A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Florence vs. Bari for Attractions, Food, Old Town, and Couples

Should you visit Florence or Bari?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Florence 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.

Florence

Florence is a iconic, alluring, and historical city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. 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. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Florence and Bari: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Florence or Bari?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Florence. Although Florence and Bari are about the same size, Florence has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Florence is more popular for its museums, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Bari is known for its nightlife, beaches, and big city activities. Florence is more touristy than Bari and is known for its iconic beauty, world-renowned Renaissance art and architecture, and beautifully maintained gardens. It is also home to The Duomo (Santa Maria del Fiore). Bari is popular for its authentic old town and its role as a ferry port for travelers headed across the Adriatic.

How is Florence different from Bari?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Florence is terrific for its historical sights. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Florence has many famous sights for visitors. Because of it's important role in the Renaissance, the city has many world-renowned museums that you can visit. Famous sights and landmarks include the Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo, and the Academy Gallery.

Bari offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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 Florence or Bari? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Florence and Bari can be an enjoyable experience.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Florence is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Once you've worked up an appetite exploring museums and churches, you'll find many amazing local restaurants around town. Local dishes incorporate a lot of hearty vegetables and meats. Famous dishes include a Florentine steak dish, rabbit, and a bean bed and cabbage soup.

Many restaurants in Bari have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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 Florence or Bari Better for Nightlife?

Bari is a great port city for nightlife and partying. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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 Florence. You'll find the most active nightlife in the Santa Croce neighborhood. The area attracts study abroad students as well as tourists who party late into the night.

Is Florence or Bari Better for Beaches?

Bari is a nice place to visit for the beache. However, Florence 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.

Florence is not a beach destination.

Is Florence or Bari Better for its Old Town?

Florence 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.

Florence has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The historic center of the city is where you'll find many of the most beautiful buildings, art works, and quaint streets. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it was at the heart of the Renaissance period.

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 the Shopping Better in Florence or Bari?

Florence 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 Florence. There are many shops in the tourist heart of the city. Most are geared specifically to tourists so you may have to search to find a more authentic shopping experience. Famous items available in the city include gold jewelry, ceramics, leather, and perfume.

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 Florence or Bari Better for Families?

Bari is a great port city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Florence 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.

Florence is a family-friendly place to visit. Most famous for its art and history, the city also has a number of activities that kids will enjoy. There's a carousel and a park that are perfect to let the little ones run around. There are a few kid-friendly museums, as well as a historic city center that will mesmerize the old and young alike.

Is Florence or Bari Better for Couples?

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

Florence is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Art and history lovers will enjoy a visit to this truly beautiful city. Couples who enjoy museums, historic buildings, and world-renowned art, will find plenty to do in this city.

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 Florence or Bari Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Florence 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 Florence, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. The city is part of a popular route through Italy, and you'll find many backpackers and students in town. There are also many hostels, so you should have no trouble meeting other young 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 Florence or Bari Better for Students?

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

Florence is a very popular place to visit for students. Many students visit this city as part of a short term study abroad program, or for the entire length of their studies. The city is beautiful, and whether your focus is art, history, or culture, this city will not disappoint.

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

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

While Florence offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a comprehensive bus system.

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

Is Florence or Bari a more walkable city?

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

Florence is a very easy city to get around on foot. Most people explore the city on foot.

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 Florence Worth Visiting? and Is Bari Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bari or Florence?

How long in Florence or Bari?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Florence and Bari. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Florence than in Bari. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Florence, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bari.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Florence 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 Florence.

One day in Florence or Bari?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Florence. 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 Florence or Bari?

Florence 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 Florence or Bari?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the iconic destination of Florence. 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 Florence or Bari?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the iconic city of Florence. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

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 Luxury Tours to Italy, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy, and The Best Contiki Tours to Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Florence and Bari, we can see that Florence 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 Florence would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Florence 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 Florence Expensive? and Is Bari Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Florence or Bari?

Florence has a larger population, and is about 17% larger than the population of Bari. When comparing the sizes of Florence 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 Florence 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 Florence or Bari in the Summer?

Both Bari and Florence are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Florence for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Bari in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Florence is around the same temperature as Bari. Typically, the summer temperatures in Florence in July average around 25°C (77°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 Florence. Florence usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bari during summer. Florence gets 316 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 336 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Florence usually receives more rain than Bari. Florence gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Bari receives 9 mm (0.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Florence or Bari in the Autumn?

Both Bari and Florence during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Florence in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Bari for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Florence is generally cooler than Bari. Daily temperatures in Florence average around 16°C (61°F), and Bari fluctuates around 18°C (65°F).

In the autumn, Florence often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bari. Florence gets 177 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 178 hours of full sun.

Florence usually gets more rain in October than Bari. Florence gets 96 mm (3.8 in) of rain, while Bari receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Florence or Bari in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Florence and Bari. Most visitors come to Florence for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Bari because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Florence is cooler than Bari in the winter. The daily temperature in Florence averages around 7°C (45°F) in January, and Bari fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

Florence usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bari during winter. Florence gets 105 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 110 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Florence usually receives around the same amount of rain as Bari. Florence gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Bari receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Florence or Bari in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Florence as well as Bari. The spring months attract visitors to Florence because of the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Bari this time of year.

In the spring, Florence is around the same temperature as Bari. Typically, the spring temperatures in Florence in April average around 14°C (57°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, Florence often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bari. Florence gets 192 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 203 hours of full sun.

Florence usually gets more rain in April than Bari. Florence gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Bari receives 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bari and Florence