A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Paros vs. Bari for Food, Beaches, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Paros or Bari?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Paros and Bari. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Paros

Paros is a breathtaking, striking, and historical island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums.

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. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and shopping.

Paros and Bari: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Paros or Bari?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bari. Although Paros and Bari are both popular with visitors, Bari has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Bari is more popular for its historical sights and big city activities, while Paros is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. Paros is more touristy than Bari and is known for its world-class beaches, beautiful undersea world, and quaint coastal villages. Bari is popular for its authentic old town and its role as a ferry port for travelers headed across the Adriatic. It is also home to San Nicola.

How is Paros different from Bari?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Paros and Bari.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Paros. There are many interesting archeological sights and museums around the island. Some interesting places to visit are the Venetian Castle in the old port of Naoussa, the Monastery of Panagia Ekatontapiliani near Parikia, and the beautiful church of Agios Ioannis (Saint John) Detis, which dates back to the 17th century. There's also the Archeological Museum of Paros, which is found in the capital of Parikia.

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 Paros or Bari? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Paros and Bari.

Eat your way through Paros, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Cheese and wine are mainstays on the island and restaurants in general pride themselves on using locally-sourced, high quality ingredients. Many of the traditional recipes can be found in restaurants, but they're also still prepared in the homes of the residents as well. Seafood, vegetables, and grains are all common ingredients.

For foodies, Bari is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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 Paros or Bari Better for Nightlife?

The excellent nightlife scene is relatively similar in Paros and Bari.

Paros has a large number of nightlife venues. It doesn't have the hard core party scene that you find on some Greek islands, but it does have plenty of dance clubs, bars, and music venues. There's a wide diversity of options on the island, from quiet local bars to beach clubs that host wild parties, and everything in between.

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 Paros or Bari Better for Resorts?

Paros is a great island for its luxury resorts. However, Bari is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Paros to choose from. The island is relatively large and you'll find everything from local hotels and guesthouses to large resorts and backpacker hostels. Many resorts have pools and great views.

Bari is not a resort destination.

Is Paros or Bari Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paros is a great island for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Bari is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Paros. The island is filled with caves and interesting rock formations that make for excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities. There are a number of tours available that take you to the island's best dive and snorkeling spots. There are also private and group courses available for those who are learning to scuba dive.

Bari is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Paros or Bari Better for Beaches?

Paros is terrific for the beach. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its beaches.

Paros offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The beaches are clean, diverse, and relatively easy to access. There are a range of options, from quiet hidden gems to beaches with clubs and bars nearby. Favorite beaches on the island include Kolymbithres Beach, Chrissi Akti Beach, and Santa Maria Beach.

Bari is a good option for a beach vacation. 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 Paros or Bari Better for its Old Town?

Bari is a very popular place for its old town. However, Paros does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see 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.

Paros does not have a historic old town.

Is Paros or Bari Better for Hiking?

Paros is a good destination for hiking. However, Bari is not a hiking destination.

Paros offers some nice hiking trails. The island has about 35 kilometers of hiking trails that pass by small cottages, stone farm homes, and around the beautiful landscapes. You'll find tucked away windmills and watermills as well as breathtaking views and hidden coves.

Bari is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Paros or Bari?

Paros is a great island 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 Paros. You'll find some of the best shopping in Kastro, which is the old quarter of Parikia. There are shops selling clothing, jewelry, ceramics, and other unique souvenirs. Many shops stay open late into the night, so you'll have plenty of time to browse.

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 Paros or Bari Better for Families?

Both Paros and Bari are excellent family-friendly destinations.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Paros is very family-friendly. Kids will appreciate the beautiful beaches, great swimming opportunities, abundance of water sport activities, and child-friendly food options. There's also a folklore museum and several great archeological museums.

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.

Is Paros or Bari Better for Couples?

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

Paros is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The island makes a perfect honeymoon destination with its stunning beaches and picturesque villages. There are also many great local hotels and wonderful dining opportunities. If you're looking for an idyllic setting, then this is it.

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 Paros or Bari Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paros and Bari are both excellent destinations for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Paros. You'll find some nice hostels and apartments on the island. There's also a decent nightlife scene and the island is more affordable than many Greek islands.

Bari is a very popular island for backpackers and budget travelers. 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 Paros or Bari Better for Students?

Bari is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Paros is not popular with students.

Many students visit 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.

Paros is not popular with students.

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

Paros is a great island 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 Paros. There's a reliable bus system on the island that has some routes making a loop around the outside of the island and routes traveling inland to the smaller villages.

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

Is Paros or Bari a more walkable city?

Bari is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Paros is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

Bari is a very walkable port 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.

Paros is a somewhat walkable island. There are many walking and hiking trails around the island, but it's a large island that requires some form of transportation to explore it in depth.

For even more information, also check out Is Paros Worth Visiting? and Is Bari Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bari or Paros?

How long in Paros or Bari?

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

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

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

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

One day in Paros or Bari?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Paros. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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 shopping and museums that this local destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the food. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Paros or Bari?

Paros is a fun place to experience. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bari. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Paros or Bari?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the striking destination of Paros. This island offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Bari is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Bari. Lots of people come for the food. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Paros or Bari?

The historical island of Paros offers shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the cultural destination of Bari. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in Greece, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Greece, The Best Historical Tours in Italy, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Paros or Bari?

Bari has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Paros. When comparing the sizes of Paros 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.