A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Piazza Armerina vs. Bari for Food, Attractions, Old Town, and Families

Should you visit Piazza Armerina 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 Piazza Armerina 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.

Piazza Armerina

Piazza Armerina is a charming, authentic, and historic town. It's also popular because of the food 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. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and shopping.

Piazza Armerina and Bari: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students


Is there more to do in Piazza Armerina or Bari?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bari. Although Piazza Armerina and Bari are both popular with visitors, Bari has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Piazza Armerina is more touristy than Bari and is popular for it's local atmosphere and its premiere historic sight - the Villa Romana del Casale. 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 Piazza Armerina different from Bari?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Piazza Armerina or Bari?

Piazza Armerina
Bari

Plenty of people visit the excellent sights and museums in both Piazza Armerina and Bari.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Piazza Armerina. Most people head to town specifically to visit Villa Romana del Casale, which is a few kilometers away. It's a beautiful Roman villa that can be explored in a few hours. Also in town is an Aragonese Castle and an 18th century Duomo.

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 Piazza Armerina or Bari? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Piazza Armerina
Bari

Bari is an unbeatable place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Piazza Armerina is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Eat your way through Bari, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

Piazza Armerina is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Most visitors pass through town, stopping to visit Villa Romana del Casale. There are some pizzerias and other casual restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat.

Is Piazza Armerina or Bari Better for Nightlife?

Piazza Armerina
Bari

Bari is notable for nightlife and partying. However, Piazza Armerina is a mediocre town for its evening party scene.

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.

Piazza Armerina doesn't offer many options. While many tourists pass through town with the intent of visiting the Villa Romana del Casale, most don't linger long enough appreciate the town at night.

Is Piazza Armerina or Bari Better for Beaches?

Piazza Armerina
Bari

Bari is a good destination for the beache. However, Piazza Armerina is not a beach destination.

Bari offers a nice beach destination. 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.

Piazza Armerina is not a beach destination.


Is Piazza Armerina or Bari Better for its Old Town?

Piazza Armerina
Bari

Visitors enjoy the excellent old town areas in both Piazza Armerina and Bari.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Piazza Armerina. The old town has a bit of authenticity that is missing from some of the more popular Sicilian cities. While it may feel a little worn to some people, those who like to get away from the souvenir shops will appreciate a visit.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Piazza Armerina or Bari?

Piazza Armerina
Bari

Bari is a good destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Piazza Armerina is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Bari offers some nice shopping areas. 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.

Piazza Armerina is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Piazza Armerina or Bari Better for Families?

Piazza Armerina
Bari

Bari is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Piazza Armerina is a mediocre town 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.

Piazza Armerina is not always a place people visit with their families. Most people head to the town to explore the Villa Romana del Casale. The beauty and history may not thrill all kids, but if your kids enjoy a bit of history they will likely appreciate a visit. The town also has an Aragonese Castle that you can visit.


Is Piazza Armerina or Bari Better for Couples?

Piazza Armerina
Bari

Piazza Armerina and Bari both good destinations for a couple.

Piazza Armerina makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. For history enthusiasts, this is a popular place to visit. Like most visitors, couples will appreciate a visit to the town's main attraction Villa Romana del Casale.

Bari is a good town for couples to visit. 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 Piazza Armerina or Bari Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Piazza Armerina
Bari

Bari is notable for backpackers. However, Piazza Armerina is a mediocre town 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.

Piazza Armerina is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Although it's a popular tourist destination, there are a limited number of hostels in town.

Is Piazza Armerina or Bari Better for Students?

Piazza Armerina
Bari

Bari is notable for students. However, Piazza Armerina 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.

Piazza Armerina is not popular with students.


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

Piazza Armerina
Bari

Both Piazza Armerina and Bari offer good public transit options.

Piazza Armerina has a few public transit options. You can reach the town by bus and once there it's possible to explore on foot.

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

Is Piazza Armerina or Bari a more walkable city?

Piazza Armerina
Bari

Piazza Armerina and Bari both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Piazza Armerina is a very walkable town. You can explore most of the old and new towns on foot.

