Nestled on the Adriatic coast of southern Italy, Bari is a vibrant city with a rich history, fascinating culture, and stunning coastal scenery. From its charming old town to its bustling markets and delicious cuisine, Bari offers visitors a wealth of experiences just waiting to be explored. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply looking to soak up the Mediterranean sun, here are the top five things to do in Bari.
1. Explore the Old Town (Bari Vecchia)
Begin your journey in Bari’s historic old town, a labyrinth of narrow alleyways, ancient churches, and hidden courtyards that date back to the Middle Ages. Wander through the winding streets of Bari Vecchia, where you’ll find iconic landmarks such as the Basilica di San Nicola, a stunning example of Romanesque architecture and home to the relics of Saint Nicholas.
Discover the atmospheric Piazza del Ferrarese, where locals gather to enjoy a coffee or a gelato, and explore the bustling markets of Via Arco Basso, where you can sample local delicacies such as focaccia barese (traditional flatbread) and orecchiette pasta. Don’t miss the chance to stroll along the city walls and enjoy panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea and the surrounding coastline.
Bari, Italy
2. Visit the Castello Svevo
Immerse yourself in Bari’s medieval history with a visit to the Castello Svevo, a majestic fortress that overlooks the old town and the sea. Built by the Normans in the 12th century and later expanded by the Swabians, the castle is now home to a museum that showcases Bari’s rich cultural heritage.
Explore the castle’s ramparts, towers, and courtyards, and admire artefacts and exhibits that trace the city’s history from ancient times to the present day. Be sure to climb to the top of the Torre Normanna for panoramic views of Bari and the surrounding countryside.
3. Relax on Bari’s Beaches
No visit to Bari would be complete without spending some time relaxing on one of the city’s beautiful beaches. Head to Pane e Pomodoro Beach, a popular spot with locals and tourists alike, where you can soak up the Mediterranean sun, swim in the crystal-clear waters, or enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront promenade.
For a more secluded experience, venture further afield to Torre Quetta Beach or Polignano a Mare, where you’ll find picturesque coves, hidden caves, and pristine sandy shores. Whether you’re looking to sunbathe, swim, or simply enjoy the natural beauty of the coastline, Bari’s beaches offer something for everyone.
4. Sample Bari’s Street Food
Indulge your taste buds with a culinary adventure through Bari’s vibrant street food scene, where you’ll find a mouthwatering array of local delicacies and traditional snacks. Start your foodie journey at the Mercato Coperto, Bari’s historic covered market, where you can sample freshly baked focaccia, succulent olives, and creamy burrata cheese.
Next, head to the streets of Bari Vecchia, where you’ll find vendors selling arancini (rice balls), panzerotti (fried dough stuffed with tomato and mozzarella), and sgagliozze (fried polenta). Don’t miss the chance to try a piadina barese, a delicious flatbread filled with a variety of fillings such as prosciutto, cheese, and vegetables.
Alberobello, Puglia
5. Take a Day Trip to Alberobello
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city with a day trip to Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Italy’s most picturesque villages. Located just a short drive from Bari, Alberobello is famous for its unique trulli houses, and traditional limestone dwellings with conical roofs that date back to the 14th century.
Wander through the winding streets of the village, where you’ll find over 1,500 trulli clustered together in a charming maze of narrow lanes and cobblestone alleys. Be sure to visit the Trullo Sovrano, the only two-storey trullo in Alberobello, and the Museo del Territorio, where you can learn about the history and culture of the region.
