city.
Frederick II’s octagonal Castel del Monte, inland near Andria, is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its precise geometry and blend of cultural influences.