A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers La Rochelle vs. Bari for Food, Old Town, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit La Rochelle or Bari?

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

Should I visit La Rochelle 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.

La Rochelle

La Rochelle is a relaxing, laid-back, and quaint coastal town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. 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 beaches, shopping, and museums.

La Rochelle and Bari: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in La Rochelle or Bari?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Bari than La Rochelle, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Bari is more popular for its nightlife and big city activities, while La Rochelle is known for its historical sights, hiking, and small town charm. La Rochelle is more touristy than Bari and is known for its medieval towers, maritime history, and beautiful setting. Bari is popular for its authentic old town and its role as a ferry port for travelers headed across the Adriatic. It is also home to San Nicola.

How is La Rochelle different from Bari?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in La Rochelle or Bari?

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

La Rochelle offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Filled with history, the town itself is like a living museum. Within town there are many sights such as the Vieux Port, La Rochelle Aquarium, Musée d'Histoire Naturelle, and Musée du Nouveau Monde de La Rochelle.

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.

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

Both La Rochelle and Bari offer amazing local cuisine and restaurants.

For foodies, La Rochelle is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. It may be small, but its filled with delicious cafes, bistros, and local restaurants. Seafood is the obvious choice in this coastal town and many visitors head to Vieux Port to eat, as many restaurants there offer waterfront views. If you want something a little less touristy, head to the St. Nicolas District, which was the town's former fishing district. Rue de la Fourche is also a charming road with many places to grab a bite or a drink. Or head to Rue St Jean-du-Perot, which is just off the old port.

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.

Is La Rochelle or Bari Better for Nightlife?

Bari is great for nightlife and partying. Also, La Rochelle is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for its evening party scene.

Many people head to Bari for the nightlife scene. 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 La Rochelle. While it's known as a peaceful, seaside town, you'll still find wine bars, pubs, and even a club or two around town.

Is La Rochelle or Bari Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both La Rochelle and Bari are good choices.

La Rochelle is a good option for a beach vacation. There are three main beaches in town that each attract a crowd on warm summer days. Plage de la Concurrence, Plage Chef de Baie, and Plage des Minimes are the closest beaches to La Rochelle, and they are popular for sunbathing and water sports. They have a mix of sand, pebbles, and cliffside views that attract locals and tourists alike.

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.

Is La Rochelle or Bari Better for its Old Town?

La Rochelle 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.

La Rochelle has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The old town is filled with wandering cobblestone streets, charming squares, and cafes that spill into the street.

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 La Rochelle or Bari Better for Hiking?

La Rochelle is a good destination for hiking. However, Bari is not a hiking destination.

La Rochelle offers some nice hiking trails. There are many coastal walks just outside of town that take you along the scenic coastline. It's beautiful to stroll through the countryside and pass through many quaint villages.

Bari is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in La Rochelle or Bari?

If you're looking to go shopping, La Rochelle and Bari both offer plenty of good spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting La Rochelle. The old town is filled with boutique shops as well as some name brands. Another fun place to visit is Les Halles, which is an indoor market with fresh produce, seafood, and many local cheeses.

Many visitors go to Bari to go 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 La Rochelle or Bari Better for Families?

Bari is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, La Rochelle is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town 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.

La Rochelle is a family-friendly place to visit. It's a coastal town with a port that you can explore. There's also an aquarium and many great seafood restaurants. A nice day trip is to go to l'Ile de Ré, which has nice beaches, some with playgrounds.

Is La Rochelle or Bari Better for Couples?

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

La Rochelle is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. This beautiful coastal town is seeped in history. There are beautiful squares, romantic parks, and cobblestone streets that you can wander down. It's also nice to take a coastal walk before grabbing dinner at a local seafood restaurant.

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 La Rochelle or Bari Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bari is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, La Rochelle is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for backpackers.

Many 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.

La Rochelle is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There aren't a ton of hostels in the area, but there are just enough that you should be able to find a place to stay.

Is La Rochelle or Bari Better for Students?

Bari is great for its student-friendly activities. Also, La Rochelle is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for 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.

La Rochelle is a good coastal town to visit for students. It's a touristy city with a lot for students to see and do, but the atmosphere is generally quiet and peaceful.

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

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

While La Rochelle offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Public transit around town is operated by Yeló, and mostly consists of buses.

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

Is La Rochelle or Bari a more walkable city?

La Rochelle and Bari are superb when it comes to walkability.

La Rochelle is a very walkable coastal town. It's filled with meandering cobblestone streets that are best explored on foot. Most places around town can be explored 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 La Rochelle Worth Visiting? and Is Bari Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bari or La Rochelle?

How long in La Rochelle or Bari?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both La Rochelle and Bari. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in La Rochelle than in Bari. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for La Rochelle, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bari.

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

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

La Rochelle is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. 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.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural port city of Bari. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Most people visit for the food. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this port city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in La Rochelle or Bari?

La Rochelle is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the food. 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the authentic destination of Bari. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This port city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in La Rochelle or Bari?

La Rochelle is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. This coastal 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.

The local port city of Bari offers shopping and museums. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in La Rochelle or Bari?

Because La Rochelle is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. 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.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bari. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people visit for the food. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Paris, The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, The Best Historical Tours in Italy, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, La Rochelle or Bari?

Bari has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of La Rochelle. When comparing the sizes of La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle or Bari in the Summer?

Both Bari and La Rochelle are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to La Rochelle for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and 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.

In the summer, La Rochelle is cooler than Bari. Typically, the summer temperatures in La Rochelle in July average around 20°C (67°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 La Rochelle. La Rochelle usually receives less sunshine than Bari during summer. La Rochelle gets 267 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 336 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, La Rochelle usually receives more rain than Bari. La Rochelle gets 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Bari receives 9 mm (0.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit La Rochelle or Bari in the Autumn?

Both Bari and La Rochelle during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to La Rochelle because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere. Furthermore, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Bari this time of year.

In October, La Rochelle is generally cooler than Bari. Daily temperatures in La Rochelle average around 15°C (59°F), and Bari fluctuates around 18°C (65°F).

In the autumn, La Rochelle often gets less sunshine than Bari. La Rochelle gets 141 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 178 hours of full sun.

La Rochelle usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Bari. La Rochelle gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Bari receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit La Rochelle or Bari in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both La Rochelle and Bari. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to La Rochelle this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Bari for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

La Rochelle is cooler than Bari in the winter. The daily temperature in La Rochelle averages around 7°C (44°F) in January, and Bari fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

La Rochelle usually receives less sunshine than Bari during winter. La Rochelle gets 72 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 110 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, La Rochelle usually receives more rain than Bari. La Rochelle gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Bari receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit La Rochelle or Bari in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to La Rochelle as well as Bari. Many travelers come to La Rochelle for the beaches and the small town charm. Additionally, many visitors come to Bari in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In the spring, La Rochelle is cooler than Bari. Typically, the spring temperatures in La Rochelle in April average around 11°C (52°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, La Rochelle often gets less sunshine than Bari. La Rochelle gets 187 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 203 hours of full sun.

La Rochelle usually gets more rain in April than Bari. La Rochelle gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Bari receives 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bari and La Rochelle