A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Monaco vs. Bari for Food, Nightlife, Couples, and Families

Should you visit Monaco or Bari?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Monaco and Bari can help you decide which place is right for you.

Monaco

Monaco is a glitzy, glamorous, and captivating coastal resort area. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

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. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Monaco and Bari: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Monaco or Bari?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Monaco. Although Monaco and Bari are both popular with visitors, Monaco has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Monaco is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Bari is known for its museums, food, and historical sights. Monaco is more touristy than Bari and is popular for its grand hotels, luxurious casinos, opulent malls, and popularity with celebrities. It is also home to Monte Carlo. Bari is popular for its authentic old town and its role as a ferry port for travelers headed across the Adriatic.

How is Monaco different from Bari?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Monaco
Bari

Bari is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Monaco does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Monaco does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Monaco
Bari

Bari is an amazing port city to visit for its restaurant scene. Also, Monaco is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Monaco has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The cuisine is heavily influenced by both French and Italian cuisines. You'll find many dishes that take advantage of the coastal location, with seafood being very common. The national dish is Barbagiuan, which is a deep-fried pastry that is filled with ricotta cheese, Swiss chard, and other vegetables.

Is Monaco or Bari Better for Nightlife?

Monaco
Bari

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

Monaco is a must-see party destination. It's where sophistication meets glam, with many luxury nightclubs, cocktail bars, casinos, and even opera houses that you can explore. The city attracts celebrities, wealthy business people, and jetsetters who are looking to socialize, see, and be seen.

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 Monaco or Bari Better for Resorts?

Monaco
Bari

Monaco is terrific for its luxury resorts. However, Bari is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Monaco for its luxury resorts. As the playground for the rich and famous, this city has its share of luxury resorts. Famous hotels include the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo, and the Fairmont Monte Carlo.

Bari is not a resort destination.


Is Monaco or Bari Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Monaco
Bari

Monaco is a good destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Bari is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Monaco. There are both beaches that offer walk-in snorkeling spots as well as boat tours that you can book that will take you to some of the best snorkeling and dive sights around Monaco.

Bari is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Monaco or Bari Better for Beaches?

Monaco
Bari

Monaco and Bari are good choices for a beach vacation.

Many people head to Monaco to enjoy the beach. Located along the French Riviera, the beaches are a mix of pebbles and sand. The only public beach is Plage du Larvotto in Monte Carlo and there are a number of activities available including jet skis and wind-surfing. This is also a very family-friendly beach that kids of all ages can enjoy.

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.

Is Monaco or Bari Better for its Old Town?

Monaco
Bari

Bari is well known for its old town. However, Monaco does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of 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.

Monaco does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Monaco or Bari?

Monaco
Bari

Monaco 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 Monaco specifically to go shopping. A visit would not be complete without experiencing the city's shopping. There are couture, luxury brands as well as local boutiques that are frequented by the wealthy and famous. Popular shopping areas include Le Metropole Shopping Center, Fontvieille Shopping Centre, and La Condamine Market.

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 Monaco or Bari Better for Families?

Monaco
Bari

Bari is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Monaco is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Bari is a very kid-friendly port city. 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.

For families, Monaco is not always the best place to visit. The city has a few family-friendly activities like an Oceanography Museum, a Zoological Park, and a harbor where kids can explore. You can also check out the Changing of the Guards in the Old Town. The public beach in town, Plage du Larvotto, is very family-friendly as well.

Is Monaco or Bari Better for Couples?

Monaco
Bari

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

Monaco is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Filled with luxury, a couple can enjoy perusing the yachts in the harbor, dining on fine cuisine at an award winning restaurant, or staying at one of the many fancy hotels in town. You can also explore the area by air, by taking a truly spectacular helicopter tour.

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 Monaco or Bari Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Monaco
Bari

Bari is well known for backpackers. However, Monaco is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Bari is a great port city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Monaco is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. Known for it's luxury accommodation and posh visitors, this coastal area isn't known for its backpacker friendly atmosphere. Most budget travelers skip the glitz and glam of this microstate in order to save a few bucks.

Is Monaco or Bari Better for Students?

Monaco
Bari

Bari is well known for students. However, Monaco is not popular with 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.

Monaco is not popular with students.

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

Monaco
Bari

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Monaco and Bari.

You'll find some public transit in Monaco, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a bus system.

While Bari offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses around town that are operated by the AMTAB.


Is Monaco or Bari a more walkable city?

Monaco
Bari

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

Monaco is a very easy coastal resort area to get around on foot. It's small and compact size means that it is easy to explore the entire area on foot in a short amount of time.

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 Monaco Worth Visiting? and Is Bari Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bari or Monaco?

