A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Catania vs. Bari for Food, Attractions, Nightlife, and Old Town

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

Catania

Catania is a fun, historic, and lively port 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 shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Catania and Bari: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Catania or Bari?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Catania. Although Catania and Bari are both popular with visitors, Catania has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Catania is more popular for its hiking, while Bari is known for its museums and historical sights. Catania is more touristy than Bari and is popular for its fun nightlife scene, many beaches, and easy access to Mt. Etna. It is also home to Mount Etna. Bari is popular for its authentic old town and its role as a ferry port for travelers headed across the Adriatic.

How is Catania different from Bari?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Bari is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its museums and history.

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 Catania. There are many examples of beautiful architecture around town including Basilica Cattedrale Sant'Agata and Monastero dei Benedettini. You can also visit Castello Ursino. The main square in town is Piazza del Duomo.

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

Both Catania and Bari offer first-rate local cuisine and restaurants.

Catania has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The city's food scene is excellent. Dishes are influenced by both the sea and the land, and you'll find a large and popular street food setting. If you're sampling the street food, make sure you try the arancino (rice balls). Pasta dishes are also popular and many use a variety of cheeses. You'll also find plenty of fresh vegetables incorporated into 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 Catania or Bari Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are high quality in both Catania and Bari.

Catania has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city has a reputation for its great nightlife scene that spreads beyond Sicily. The large student population and popularity with tourists mean you can find a party most nights of the week. There are many bars and clubs to check out, many of which are found in the old town center.

Bari has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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 Catania or Bari Better for Beaches?

Catania and Bari are good choices for a beach vacation.

Many people head to Catania to enjoy the beach. The best time to visit the beach is between April and October. There are sandy beaches to the south of town that span a few kilometers and beaches to the north tend to be rocky. Many beaches are also accessible by public transit.

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.

Is Catania or Bari Better for its Old Town?

Bari is notable for its old town. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its historic old town charm.

There is a nice variety of sights 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.

Catania has an old town worth visiting. The old town is a bit small. At its center is Piazza Duomo and you'll find many activities and attractions in the area.

Is Catania or Bari Better for Hiking?

Catania is a great port city for hiking. However, Bari is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Catania for the hiking trails. Many people visit Mt. Etna as a day trip. You can take the bus to Sapienza Refuge to begin your climb. While it's a doable hike for many people, it can be steep and requires some determination. Unless you're a very experienced hiker, a guide is a must as the trail disappears for large sections. There are also buses and cable cars that take people up sections of the mountain.

Bari is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Catania or Bari?

Both Catania and Bari are good shopping destinations.

Catania offers some nice shopping areas. The city has a number of shopping malls where you can pick up anything you may need or might have forgotten. Check out Catania Shopping Center or Etnapolis.

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 Catania or Bari Better for Families?

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

Catania is a very kid-friendly port city. There's a toy museum as well as the Polo Tactile Multimedia Museum which kids and adults alike will enjoy. A highlight of a visit to the city is a trip up Mt. Etna, which can be done either by hiking, bus, or cable car. The city also has many plazas, gardens, and parks that kids will enjoy exploring. Another fun activity is to spend the day at the beach.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Bari. 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 Catania or Bari Better for Couples?

Both Catania and Bari are good destinations to visit as a couple.

Catania makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With interesting architecture, a pleasant urban beach, and plenty of outdoor space, this is a nice couples destination.

Bari is a good port city for couples to visit. 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 Catania or Bari Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Catania and Bari are high quality destinations for backpackers.

Catania is a great port city to visit for backpackers. There's a large number of hostels around town and the city is generally affordable, so backpackers often enjoy spending some time here. There's also a great social scene.

Plenty of budget travelers and 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.

Is Catania or Bari Better for Students?

Catania and Bari are both high quality destinations for students and younger travelers.

Catania is very popular with students. This is a university town with a very social atmosphere. Students love the wide variety of activities around town as well as the frequent night time parties.

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.

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

Catania is a great port 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 Catania. There are many buses around town that offer access to most places. If you drove you can park and take Line 504M to the historic center. You can also take a bus from Piazza Giovanni XXIII to Rifugio Sapienza if you're going to Mt. Etna. It leaves every morning at 8:15 and returns at 4:30 in the afternoon. The city also has a metro, which has one line and ten stops.

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

Is Catania or Bari a more walkable city?

Catania and Bari both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Catania is a very walkable port city. Many of the city's main sights are close together in the center of town, making them easy to access 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 Catania Worth Visiting? and Is Bari Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bari or Catania?

How long in Catania or Bari?

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

Families should spend more time in Bari than Catania. 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.

One day in Catania or Bari?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Catania. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

In Bari, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This port city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Catania or Bari?

Catania is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the food. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

In Bari, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bari has to offer.

Five days in Catania or Bari?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Catania. This port city 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 great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Catania or Bari?

The lively port city of Catania offers nightlife and food. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bari. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bari. One reason most visitors come is for the food. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, The Best Walking Tours in Italy, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Catania or Bari?

Bari has a larger population, and is about 1% larger than the population of Catania. When comparing the sizes of Catania 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 Catania 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 Catania or Bari in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Catania as well as Bari. Many visitors come to Catania in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, 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, Catania is around the same temperature as Bari. Typically, the summer temperatures in Catania in July average around 26°C (79°F), and Bari averages at about 25°C (76°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bari. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Catania this time of the year. In the summer, Catania often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bari. Catania gets 325 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 336 hours of full sun.

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

Should I visit Catania or Bari in the Autumn?

Both Bari and Catania are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Catania for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene 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, Catania is generally around the same temperature as Bari. Daily temperatures in Catania average around 19°C (67°F), and Bari fluctuates around 18°C (65°F).

Catania usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bari during autumn. Catania gets 189 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 178 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Catania. In October, Catania usually receives more rain than Bari. Catania gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Bari receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Catania or Bari in the Winter?

Both Bari and Catania during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Catania 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.

Catania is around the same temperature as Bari in the winter. The daily temperature in Catania averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Bari fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

In the winter, Catania often gets more sunshine than Bari. Catania gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 110 hours of full sun.

Catania usually gets more rain in January than Bari. Catania gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Bari receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Catania or Bari in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Catania and Bari. The beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Catania this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Bari for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In the spring, Catania is around the same temperature as Bari. Typically, the spring temperatures in Catania in April average around 15°C (58°F), and Bari averages at about 14°C (58°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bari this time of the year. In Catania, it's very sunny this time of the year. Catania usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bari during spring. Catania gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 203 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Catania usually receives more rain than Bari. Catania gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Bari receives 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Bari and Catania