A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Thiva (Thebes) vs. Bari for Food, Attractions, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes) 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.

Thiva (Thebes)

Thiva (Thebes) is a vibrant, historic, and authentic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

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 nightlife, food, and beaches.

Thiva (Thebes) and Bari: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
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
  • Good for students


Is there more to do in Thiva (Thebes) or Bari?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bari. Although Thiva (Thebes) and Bari are both popular with visitors, Bari has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Thiva (Thebes) is more touristy than Bari and is popular for its standing as one of the oldest cities in the world. 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 Thiva (Thebes) different from Bari?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Thiva (Thebes) or Bari?

Thiva (Thebes)
Bari

Plenty of people visit the very good sights and museums in both Thiva (Thebes) and Bari.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Thiva (Thebes). The city is filled with archeological museums and sights that reflect its long-running history as one of the oldest, continuously inhabited cities in the world.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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 Thiva (Thebes) or Bari? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Thiva (Thebes)
Bari

Bari is very popular for its restaurant scene. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Many restaurants in Bari have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is becoming an appealing option for foodies. It's a large city with restaurants that cater to locals and visitors alike. You can expect high quality ingredients at a fraction of the price that you'll find in more touristy areas.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Bari Better for Nightlife?

Thiva (Thebes)
Bari

Bari is a great destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

The people in Bari know how to have a good time. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Thiva (Thebes) has a few options to choose from. The city is filled with lively cafes, bars, and pubs that spill out onto the city's vibrant squares.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Bari Better for Beaches?

Thiva (Thebes)
Bari

Bari is a port city with good options for the beache. However, Thiva (Thebes) 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is not a beach destination.


Is Thiva (Thebes) or Bari Better for its Old Town?

Thiva (Thebes)
Bari

Bari is a great destination for its old town. However, Thiva (Thebes) 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.

Thiva (Thebes) does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Thiva (Thebes) or Bari?

Thiva (Thebes)
Bari

Shopping is a popular activity in both Bari and Thiva (Thebes).

Thiva (Thebes) offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find all of the normal retail options around town. Many are in shopping centers and malls.

Bari has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. 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 Thiva (Thebes) or Bari Better for Families?

Thiva (Thebes)
Bari

Bari is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Thiva (Thebes) offers lots of family activities. Kids who are interested in history will appreciate the many archeological ruins and museums in the city.


Is Thiva (Thebes) or Bari Better for Couples?

Thiva (Thebes)
Bari

Bari is a port city with good options for its romantic activities. However, Thiva (Thebes) is a city with minimal options for couples.

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.

Thiva (Thebes) is not always the best place to visit for a couple. It's often overlooked as a honeymoon destination in Greece but the history of this long-running city is unique. Today it's a large city but you can still catch glimpses of its past.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Bari Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thiva (Thebes)
Bari

Bari is a great destination for backpackers. However, Thiva (Thebes) is a city with minimal options 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not really on the backpacker circuit so their aren't a lot of hostels in town.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Bari Better for Students?

Thiva (Thebes)
Bari

Bari is a great destination for students. However, Thiva (Thebes) is not popular with students.

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.

Thiva (Thebes) is not popular with students.


Is Thiva (Thebes) or Bari Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Thiva (Thebes)
Bari

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Thiva (Thebes) and Bari.

You'll find some public transit in Thiva (Thebes), but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are local buses in the area.

While Bari offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses around town that are operated by the AMTAB.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Bari a more walkable city?

Thiva (Thebes)
Bari

Bari is a great destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is a somewhat walkable city. Some areas are more walkable than others.

For even more information, also check out Is Thiva (Thebes) Worth Visiting? and Is Bari Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bari or Thiva (Thebes)?

How long in Thiva (Thebes) or Bari?

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

Families should spend more time in Bari than Thiva (Thebes). 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 Thiva (Thebes). 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 Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes) or Bari? Ideal Length of Stay
    Thiva (Thebes) 1-2 
    Bari 1-3

One day in Thiva (Thebes) or Bari?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Thiva (Thebes). Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

In Bari, you'll find museums and nightlife. Visiting the old town is also a must. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.


A weekend in Thiva (Thebes) or Bari?

Thiva (Thebes) 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 great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Thiva (Thebes) or Bari?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Thiva (Thebes). This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bari. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. It offers something for everyone. One reason most visitors come is for the food. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Thiva (Thebes) or Bari?

