A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Imperia vs. Bari for Food, Attractions, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Imperia or Bari?

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

Should I visit Imperia or Bari? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Imperia

Imperia is a undiscovered, authentic, and charming town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, 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. Other popular activities here include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Imperia and Bari: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students


Is there more to do in Imperia or Bari?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Bari. Although Imperia and Bari are popular destinations, Bari has more sights and attractions for tourists. Bari is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, and big city activities, while Imperia attracts visitors for its impressive beauty. Imperia is famous for its access to the Ligurian coastline. 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 Imperia different from Bari?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Imperia
Bari

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

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.

Imperia is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several interesting buildings of importance around town.


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

Imperia
Bari

Bari is a must-visit destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, Bari is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Imperia. Food ranges from typical Italian dishes to local recipes that use local ingredients. Unique ingredients in the area include trumpet zucchini, flat breads, and anchovies.

Is Imperia or Bari Better for Nightlife?

Imperia
Bari

Bari is notable for its evening party scene. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for nightlife.

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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Imperia. There are some bars and lively restaurants around town where you can spend an enjoyable evening.

Is Imperia or Bari Better for Beaches?

Imperia
Bari

Bari is a popular place for the beach. However, Imperia is not a beach destination.

Bari is a good option for a beach vacation. 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.

Imperia is not a beach destination.


Is Imperia or Bari Better for its Old Town?

Imperia
Bari

Bari is notable for its historic old town charm. However, Imperia does not have a historic old town.

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.

Imperia does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Imperia or Bari?

Imperia
Bari

Both Imperia and Bari are nice shopping destinations.

Many visitors go to Imperia to go shopping. There are some shopping streets in town that have a mix of local brands and standard clothing shops.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Bari. 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 Imperia or Bari Better for Families?

Imperia
Bari

Bari is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Bari is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Imperia is a family-friendly town. There's some nice walking trails in the countryside that the kids will enjoy.


Is Imperia or Bari Better for Couples?

Imperia
Bari

With fun activities for couples, both Imperia and Bari make for a nice place to visit.

Imperia is a good town for couples to visit. It's a beautiful town with a nice atmosphere that offers a nice break from the tourist crowds.

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 Imperia or Bari Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Imperia
Bari

Bari is notable for backpackers. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Bari is a very popular port city for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Imperia is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Accommodation tends to be affordable and there's an off-the-beaten-path vibe that some backpackers will appreciate.

Is Imperia or Bari Better for Students?

Imperia
Bari

Bari is notable for students. However, Imperia is not popular with students.

Bari is a very popular port 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.

Imperia is not popular with students.


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

Imperia
Bari

Both Imperia and Bari offer nice public transit options.

Imperia has a few public transit options. There are buses that connect the city to different areas.

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

Is Imperia or Bari a more walkable city?

Imperia
Bari

Bari is notable for its ease of walking around. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its walkability.

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.

Imperia is somewhat walkable. Parts of the town are convenient to walk around.

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

Should I spend more time in Bari or Imperia?

How long in Imperia or Bari?

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

Families should spend more time in Bari than Imperia. 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 Imperia. 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 Imperia 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.


  • How many days in Imperia or Bari? Ideal Length of Stay
    Imperia 1-2 
    Bari 1-3

One day in Imperia or Bari?

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

Imperia 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.

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 Imperia or Bari?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the authentic destination of Imperia. This town offers something for everyone. 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 Imperia or Bari?

The undiscovered town of Imperia 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.

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


Which place is cheaper, Bari or Imperia?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Imperia is €108, while the average daily cost in Bari is €113. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Imperia and Bari in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Imperia 51
    Bari 73
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Imperia 102
    Bari 146
Compare Hotels in Imperia and Bari

Looking for a hotel in Imperia or Bari? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Imperia


Hotels in Bari


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Imperia Hotel Prices and Bari Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Imperia 36
    Bari 11

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Bari

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Bari:


  • Train to Lecce
    44

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bari

Also for Bari, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Bari Airport: 1-Way Shared Transfer to Matera City Center: $5.33
  • Bari Airport: Shared Transfer to/from Taranto Train Station: $9.06
  • From Bari Airport: Shared Transfer to/from Salento Airport: $9.59
  • Bari Airport Transfer to/from Foggia Train Station: $13
  • Bari Cruise Port (Terminal di Bari) to Bari hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $25
  • Bari hotels to Bari Port (Terminal Crociere di Bari)- Departure Private Transfer: $25
  • Private Transfer from Bari Intl Airport (BRI) to Bari Cruise Port: $25
  • Private Transfer from Bari Cruise Port to Bari Intl Airport (BRI): $25
  • Private Transfer from Bari Cruise Port to Bari hotels: $25
  • Bari Cruise Port (Terminal di Bari) to Bari hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $50
  • Bari Intl Airport (BRI) to Bari Cruise Port- Round-Trip Private Transfer: $50
  • Private One-Way Airport Transfer: $51

Is it cheaper to fly into Imperia or Bari?

