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

Should you visit Oslo or Bari?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Oslo 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.

Oslo

Oslo is a progressive, park-filled, and green 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 authentic, local, and cultural port city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food.

Oslo and Bari: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Oslo or Bari?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Bari than Oslo. While Oslo is larger than Bari, Bari has more sights and attractions for tourists. Bari is better known for its food, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, and shopping, while Oslo is more popular for its big city activities. Oslo is more touristy than Bari and is popular for its Viking history, its locally caught seafood, its maritime museums, and its access to winter sports. Bari is well known for its authentic old town and its role as a ferry port for travelers headed across the Adriatic. Also, Bari is famous for San Nicola.

How is Oslo different from Bari?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Oslo
Bari

Both Oslo and Bari have great landmarks and museums for visitors.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Oslo can be an interesting and educational experience. Famous sights around town include the Akershus Fortress, the Folk Museum of Norway, and the Munch Museum.

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 Oslo or Bari? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Oslo
Bari

Bari is an amazing port city to visit for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Oslo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Bari is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

Oslo has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The city has a reputation of serving a lot of cured meats and potato dishes, but there is actually a good amount of variation available. Local favorites include smoked salmon, meatballs, and meat stews.

Is Oslo or Bari Better for Nightlife?

Oslo
Bari

Bari is notable for nightlife. Also, Oslo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Bari has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Oslo. The city's high alcohol prices mean that many locals enjoy their drinks at home during pre-parties before heading out on the town. The atmosphere is usually laid-back and chill, with a diversity of entertainment venues that you can choose between.

Is Oslo or Bari Better for Beaches?

Oslo
Bari

Bari is a nice place to visit for its beaches. However, Oslo 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.

Oslo is not a beach destination.


Is Oslo or Bari Better for its Old Town?

Oslo
Bari

Bari is notable for its historic old town. However, Oslo does not have a historic old town.

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.

Oslo does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Oslo or Bari?

Oslo
Bari

Bari is a nice place to visit for shopping. However, Oslo is a mediocre city for its shopping opportunities.

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.

If you're looking to go shopping, Oslo has some nice offerings. The shopping that is available includes shopping malls and local boutique shops.

Is Oslo or Bari Better for Families?

Oslo
Bari

Oslo is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Oslo is very family-friendly. The city goes out of its way to integrate kid-friendly activities into everyday life. From playgrounds and parks to interactive museums and nearby amusement parks, this city is among the most kid-friendly around.

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 Oslo or Bari Better for Couples?

Oslo
Bari

Oslo and Bari are both notable to visit as a couple.

Oslo is a nice destination for couples. You can explore castles, go on forest hikes, or enjoy a couple's massage.

Bari makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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 Oslo or Bari Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Oslo
Bari

Bari is notable for backpackers. Also, Oslo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Oslo is a good city to visit for backpackers. Notoriously expensive, this city does have some hostels, but it can be a bit challenging for those on a budget. Because many backpackers avoid the area due to the costs, it can be challenging to meet other backpackers.

Is Oslo or Bari Better for Students?

Oslo
Bari

Oslo and Bari are both great destinations for students and younger travelers.

Oslo is a great city to visit as a student. The University of Oslo has an excellent reputation and welcomes many foreign students every year. The school does a lot to make sure international students feel at home here.

Students come from all over to stay in Bari. 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 Oslo or Bari Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Oslo
Bari

Oslo 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 Oslo can take you anywhere. The system includes buses, trams, undergrounds, local trains, and ferries.

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

Is Oslo or Bari a more walkable city?

Oslo
Bari

Oslo and Bari both are great when exploring on foot.

Oslo is very walkable. The city has a number of traffic-free areas so it's fun to explore on foot.

Bari is a very walkable city. 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 Oslo Worth Visiting? and Is Bari Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bari or Oslo?

How long in Oslo or Bari?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Oslo and Bari. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Oslo than in Bari. Usually, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Oslo, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bari.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bari than Oslo 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 Oslo or Bari? Ideal Length of Stay
    Oslo 1-5 
    Bari 1-3

One day in Oslo or Bari?

Oslo is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Bari. 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.


A weekend in Oslo or Bari?

Oslo is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. 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 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.

Five days in Oslo or Bari?

Oslo is a green big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the local destination of Bari. 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.

A week in Oslo or Bari?

The park-filled city of Oslo offers museums and nightlife. 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.

