A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Annecy vs. Bari for Food, Old Town, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Annecy or Bari?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Annecy and Bari can help you decide which place is right for you.

Annecy

Annecy is a breathtaking, quaint, and storybook alpine town. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the food, hiking, and shopping.

Bari

Bari is a local, cultural, and authentic port city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Annecy and Bari: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Annecy or Bari?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bari. Although Annecy and Bari are both popular with visitors, Bari has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Bari is more popular for its museums, nightlife, beaches, and big city activities, while Annecy is known for its historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Annecy is more touristy than Bari and is known for its charming old town and its beautiful, lakefront, alpine setting. Bari is popular for its authentic old town and its role as a ferry port for travelers headed across the Adriatic. It is also home to San Nicola.

How is Annecy different from Bari?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Bari and Annecy. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Annecy or Bari?

Bari is a great port city for its historical sights. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for its sights and museums.

Many visitors head to Bari specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city is filled with historical sights and archeological ruins. San Nicola is the main basilica in town and a popular tourist sight. The Castello is also a highlight, as is San Sabino.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Annecy. The old town and lakefront setting is what brings the tourists, but there are several unique landmarks around town as well. Palais de l'Île is the most photographed spot in the old town. Also worth visiting are Musée-Château d'Annecy, Eglise Saint-Maurice, and Cathédrale Saint-Pierre.

Is the Food Better in Annecy or Bari? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at first-rate restaurants in both Annecy and Bari.

Annecy has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Fresh caught fish and local French specialties make this town a wonderful culinary destination. The old town is filled with restaurants, cafes, and markets where you can enjoy local ingredients. There are many local dishes to try with some of the most popular being Tartiflette, Raclette, and Gratin de crozets. Fondue is also popular. You'll find cheese is a common component in many dishes.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Bari is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. It's off-the-beaten-path vibe means that you won't find the overpriced tourist restaurants that have taken over more touristy cities. Instead you'll find locally owned pasta shops that cater to the town's residents. You can taste authentic Pugliese cuisine, which is centered around wheat and olive oil. Orecchiette is the local pasta and seafood is one of the most common staples.

Is Annecy or Bari Better for Nightlife?

Bari is a great port city for nightlife and partying. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Bari has something for everybody. The city really comes to life at night with many dance clubs, bars, and other fun venues. There's plenty of live music as well as jazz clubs and other local bars.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Annecy. There are bars and pubs to visit with one of the most popular bar-hopping streets being Rue Sainte-Claire.

Is Annecy or Bari Better for Beaches?

Bari is very good for the beache. However, Annecy is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Bari to enjoy the beach. There's a sandy beach that you can reach by bus outside of the city center. There are also many great beaches around Puglia if you're willing to take a day trip or travel a bit farther.

Annecy is not a beach destination.

Is Annecy or Bari Better for its Old Town?

Annecy is terrific for its historic old town charm. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its historic old town.

Annecy has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. This is among the most beautiful old towns in Europe. It sits along the banks of Lake Annecy and the water integrates beautifully into the setting.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Bari. The old town is filled with historic sights, mazelike streets, and great food. It's pedestrian-only and, because Bari is not as popular with tourists, it holds on to its authentic charm.

Is Annecy or Bari Better for Hiking?

Annecy is a great alpine town for hiking. However, Bari is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Annecy for the hiking trails. There are a range of hikes just out of town that cover all ability levels. There are flat, waterfront strolls as well as more strenuous mountain treks. La Tournette is one of the most famous hikes in the area. Other options include Circuit des 3 Croix de Sevrier and Gorges du Fier.

Bari is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Annecy or Bari?

If you're looking to go shopping, Annecy and Bari both offer plenty of good spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Annecy. Three times a week you can check out the Old Town Market. Another popular shopping street is Rue Royale.

Many visitors go to Bari to go shopping. You won't find the souvenir shops that you find in more touristy cities, so if you take the time to do some shopping while you're in town, you can enjoy a truly authentic and cultural experience.

Is Annecy or Bari Better for Families?

You'll find high quality kid-friendly activities in either Annecy or Bari.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Annecy is very family-friendly. Families can enjoy getting out on the lake by renting a boat or going for a swim. Check out Wibit Water Park or let the kids play at Leisure Center Orange Montisel. There's also a great playground for kids right by the waterfront. Hiking and exploring are also fun for the whole family.

Bari is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There are historical sites and castles to explore as well as the fun-filled Miragica amusement park. There's also an impressive underground city that will spark the kid's imagination. Other fun activities include visiting the nearby beaches, taking a kayak tour, or wandering around the old town.

