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

Should you visit Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg 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.

Heidelberg

Heidelberg is a quaint, energetic, and lively town. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food.

Bari

Bari is a cultural, authentic, and local 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 food, beaches, and shopping.

Heidelberg and Bari: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heidelberg or Bari?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bari than Heidelberg. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Bari is very popular for its museums, food, beaches, and big city activities, while Heidelberg attracts visitors for its historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Heidelberg is more touristy than Bari and is known for its picturesque beauty, romantic atmosphere, and its classic old town. Bari is famous for its authentic old town and its role as a ferry port for travelers headed across the Adriatic. It is also well known for San Nicola.

How is Heidelberg different from Bari?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Bari is a great port city for its historical sights. However, Heidelberg does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Heidelberg does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Bari is an amazing port city to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Heidelberg is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Heidelberg makes for a great culinary experience. The old town is filled with local restaurants that offer an assortment of traditional dishes. The restaurants offer a mix of outdoor and indoor seating and classic dishes include saumagen, lewwerkneedl, and dampfnudeln.

Is Heidelberg or Bari Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find excellent options in both Heidelberg and Bari.

The nightlife in Heidelberg has something for everybody. As a university town, you'll find a very young population and many bars, pubs, and nightclubs where you can hang out.

Bari offers plenty to do in the evening. 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 Heidelberg or Bari Better for Beaches?

Bari is a good destination for the beach. However, Heidelberg 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.

Heidelberg is not a beach destination.

Is Heidelberg or Bari Better for its Old Town?

Heidelberg 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.

Heidelberg has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The charming old town, or Altstadt, is lined with cafes that spill out onto the street and churches with bells that chime hourly. The area is filled with activity and there are many shops, ice cream vendors, and restaurants to choose from.

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 Heidelberg or Bari?

If you're looking to go shopping, Heidelberg and Bari both offer plenty of nice spots.

Heidelberg has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The pedestrian area is the best place to pass your time shopping. There are name brand stores mixed in with local independent shops which you'll mostly find on the side streets. Popular items to buy include wooden toys, Christmas decorations, and candy.

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 Heidelberg or Bari Better for Families?

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

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.

Heidelberg is a family-friendly place to visit. With its many ice cream shops, playgrounds, and impressive castle, this city makes a nice stop for families with kids. The restaurants usually have a kid's menu and there are a number of kid-friendly museums and activities.

Is Heidelberg or Bari Better for Couples?

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

Heidelberg is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. This beautiful city offers an impressive backdrop for a couple's getaway. The view from the castle looks out beautifully over the city and the old town has many excellent restaurants and activities that are great 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 Heidelberg or Bari Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Heidelberg and Bari are excellent places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Heidelberg. Prices are reasonable and there are a handful of hostels around town. As a university town, you can be assured there are plenty of fun activities and cheap places to eat.

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 Heidelberg or Bari Better for Students?

Bari is a great port city for its student-friendly activities. Also, Heidelberg is not as popular, but is still a nice town for 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.

Heidelberg is a good town to visit for students. It is a beautiful student town with a lot of activities for young visitors. This is not the most popular study abroad destination, but it does have a lot to offer for those who visit.

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

Heidelberg is a great town 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 Heidelberg. There are trams and buses that connect the old town to the train station.

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

Is Heidelberg or Bari a more walkable city?

Heidelberg and Bari are excellent when it comes to walkability.

Heidelberg is a very walkable destination. The old town is particularly walkable.

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 Heidelberg Worth Visiting? and Is Bari Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bari or Heidelberg?

How long in Heidelberg or Bari?

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

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

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

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Heidelberg. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

With museums and nightlife around the local port city of Bari, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bari, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Heidelberg or Bari?

Heidelberg 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.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Bari, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the food. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this port city.

Five days in Heidelberg or Bari?

You'll find food and shopping around the scenic destination of Heidelberg. This town offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Bari, a popular port city, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Heidelberg or Bari?

The energetic town of Heidelberg offers shopping 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 popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the food. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Germany, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Germany, The Best Historical Tours in Italy, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Heidelberg or Bari?

Bari has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Heidelberg. When comparing the sizes of Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg or Bari in the Summer?

Both Bari and Heidelberg are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Heidelberg because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bari this time of year.

Heidelberg is cooler than Bari in the summer. The daily temperature in Heidelberg averages around 21°C (69°F) in July, and Bari fluctuates around 25°C (76°F).

It's quite sunny in Bari. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Heidelberg. Heidelberg usually receives less sunshine than Bari during summer. Heidelberg gets 224 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 336 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Heidelberg usually receives more rain than Bari. Heidelberg gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Bari receives 9 mm (0.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Heidelberg or Bari in the Autumn?

Both Bari and Heidelberg during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Heidelberg this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bari for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Heidelberg is much colder than Bari. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Heidelberg in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Bari averages at about 18°C (65°F).

In the autumn, Heidelberg often gets less sunshine than Bari. Heidelberg gets 102 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 178 hours of full sun.

Heidelberg usually gets less rain in October than Bari. Heidelberg gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Bari receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heidelberg or Bari in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Heidelberg and Bari. Many travelers come to Heidelberg for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, 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 Heidelberg. In January, Heidelberg is generally much colder than Bari. Daily temperatures in Heidelberg average around 3°C (37°F), and Bari fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

Heidelberg usually receives less sunshine than Bari during winter. Heidelberg gets 38 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 110 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Heidelberg usually receives less rain than Bari. Heidelberg gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bari receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Heidelberg or Bari in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Heidelberg as well as Bari. Many visitors come to Heidelberg in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Bari for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months.

Heidelberg is cooler than Bari in the spring. The daily temperature in Heidelberg averages around 11°C (52°F) in April, and Bari fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bari. In the spring, Heidelberg often gets less sunshine than Bari. Heidelberg gets 155 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 203 hours of full sun.

Heidelberg usually gets more rain in April than Bari. Heidelberg gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Bari receives 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bari and Heidelberg