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

Should you visit Bucharest or Bari?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Bucharest and Bari. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Bucharest

Bucharest is a undiscovered, cultural, and charming city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

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. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and shopping.

Bucharest and Bari: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bucharest or Bari?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Bari than Bucharest. While Bucharest is larger than Bari, Bari has more sights and attractions for tourists. Bucharest is popular for its wide avenues and longstanding religious institutions. 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 Bucharest different from Bari?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Bari. 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 Bucharest. The city is rich in landmarks and historical buildings. Popular sights include the Romanian Athenaeum, the Palace of the Parliament, Stavropoleos Church, and Curtea Veche.

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

Bari is renowned for its restaurant scene. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eat your way through Bari, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

Bucharest is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Many Romanian recipes have been passed down through the generations and they still use traditional flavors. You'll see some German or Hungarian influences, but the flavors are still uniquely Romanian. Popular dishes include ciorba (tripe soup), cabbage rolls, and mici (grilled meat rolls).

Is Bucharest or Bari Better for Nightlife?

Bari is well known for nightlife and partying. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Bari is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Bucharest has a few options to choose from. The city has come to life with its party scene, with many bars and clubs that you can choose from. There are rooftop bars, chic dance clubs, and cozy pubs where you can pass the evening. You'll find most of the upscale clubs in the northern part of the city, with a more casual scene found in the downtown areas around Universitate and Romanā.

Is Bucharest or Bari Better for Beaches?

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

Bari offers a nice beach destination. 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.

Bucharest is not a beach destination.

Is Bucharest or Bari Better for its Old Town?

Bari is well known for its old town. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of 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.

Bucharest has an old town worth visiting. The old town dates back to the 15th and 16th centuries, with much of the historical charm seen in the architecture. Many of the buildings have been restored, but others are still awaiting repairs. This gives the area a sense of authenticity that you often miss in other old towns.

Is the Shopping Better in Bucharest or Bari?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Bari and Bucharest.

Bucharest offers some nice shopping areas. The residents love fashion, and you'll find many shopping centers around town where you can find a good deal. In addition to the many malls, there are also antique shops, flea markets and boutique clothing stores where you might find a hidden gem.

Bari has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. 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 Bucharest or Bari Better for Families?

Bari is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Bari is a very kid-friendly port city. 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.

For families, Bucharest is not always the best place to visit. Kid-friendly activities include kid's play areas, museums such as the Museum of the Senses, and water centered activities like rowing in the park or visiting the wellness center Therme.

Is Bucharest or Bari Better for Couples?

Bari is a good destination for its romantic activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known for couples.

Bari makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The old town is filled with mazelike streets and the city has many unique activities that appeal to history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Bucharest is not always the best place to visit for a couple. The city has some romantic settings such as wandering down Victory Avenue or exploring the historic Cotroceni Neighbourhood. There are also several gardens and a number of nice cafes to explore.

Is Bucharest or Bari Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bari is well known for backpackers. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Bari is a great port city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Bucharest. The city is affordable, but it's often overlooked by backpackers. Part of the charm for many is the sense of authenticity that can often be hard to find in travel these days.

Is Bucharest or Bari Better for Students?

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

Many students visit Bari. 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.

Bucharest is not popular with students.

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

Bucharest is a great city for times when you don't have a car. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its public transit.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Bucharest. Public transit options include trams, buses, and trolley buses.

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

Is Bucharest or Bari a more walkable city?

Bari is well known for its high level of walkability. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

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

Bucharest is a somewhat walkable city. Many of the tourist attractions are within a walkable area.

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

Should I spend more time in Bari or Bucharest?

How long in Bucharest or Bari?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Bucharest and Bari. In our opinion, Bari has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Bari than Bucharest. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bari than Bucharest 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 Bucharest or Bari?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Bucharest. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

You'll find shopping and museums around the port city of Bari. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bari has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Bucharest or Bari?

Bucharest is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the authentic destination of Bari. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this port city has to offer. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Bucharest or Bari?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the less touristy destination of Bucharest. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the local port city of Bari. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the food. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Bucharest or Bari?

The cultural city of Bucharest offers nightlife and food. 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 popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bucharest, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Romania, The Best Historical Tours in Italy, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Bucharest and Bari, we can see that Bucharest 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 Bucharest Expensive? and Is Bari Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Bucharest or Bari?

Bucharest has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Bari. When comparing the sizes of Bucharest 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 Bucharest 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 Bucharest or Bari in the Summer?

Both Bari and Bucharest during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Bucharest because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bari this time of year.

In the summer, Bucharest is around the same temperature as Bari. Typically, the summer temperatures in Bucharest in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Bari averages at about 25°C (76°F).

In Bari, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Bucharest. In the summer, Bucharest often gets less sunshine than Bari. Bucharest gets 289 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 336 hours of full sun.

Bucharest usually gets more rain in July than Bari. Bucharest gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Bari receives 9 mm (0.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bucharest or Bari in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Bucharest and Bari. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Bucharest this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Bari for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Bucharest is generally cooler than Bari. Daily temperatures in Bucharest average around 13°C (55°F), and Bari fluctuates around 18°C (65°F).

Bucharest usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bari during autumn. Bucharest gets 177 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 178 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Bucharest usually receives less rain than Bari. Bucharest gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Bari receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Bucharest or Bari in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Bucharest as well as Bari. Many travelers come to Bucharest for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Bari in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Bucharest. Bucharest is much colder than Bari in the winter. The daily temperature in Bucharest averages around -1°C (29°F) in January, and Bari fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

In the winter, Bucharest often gets less sunshine than Bari. Bucharest gets 71 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 110 hours of full sun.

Bucharest usually gets less rain in January than Bari. Bucharest gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Bari receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bucharest or Bari in the Spring?

Both Bari and Bucharest are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Bucharest in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Bari for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months.

In the spring, Bucharest is cooler than Bari. Typically, the spring temperatures in Bucharest in April average around 12°C (54°F), and Bari averages at about 14°C (58°F).

It's quite sunny in Bari. Bucharest usually receives less sunshine than Bari during spring. Bucharest gets 185 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 203 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bucharest usually receives more rain than Bari. Bucharest gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Bari receives 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Bari and Bucharest