How long in Monaco or Bari?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Monaco and Bari. You can spend similar amounts of time exploring each one. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bari than Monaco 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 Monaco or Bari? Ideal Length of Stay
    Monaco 1-3 
    Bari 1-3

One day in Monaco or Bari?

Monaco is a big city destination where you can fill many days. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

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 Monaco or Bari?

Monaco is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 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 Monaco or Bari?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the captivating big city of Monaco. This coastal resort area offers something for everyone. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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 Monaco or Bari?

The posh coastal resort area of Monaco offers nightlife and food. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the authentic 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 Historical Tours in Italy, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Bari or Monaco?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Monaco is €189, 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 Monaco and Bari in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Monaco 119
    Bari 73
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Monaco 238
    Bari 146
Compare Hotels in Monaco and Bari

Looking for a hotel in Monaco 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 Monaco


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: Bari Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Monaco 17
    Bari 11

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Monaco

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Monaco:

  • Port Hercule (Monte Carlo Monaco Port): Transfer to Monaco: $231

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:

  • Arrival Private Transfer from Bari BRI Airport to Bari by Van: $46
  • Bari Airport (BRI) to Taranto Port - Departure Private Transfer: $73
  • Bari Airport: 1-Way Shared Transfer to Matera City Center: $5.43
  • Bari Airport: Shared Transfer to/from Taranto Train Station: $9.23
  • Bari City Hotels to Taranto Cruise Port - Departure Transfer: $67
  • Bari Cruise Port (Terminal di Bari) to Bari hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $25
  • Bari Cruise Port (Terminal di Bari) to Bari hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $51
  • Bari Cruise Port to Bari Intl Airport (BRI) - Departure Private Transfer: $25
  • Bari Cruise Port to Polignano Hotels Arrival Private Transfer: $79
  • Bari Intl Airport (BRI) to Bari Cruise Port - Arrival Private Transfer: $25
  • Bari Intl Airport (BRI) to Bari Cruise Port- Round-Trip Private Transfer: $51
  • Bari Per Matera - Matera Airport Transfer Service For Bari Airport: $149

Is it cheaper to fly into Monaco or Bari?

Prices for flights to both Bari and Monaco 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
    Monaco 53
    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: $40
  • Bari Walking Street Food Tour: $49
  • Bari Street Food Tour by Bike: $71
  • Italian Street Food Tour with Tastings and Drinks: $71
  • Puglia Plates - Bari Food Tour: $77
  • Street Food Tour in Bari old town - Do Eat Better Experience: $78
  • Rickshaw Street Food Tour: $81
  • Bari Street Food Tour by Rickshaw: $83
  • Apulian cooking lesson with dinner included: $83
  • Bari Street Food Tour on Segway: $87
  • Visit to the Market and Cooking Lesson in Polignano a Mare: $94
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Conversano with Show Cooking: $94

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Monaco 23
    Bari 8.61
Typical Entertainment Prices in Monaco

Here are a few typical costs in Monaco for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Grand Prix for Two
    101

Tours and Activities in Monaco

Here are a few actual costs in Monaco for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Excursion to Eze and Half Day Shared Tour 5h: $71
  • Eze and Full Day Shared Tour: $103
  • From Nice: Eze, Monaco and Monte Carlo Half Day Tour: $71
  • From Nice: Italian Riviera, Monaco, & Monte Carlo Tour: $733
  • Italian Riviera & Monaco/ Monte-Carlo Sightseeing Tour: $733
  • Jewels of Monaco – Walking Tour for Couples: $477
  • La Condamine: City Highlights Walking Tour: $379
  • Monaco & Monte-Carlo: Guided Hidden Gems Tour: $141
  • Monaco City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.52
  • Monaco Old Town Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $5.43
  • Monaco Private Walking Tour: $339
  • Monaco by Night Private Tour: $505

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: $3.26
  • Tour "Hunt for the treasures of Bari": $3.30
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Walking Tour: $6.52
  • Bari Self-Guided Audio Tour: $14
  • Wonderful Bari Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Simi Palace and Byzantine Church Tour with Ticket: $24
  • St. Nicholas Basilica and Crypt Guided Tour: $27
  • Guided Walking Tour: $27
  • Sup Tour in Polignano caves : $28
  • Bari : Must-see attractions Private Walking Tour: $28
  • Bari Walking City Tour: $30
  • Norman-Swabian Castle Guided Tour: $30

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Monaco 26
    Bari 13

Sample the Local Flavors in Monaco

Also in Monaco, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Wine Tasting : Tour de France in Nice city centre: $74

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: $79
  • Private Tour: Trani walking tour with Moscato wine tasting: $116
  • Wine tasting experience in the Apulian countryside : $237


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


Which is Bigger, Monaco or Bari?

Bari has a larger population, and is about 310 times larger than the population of Monaco. When comparing the sizes of Monaco 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.