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

Should you visit Lisbon or Bari?

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

Should I visit Lisbon 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.

Lisbon

Lisbon is a picturesque, colorful, and vibrant city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music.

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 beaches, shopping, and museums.

Lisbon and Bari: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lisbon or Bari?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Lisbon than Bari. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Lisbon is more touristy than Bari and is known for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. It is also well known for Castelo de São Jorge. Bari is famous for its authentic old town and its role as a ferry port for travelers headed across the Adriatic.

How is Lisbon different from Bari?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Lisbon 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, Lisbon has many famous sights for visitors. World renowned landmarks include St. George's Castle, Jerónimos monastery, the Belém Tower, Santa Justa Lift, and countless world class museums.

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 Lisbon or Bari? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

For foodies, Lisbon is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. There are many local restaurants as well as food tours and cooking classes that you can enjoy. Make sure you try the local favorites like bacalhau à brás, frango no churrasco, and pastel de nata. Given the beautiful climate, outdoor seating is also popular. Head into the less touristy neighborhoods to try some local dishes or hit up a seafood market. There are also many cafes that offer great breakfasts with fresh ingredients.

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 Lisbon or Bari Better for Nightlife?

Lisbon is terrific for its evening party scene. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for nightlife.

Lisbon is a must-see party destination. It is a bustling city with a lot of energy late into the night. There are countless bars, clubs, and music venues that cater to every personality type and style. Whether you want a more relaxed vibe or a raging party, there is likely an place for you.

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 Lisbon or Bari Better for Music?

Lisbon is terrific for its music scene. However, Bari is not a live music destination.

Lisbon has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. The local folk music, fado, is popular here, but there are also venues that host almost any other style of music as well. You'll also find several fado museums around town.

Bari is not a live music destination.

Is Lisbon or Bari Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Lisbon and Bari are nice choices.

Lisbon is a good option for a beach vacation. The beaches are often overlooked by visitors, but the coastline near the city is lined with beautiful sandy beaches that are arguably among the best in the area. If you want to get away from city life, head for the water.

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 Lisbon or Bari Better for its Old Town?

Lisbon 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.

Lisbon has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The city is famous for the Alfama area, which is where you find the traditional buildings, cobblestoned streets, wandering alleyways, and steep hills. Make sure you take in the stunning view from various parts of 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Lisbon or Bari?

Lisbon is terrific for its shopping areas. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for shopping.

Many people travel to Lisbon specifically to go shopping. For high end shopping, head to The Avenida da Liberdade. It's lined with designer brands and luxury boutiques.

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 Lisbon or Bari Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Lisbon or Bari.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Lisbon. Popular family-friendly activities include exploring Castelo Sao Jorge, visiting the aquarium, hanging out on the beach, and of course, taking the funiculars. Kids of all ages will appreciate the intricate maze of streets and lively atmosphere that this city offers. There's also the famous Livraria Lello & Irmão, which is a beautiful bookshop that is said to be an inspiration for Harry Potter. Don't expect to simply walk in, as there is often a long line to enter.

Bari is 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.

Is Lisbon or Bari Better for Couples?

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

Lisbon is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. With it's colorful buildings and dramatic hills, this city offers a truly romantic setting for couples. There are many romantic viewpoints as well as world class restaurants that couples will enjoy.

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 Lisbon or Bari Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon 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 Lisbon, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. Hostels are abundant, and you'll have no trouble finding other backpackers to hang out with. Many hostels even organize activities and group meals for travelers. Prices are also reasonable for a large and vibrant city.

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 Lisbon or Bari Better for Students?

Both Lisbon and Bari are superb destinations for students.

Lisbon is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It's a lively city with a lot to see and do for international students.

Bari is very popular with students. 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 Lisbon or Bari Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Lisbon is terrific 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.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Lisbon can take you anywhere. The metro has four lines that go around the city. There are also trams, buses, and the funiculars.

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

Is Lisbon or Bari a more walkable city?

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

Lisbon is a very easy city to get around on foot. There are many walkable areas that aren't too hilly like Baixa, a stretch along the Tagus River, and Belém.

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 Lisbon Worth Visiting? and Is Bari Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bari or Lisbon?

How long in Lisbon or Bari?

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

Families should spend more time in Lisbon than Bari. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Lisbon, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

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

One day in Lisbon or Bari?

Lisbon is a big city destination where you can fill many days. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Bari. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Lisbon or Bari?

Lisbon is a fun place to experience. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Bari is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Lisbon or Bari?

Lisbon is a picturesque big city where you can fill many days. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bari. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. 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. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Lisbon or Bari?

Lisbon is a stunning city where you can fill many days. 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cultural destination of Bari. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 in Portugal, The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal, The Best Historical Tours in Italy, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Lisbon or Bari?

Lisbon has a larger population, and is about 64% larger than the population of Bari. When comparing the sizes of Lisbon 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 Lisbon 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 Lisbon or Bari in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Lisbon and Bari. Most visitors come to Lisbon for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Bari because of the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Lisbon is around the same temperature as Bari in the summer. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Bari fluctuates around 25°C (76°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bari this time of the year. In Lisbon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Lisbon usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bari during summer. Lisbon gets 352 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 336 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Lisbon usually receives less rain than Bari. Lisbon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Bari receives 9 mm (0.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lisbon or Bari in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Lisbon as well as Bari. The autumn months attract visitors to Lisbon because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Bari this time of year.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lisbon this time of the year. In the autumn, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Bari. Lisbon gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 178 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets more rain in October than Bari. Lisbon gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Bari receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Bari in the Winter?

Both Bari and Lisbon are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Lisbon this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bari for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Lisbon is generally a little warmer than Bari. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 12°C (53°F), and Bari fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Bari during winter. Lisbon gets 144 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 110 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Lisbon. In January, Lisbon usually receives more rain than Bari. Lisbon gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Bari receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lisbon or Bari in the Spring?

Both Bari and Lisbon during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Lisbon for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Bari in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city.

Lisbon is around the same temperature as Bari in the spring. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Bari fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

In Bari, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Lisbon. In the spring, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Bari. Lisbon gets 235 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 203 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets more rain in April than Bari. Lisbon gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Bari receives 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bari and Lisbon