A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Urbino vs. Bari for Food, Attractions, Nightlife, and Old Town

Should you visit Urbino 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 Urbino 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.

Urbino

Urbino is a historic, undiscovered, and authentic town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

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. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and beaches.

Urbino and Bari: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Urbino or Bari?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Bari. Although Urbino and Bari are popular destinations, Bari has more sights and attractions for tourists. Bari is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, and big city activities, while Urbino attracts visitors for its impressive beauty. Urbino is more touristy than Bari and is known for its Renaissance walls, historic center, and authentic atmosphere. Bari is famous for its authentic old town and its role as a ferry port for travelers headed across the Adriatic. It is also well known for San Nicola.

How is Urbino different from Bari?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Urbino
Bari

Bari is great for its historical sights. Also, Urbino is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

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.

Urbino is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. At the heart of the city are its historical sights. The cathedral is worth a visit, as is The Ducal Palace, but for most visitors, simply soaking up the town's atmosphere is the best experience.


Is the Food Better in Urbino or Bari? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Urbino
Bari

Bari is an amazing port city to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Urbino is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Urbino makes for a great culinary experience. The city's history has influenced its cuisine. Traditional foods include cornbread, truffles, and meat sausage. While these options aren't as common today, you can still find them if you seek them out.

Is Urbino or Bari Better for Nightlife?

Urbino
Bari

Bari is great for its evening party scene. Also, Urbino is not as popular, but is still a nice town for nightlife.

Many people head to Bari for the nightlife scene. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Urbino. Because of the large student population, there are usually some fun activities going on at night. You'll find some good bars around town that are fun to hang out at.

Is Urbino or Bari Better for Beaches?

Urbino
Bari

Bari is a port city with good options for the beach. However, Urbino 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.

Urbino is not a beach destination.


Is Urbino or Bari Better for its Old Town?

Urbino
Bari

Bari is great for its historic old town charm. Also, Urbino is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its 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.

Many visitors go to Urbino to see the historical old town. The historic center feels a bit undiscovered by Italian standards. There are stone houses and the town is built on a steep hill, giving it a beautiful setting.

Is the Shopping Better in Urbino or Bari?

Urbino
Bari

If you're looking to go shopping, Urbino and Bari both offer plenty of nice spots.

Urbino has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find galleries, book shops, and jewelry stores around town that are fun to pop into.

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 Urbino or Bari Better for Families?

Urbino
Bari

Bari is great for its kid-friendly activities. However, Urbino is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Bari. 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.

Urbino is not the most family-friendly destination. The city is filled with history and architecture, which may be lost on the kids. There are the classic Italian restaurants which is a favorite among kids and adults alike.


Is Urbino or Bari Better for Couples?

Urbino
Bari

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

Urbino is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. This walled city is fun to explore and can make for a great romantic stop. The city is walled and has many historical buildings which couples will enjoy learning about together.

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 Urbino or Bari Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Urbino
Bari

Bari is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Urbino is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers 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.

Urbino is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not well known by backpackers and there are a very limited number of hostels in the area.

Is Urbino or Bari Better for Students?

Urbino
Bari

For students, both Urbino and Bari are very good places to visit.

Students come from all over to stay in Urbino. The student population is a large part of this small city. University students are usually happy and enjoy many activities and outings into the surrounding area.

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.


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

Urbino
Bari

Bari is a port city with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Urbino is not a good destination for its public transit.

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.

Public transit is generally limited in Urbino. The town is accessible by bus but not by train.

Is Urbino or Bari a more walkable city?

Urbino
Bari

Bari is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Urbino is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its walkability.

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.

Urbino is somewhat walkable. Many parts of the city are easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Bari or Urbino?

How long in Urbino or Bari?

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

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

One day in Urbino or Bari?

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

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Bari. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.


A weekend in Urbino or Bari?

Urbino 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. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Urbino or Bari?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the authentic destination of Urbino. This town 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. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Urbino or Bari?

The historic town of Urbino 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 cultural destination of Bari. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Italy, The Best Bicycle Tours in Italy, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Italy, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Bari or Urbino?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Urbino is €118, 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 Urbino and Bari in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Urbino 53
    Bari 73
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Urbino 106
    Bari 146
Compare Hotels in Urbino and Bari

Looking for a hotel in Urbino 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 Urbino


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: Urbino Hotel Prices and Bari Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Urbino 44
    Bari 11

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Urbino

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

  • Private Transfer from Borgo Maggiore to Rimini (RMI) Airport: $108

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:

  • Transfer:From BARI CENTER to ROME AIRPORTS or reverse: $1,068
  • Bari or Naples: Private Transfer Service: $541
  • From 1-Way Private Transfer to Monte Sant'Angelo: $492
  • From 1-Way Private Transfer to San Giovanni Rotondo: $492
  • Private 24-seat Coach Transfer: From Bari Airport to Matera: $417
  • Private transfert from Bari to Naples: $401
  • From 1-Way Private Transfer to Matera: $310
  • Private Transfer from Bari to Amalfi with 2 hours for sightseeing: $296
  • Private Transfer from Bari (BRI) Airport to Mesagne: $284
  • Vineyard Wine Tasting & soft lunch & transfer included: $273
  • Private Transfer from Bari to Naples with 2 hours for sightseeing: $270
  • Private Transfer from Bari (BRI) Airport to Valle d'Itria: $268

Is it cheaper to fly into Urbino or Bari?

