BEST THINGS TO SEE AND DO
Are you going to Southern Italy and wondering if you should visit Bari? Is it worth spending time in this historic Italian seaside city? What is there to see and do?
I recently stopped in Bari on my travels around the Mediterranean, and I loved it, so I think you should definitely spend a little time in Bari too. Let me tell you why.
Bari is the capital city of the picturesque Puglia region, which is the heel of Italy’s boot, known for its seaside beauty, historic landmarks and popular attractions. Bari is the perfect base for visiting the amazing sites in the Puglia region.
An important maritime city throughout its history and still a major port of the Mediterranean and the largest city on the Adriatic. Bari’s history is a tapestry of various influences, including Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Austrian and French, before forming part of Italy.
Bari is definitely worth visiting, and spending a few days here. Even though it’s a less popular destination for international tourists you’ll be pleasantly surprised, as I was. Bari is an authentic Italian city. I enjoyed spending time here exploring ancient sites, architectural landmarks and coastal charms, without crowds of tourists.
Bari Seafront
When you visit Bari, one of the first stops will be the stunning seafront, a huge attraction and arguably the most popular place to spend time.
Ports
Bari has the old port and the new port. The old port is part of the historic old town and caters for smaller boats and fishermen. The new port accommodates ships and ferries, a little further away.
Promenade
Bari’s lungomare promenade is one of the longest seafront walks in Italy, and one of the nicest I’ve seen, lined with dozens of lamp posts, and extending all the way beside both ports.
Enjoying a stroll on the waterfront is a highlight of the city, with views of the Adriatic Sea, boats and fishermen working their trade as you walk, or sit and watch a while.
Boating
You can take a motorboat or sailing boat tour around the coast of Bari or to other places if you desire, with one of the many companies available.
Beaches
Bari has various beaches, of course, the closest being Pane e Pomodoro beach, Spiaggia Torre Quetta and Lido San Francesco, near the old town, where you can enjoy sand, sea and sun.
Bari Old Town
Another must when you visit Bari is spending some time roaming around the delightful old town, known as Bari Vecchia, a medieval city with cobbled lanes, narrow streets, historic buildings and an old wall which you can walk on. Bari’s old town encompasses the area facing the port, between the two harbours.
This ancient part of the city is best explored by walking the maze-like streets, arches, and two main squares, Piazza Mercantile and Piazza Ferrarese. Enjoy discovering hidden gems, as you wander around, like little cafes and bars, interesting shops, alcoves and alleys. Appreciate the historic buildings, medieval architecture and traditional Italian atmosphere.
You can even see open-air ancient ruins such as in Piazza of Santa Maria del Buonconsiglio.
Modern Bari
After Old Bari, you should stroll around the modern quarter of Bari where you’ll notice the elegant and stately architecture of the Murat area. Every building has gorgeous balconies, I noticed.
The main pedestrian thoroughfare of Via Sparano with high end shopping is a drawcard for those looking for upmarket goods. The Corso Cavour is the main road where many official buildings and iconic Bari landmarks are found, such as the Petruzzelli Theatre.
Bari’s Churches
There are dozens of churches in Bari, but these are the most noteworthy for their historic and cultural significance:
- Bari Cathedral of San Sabino, a 13th century Romanesque church and the most important in the city.
- Basilica of San Nicola, a 12th century, limestone Romanesque church and one of the oldest in Southern Italy.
- Bari Church of San Marco dei Veneziani, with bright frescoes painted on the facade, thought to be of 11th century.
Theatres and Museums in Bari
The Petruzzelli Theatre, built 1903, is a colourful, imposing building with a large dome, you can’t miss. Many famous international artists have performed here and it is one of the biggest theatres in Italy.
The Margherita Theatre is one of the most iconic Bari monuments, a cultural venue hosting various exhibitions and events. It was built 1914 over the water on stilts.
The Archaeological Museum located in an old monastery, is worth a visit to browse ancient artefacts.
