Italy
Things to do in Bari
Bari Vecchia, the old town on its own small peninsula, is where women still roll orecchiette by hand outside their front doors and pilgrims visit the relics of St Nicholas in the Romanesque basilica. Bari is also the most convenient base for Puglia's highlights: Polignano a Mare, the trulli of Alberobello and the Sassi of Matera are all within about an hour.
- Bari Vecchia street food walk
- Basilica di San Nicola
- Alberobello and the Valle d'Itria day trip
- Matera Sassi guided tour
Experiences in Bari
Top-rated experiences in Bari
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Highlights
- Bari Vecchia street food walk
- Basilica di San Nicola
- Alberobello and the Valle d'Itria day trip
- Matera Sassi guided tour
- Polignano a Mare sea caves by boat
- Orecchiette making class
Best time to visit
May, June and September are ideal, warm enough for the sea without peak crowds. July and August are hot and coastal towns are packed, and early May brings the Festa di San Nicola with its sea procession.
Getting around
The old town and the seafront promenade are walkable from the central station. A train connects the airport to Bari Centrale in about 20 minutes, and regional trains reach Polignano a Mare and Monopoli; Matera is served by the Ferrovie Appulo Lucane line.
Local tips
- Go to the Arco Basso lanes in the morning, when the orecchiette makers are working and selling fresh pasta.
- Try focaccia barese with tomatoes and olives, and fried sgagliozze polenta squares from old town stalls.
- Book Polignano boat tours to the caves for the morning, when the sea is usually calmer.
Day trips from Bari
- Polignano a Mare
- Alberobello
- Matera
- Castel del Monte
Frequently asked questions
What are the top things to do in Bari?
The most booked experiences in Bari are Bari Vecchia street food walk, Basilica di San Nicola, Alberobello and the Valle d'Itria day trip and Matera Sassi guided tour.
When is the best time to visit Bari?
May, June and September are ideal, warm enough for the sea without peak crowds. July and August are hot and coastal towns are packed, and early May brings the Festa di San Nicola with its sea procession.
How do I get around Bari?
The old town and the seafront promenade are walkable from the central station. A train connects the airport to Bari Centrale in about 20 minutes, and regional trains reach Polignano a Mare and Monopoli; Matera is served by the Ferrovie Appulo Lucane line.
Do I need to book tours in Bari in advance?
For headline sights and small-group tours, yes: popular slots sell out in high season. Most partners offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
How many days do I need in Bari?
Two to three full days cover the main sights, plus one day for each day trip you want to add.