The historic city of Thiva (Thebes) offers nightlife and food. 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the port city of Bari. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One reason most visitors come is for the food. 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 Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Greece, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, The Best Historical Tours in Italy, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Bari or Thiva (Thebes)?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Thiva (Thebes) is €127, 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 Thiva (Thebes) and Bari in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Thiva (Thebes) 61
    Bari 73
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Thiva (Thebes) 122
    Bari 146
Compare Hotels in Thiva (Thebes) and Bari

Looking for a hotel in Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes)


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: Bari Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Thiva (Thebes) 37
    Bari 11

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: $5.35
  • Bari Airport: Shared Transfer to/from Taranto Train Station: $9.09
  • Bari City Hotels to Taranto Cruise Port - Departure Transfer: $67
  • Bari Cruise Port (Terminal di Bari) to Bari hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $25
  • Bari Cruise Port (Terminal di Bari) to Bari hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $50
  • Bari Cruise Port to Polignano Hotels Arrival Private Transfer: $79
  • Bari Cruise Port to Polignano city Round trip Private Transfer: $157
  • 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 Per Matera - Matera Airport Transfer Service For Bari Airport: $148
  • Bari or Naples: Private Transfer Service: $541
  • Bari Airport Transfer to/from Foggia Train Station: $13

Is it cheaper to fly into Thiva (Thebes) or Bari?

Prices for flights to both Bari and Thiva (Thebes) 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
    Thiva (Thebes) 41
    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: $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.
    Thiva (Thebes) 26
    Bari 8.61

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
    Thiva (Thebes) 18
    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: $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 Thiva (Thebes) and Bari, we can see that Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes) Expensive? and Is Bari Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Thiva (Thebes) or Bari?

Bari has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Thiva (Thebes). When comparing the sizes of Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes) or Bari in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Thiva (Thebes) is a little warmer than Bari. Typically, the summer temperatures in Thiva (Thebes) in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Bari averages at about 25°C (76°F).

In Bari, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Thiva (Thebes). In the summer, Thiva (Thebes) often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bari. Thiva (Thebes) gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 336 hours of full sun.

Thiva (Thebes) usually gets less rain in July than Bari. Thiva (Thebes) gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Bari receives 9 mm (0.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Thiva (Thebes) 27°C (81°F) 
    Bari 25°C (76°F)

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Bari in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Thiva (Thebes) and Bari. Many travelers come to Thiva (Thebes) for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Bari in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

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

In Thiva (Thebes), it's very sunny this time of the year. Thiva (Thebes) usually receives more sunshine than Bari during autumn. Thiva (Thebes) gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 178 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Thiva (Thebes) usually receives less rain than Bari. Thiva (Thebes) gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Bari receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Thiva (Thebes) 19°C (67°F) 
    Bari 18°C (65°F)

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Bari in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Thiva (Thebes) as well as Bari. Many visitors come to Thiva (Thebes) 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.

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

In the winter, Thiva (Thebes) often gets more sunshine than Bari. Thiva (Thebes) gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 110 hours of full sun.

Thiva (Thebes) usually gets less rain in January than Bari. Thiva (Thebes) gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Bari receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Thiva (Thebes) 10°C (51°F) 
    Bari 10°C (49°F)

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Bari in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Thiva (Thebes) is a little warmer than Bari. Typically, the spring temperatures in Thiva (Thebes) in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Bari averages at about 14°C (58°F).

It's quite sunny in Bari. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Thiva (Thebes). Thiva (Thebes) usually receives more sunshine than Bari during spring. Thiva (Thebes) gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 203 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Thiva (Thebes) usually receives less rain than Bari. Thiva (Thebes) gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Bari receives 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Thiva (Thebes) 16°C (60°F) 
    Bari 14°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Bari and Thiva (Thebes)

Thiva (Thebes) Bari
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 10°C (49°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 10°C (50°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 12°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 14°C (58°F) 32 mm (1.3 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 18°C (64°F) 25 mm (1 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 22°C (71°F) 20 mm (0.8 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 25°C (76°F) 9 mm (0.3 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 25°C (76°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 22°C (72°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 18°C (65°F) 70 mm (2.7 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 14°C (57°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 11°C (52°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)