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

Should you visit Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne and Bari can help you decide which place is right for you.

Newcastle upon Tyne

Newcastle upon Tyne is a historical, vibrant, and high energy port city. 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. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Newcastle upon Tyne and Bari: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Newcastle upon Tyne or Bari?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bari than Newcastle upon Tyne. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Bari is very popular for its food, beaches, and big city activities, while Newcastle upon Tyne attracts visitors for its shopping. Newcastle upon Tyne is more touristy than Bari and is known for its compact and livable atmosphere as well as its active nightlife scene. 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 Newcastle upon Tyne different from Bari?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Newcastle upon Tyne or Bari?

You'll find a number of high quality museums and attractions in both Bari and Newcastle upon Tyne.

Many visitors head to Newcastle upon Tyne specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are many historic and cultural sights around town. Some of the most interesting include the Historic Tyne Bridges, the Millennium Bridge, the Castle, Newcastle Cathedral, and the Great North Museum: Hancock.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Bari can be an interesting and educational experience. 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Bari? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bari is an amazing port city to visit for its restaurants. Also, Newcastle upon Tyne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Newcastle upon Tyne makes for a great culinary experience. The city is known for its food and there are some interesting local flavors that you should try. For something unique, try the singing hinny (sweet bread), pan haggerty (similar to potato gratin), stottie cake (bread) or craster kippers (smoked herring). You'll also find a diversity of cosmopolitan restaurants around town.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Bari Better for Nightlife?

The high quality nightlife scene is relatively similar in Newcastle upon Tyne and Bari.

Newcastle upon Tyne has a large number of nightlife venues. Because of the large student population, you'll find a very active nightlife scene. There are several party districts in the city that you should check out including Quayside, the Gate, the Diamond Strip, Bigg Market, and Dean Street.

Bari is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Bari Better for Beaches?

Bari is very good for the beach. However, Newcastle upon Tyne is not a beach destination.

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.

Newcastle upon Tyne is not a beach destination.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Bari Better for its Old Town?

Newcastle upon Tyne and Bari are both popular destinations with charming historical areas.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Newcastle upon Tyne. Known as Grainger Town, the city's historic commercial center is famous for its Georgian and Victorian buildings.

Many visitors go to Bari to see the historical old town. 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Bari?

Newcastle upon Tyne is a great port 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 Newcastle upon Tyne. The city has boutique shops as well as major shopping malls. Some of the best shopping areas include the pedestrian shopping street of Northumberland Street, the historic Grey Street, and Grainger 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Bari Better for Families?

Bari is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Newcastle upon Tyne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Bari. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Newcastle upon Tyne. Kids will love visiting the Newcastle Castle, but there are also ropes courses and the Victoria Tunnel Tours. Museum lovers will enjoy a visit to Discovery Museum, the Life Science Center, or Beamish, the Living Museum of the North.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Bari Better for Couples?

Both Newcastle upon Tyne and Bari are nice destinations to visit as a couple.

Newcastle upon Tyne is a good port city for couples to visit. The city boasts many romantic walks as well as fine dining restaurants and interesting entertainment options. It's not hard to enjoy a fun date night out on the town.

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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Bari Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bari is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Newcastle upon Tyne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Newcastle upon Tyne. There are a number of hostels to choose from and plenty of entertainment choices so you shouldn't have much trouble meeting other people.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Bari Better for Students?

Both Newcastle upon Tyne and Bari are high quality destinations for students.

Newcastle upon Tyne is very popular with students. The city has a large student population and a lively nightlife scene, so it's a fun place for students to spend a semester or more.

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.

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

Newcastle upon Tyne is a great port 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 Newcastle upon Tyne. There are bus, ferry, and light rail services in the city.

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

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Bari a more walkable city?

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

Newcastle upon Tyne is a very easy port city to get around on foot. The city is one of the most walkable in the UK.

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 Newcastle upon Tyne Worth Visiting? and Is Bari Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bari or Newcastle upon Tyne?

How long in Newcastle upon Tyne or Bari?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Newcastle upon Tyne and Bari. In our opinion, Bari has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Bari than Newcastle upon Tyne. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Newcastle upon Tyne, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bari.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bari than Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Bari?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Newcastle upon Tyne. 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.

In Bari, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Lots of people come for the food. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Newcastle upon Tyne or Bari?

Newcastle upon Tyne is a fun place to experience. 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.

Many people visit Bari for a weekend. Lots of people come for the food. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bari, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Newcastle upon Tyne or Bari?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the high energy destination of Newcastle upon Tyne. This port 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.

The destination of Bari offers shopping and museums. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Newcastle upon Tyne or Bari?

The vibrant port city of Newcastle upon Tyne 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.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bari. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This port city offers something for everyone. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Historical Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Historical Tours in Italy, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Newcastle upon Tyne or Bari?

Bari has a larger population, and is about 65% larger than the population of Newcastle upon Tyne. When comparing the sizes of Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Bari in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Newcastle upon Tyne and Bari. Many visitors come to Newcastle upon Tyne in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Bari for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Newcastle upon Tyne is much colder than Bari in the summer. The daily temperature in Newcastle upon Tyne averages around 15°C (59°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. Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives less sunshine than Bari during summer. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 336 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives more rain than Bari. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Bari receives 9 mm (0.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Bari in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Newcastle upon Tyne as well as Bari. Most visitors come to Newcastle upon Tyne for the shopping scene during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Bari because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Newcastle upon Tyne is much colder than Bari. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Newcastle upon Tyne in October average around 10°C (49°F), and Bari averages at about 18°C (65°F).

In the autumn, Newcastle upon Tyne often gets less sunshine than Bari. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 69 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 178 hours of full sun.

Newcastle upon Tyne receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Newcastle upon Tyne usually gets more rain in October than Bari. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Bari receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Bari in the Winter?

Both Bari and Newcastle upon Tyne are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Newcastle upon Tyne because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Bari this time of year.

The weather in Newcastle upon Tyne can be very cold. In January, Newcastle upon Tyne is generally much colder than Bari. Daily temperatures in Newcastle upon Tyne average around 3°C (38°F), and Bari fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives less sunshine than Bari during winter. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 40 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 110 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Newcastle upon Tyne. In January, Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives more rain than Bari. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Bari receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Bari in the Spring?

Both Bari and Newcastle upon Tyne during the spring are popular places to visit. Also, many travelers come to Bari for the beaches and the activities around the city.

Newcastle upon Tyne is much colder than Bari in the spring. The daily temperature in Newcastle upon Tyne averages around 7°C (45°F) in April, and Bari fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

In Bari, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Newcastle upon Tyne often gets less sunshine than Bari. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 134 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 203 hours of full sun.

Newcastle upon Tyne usually gets more rain in April than Bari. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Bari receives 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bari and Newcastle upon Tyne