The authentic port city of Bari 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in Norway, The Best Northern Lights Tours in Norway, The Best Historical Tours in Italy, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Bari or Oslo?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Oslo is $136, while the average daily cost in Bari is $122. 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 Oslo and Bari in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Oslo $81
    Bari $78
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Oslo $162
    Bari $156
Compare Hotels in Oslo and Bari

Looking for a hotel in Oslo 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 Oslo


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: Oslo Hotel Prices and Bari Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Oslo $23
    Bari $12
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Oslo

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Oslo are as follows:


  • Tram Ticket
    $6.59

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Oslo

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Oslo:

  • Oslo Airport (OSL): Private Transfer to Oslo Cruise Port: $486
  • Oslo Lufthavn Airport to Kvitfjell Round Trip Private Transfer: $295
  • Private Transfer Oslo Lufthavn Airport OSL to Hemsedal: $295
  • Transfer Between Oslo City Center & Gardermoen Airport: $255
  • Oslo Airport Transfers : Oslo City to Oslo Airport OSL in Business Van: $238
  • Oslo Airport Transfers : Oslo Airport OSL to Oslo City in Business Van: $229
  • Round-Trip Private Transfer Oslo Airport OSL to Oslo City by Business Car: $228
  • Trondheim Private Transfer from Trondheim (TRD) Airport to City centre: $214
  • Oslo Private Transfer from Oslo city centre to Oslo airport: $204
  • Oslo Lufthavn Airport (OSL) to Trysil - Arrival Private Transfer: $187
  • Oslo Lufthavn Airport OSL to Hafjell- Round-Trip Private Transfer: $175
  • Departure Private Transfer from Oslo City to Oslo Airport OSL by Luxury Van: $155

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Bari

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Bari:


  • Train to Lecce
    $47

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bari

Also for Bari, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Bari Airport: 1-Way Shared Transfer to Matera City Center: $5.35
  • Bari Airport: Shared Transfer to/from Taranto Train Station: $9.09
  • From Bari Airport: Shared Transfer to/from Salento Airport: $9.62
  • Bari Airport Transfer to/from Foggia Train Station: $13
  • Bari Cruise Port (Terminal di Bari) to Bari hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $25
  • Private Transfer from Bari hotels to Bari Cruise Port: $25
  • Private Transfer from Bari Cruise Port to Bari Intl Airport (BRI): $25
  • Private Transfer from Bari Intl Airport (BRI) to Bari Cruise Port: $25
  • Bari Intl Airport (BRI) to Bari Cruise Port - Arrival Private Transfer: $25
  • Bari Intl Airport (BRI) to Bari Cruise Port- Round-Trip Private Transfer: $50
  • Bari Cruise Port (Terminal di Bari) to Bari hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $50
  • Private One-Way Airport Transfer: $51

Is it cheaper to fly into Oslo or Bari?

Prices for flights to both Bari and Oslo 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
    Oslo $30
    Bari $34

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Oslo

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Oslo.

  • Oslofjord Cruise with Seafood Dinner: $58
  • Oslofjord Dinner Cruise on a sailing ship : $61
  • Oslo Alternative Culture and Street Food Tour: $74
  • Christmas Street Food Tour with Akevitt and Christmas beer : $112
  • 3-course Dinner Cruise in the Oslofjord: $117
  • Oslo Fjord 3 Course Dinner Sightseeing Cruise: $121

Typical Food Prices in Bari

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Bari:


  • Dinner
    $47
  • Coffee
    $2.14

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: $39
  • Bari Walking Street Food Tour: $48
  • Bari Street Food Tour by Bike: $70
  • Italian Street Food Tour with Tastings and Drinks: $70
  • Puglia Plates - Bari Food Tour: $76
  • Street Food Tour in Bari old town - Do Eat Better Experience: $78
  • Rickshaw Street Food Tour: $80
  • Conversano: Apulian cooking lesson with dinner included: $82
  • Bari Street Food Tour by Rickshaw: $82
  • Bari Street Food Tour on Segway: $86
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Barletta with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Margherita di Savoia with Show Cooking: $93

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Oslo $19
    Bari $9.23

Tours and Activities in Oslo

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Oslo are as follows:

