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

Should you visit Arachova or Bari?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Arachova or Bari, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Arachova

Arachova is a bustling, beautiful, and outdoorsy town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's also popular because of the museums, skiing, and nightlife.

Bari

Bari is a authentic, local, and cultural port city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food.

Arachova and Bari: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students


Is there more to do in Arachova or Bari?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Bari than Arachova, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Bari is better known for its museums, food, beaches, and big city activities, while Arachova is more popular for its skiing, hiking, and small town charm. Arachova is more touristy than Bari and is popular for its surrounding mountain beauty, festive Christmas atmosphere, and nearby winter skiing. Bari is well known for its authentic old town and its role as a ferry port for travelers headed across the Adriatic. Also, Bari is famous for San Nicola.

How is Arachova different from Bari?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Arachova or Bari Better for Skiing?

Arachova
Bari

Arachova is a good destination for skiing. However, Bari is not a skiing destination.

Head to Arachova for some great skiing and other winter activities. The Parnassos Ski Resort is located just 24 kilometers from town and offers skiing that is beautiful and fun. There are spectacular views and the area has gained popularity in recent years. There are lessons for kids and many other fun winter activities nearby.

Bari is not a skiing destination.


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

Arachova
Bari

Bari is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Bari can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Arachova offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are some interesting sights in the surrounding area, as well as the unique Ai Giorgis Church near town.

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

Arachova
Bari

Bari is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Arachova has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The town is filled with old tavernas that serve up traditional local cuisine. You'll find a lot of the local cheese, formaela, as well as a local noodle dish called hilopites. Pork ribs and delicate desserts are also popular.

Is Arachova or Bari Better for Nightlife?

Arachova
Bari

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Arachova and Bari.

Arachova is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. There are many charming bars around town that stay open late into the night. During the popular winter months, you'll find the streets filled with people that come for the unique winter atmosphere.

Many people head to Bari for the nightlife scene. 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.


Is Arachova or Bari Better for Beaches?

Arachova
Bari

Bari is a nice place to visit for its beaches. However, Arachova is not a beach destination.

Bari has a beach worth visiting. 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.

Arachova is not a beach destination.

Is Arachova or Bari Better for its Old Town?

Arachova
Bari

Arachova and Bari both have great historical old towns that attract visitors.

Many visitors go to Arachova to see the historical old town. The charming old town is at its best during the Christmas season when there are decorations around the town square and the streets are filled with people.

Bari is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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 Arachova or Bari Better for Hiking?

Arachova
Bari

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

Many visitors go to Arachova for the hiking trails. For the best outdoor activities, head to nearby Mount Parnassos, where there's skiing and snowboarding during the winter months and beautiful hikes through the mountainous terrain during the summer months.

Bari is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Arachova or Bari?

Arachova
Bari

Shopping is a popular activity in both Bari and Arachova.

Arachova is a great destination for shopping. The charming town has many unique shops that sell carpets, woven goods, and local food items.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Bari. 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 Arachova or Bari Better for Families?

Arachova
Bari

Arachova and Bari are both great destinations for the whole family.

Arachova is a very family-friendly place to visit. The charming town has long served as a winter escape for those living in Athens. There's plenty for kids to do including and ice skating rink, a horse ranch, and even nearby skiing.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Bari is very family-friendly. 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 Arachova or Bari Better for Couples?

Arachova
Bari

Arachova is a great town for couples. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for romance.

Arachova is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. It's a romantic setting with nice accommodation, delicious local taverns, and plenty of unique activities that couples can enjoy.

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 Arachova or Bari Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Arachova
Bari

Bari is well known for backpackers. However, Arachova is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

Arachova is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most backpackers don't think to visit this area on their trip to Greece. There are some guesthouses, but not a lot of hostels, so you might find a limited number of social activities.

Is Arachova or Bari Better for Students?

Arachova
Bari

Bari is well known for students. However, Arachova is not popular with students.

Bari is a great port city to visit as a student. 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.

Arachova is not popular with students.

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

Arachova
Bari

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Arachova and Bari.

You'll find some public transit in Arachova, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are some public buses in the area.

While Bari offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses around town that are operated by the AMTAB.


Is Arachova or Bari a more walkable city?

Arachova
Bari

Bari is well known for its walkability. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

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

Arachova is a somewhat walkable place. The town has many walkable streets that are fun to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Bari or Arachova?

How long in Arachova or Bari?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Arachova and Bari. In our opinion, Bari has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Bari than Arachova. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Arachova, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bari.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bari than Arachova 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.


  • How many days in Arachova or Bari? Ideal Length of Stay
    Arachova 2-3 
    Bari 1-3

One day in Arachova or Bari?

Visitors enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting the destination of Arachova. 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.

The port city of Bari offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Arachova or Bari?

Arachova is a fun place to experience. 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 popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this port city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bari, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Arachova or Bari?

You'll find food and shopping around the bustling destination of Arachova. This 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.

Bari is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Arachova or Bari?

The bustling town of Arachova offers shopping and museums. 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.

