A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Naples vs. Bari for Food, Attractions, Nightlife, and Old Town

Should you visit Naples or Bari?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Naples or Bari, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Naples

Naples is a authentic, gritty, and colorful city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. 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 museums, nightlife, and food.

Naples and Bari: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Naples or Bari?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Naples than Bari. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Naples is very popular for its shopping and big city activities, while Bari attracts visitors for its beaches. Naples is more touristy than Bari and is popular for its colorful atmosphere, long running history, and influence on world cuisine as the birthplace of pizza. It is also well known for Piazza del Plebiscito. Bari is famous for its authentic old town and its role as a ferry port for travelers headed across the Adriatic.

How is Naples different from Bari?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Naples or Bari.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Naples can be an interesting and educational experience. Most of the sights are concentrated in the city's historic center. The Naples Harbor is a gateway to the Mediterranean. Also worth visiting are the National Archeological Museum, Capodimonte Royal Palace, Castel Nuovo, and the Catacombs of San Gennaro.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into 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.

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

Foodies will find both Naples and Bari both to be world-class destinations.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Naples is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. As the birthplace of pizza, the city has a well known food reputation. Many local dishes, including an authentic Napoli pizza, use simple flavors such as olive oil, garlic, and tomatoes. The dishes are lighter than their northern counterparts and tomatoes are a very popular ingredient. In addition to the pizza, you should try Lasagna Al Forno Napoletana and Spaghetti Alla Vognole. Also check out a pizza making class.

Many restaurants in Bari have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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 Naples or Bari Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Naples and Bari.

Naples is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The nightlife scene includes small bars, wineries, and dance clubs, but much of the energy and activity is actually focused on being outdoors. There is plenty of live music and many nightclubs are actually "disco bars" that are found tucked away in the city's historic center.

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.

Is Naples or Bari Better for Beaches?

Bari is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Naples is not a beach destination.

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.

Naples is not a beach destination.

Is Naples or Bari Better for its Old Town?

Naples and Bari both have great historical old towns that attract visitors.

Many visitors go to Naples to see the historical old town. Most of the city's tourist attractions are found in the historic center, which includes beautiful fountains, grand churches, and an impressive network of catacombs and caves.

Bari is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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 Naples or Bari?

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

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Naples. There are shopping streets and districts that have boutique clothing vendors, high end brands, and major chains. There's plenty of diversity in the shopping scene and some of the best shopping areas include Via Toledo, the Chiaia District, and Poggioreale 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 Naples or Bari Better for Families?

Bari is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Naples is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Naples offers lots of family activities. Despite its rough-around-the-edges reputation, the city actually has some fun kid-friendly activities. As the birthplace of pizza, a childhood favorite, eating is a kid approved activity. You can even try your hand at pizza making classes. Other fun kid-friendly activities include exploring the underground city, going to The Science Centre of Citta della Scienza, and running around Parco di Capodimonte.

Is Naples or Bari Better for Couples?

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

Naples is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Dining on pizza, wine tasting, or taking a cruise on the Gulf of Naples all make this city a great couples destination. There are also many romantic day trips in the area, so many couples use Naples as a base for exploring the region.

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 Naples or Bari Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Naples and Bari are great places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Naples is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. It's more affordable than most of northern Italy, and it has plenty of hostels to choose from. The city makes a great stop for backpackers who want to see a different part of Italy. While not completely off the backpacker trail, Naples is not inundated with tourists the way some other Italian cities are.

Bari is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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 Naples or Bari Better for Students?

Bari is well known for students. Also, Naples is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Bari is a great port city to visit as a student. 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.

It's common for students to visit Naples. It's a large city with a lot to see and do. Students also appreciate the many day trips that are available in the area.

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

Naples is a great city 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 Naples. There's a metro with two metro lines as well as four suburban train lines. There are also funiculars, regional trains, and ferries to the surrounding areas.

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

Is Naples or Bari a more walkable city?

Naples and Bari both are great when exploring on foot.

Naples is a very walkable destination. The historic center is flat and easy to explore on foot.

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 Naples Worth Visiting? and Is Bari Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bari or Naples?

How long in Naples or Bari?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Naples 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 Naples. 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 Naples than Bari. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Naples that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

One day in Naples or Bari?

Naples 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. 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 Naples or Bari?

Naples 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.

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 Naples or Bari?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the fascinating big city of Naples. This city 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.

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 Naples or Bari?

The historic city of Naples offers nightlife and food. 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.

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 Italy, The Best 2-Week Tours in Italy, The Best Bicycle Tours in Italy, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Naples or Bari?

Naples has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Bari. When comparing the sizes of Naples 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 Naples 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 Naples or Bari in the Summer?

Both Bari and Naples during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Naples for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Bari in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Naples is around the same temperature as Bari in the summer. The daily temperature in Naples averages around 23°C (74°F) in July, and Bari fluctuates around 25°C (76°F).

In Bari, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Naples. In the summer, Naples often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bari. Naples gets 313 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 336 hours of full sun.

Naples usually gets more rain in July than Bari. Naples gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Bari receives 9 mm (0.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Naples or Bari in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Naples and Bari. Many visitors come to Naples in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to Bari for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, Naples is around the same temperature as Bari. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Naples in October average around 17°C (63°F), and Bari averages at about 18°C (65°F).

Naples usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bari during autumn. Naples gets 189 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 178 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Naples gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Naples usually receives more rain than Bari. Naples gets 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Bari receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Naples or Bari in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Naples as well as Bari. Most visitors come to Naples for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Bari because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Naples is generally cooler than Bari. Daily temperatures in Naples average around 8°C (47°F), and Bari fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

In the winter, Naples often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bari. Naples gets 115 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 110 hours of full sun.

Naples receives a lot of rain in the winter. Naples usually gets more rain in January than Bari. Naples gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Bari receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Naples or Bari in the Spring?

Both Bari and Naples are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Naples because of the activities around the city. Also, the beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Bari this time of year.

Naples is around the same temperature as Bari in the spring. The daily temperature in Naples averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Bari fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

It's quite sunny in Bari. Naples usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bari during spring. Naples gets 189 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 203 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Naples usually receives more rain than Bari. Naples gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Bari receives 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Bari and Naples