Bari is a very walkable destination. 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 Piazza Armerina Worth Visiting? and Is Bari Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bari or Piazza Armerina?

How long in Piazza Armerina or Bari?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Piazza Armerina and Bari. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Bari than in Piazza Armerina. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Piazza Armerina, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bari.

Families should spend more time in Bari than Piazza Armerina. 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 Bari than Piazza Armerina. 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 Piazza Armerina 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 Piazza Armerina or Bari? Ideal Length of Stay
    Piazza Armerina 1-2 
    Bari 1-3

One day in Piazza Armerina or Bari?

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Piazza Armerina. 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.

The cultural destination of Bari offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.


A weekend in Piazza Armerina or Bari?

Piazza Armerina 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.

The port city of Bari offers food and shopping. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Five days in Piazza Armerina or Bari?

You'll find museums and food around the authentic destination of Piazza Armerina. This town 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.

Bari is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. This port city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Piazza Armerina or Bari?

The authentic town of Piazza Armerina offers food and museums. 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. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Bicycle Tours in Italy, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Italy, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Italy, and The Best Adventure Tours to Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Bari or Piazza Armerina?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Piazza Armerina is €93, 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 Piazza Armerina and Bari in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Piazza Armerina 56
    Bari 73
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Piazza Armerina 112
    Bari 146
Compare Hotels in Piazza Armerina and Bari

Looking for a hotel in Piazza Armerina 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 Piazza Armerina


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: Piazza Armerina Hotel Prices and Bari Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Piazza Armerina 4.29
    Bari 11

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Piazza Armerina

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Piazza Armerina:

  • From Catania: Return Transfer to Piazza Armerina & Agrigento: $105

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:

  • Bari Airport: 1-Way Shared Transfer to Matera City Center: $5.33
  • Bari Airport: Shared Transfer to/from Taranto Train Station: $9.06
  • From Bari Airport: Shared Transfer to/from Salento Airport: $9.59
  • Bari Airport Transfer to/from Foggia Train Station: $13
  • Bari Cruise Port (Terminal di Bari) to Bari hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $25
  • Bari hotels to Bari Port (Terminal Crociere di Bari)- Departure Private Transfer: $25
  • Private Transfer from Bari Intl Airport (BRI) to Bari Cruise Port: $25
  • Private Transfer from Bari Cruise Port to Bari Intl Airport (BRI): $25
  • Private Transfer from Bari Cruise Port to Bari hotels: $25
  • Bari Cruise Port (Terminal di Bari) to Bari hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $50
  • Bari Intl Airport (BRI) to Bari Cruise Port- Round-Trip Private Transfer: $50
  • Private One-Way Airport Transfer: $51

Is it cheaper to fly into Piazza Armerina or Bari?

Prices for flights to both Bari and Piazza Armerina 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
    Piazza Armerina 33
    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: $39
  • Bari Walking Street Food Tour: $48
  • Bari Street Food Tour by Bike: $69
  • Italian Street Food Tour with Tastings and Drinks: $69
  • Street Food Tour in Bari old town - Do Eat Better Experience: $77
  • Rickshaw Street Food Tour: $80
  • Bari Street Food Tour by Rickshaw: $81
  • Conversano: Apulian cooking lesson with dinner included: $81
  • Cooking class: We prepare orecchiette with vegetables from the garden: $83
  • Bari Street Food Tour on Segway: $85
  • Visit to the Market and Cooking Lesson in Polignano a Mare: $92
  • Cesarine: Dining & Cooking Demo at Local's Home in Altamura: $92

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Piazza Armerina 4.29
    Bari 8.61

Tours and Activities in Piazza Armerina

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

  • From Catania: Agrigento-Piazza Armerina Audio-guided Tour: $128
  • Roman Villa del Casale Mosaics Tour: $240
  • Villa Romana del Casale Guided Tour: $42
  • Private Tour of Villa Romana del Casale & Valley of Temples: $224

