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

Should you visit Budapest 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 Budapest and Bari can help you decide which place is right for you.

Budapest

Budapest is a authentic, bustling, and cultural city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, 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.

Budapest and Bari: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Budapest or Bari?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Budapest than Bari, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Budapest is more popular for its shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Bari is known for its food and beaches. Budapest is more touristy than Bari and is known for its thermal hot springs, European spas, rich culture, and wild nightlife scene. It is also home to The Hungarian Parliament Building. Bari is popular for its authentic old town and its role as a ferry port for travelers headed across the Adriatic.

How is Budapest different from Bari?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Budapest and Bari.

Many visitors head to Budapest specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Famous sights include the Buda Castle and Castle Hill, the Hungarian Parliament Building, and St. Stephen's Basilica.

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.

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

Bari is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Budapest is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Bari has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

Budapest may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Traditional dishes tend to be heavy on the meat and bread. They make good comfort food and are very filling meals. The city also has many great pastry shops. Make sure you check out the stuffed cabbage, goulash, and chimney cake.

Is Budapest or Bari Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is high quality in both Budapest and Bari.

Many people head to Budapest for the nightlife scene. The city's active nightlife includes dance clubs, local pubs, and cultural festivals throughout the year.

Bari has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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 Budapest or Bari Better for Beaches?

Bari is very good for the beache. However, Budapest 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.

Budapest is not a beach destination.

Is Budapest or Bari Better for its Old Town?

Budapest and Bari are both popular destinations with charming historical areas.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Budapest. The city grew from the merging of two towns, Buda and Pest, which were divided by the Danube River. Buda is the more historical part of town and Pest is more modern.

Many visitors go to Bari to see the historical old town. 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 the Shopping Better in Budapest or Bari?

Budapest is a great city for its shopping areas. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Budapest. The city has a diverse shopping scene that you can experience by visiting the Central Market or Váci Street.

Bari is a great destination for 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 Budapest or Bari Better for Families?

Bari is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Budapest is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Budapest is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has the typical trampoline parks and playgrounds, but kids will also enjoy the baths and pools around town. Do take note that most of the museums are less hands on than kids prefer.

Is Budapest or Bari Better for Couples?

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

Budapest is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. With it's many beautiful neighborhoods, and unique entertainment options including the opera, this is a fun city for couples. The baths and spas also make for a great experience for couples.

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 Budapest or Bari Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Budapest is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Budapest, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. The city is more affordable than many large cities and it has a number of fun hostels to choose from. There's a good backpacker vibe around town with many places to meet and hang out with other 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.

Is Budapest or Bari Better for Students?

Budapest is terrific for its student-friendly activities. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for students.

Budapest is a very popular place to visit for students. The city has a great international vibe with several good universities that are welcoming to international students that are studying abroad.

Bari is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. 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.

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

Budapest is terrific 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.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Budapest can take you anywhere. The metro, trams, and buses make it easy to get around town.

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

Is Budapest or Bari a more walkable city?

Budapest is terrific for its ease of walking around. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its walkability.

Budapest is a very easy city to get around on foot. Pest is very flat, making for an easy stroll, while Buda is more hilly.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Bari or Budapest?

How long in Budapest or Bari?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Budapest and Bari. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Budapest than in Bari. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Budapest, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bari.

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

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

One day in Budapest or Bari?

Budapest is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Budapest or Bari?

Budapest 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 Budapest or Bari?

Budapest is a cultural big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

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 Budapest or Bari?

The historic city of Budapest offers museums and nightlife. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 The Best 10-Day Tours from Budapest, The Best 2-Week Tours from Budapest, The Best Historical Tours in Italy, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Budapest and Bari, we can see that Bari is more expensive. And not only is Budapest much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Budapest would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Budapest 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 Bari would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Bari than you might in Budapest.

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

Which is Bigger, Budapest or Bari?

Budapest has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Bari. When comparing the sizes of Budapest 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 Budapest 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 Budapest or Bari in the Summer?

Both Bari and Budapest are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Budapest in the summer for the city activities 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, Budapest is cooler than Bari. Typically, the summer temperatures in Budapest in July average around 21°C (70°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 Budapest. Budapest usually receives less sunshine than Bari during summer. Budapest gets 278 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 336 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Budapest usually receives more rain than Bari. Budapest gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Bari receives 9 mm (0.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Budapest or Bari in the Autumn?

Both Bari and Budapest during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Budapest for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Bari because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Budapest is generally much colder than Bari. Daily temperatures in Budapest average around 12°C (53°F), and Bari fluctuates around 18°C (65°F).

In the autumn, Budapest often gets less sunshine than Bari. Budapest gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 178 hours of full sun.

Budapest usually gets less rain in October than Bari. Budapest gets 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Bari receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Budapest or Bari in the Winter?

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

The weather in Budapest can be very cold. Budapest is much colder than Bari in the winter. The daily temperature in Budapest averages around -1°C (31°F) in January, and Bari fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

Budapest usually receives less sunshine than Bari during winter. Budapest gets 61 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 110 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Budapest usually receives less rain than Bari. Budapest gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Bari receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Budapest or Bari in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Budapest is cooler than Bari. Typically, the spring temperatures in Budapest in April average around 12°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, Budapest often gets less sunshine than Bari. Budapest gets 178 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 203 hours of full sun.

Budapest usually gets more rain in April than Bari. Budapest gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Bari receives 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bari and Budapest