  • 2 Hour Sea Kayak Tour on Oslofjord from Central Oslo: $94
  • 2-Hour Private Tour in Oslo, Norway: $197
  • 2.hr Oslo Kayak Tour “Fjord City”: $91
  • 2hr Retro Motorcycle Sidecar Oslo Highlights Tour: $214
  • 3- Hour Kayak Tour on the Oslofjord: $108
  • 4 Hours Island Hopping Tour in Oslo: $48
  • 4 hours Winter View of the Oslofjord Walk Tour : $148
  • A Self-Guided Tour of Akershus to Kongen Marina Waterfront: $7.99
  • Akerselva River Kayak Tour; An Urban Paddling Adventure: $91
  • Akerselva River Tour : $94
  • An Oslo Waterfront Stroll: Self-paced Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Authentic Oslo bike tour: $44

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: $3.21
  • Tour "Hunt for the treasures of Bari": $3.28
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Walking Tour: $6.42
  • Bari Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.56
  • Bari Self-Guided Audio Tour: $14
  • Wonderful Bari Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Olive Oil Private Tour and Extra Virgin Olive Oil Tasting in Altamura: $22
  • Simi Palace and Byzantine Church Tour with Ticket: $24
  • St. Nicholas Basilica and Crypt Guided Tour: $27
  • Guided Walking Tour: $27
  • Bari Walking City Tour: $30
  • Norman-Swabian Castle Guided Tour: $30

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Oslo $11
    Bari $14

Typical Alcohol Prices in Bari

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Bari:


  • Beer
    $2.14

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: $115
  • Wine tasting experience in the Apulian countryside : $235


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


Which is Bigger, Oslo or Bari?

Oslo has a larger population, and is about 83% larger than the population of Bari. When comparing the sizes of Oslo 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 Oslo 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 Oslo or Bari in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Oslo as well as Bari. Many travelers come to Oslo for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Bari in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Oslo is generally cooler than Bari. Daily temperatures in Oslo average around 18°C (64°F), and Bari fluctuates around 25°C (76°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bari. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Oslo this time of the year. In the summer, Oslo often gets less sunshine than Bari. Oslo gets 246 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 336 hours of full sun.

Oslo usually gets more rain in July than Bari. Oslo gets 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Bari receives 9 mm (0.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Oslo 18°C (64°F) 
    Bari 25°C (76°F)

Should I visit Oslo or Bari in the Autumn?

Both Bari and Oslo are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Oslo in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Bari for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

Oslo is much colder than Bari in the autumn. The daily temperature in Oslo averages around 7°C (45°F) in October, and Bari fluctuates around 18°C (65°F).

Oslo usually receives less sunshine than Bari during autumn. Oslo gets 86 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 178 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Oslo usually receives more rain than Bari. Oslo gets 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Bari receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Oslo 7°C (45°F) 
    Bari 18°C (65°F)

Should I visit Oslo or Bari in the Winter?

Both Bari and Oslo during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Oslo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Bari because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Oslo can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Oslo is much colder than Bari. Typically, the winter temperatures in Oslo in January average around -4°C (25°F), and Bari averages at about 10°C (49°F).

In the winter, Oslo often gets less sunshine than Bari. Oslo gets 40 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 110 hours of full sun.

Oslo usually gets less rain in January than Bari. Oslo gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Bari receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Oslo -4°C (25°F) 
    Bari 10°C (49°F)

Should I visit Oslo or Bari in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Oslo and Bari. The spring months attract visitors to Oslo because of the activities around the city. Furthermore, the beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Bari this time of year.

In April, Oslo is generally much colder than Bari. Daily temperatures in Oslo average around 6°C (42°F), and Bari fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bari this time of the year. Oslo usually receives less sunshine than Bari during spring. Oslo gets 178 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 203 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Oslo usually receives more rain than Bari. Oslo gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Bari receives 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Oslo 6°C (42°F) 
    Bari 14°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Bari and Oslo

Oslo Bari
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -4°C (25°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 10°C (49°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Feb -3°C (26°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 10°C (50°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Mar 1°C (33°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 12°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Apr 6°C (42°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 14°C (58°F) 32 mm (1.3 in)
May 12°C (53°F) 52 mm (2 in) 18°C (64°F) 25 mm (1 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 22°C (71°F) 20 mm (0.8 in)
Jul 18°C (64°F) 84 mm (3.3 in) 25°C (76°F) 9 mm (0.3 in)
Aug 16°C (61°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 25°C (76°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Sep 12°C (53°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 22°C (72°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 7°C (45°F) 84 mm (3.3 in) 18°C (65°F) 70 mm (2.7 in)
Nov 1°C (35°F) 75 mm (3 in) 14°C (57°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Dec -2°C (28°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 11°C (52°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)