A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Ventimiglia vs. Bari for Food, Old Town, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Ventimiglia or Bari?

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

Should I visit Ventimiglia or Bari? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Ventimiglia

Ventimiglia is a traditional, understated, and classic seaside town. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the shopping, food, and beaches.

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 beaches, shopping, and museums.

Ventimiglia and Bari: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ventimiglia or Bari?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Bari. Although Ventimiglia and Bari are popular destinations, Bari has more sights and attractions for tourists. Bari is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, and big city activities, while Ventimiglia attracts visitors for its shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Ventimiglia is famous for its weekly market, colorful old town, and nice beaches. 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 Ventimiglia different from Bari?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Bari is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Ventimiglia does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Ventimiglia does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Bari is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Ventimiglia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Bari is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Ventimiglia. Italian classics are abundant including tiramisus, Italian pizzas, risotto alla milanese, and traditional lasagna. If you're in town on a Friday you should visit the local market which has stalls selling local produce and foods.

Is Ventimiglia or Bari Better for Nightlife?

Bari is a great destination for its evening party scene. However, Ventimiglia is a seaside town with minimal options for nightlife.

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.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Ventimiglia Most people don't head to town for the nightlife, but there are some bars where you can grab a drink or sip a glass of wine.

Is Ventimiglia or Bari Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Ventimiglia and Bari are nice choices.

Ventimiglia is a good option for a beach vacation. The lungomare is a promenade along the sea that allows visitors to wander and take in waterfront views. Most of the beaches are free to access and have been influenced by the coastal erosion efforts which have led to a series of scalloped bays. If you reach the end of the lungomare you'll find a natural area where the Roya and Nervia rivers meet the ocean. This is also a popular spot for breeding birds.

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.

Is Ventimiglia or Bari Better for its Old Town?

It's fun to wander around the superb old towns in both Ventimiglia and Bari.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Ventimiglia. The old town is filled with cobblestone streets and charming pastel buildings. There are also a number of historic buildings and monuments that give the town a special atmosphere.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of 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 Ventimiglia or Bari?

Ventimiglia is a great seaside 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 Ventimiglia. Most people head in town on Friday for the market, which has stalls selling crafts and local products.

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 Ventimiglia or Bari Better for Families?

Bari is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Ventimiglia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Bari is known to be 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.

Ventimiglia offers lots of family activities. The charming town is a great place for kids to explore. There is a botanical garden and hiking trails that the whole family can enjoy as well as quiet beaches where they can play. The Italian food is also perfect for young palates.

Is Ventimiglia or Bari Better for Couples?

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

Ventimiglia is a great seaside town if you're traveling as a couple. This quintessential Italian town offers a romantic setting with cobblestone streets and pastel buildings. There are many culinary delights and romantic settings that are perfect for couples. The hiking trails and botanical gardens are also fun places to explore.

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 Ventimiglia or Bari Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bari is a great destination for backpackers. However, Ventimiglia is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Bari is a very popular port city for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Ventimiglia is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Ventimiglia or Bari Better for Students?

Bari is a great destination for students. However, Ventimiglia is not popular with students.

Bari is a very popular port 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.

Ventimiglia is not popular with students.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Ventimiglia and Bari.

You'll find some public transit in Ventimiglia, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are trains and buses to town. Once you're in town it's easy to explore on foot.

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 Ventimiglia or Bari a more walkable city?

Ventimiglia and Bari both are superb when exploring on foot.

Ventimiglia is a very walkable destination. It's small size and charming atmosphere make it a great town to explore on foot.

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 Ventimiglia Worth Visiting? and Is Bari Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bari or Ventimiglia?

How long in Ventimiglia or Bari?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bari than Ventimiglia 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.

One day in Ventimiglia or Bari?

Ventimiglia is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. 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.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural port city of Bari. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Most people visit for the food. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this port city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Ventimiglia or Bari?

Ventimiglia 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the authentic destination of Bari. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This port city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Ventimiglia or Bari?

Ventimiglia is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. This seaside 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.

The cultural port city of Bari offers shopping and museums. 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. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Ventimiglia or Bari?

Because Ventimiglia is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. 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.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bari. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people visit for the food. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, The Best Walking Tours in Italy, and The Best Luxury Tours to Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Ventimiglia or Bari?

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

Both Bari and Ventimiglia during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Ventimiglia for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Bari because of the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Ventimiglia is around the same temperature as Bari in the summer. The daily temperature in Ventimiglia averages around 23°C (73°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 Ventimiglia. In the summer, Ventimiglia often gets less sunshine than Bari. Ventimiglia gets 295 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 336 hours of full sun.

Ventimiglia usually gets more rain in July than Bari. Ventimiglia gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Bari receives 9 mm (0.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Ventimiglia or Bari in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Ventimiglia and Bari. The autumn months attract visitors to Ventimiglia because of the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Bari this time of year.

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

Ventimiglia usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bari during autumn. Ventimiglia gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 178 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Ventimiglia gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Ventimiglia usually receives more rain than Bari. Ventimiglia gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Bari receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Ventimiglia or Bari in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Ventimiglia as well as Bari. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Ventimiglia this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bari for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Ventimiglia is generally around the same temperature as Bari. Daily temperatures in Ventimiglia average around 9°C (48°F), and Bari fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

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

Ventimiglia usually gets more rain in January than Bari. Ventimiglia gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Bari receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Ventimiglia or Bari in the Spring?

Both Bari and Ventimiglia are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Ventimiglia for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Bari in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city.

Ventimiglia is around the same temperature as Bari in the spring. The daily temperature in Ventimiglia averages around 13°C (56°F) in April, and Bari fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

It's quite sunny in Bari. Ventimiglia usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bari during spring. Ventimiglia gets 198 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 203 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Ventimiglia usually receives more rain than Bari. Ventimiglia gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Bari receives 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Bari and Ventimiglia