A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Valletta vs. Bari for Attractions, Food, Old Town, and Couples

Should you visit Valletta 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 Valletta 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.

Valletta

Valletta is a waterfront, historic, and charming 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.

Valletta and Bari: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Valletta or Bari?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Bari. Although Valletta and Bari are popular destinations, Bari has more sights and attractions for tourists. Bari is very popular for its nightlife, beaches, and big city activities, while Valletta attracts visitors for its museums, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Valletta is more touristy than Bari and is known for its ancient fortifications, Baroque palaces, and beautiful gardens. 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 Valletta different from Bari?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Valletta 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, Valletta has many famous sights for visitors. With its rich culture and compact old town, there are countless museums, sights, and monuments that are worth visiting. Some options include Saint John's Co-Cathedral, the Grandmaster's Palace and Armory, the National Museum of Archaeology, Manoel Theater, and the Upper Barrakka Gardens.

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 Valletta or Bari? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Many restaurants in Valletta have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The town's culinary scene has a long history with many traditional flavors. You really must experience a meal in one of the traditional stone cellar restaurants, which often serve local meze. Head to Republic Street for a stretch of longstanding restaurants in town. Local dishes include stuffat tal-fenek (rabbit stew), bragioli (rolled meat covered in sauce), and lampuki pie (fish pie).

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 Valletta or Bari Better for Nightlife?

Bari is a very popular place for its evening party scene. Also, Valletta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Bari has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Valletta has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It wasn't long ago that the town went quiet in the evenings, but recent years have brought a surge in bars and clubs around town. You'll find the liveliest nightlife in areas around Strait Street and the Valletta Waterfront. If you're looking for a true clubbing scene, you'll want to head north out of town to Paceville.

Is Valletta or Bari Better for Beaches?

Bari is a port city with good options for the beach. However, Valletta is lacking in good options for its beaches.

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.

Valletta is a good spot to see the beach. There aren't any beaches in town, but if you head north to St. George’s Bay you'll find some nice beaches with a variety of resorts to choose from.

Is Valletta or Bari Better for its Old Town?

Valletta is terrific for its historic old town charm. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its historic old town.

Valletta has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The old town is laid out with a uniform grid and the streets are lined with hundreds of historic buildings. At the heart of old town is Republic Street, which divides the area in half and is where you'll find a large concentration of restaurants.

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 Valletta or Bari?

Valletta is a great town 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 Valletta. For the best shopping head to Republic Street and Merchants Street where you'll find craft shops, boutiques, and other local souvenirs. Many visitors enjoy picking up blown glass, a locally made miniature, or cactus liquor. Lace is also a common local item that you'll find around town.

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 Valletta or Bari Better for Families?

Bari is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Valletta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Valletta. This charming town has nearby beaches as well as a few museums that kids will enjoy, including a toy museum. There are also several multi-media shows that educate visitors on the area's history. Make sure you check out Malta 5D and the Malta Experience.

Is Valletta or Bari Better for Couples?

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

Valletta is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The town offers beautiful walks, luxury spa experiences, and evening sunset cruises that are seeped in romance. During the evening you can enjoy a cocktail hour and then dine in one of the town's many unique restaurants.

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 Valletta or Bari Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Valletta and Bari are both very good destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Valletta. The island has grown in popularity with backpackers, particularly those coming from Europe, as there are affordable flights and easy accessibility. You'll also find some nice hostels around town where you can stay on a budget.

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 Valletta or Bari Better for Students?

Bari is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Valletta 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.

Valletta is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Valletta and Bari.

Valletta has some public transit options. If you're not up for walking up and down the hills, there are some buses around town.

You'll find some public transit in Bari, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses around town that are operated by the AMTAB.

Is Valletta or Bari a more walkable city?

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

Valletta is a very easy town to get around on foot. The town is compact and easy to walk around with many sights within a short distance of each other. There's also very little street traffic.

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 Valletta Worth Visiting? and Is Bari Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bari or Valletta?

How long in Valletta or Bari?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Valletta and Bari. In our opinion, Valletta has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Valletta than Bari. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

One day in Valletta or Bari?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Valletta. 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 port city of Bari offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Valletta or Bari?

Valletta 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.

Bari is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this port city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bari, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Valletta or Bari?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Valletta. 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 popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Valletta or Bari?

The cultural town of Valletta 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.

Bari is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This port city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in Malta, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Malta, The Best Historical Tours in Italy, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Valletta or Bari?

Bari has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Valletta. When comparing the sizes of Valletta 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 Valletta or Bari?

Bari has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Valletta experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Valletta or Bari in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Valletta and Bari. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Valletta year-round. Furthermore, many travelers come to Bari for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Valletta is around the same temperature as Bari in the summer. The daily temperature in Valletta averages around 26°C (79°F) in July, and Bari fluctuates around 25°C (76°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bari this time of the year. In Valletta, it's very sunny this time of the year. Valletta usually receives more sunshine than Bari during summer. Valletta gets 365 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 336 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Valletta usually receives more rain than Bari. Valletta gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Bari receives 9 mm (0.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Valletta or Bari in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Valletta as well as Bari. Valletta attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many visitors come to Bari in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Valletta is a little warmer than Bari. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Valletta in October average around 21°C (70°F), and Bari averages at about 18°C (65°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Valletta this time of the year. In the autumn, Valletta often gets more sunshine than Bari. Valletta gets 221 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 178 hours of full sun.

Valletta usually gets more rain in October than Bari. Valletta gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Bari receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Valletta or Bari in the Winter?

Both Bari and Valletta are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Valletta throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Bari for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Valletta is generally a little warmer than Bari. Daily temperatures in Valletta average around 13°C (55°F), and Bari fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

Valletta usually receives more sunshine than Bari during winter. Valletta gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 110 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Valletta usually receives more rain than Bari. Valletta gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Bari receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Valletta or Bari in the Spring?

Both Bari and Valletta during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Valletta because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Bari because of the beaches and the activities around the city.

Valletta is a little warmer than Bari in the spring. The daily temperature in Valletta averages around 16°C (61°F) in April, and Bari fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

In Bari, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Valletta. In the spring, Valletta often gets more sunshine than Bari. Valletta gets 247 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 203 hours of full sun.

Valletta usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Bari. Valletta gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Bari receives 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bari and Valletta