8 Memorable Things to do in Bari, Italy-Bellisimo

Bari is a coastal city in the south of Italy and the capital city of the Puglia region. Puglia is the southwestern region of Italy that you may know as the “heel of the boot”. Bari is one of the best underrated destinations in Italy that offers a mix of history, culture, and stunning natural scenery. There are several interesting things to do and see there; We will cover 8 things to do in Bari.

Bari is best known for its historic Old Town (Bari Vecchia), which is home to the Basilica di San Nicola, a 12th-century church that houses the relics of Saint Nicholas, the inspiration behind the modern-day Santa Claus. Bari is also famous for its delicious street food, including orecchiette pasta with cime di rapa (turnip greens), and focaccia barese.

Is it worth visiting Bari Italy?

Absolutely! Bari is a charming and vibrant city that offers a lot to see and do. Its Old Town is a maze of narrow streets, whitewashed buildings, and historic landmarks, while its modern city center boasts a beautiful seafront promenade, trendy cafes, and shops. Bari is also an excellent base for exploring the surrounding towns and attractions in Puglia, such as the UNESCO World Heritage site of Alberobello and the baroque city of Lecce.

How many days are enough for Bari?

You can see most of the main attractions in Bari in two to three days, but to really experience the city and its surrounding areas, four to five days would be ideal. This will give you enough time to explore Bari’s Old Town, enjoy its beaches, try the local cuisine, and take day trips to nearby towns and attractions.

Is Bari a walkable city?

Yes, Bari is a walkable city, particularly in the Old Town, where most of the main attractions are located. The streets in the Old Town are narrow and winding, so it’s best to explore on foot. In the modern city center, you can also walk along the seafront promenade, which is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

8 things to do in Bari:

Visit the Basilica di San Nicola

This is a historic church that is dedicated to Saint Nicholas and the story of Saint Nick (Santa Claus) comes from here. The basilica is known for its impressive architecture and contains the relics of Saint Nicholas. When you come upon the church, you will be impressed with the fort-like facade. It is not ornate though like the cathedrals in Lecce. The Romanesque-style church was completed in 1197; it is also unique because it is shared among the Catholic and Orthodox faiths. It is free to enter and visit the Basilica di San Nicola.

Explore the Old Town

Bari’s Old Town (Bari Vecchia) and the Murat (Centro Storico) essentially connect and blend in a maze of narrow streets and alleys, dotted with charming cafes, shops, and restaurants. You will see buildings adorned with stone and wrought-iron balconies and colorful shutters. It’s a great place to wander around and soak up the local atmosphere. Join the locals at Piazza Mercantile to eat, drink, people-watch and attend events. There is a 16th century clock tower on the left side and a water fountain sits at the center (be sure to fill your water bottle while here). Be sure to grab a gelato and stroll throughout the Old Town.

Take a stroll along the Bari Lungomare

Bari’s harbor is a bustling area with a lively atmosphere. If you’re looking for free things to do in Bari, take a stroll along the lungomare and watch the boats come and go, or relax in one of the cafes and enjoy the view.

Visit the Castello Normanno-Svevo

This is a Norman castle is nearly 900 years old. It was built in 1132 by the Norman King Roger and erfortified 100 years later after coming under attack. It is no longer furnished as it once was, but instead houses art and archeological exhibitions. It’s located on a hill in the center of Bari and offers panoramic views of the city. Exploring around the ramparts, towers and moat is free, but to enter the museum you have to pay a fee to enter. Also note that this attraction is open all day and does not close for the afternoon as others do in Bari

Try local cuisine

Bari is known for its delicious cuisine, so be sure to try some of the local dishes such as pasta con le sarde (pasta with sardines), tiella (a type of savory pie) or taste oysters, sea urchins (Ricci di mare – an Italian delicacy), octopus and other catches of the day from Porto Vecchia. Porto Vecchia is the old port where local fisherman head out in the blue boats to catch local seafood. You can even eat the seafood right at the port sushi-style; you won’t find anything fresher!

Be sure to check out the Italian nonnas of the Old Town on Strada delle Orecchiette (Strada Arco Basso) where they make orecchiette. Orecchiette are a pasta typical of Apulia, a region of Southern Italy. Their name meaning little ears comes from their shape, which resembles a small ear. Be sure to try taralli, a cracker made with olive oil, flour, salt and white wine.

You can visit Nunzia; she opens her house, invites you inside her kitchen, and cooks a simple dish of orecchiette for you. To find Nunzia, put Strada Arco Basso 11 in Google Maps and you will find her! The price is 10 euros per person and it includes wine as well.

Street Food that you need to try in Bari is panzerotti, sgagliozze, and focaccia Barese. If you are wanting a bakery, try Bakery Santa Rita, Maria delle Sgagliozze, Panificio Fiore (known for focaccia-the best we had in all of Southern Italy), and Rosticceria Dirello. Make sure to try the gelato at Se Ti Va.

If you want a nice sit down meal, try La Cecchina in Bari, you wont regret it! The wine, food and service were outstanding!

Visit the Bari Cathedral

This historic cathedral also known at the Cathedral of San Sabino is located in the center of the city and is one of the most important religious sites in the area. It is also a Romanesque-style church dating back to the 12th century. It’s known for its beautiful stained-glass windows and impressive frescoes. While in the area, be sure to have an espresso rom Stefy’s Cathedral Coffee.

Find the Square of Lovers

Also known as Largo Albicocca is in the heart of Old Bari. It is a magical place, but you will have to see it to believe it. With children playing, locals chatting on their doorsteps, the smell of pizzeria and freshly washed laundry hanging in the windows, you can be right in the center and admire your surroundings. Its a scene that could be right out of a romantic Italian movie. Be sure to visit and if you’re there in the evenings the lights come on and it seems even more magical.

Enjoy the Beaches

Bari has several beaches that are worth visiting. Pane e Pomodoro is the most popular, while Torre a Mare is a quieter and more peaceful option.

In conclusion, Bari is a fascinating city in southern Italy that has a lot to offer to its visitors. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or food, there are plenty of things to do and see in Bari. The old town of Bari, with its narrow streets and historic buildings, is a must-see for anyone interested in experiencing the authentic atmosphere of the city. Bari’s coastline and beaches are also a great place to spend some time relaxing. And of course, the local cuisine, with its fresh seafood, pasta dishes, and rich desserts, is not to be missed. Bari truly has something for everyone, and its unique blend of ancient and modern makes it a destination not to be missed.

Be sure to visit other cities in Southern Italy such as Trani, Lecce, and Matera to name a few!

-S&E