A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Venice vs. Bari for Attractions, Food, Old Town, and Couples

Should you visit Venice or Bari?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Venice and Bari can help you decide which place is right for you.

Venice

Venice is a beautiful, romantic, and cultural city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the museums, 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. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Venice and Bari: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Venice or Bari?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Venice. Although Venice and Bari are popular destinations, Venice has more sights and attractions for tourists. Venice is very popular for its museums, historical sights, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Bari attracts visitors for its food, nightlife, beaches, and big city activities. Venice is more touristy than Bari and is known for its many canals, famous gondolas, iconic architecture, romantic squares, and beautiful bridges. It is also well known for St. Mark's Basilica. Bari is famous for its authentic old town and its role as a ferry port for travelers headed across the Adriatic.

How is Venice different from Bari?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Venice 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, Venice has many famous sights for visitors. The many historic and famous landmarks in town include St. Mark's Basilica, St. Mark's Square, Doge's Palace, and the Rialto Bridge.

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 Venice or Bari? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bari is a world-class destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Venice is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Bari has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

Venice offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. For the best dining experience, you should try to avoid the touristy restaurants that serve the typical pizza and pasta. Instead, find a local eatery that specializes in the region's traditional flavors like fish and vegetables.

Is Venice or Bari Better for Nightlife?

Bari is great for its evening party scene. However, Venice is not a good destination 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.

Most people don't head to Venice specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. If you want to party, your best option is to head to the Lido area where you'll find night clubs and bars. A better alternative for enjoying your evening is to order a late night meal and a glass of wine at a local restaurant in Venice.

Is Venice or Bari Better for Beaches?

Bari is very good for the beach. However, Venice is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Bari to enjoy the beach. 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.

Venice is not a beach destination.

Is Venice or Bari Better for its Old Town?

Venice 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.

Venice has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The city's historic area is unlike anywhere else in the world. The canals, colorful buildings, are world-renowned architecture, make this among the most recognized historic settings in the world.

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 Venice or Bari?

Venice 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 Venice specifically to go shopping. There are many unique items that people purchase in town. Some of the most popular include Murano glass, Burano lace, Venetian masks, and local fabrics.

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 Venice or Bari Better for Families?

You'll find high quality kid-friendly activities in either Venice or Bari.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Venice. Even for kids, visiting this city is all about soaking up the atmosphere and sense of place. It is unlike anywhere else in the world. The canals, historic buildings, gondolas, and plazas offer a special environment, even for kids who may be burned out from exploring cities. Attractions that appeal to kids include visiting the prisons at Doge's Palace, shopping for masks, and taking a ride on a gondola.

Bari is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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 Venice or Bari Better for Couples?

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

Venice is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. With its many truly unique romantic experiences, this city makes for a truly memorable honeymoon or romantic getaway. Ride a gondola, get lost in the city, and enjoy pasta and music around town to make the experience unlike any other.

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 Venice or Bari Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Venice and Bari are high quality places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Venice. Many backpackers stay just out of town to save a bit of money, but, even though it's not cheap, this city is well-established on the backpacker trail.

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 Venice or Bari Better for Students?

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

Venice is a very popular place to visit for students. Because of its well-established reputation, this city attracts many international students for both semester and full length programs. There are many programs to choose between, and many students focus on the region's art, architecture, history, and language.

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

Venice 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 Venice can take you anywhere. There is a comprehensive boat and ferry system that includes aporettos, alilagunas, private water taxis, gondolas, and traghettos.

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

Is Venice or Bari a more walkable city?

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

Venice is a very easy city to get around on foot. Because it is small, it's easy to walk to all of the major tourist attractions.

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 Venice Worth Visiting? and Is Bari Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bari or Venice?

How long in Venice or Bari?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Venice and Bari. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Venice than in Bari. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Venice, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bari.

Families should spend more time in Venice than Bari. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Venice, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

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

One day in Venice or Bari?

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Venice. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

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 Venice or Bari?

Venice 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 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 Venice or Bari?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the magical destination of Venice. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

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 Venice or Bari?

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the beautiful city of Venice. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

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 Sightseeing Tours in Italy, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Venice or Bari?

Bari has a larger population, and is about 17% larger than the population of Venice. When comparing the sizes of Venice 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 Venice 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 Venice or Bari in the Summer?

Both Bari and Venice are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Venice in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Bari for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

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

It's quite sunny in Bari. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Venice. Venice usually receives less sunshine than Bari during summer. Venice gets 287 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 336 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Venice usually receives more rain than Bari. Venice gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Bari receives 9 mm (0.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Venice or Bari in the Autumn?

Both Bari and Venice during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Venice for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Bari because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Venice is cooler than Bari. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Venice in October average around 14°C (57°F), and Bari averages at about 18°C (65°F).

In the autumn, Venice often gets less sunshine than Bari. Venice gets 134 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 178 hours of full sun.

Venice usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Bari. Venice gets 67 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Bari receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Venice or Bari in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Venice and Bari. The winter months attract visitors to Venice because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Bari this time of year.

The weather in Venice can be very cold. In January, Venice is generally much colder than Bari. Daily temperatures in Venice average around 3°C (37°F), and Bari fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

Venice usually receives less sunshine than Bari during winter. Venice gets 88 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 110 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Venice usually receives around the same amount of rain as Bari. Venice gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Bari receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Venice or Bari in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Venice as well as Bari. The natural beauty are the main draw to Venice this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Bari for the beaches and the activities around the city.

Venice is cooler than Bari in the spring. The daily temperature in Venice averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Bari fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bari. In the spring, Venice often gets less sunshine than Bari. Venice gets 154 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 203 hours of full sun.

Venice usually gets more rain in April than Bari. Venice gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Bari receives 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bari and Venice