Prices for flights to both Bari and Imperia change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Imperia 35
    Bari 32

Typical Food Prices in Bari

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Bari:


  • Dinner
    44
  • Coffee
    2.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bari

For Bari, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Street food tour of Polignano a Mare: $39
  • Bari Walking Street Food Tour: $48
  • Bari Street Food Tour by Bike: $69
  • Italian Street Food Tour with Tastings and Drinks: $69
  • Street Food Tour in Bari old town - Do Eat Better Experience: $77
  • Rickshaw Street Food Tour: $80
  • Bari Street Food Tour by Rickshaw: $81
  • Conversano: Apulian cooking lesson with dinner included: $81
  • Cooking class: We prepare orecchiette with vegetables from the garden: $83
  • Bari Street Food Tour on Segway: $85
  • Visit to the Market and Cooking Lesson in Polignano a Mare: $92
  • Cesarine: Dining & Cooking Demo at Local's Home in Altamura: $92

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Imperia 13
    Bari 8.61

Tours and Activities in Imperia

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Imperia are as follows:

  • Imperia - Old Town Private Historic Walking Tour: $426

Tours and Activities in Bari

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Bari.

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.20
  • Tour "Hunt for the treasures of Bari": $3.25
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Walking Tour: $6.39
  • Bari Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.50
  • Bari Self-Guided Audio Tour: $14
  • Wonderful Bari Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Simi Palace and Byzantine Church Tour with Ticket: $23
  • St. Nicholas Basilica and Crypt Guided Tour: $27
  • Guided Walking Tour: $27
  • Bari Walking City Tour: $29
  • Norman-Swabian Castle Guided Tour: $30
  • Guided Walking Tour with Local Products Tasting: $32

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Imperia 7.50
    Bari 13

Typical Alcohol Prices in Bari

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Bari:


  • Beer
    2.00

Sample the Local Flavors in Bari

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Bari:

  • Afternoon Tour Secrets of Alberobello incl. Food & Wine tasting: $78
  • Private Tour: Trani walking tour with Moscato wine tasting: $114


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


Which is Bigger, Imperia or Bari?

Bari has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Imperia. When comparing the sizes of Imperia 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 Imperia 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 Imperia or Bari in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Imperia as well as Bari. Most visitors come to Imperia for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Bari because of the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Imperia is around the same temperature as Bari in the summer. The daily temperature in Imperia averages around 25°C (76°F) in July, and Bari fluctuates around 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 Imperia this time of the year. In the summer, Imperia often gets less sunshine than Bari. Imperia gets 295 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 336 hours of full sun.

Imperia usually gets more rain in July than Bari. Imperia gets 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Bari receives 9 mm (0.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Imperia 25°C (76°F) 
    Bari 25°C (76°F)

Should I visit Imperia or Bari in the Autumn?

Both Bari and Imperia are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Imperia because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Bari this time of year.

In the autumn, Imperia is around the same temperature as Bari. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Imperia in October average around 19°C (66°F), and Bari averages at about 18°C (65°F).

Imperia usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bari during autumn. Imperia gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 178 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Imperia usually receives more rain than Bari. Imperia gets 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain, while Bari receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Imperia 19°C (66°F) 
    Bari 18°C (65°F)

Should I visit Imperia or Bari in the Winter?

Both Bari and Imperia during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Imperia this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Bari for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Imperia is generally around the same temperature as Bari. Daily temperatures in Imperia average around 11°C (51°F), and Bari fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

In the winter, Imperia often gets more sunshine than Bari. Imperia gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 110 hours of full sun.

Imperia usually gets more rain in January than Bari. Imperia gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Bari receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Imperia 11°C (51°F) 
    Bari 10°C (49°F)

Should I visit Imperia or Bari in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Imperia and Bari. Many travelers come to Imperia for the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Bari in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city.

Imperia is around the same temperature as Bari in the spring. The daily temperature in Imperia averages around 15°C (58°F) in April, and Bari fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bari this time of the year. Imperia usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bari during spring. Imperia gets 198 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 203 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Imperia usually receives more rain than Bari. Imperia gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Bari receives 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Imperia 15°C (58°F) 
    Bari 14°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Bari and Imperia

Imperia Bari
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 10°C (49°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 10°C (50°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 12°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Apr 15°C (58°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 14°C (58°F) 32 mm (1.3 in)
May 18°C (64°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 18°C (64°F) 25 mm (1 in)
Jun 21°C (71°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 22°C (71°F) 20 mm (0.8 in)
Jul 25°C (76°F) 12 mm (0.5 in) 25°C (76°F) 9 mm (0.3 in)
Aug 25°C (77°F) 34 mm (1.3 in) 25°C (76°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Sep 22°C (72°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 22°C (72°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 19°C (66°F) 97 mm (3.8 in) 18°C (65°F) 70 mm (2.7 in)
Nov 14°C (58°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 14°C (57°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Dec 12°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 11°C (52°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)