Prices for flights to both Bari and Urbino 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
    Urbino 39
    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.
    Urbino 15
    Bari 8.61

Tours and Activities in Urbino

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Urbino.

  • E-BIKE Tour San Marino for couples: $114
  • Entrance Ticket - Titanus Museum: Multimedia Experience: $8.68
  • From Montefeltro Tour with Truffle Lunch: $396
  • Guided Tour of San Marino at Sunset with aperitif included: $184
  • Guided group tour of Ducal Palace and National Gallery: $94
  • Private Guided Tour with Aperitif in Winebar in San Marino: $92
  • Private Tour of San Marino: UNESCO World Heritage Site: $172
  • Private tour with Welcome KIT in San Marino: $136
  • San Marino Scavenger Hunt and Sightseeing Tour: $8.97
  • San Marino’s Starlit Stroll: A Christmas Walking Tour: $153
  • San Marino: A Self Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • San Marino: Food Tasting Tour: $195

Tours and Activities in Bari

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Bari.

  • Bari tour with a local tour guide.: $219
  • Private Experience - day of fishing on the Bari coast: $219
  •  Guided tour and tasting at La Cantina Frrud - Wine Museum: $38
  • 1.5 Hour Cave's Tour Polignano a Mare: $38
  • 2 Hour Guided Walking Tour of Altamura the Lioness of Puglia: $38
  • 2 Hours Private Guided Tour in the Historic Centre of Altamura: $229
  • 2-Hour Bari City Tour: $241
  • 2-Hour Guided Walking Tour of Bari with Street Food: $49
  • Alberobello Private Tour with Pick Up: $175
  • Alberobello, Monopoli Polignano Small-Group Guided Tour from Bari: $152
  • Altamura walking tour: $229
  • Apulia: Bike Tour through the Treasures of Bari: $37

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Urbino 14
    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 Urbino and Bari, we can see that Urbino 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 Urbino Expensive? and Is Bari Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Urbino or Bari?

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

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Urbino or Bari in the Summer?

Both Bari and Urbino are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Urbino this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bari for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Urbino is around the same temperature as Bari in the summer. The daily temperature in Urbino averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Bari fluctuates around 25°C (76°F).

In July, Urbino usually receives more rain than Bari. Urbino gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Bari receives 9 mm (0.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Urbino 23°C (73°F) 
    Bari 25°C (76°F)

Should I visit Urbino or Bari in the Autumn?

Both Bari and Urbino during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Urbino for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Bari in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Urbino is cooler than Bari. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Urbino in October average around 15°C (59°F), and Bari averages at about 18°C (65°F).

Urbino usually gets more rain in October than Bari. Urbino gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Bari receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Urbino 15°C (59°F) 
    Bari 18°C (65°F)

Should I visit Urbino or Bari in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Urbino and Bari. Many visitors come to Urbino in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Bari for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Urbino can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Urbino is generally much colder than Bari. Daily temperatures in Urbino average around 3°C (37°F), and Bari fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

In January, Urbino usually receives less rain than Bari. Urbino gets 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Bari receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Urbino 3°C (37°F) 
    Bari 10°C (49°F)

Should I visit Urbino or Bari in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Urbino as well as Bari. Most visitors come to Urbino for the natural beauty during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Bari because of the beaches and the activities around the city.

Urbino is cooler than Bari in the spring. The daily temperature in Urbino averages around 12°C (54°F) in April, and Bari fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

Urbino usually gets more rain in April than Bari. Urbino gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Bari receives 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Urbino 12°C (54°F) 
    Bari 14°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Bari and Urbino

Urbino Bari
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 34 mm (1.3 in) 10°C (49°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Feb 5°C (42°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 10°C (50°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Mar 9°C (49°F) 77 mm (3 in) 12°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Apr 12°C (54°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 14°C (58°F) 32 mm (1.3 in)
May 16°C (61°F) 50 mm (2 in) 18°C (64°F) 25 mm (1 in)
Jun 20°C (68°F) 51 mm (2 in) 22°C (71°F) 20 mm (0.8 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 75 mm (3 in) 25°C (76°F) 9 mm (0.3 in)
Aug 22°C (71°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 25°C (76°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Sep 19°C (67°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 22°C (72°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 15°C (59°F) 77 mm (3 in) 18°C (65°F) 70 mm (2.7 in)
Nov 9°C (49°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 14°C (57°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 11°C (52°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)