A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Rome vs. Bari for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Backpackers

Should you visit Rome or Bari?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Rome and Bari can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Rome

Rome is a archeological, bustling, and fun-filled city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the live music, food, and shopping.

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 nightlife, food, and beaches.

Rome and Bari: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Rome or Bari?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Rome than Bari. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Rome is very popular for its museums, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Bari attracts visitors for its beaches and historical sights. Rome is more touristy than Bari and is popular for its iconic archaeological sites such as the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, as well as its gelato, Italian cuisine, and strong religious roots. It is also well known for The Colosseum. Bari is famous for its authentic old town and its role as a ferry port for travelers headed across the Adriatic.

The Colosseum

How is Rome different from Bari?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Rome is terrific for its historical sights. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Rome has many famous sights for visitors. The historical sights around the city are among the most impressive in the world. Almost anywhere you look you'll find a notable landmark but some of the most famous include the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain, the Vatican, and the Roman Forum.

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 Rome or Bari? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Rome and Bari can be an enjoyable experience.

Many restaurants in Rome have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Homemade pasta, fresh sauces, and fine wine all make the food scene among the best. Also make sure you try the gelato.

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.

Is Rome or Bari Better for Nightlife?

Rome is terrific for its evening party scene. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for nightlife.

Rome is a must-see party destination. You'll find a huge concentration of bars and clubs in the Testaccio area. There are late night clubs with salsa dancing, merengue, and live DJ's spinning every type of music.

Bari offers plenty to do in the evening. 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 Rome or Bari Better for Music?

Rome is terrific for its music scene. However, Bari is not a live music destination.

Rome has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. Popular music venues include Live Alcazar, Atlantico Live, and Beba do Samba.

Bari is not a live music destination.

Is Rome or Bari Better for Beaches?

Bari is a port city with good options for the beach. However, Rome is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Bari. 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.

Rome is not a beach destination.

Is Rome or Bari Better for its Old Town?

Bari is a great destination for its historic old town charm. However, Rome does not have a historic old town.

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.

Rome does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Rome or Bari?

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

Many people travel to Rome specifically to go shopping. For the biggest brand names, head to Via del Corso, which is near the Spanish Steps. Popular items to buy include Italian ceramics, shoes, leather goods, and jewelry.

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 Rome or Bari Better for Families?

Both Rome and Bari are very good to visit with kids.

Rome is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. What kid wouldn't be thrilled to be surrounded by pizza and spaghetti restaurants? In addition to kid-friendly food options, there are also a number of great activities that the whole family can enjoy including exploring the Colosseum, taking a gladiator class, and eating gelato.

Bari is a very family-friendly destination. 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 Rome or Bari Better for Couples?

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

Rome is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. With many beautiful buildings, world class restaurants, and world renowned sights, this city makes a great romantic destination.

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 Rome or Bari Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rome is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Rome, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. Backpackers will find no shortage of hostels where they can stay, particularly near the main train station where accommodation is particularly cheap (but not always the best quality).

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.

Is Rome or Bari Better for Students?

Rome is terrific for its student-friendly activities. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for students.

Rome is a very popular place to visit for students. The city is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find plenty of international students here.

Bari is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. 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 Rome or Bari Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Rome 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 Rome can take you anywhere. There's a metro system, trams, and a comprehensive bus system that goes around the city.

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

Is Rome or Bari a more walkable city?

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

Rome is a very easy city to get around on foot. You'll find many of the most popular sights in a compact area that's easily explored on foot. Do watch out for traffic, which can be a bit chaotic at times.

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 Rome Worth Visiting? and Is Bari Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bari or Rome?

How long in Rome or Bari?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Rome and Bari. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Rome than in Bari. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Rome, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bari.

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

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

One day in Rome or Bari?

Rome is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

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 Rome or Bari?

Rome is a fun place to experience. 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.

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 Rome or Bari?

Rome is a ancient 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 cultural 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 Rome or Bari?

Rome is a archeological city where you can fill many days. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

The cultural 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 Luxury Tours to Italy, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy, and The Best Contiki Tours to Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Rome or Bari?

Rome has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Bari. When comparing the sizes of Rome 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 Rome 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 Rome or Bari in the Summer?

Both Bari and Rome during the summer are popular places to visit. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Rome this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bari for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Rome is around the same temperature as Bari in the summer. The daily temperature in Rome averages around 25°C (77°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 Rome. In the summer, Rome often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bari. Rome gets 338 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 336 hours of full sun.

Rome usually gets more rain in July than Bari. Rome gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Bari receives 9 mm (0.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Rome or Bari in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Rome and Bari. Many travelers come to Rome for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Bari in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

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

Rome usually receives more sunshine than Bari during autumn. Rome gets 198 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 178 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Rome usually receives more rain than Bari. Rome gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Bari receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Rome or Bari in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Rome as well as Bari. Many visitors come to Rome in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Bari for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

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

In the winter, Rome often gets more sunshine than Bari. Rome gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 110 hours of full sun.

Rome usually gets more rain in January than Bari. Rome gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Bari receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Rome or Bari in the Spring?

Both Bari and Rome are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Rome for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Bari because of the beaches and the activities around the city.

Rome is around the same temperature as Bari in the spring. The daily temperature in Rome averages around 14°C (57°F) in April, and Bari fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

It's quite sunny in Bari. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Rome. Rome usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bari during spring. Rome gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 203 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Rome usually receives more rain than Bari. Rome gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bari receives 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Bari and Rome