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: $3.20
  • Tour "Hunt for the treasures of Bari": $3.25
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Walking Tour: $6.39
  • Bari Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.50
  • Bari Self-Guided Audio Tour: $14
  • Wonderful Bari Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Simi Palace and Byzantine Church Tour with Ticket: $23
  • St. Nicholas Basilica and Crypt Guided Tour: $27
  • Guided Walking Tour: $27
  • Bari Walking City Tour: $29
  • Norman-Swabian Castle Guided Tour: $30
  • Guided Walking Tour with Local Products Tasting: $32

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Piazza Armerina 13
    Bari 13

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: $78
  • Private Tour: Trani walking tour with Moscato wine tasting: $114


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Piazza Armerina and Bari, we can see that Bari is more expensive. And not only is Piazza Armerina much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Piazza Armerina would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Piazza Armerina 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 Bari would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Bari than you might in Piazza Armerina.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Piazza Armerina Expensive? and Is Bari Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Piazza Armerina or Bari?

Bari has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Piazza Armerina. When comparing the sizes of Piazza Armerina 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 Piazza Armerina 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 Piazza Armerina or Bari in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Piazza Armerina as well as Bari. The summer months attract visitors to Piazza Armerina because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bari this time of year.

In the summer, Piazza Armerina is around the same temperature as Bari. Typically, the summer temperatures in Piazza Armerina in July average around 26°C (79°F), and Bari averages at about 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 Piazza Armerina this time of the year. In the summer, Piazza Armerina often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bari. Piazza Armerina gets 325 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 336 hours of full sun.

Piazza Armerina usually gets less rain in July than Bari. Piazza Armerina gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Bari receives 9 mm (0.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Piazza Armerina 26°C (79°F) 
    Bari 25°C (76°F)

Should I visit Piazza Armerina or Bari in the Autumn?

Both Bari and Piazza Armerina are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Also, many travelers come to Bari for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Piazza Armerina is generally around the same temperature as Bari. Daily temperatures in Piazza Armerina average around 19°C (67°F), and Bari fluctuates around 18°C (65°F).

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

In October, Piazza Armerina usually receives around the same amount of rain as Bari. Piazza Armerina gets 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Bari receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Piazza Armerina 19°C (67°F) 
    Bari 18°C (65°F)

Should I visit Piazza Armerina or Bari in the Winter?

Both Bari and Piazza Armerina during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Piazza Armerina for the museums and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Bari in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Piazza Armerina is around the same temperature as Bari in the winter. The daily temperature in Piazza Armerina averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Bari fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

In the winter, Piazza Armerina often gets more sunshine than Bari. Piazza Armerina gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 110 hours of full sun.

Piazza Armerina usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Bari. Piazza Armerina gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Bari receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Piazza Armerina 10°C (51°F) 
    Bari 10°C (49°F)

Should I visit Piazza Armerina or Bari in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Piazza Armerina and Bari. Furthermore, most visitors come to Bari for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months.

In the spring, Piazza Armerina is around the same temperature as Bari. Typically, the spring temperatures in Piazza Armerina in April average around 15°C (58°F), and Bari averages at about 14°C (58°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bari this time of the year. In Piazza Armerina, it's very sunny this time of the year. Piazza Armerina usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bari during spring. Piazza Armerina gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 203 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Piazza Armerina usually receives more rain than Bari. Piazza Armerina gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Bari receives 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Piazza Armerina 15°C (58°F) 
    Bari 14°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Bari and Piazza Armerina

Piazza Armerina Bari
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 10°C (49°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Feb 11°C (52°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 10°C (50°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 12°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Apr 15°C (58°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 14°C (58°F) 32 mm (1.3 in)
May 19°C (65°F) 23 mm (0.9 in) 18°C (64°F) 25 mm (1 in)
Jun 23°C (73°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 22°C (71°F) 20 mm (0.8 in)
Jul 26°C (79°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 25°C (76°F) 9 mm (0.3 in)
Aug 26°C (79°F) 14 mm (0.5 in) 25°C (76°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Sep 24°C (74°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 22°C (72°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 75 mm (2.9 in) 18°C (65°F) 70 mm (2.7 in)
Nov 15°C (59°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 14°C (57°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Dec 12°C (53°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 11°C (52°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)