Bari is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This port city offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Greece, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, The Best Historical Tours in Italy, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Bari or Arachova?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Arachova is €112, while the average daily cost in Bari is €113. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Arachova and Bari in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Arachova 50
    Bari 73
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Arachova 100
    Bari 146
Compare Hotels in Arachova and Bari

Looking for a hotel in Arachova or Bari? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Arachova


Hotels in Bari


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Bari Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Arachova 51
    Bari 11

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Bari

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Bari:


  • Train to Lecce
    44

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bari

Also for Bari, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Bari Airport: 1-Way Shared Transfer to Matera City Center: $5.35
  • Bari Airport: Shared Transfer to/from Taranto Train Station: $9.09
  • Bari City Hotels to Taranto Cruise Port - Departure Transfer: $67
  • Bari Cruise Port (Terminal di Bari) to Bari hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $25
  • Bari Cruise Port (Terminal di Bari) to Bari hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $50
  • Bari Cruise Port to Polignano Hotels Arrival Private Transfer: $79
  • Bari Cruise Port to Polignano city Round trip Private Transfer: $157
  • Bari Intl Airport (BRI) to Bari Cruise Port - Arrival Private Transfer: $25
  • Bari Intl Airport (BRI) to Bari Cruise Port- Round-Trip Private Transfer: $50
  • Bari Per Matera - Matera Airport Transfer Service For Bari Airport: $148
  • Bari or Naples: Private Transfer Service: $541
  • Bari Airport Transfer to/from Foggia Train Station: $13

Is it cheaper to fly into Arachova or Bari?

Prices for flights to both Bari and Arachova change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Arachova 29
    Bari 32

Typical Food Prices in Bari

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Bari:


  • Dinner
    44
  • Coffee
    2.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bari

For Bari, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Street food tour of Polignano a Mare: $39
  • Bari Walking Street Food Tour: $48
  • Bari Street Food Tour by Bike: $70
  • Italian Street Food Tour with Tastings and Drinks: $70
  • Puglia Plates - Bari Food Tour: $76
  • Street Food Tour in Bari old town - Do Eat Better Experience: $78
  • Rickshaw Street Food Tour: $80
  • Conversano: Apulian cooking lesson with dinner included: $82
  • Bari Street Food Tour by Rickshaw: $82
  • Bari Street Food Tour on Segway: $86
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Barletta with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Margherita di Savoia with Show Cooking: $93

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Arachova 28
    Bari 8.61

Tours and Activities in Bari

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Bari.

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Tour "Hunt for the treasures of Bari": $3.28
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Walking Tour: $6.42
  • Bari Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.56
  • Bari Self-Guided Audio Tour: $14
  • Wonderful Bari Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Olive Oil Private Tour and Extra Virgin Olive Oil Tasting in Altamura: $22
  • Simi Palace and Byzantine Church Tour with Ticket: $24
  • St. Nicholas Basilica and Crypt Guided Tour: $27
  • Guided Walking Tour: $27
  • Bari Walking City Tour: $30
  • Norman-Swabian Castle Guided Tour: $30

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Arachova 6.43
    Bari 13

Typical Alcohol Prices in Bari

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Bari:


  • Beer
    2.00

Sample the Local Flavors in Bari

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Bari:

  • Afternoon Tour Secrets of Alberobello incl. Food & Wine tasting: $79
  • Private Tour: Trani walking tour with Moscato wine tasting: $115
  • Wine tasting experience in the Apulian countryside : $235


When comparing the travel costs between Arachova and Bari, we can see that Bari is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Arachova or Bari?

Bari has a larger population, and is about 80 times larger than the population of Arachova. When comparing the sizes of Arachova 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 Arachova or Bari?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Arachova or Bari in the Summer?

Both Bari and Arachova during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Arachova for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Bari in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Arachova is generally a little warmer than Bari. Daily temperatures in Arachova average around 27°C (81°F), and Bari fluctuates around 25°C (76°F).

In Bari, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Arachova. In the summer, Arachova often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bari. Arachova gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 336 hours of full sun.

Arachova usually gets less rain in July than Bari. Arachova gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Bari receives 9 mm (0.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Arachova 27°C (81°F) 
    Bari 25°C (76°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Bari in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Arachova and Bari. Many visitors come to Arachova in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere. Furthermore, most visitors come to Bari for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

Arachova is around the same temperature as Bari in the autumn. The daily temperature in Arachova averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Bari fluctuates around 18°C (65°F).

In Arachova, it's very sunny this time of the year. Arachova usually receives more sunshine than Bari during autumn. Arachova gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 178 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Arachova usually receives less rain than Bari. Arachova gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Bari receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Arachova 19°C (67°F) 
    Bari 18°C (65°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Bari in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Arachova as well as Bari. Most visitors come to Arachova for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Bari because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Arachova is around the same temperature as Bari. Typically, the winter temperatures in Arachova in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Bari averages at about 10°C (49°F).

In the winter, Arachova often gets more sunshine than Bari. Arachova gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 110 hours of full sun.

Arachova usually gets less rain in January than Bari. Arachova gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Bari receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Arachova 10°C (51°F) 
    Bari 10°C (49°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Bari in the Spring?

Both Bari and Arachova are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Arachova because of the small town charm. Also, the beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Bari this time of year.

In April, Arachova is generally a little warmer than Bari. Daily temperatures in Arachova average around 16°C (60°F), and Bari fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

It's quite sunny in Bari. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Arachova. Arachova usually receives more sunshine than Bari during spring. Arachova gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 203 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Arachova usually receives less rain than Bari. Arachova gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Bari receives 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Arachova 16°C (60°F) 
    Bari 14°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Bari and Arachova

Arachova Bari
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 10°C (49°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 10°C (50°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 12°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 14°C (58°F) 32 mm (1.3 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 18°C (64°F) 25 mm (1 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 22°C (71°F) 20 mm (0.8 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 25°C (76°F) 9 mm (0.3 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 25°C (76°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 22°C (72°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 18°C (65°F) 70 mm (2.7 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 14°C (57°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 11°C (52°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)