Pinacoteca of Bari is a public art gallery where you can see an array of paintings and artwork of the Puglia region.
Swabian Castle of Bari
Standing proudly at the seafront in Bari is the Norman Swabian Castle fortress (Castello Svevo di Bari), dating from the 13th century, this fortification has 4 towers and a moat. An imposing medieval monument and iconic site of Bari, it was converted to a palace in the 16th century. Then served as a prison, and now used for special events.
There is also a museum here open to the public, showcasing artefacts and archeological finds of the history of Bari.
Fort of Sant'Antonio
This small medieval fortress (fortino) dates back to the 14th century when it served to protect the city from attacks. It forms part of the original city walls and has a chapel inside. The fort is located at the seafront and is now used for cultural events.
Best Places to Visit Near Bari
When you visit Bari you will no doubt want to explore more of the lovely Puglia region. Bari is the ideal springboard for venturing to other interesting locations.
The best places to visit near Bari that are not too far away and thus perfect for day trips, are:
- Polignano a Mare, a popular cliff top village, with beaches and stunning views, 37 km from Bari.
- Monopoli, a medieval, seaside town with beaches and a castle, 40 km away.
- Alberobello, famous for the whitewashed Trulli cone-shaped houses, 55 km drive. Read more here.
- Grotte di Castellana, an extensive underground cave system, 45 km from Bari.
Caves of Castellana
If you’re after something out of the ordinary, then this is for you. Located 45km from Bari are the huge underground grottos called Grotte di Castellana where you can walk the 3km path of limestone caves. You will see wonderful rock formations, stalactites and stalagmites. This ancient cave system is an exciting experience and makes an interesting day trip from Bari.
You must take a tour with a guide in order to walk through the caves, which lasts about 1.5 hours. Note, you will be walking through underground passages, and it may be wet and a little cold.
Getting to and from Bari
The International Airport is Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport, located close to the city which connects you to major cities.
Ferries, boats and cruise ships dock at the port for services to other seaside cities in Italy, as well as nearby countries and islands, such as Montenegro, Croatia’s Dubrovnik and Split, and Corfu of Greece.
Trains service the main station, Bari Centrale, with trains to all major cities. Check Italiarail website.
Buses to Bari are available with Omio and others. However, I would avoid driving in the city itself as it can be a bit stressful and suggest taxi/uber instead.
Alternatively, driving to Bari is a good option, by renting your own car.
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14 Comments
Never heard of Bari before, but as a frequent visitor to Italy now I need to go!
I had never even heard of Bari, but it sounds amazing! Thanks for sharing.
Wow! Bari looks like an amazing destination, and totally off the beaten path. I love your photos and the Corso Vittorio Emanuele looks like a great place to hang out!
Great post! I really enjoyed reading your post. Your pictures are great, and I learned a lot about Bari – a place I’ve never heard of before this post.
Honestly, Bari gives off that laid-back vibe you’d want on a trip without trying too hard.
I want to Milan recently and really want to explore more of Italy! Thank you for sharing Bari, it looks like a town full of history.
This is a new location for me but Bari looks and sounds beautiful. the old fishing port looks like a lovely place to enjoy and chill out x
Bari is a part of Italy I’d never heard of, I had to zoom out of the map to work out where it was. Thanks for sharing, it seems like such a lovely place, much like a lot of Italy x
Bari in Southern Italy sounds like a wonderful place to visit with my husband. I would love to go to Alberobello to see the cone shaped whitewashed houses, that must be interesting and quite a sight to go and see.
Italy is most definitely top of my list of places to travel to and my kids really want to go too. Bari looks wonderful – there looks to be so much to see and do there!
Wow! So many wonderful places to visit in Bari. I will add this to my list for sure!
Never heard much about this place, but your photos made me feel that its surely worth a visit. When I plan Italy, I will definitely keep this place in mind.
Bari is new to me, but seeing your blog makes me want to visit that place. So many great places to go.
Bari looks amazing! I love the laid-back old-world style. It’s so beautiful.