Is Annecy or Bari Better for Couples?

Annecy is terrific for couples. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for romance.

Annecy is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. It's a romantic French mountain town with beautiful scenery and a wonderful lake. Couples can enjoy outdoor activities or wandering through one of the best old towns in the region. The beauty and natural setting make this a wonderful couples destination.

Bari is a nice destination for couples. The old town is filled with mazelike streets and the city has many unique activities that appeal to history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Is Annecy or Bari Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bari is a great port city for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Bari. There's plenty of hostels around town and the prices are usually very reasonable. Many backpackers pass through this port city on their way to Greece or other Adriatic destinations.

It's common for backpackers to visit Annecy. It's a world class mountain destination that attracts families and vacationers, but there aren't as many hostels around town as backpackers would like.

Is Annecy or Bari Better for Students?

Bari is a great port city for its student-friendly activities. However, Annecy is not popular with students.

Bari is very popular with students. It's a great student city that offers access to many nearby Mediterranean destinations. There are also a number of historical sights within town that students can visit.

Annecy is not popular with students.

Is Annecy or Bari Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Annecy and Bari both offer good public transit to get you around.

While Annecy offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The Sibra public transport system offers buses that travel through Annecy and around the lake, stopping at many towns along the way.

Bari has a few public transit options. There are buses around town that are operated by the AMTAB.

Is Annecy or Bari a more walkable city?

Annecy and Bari are high quality when it comes to walkability.

Annecy is a very walkable alpine town. The old town is filled with pedestrian streets that are perfect to explore on foot.

Bari is a very walkable destination. The old town is pedestrian-only and best explored on foot. It's also about a 20 minute walk from the central train station.

For even more information, also check out Is Annecy Worth Visiting? and Is Bari Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bari or Annecy?

How long in Annecy or Bari?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Annecy and Bari. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Annecy than in Bari. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Annecy, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bari.

Families should spend more time in Bari than Annecy. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Bari, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Annecy than Bari. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Annecy that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bari than Annecy if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Bari.

One day in Annecy or Bari?

Annecy is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Bari. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Annecy or Bari?

Annecy is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the food. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Bari is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Annecy or Bari?

Annecy is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. This alpine town offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bari. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Annecy or Bari?

Because Annecy is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cultural destination of Bari. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in France, The Best 10-Day Tours in France, The Best Historical Tours in Italy, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Annecy and Bari, we can see that Annecy is more expensive. And not only is Bari much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Bari would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bari and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Annecy would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Annecy than you might in Bari.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Annecy Expensive? and Is Bari Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Annecy or Bari?

Bari has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Annecy. When comparing the sizes of Annecy and Bari, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Annecy or Bari?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Annecy or Bari in the Summer?

Both Bari and Annecy are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Annecy in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Bari for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Annecy is cooler than Bari. Typically, the summer temperatures in Annecy in July average around 22°C (71°F), and Bari averages at about 25°C (76°F).

It's quite sunny in Bari. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Annecy. Annecy usually receives less sunshine than Bari during summer. Annecy gets 285 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 336 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Annecy usually receives more rain than Bari. Annecy gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Bari receives 9 mm (0.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Annecy or Bari in the Autumn?

Both Bari and Annecy during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Annecy for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Bari because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Annecy is generally cooler than Bari. Daily temperatures in Annecy average around 14°C (56°F), and Bari fluctuates around 18°C (65°F).

In the autumn, Annecy often gets less sunshine than Bari. Annecy gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 178 hours of full sun.

Annecy usually gets more rain in October than Bari. Annecy gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Bari receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Annecy or Bari in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Annecy and Bari. The winter months attract visitors to Annecy because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Bari this time of year.

The weather in Annecy can be very cold. Annecy is much colder than Bari in the winter. The daily temperature in Annecy averages around 4°C (39°F) in January, and Bari fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

Annecy usually receives less sunshine than Bari during winter. Annecy gets 62 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 110 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Annecy usually receives less rain than Bari. Annecy gets 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Bari receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Annecy or Bari in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Annecy as well as Bari. The small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Annecy this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bari for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In the spring, Annecy is cooler than Bari. Typically, the spring temperatures in Annecy in April average around 11°C (53°F), and Bari averages at about 14°C (58°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bari. In the spring, Annecy often gets less sunshine than Bari. Annecy gets 174 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 203 hours of full sun.

Annecy usually gets more rain in April than Bari. Annecy gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Bari receives 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bari and Annecy