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

Should you visit Verona or Bari?

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

Should I visit Verona 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.

Verona

Verona is a stunning, romantic, and cultural city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. 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. Visitors also love the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Verona and Bari: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Verona or Bari?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Bari than Verona, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Bari is more popular for its food, nightlife, beaches, and big city activities, while Verona is known for its impressive beauty. Verona is more touristy than Bari and is known for its role as the setting of one of Shakespeare's most famous plays. 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 Verona different from Bari?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Verona and Bari.

Verona offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. While most people know Verona as the setting of Shakespeare's play "Romeo and Juliet", there are also many unrelated but still impressive sights around town. Of course you must check out the Casa di Giulietta (Juliet's House and Balcony), but also make sure you visit the fortress of Castelvecchio, Arena di Verona, and Basilica of San Zeno Maggiore.

Many visitors head to Bari specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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 Verona or Bari? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bari is an unbeatable place for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Verona is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Dining out in Verona is an experience not to be missed. Food is a source of pride for the locals in Verona, and you'll find excellent dishes in most eateries, even those catering specifically to tourists. There are many local recipes that are worth sampling while you're in the area including risotto with tastasal, potato gnocchi, and polenta.

Is Verona or Bari Better for Nightlife?

Bari is a great port city for nightlife and partying. Also, Verona is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Bari has something for everybody. 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 Verona. The nightlife scene caters to a mature crowd and there is a heavy focus on regional wine. There are many local bars and traditional osterie (inns) where you can sip local wine or hear live music.

Is Verona or Bari Better for Beaches?

Bari is a popular place for the beache. However, Verona is not a beach destination.

Bari is a good option for a beach vacation. 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.

Verona is not a beach destination.

Is Verona or Bari Better for its Old Town?

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

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Verona. At the heart of the city is the old town, which is filled with medieval and Renaissance style architecture. It's easy to explore this beautiful area on foot.

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 Verona or Bari?

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

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Verona. The most well known shopping street is Corso Santa Anastasia, which has many antique shops as well as jewelry stores and high end boutiques.

Many visitors go to Bari to go 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 Verona or Bari Better for Families?

Bari is a great port city for its kid-friendly activities. However, Verona is not known for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Bari is very family-friendly. 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.

Verona is not the most family-friendly destination. You can head to the top of the the Lamberti Tower and, of course, check out the Romeo and Juliet balcony. Wandering the streets and grabbing gelato is also fun for the whole family.

Is Verona or Bari Better for Couples?

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

Verona is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. As the setting for Shakespeare's famed "Romeo and Juliet", this town is seeped in romantic history. In addition to checking out the classic balcony, couples can enjoy seeing an opera at Verona Arena or seeking out views of the beautiful city. Crossing the romantic Ponte Pietra is another must-do romantic activity in the area.

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 Verona or Bari Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bari is a great port city for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Verona is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Many 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.

Verona is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Backpackers rarely spend more than a day or two in town, but there are hostels in the area that offer cheap accommodation.

Is Verona or Bari Better for Students?

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

Verona is a good city to visit for students. The city offers a more authentic Italian experience than some of the more popular tourist and study abroad destinations in Italy.

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

Verona and Bari both offer good public transit to get you around.

While Verona offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. ATV operates buses through the city.

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

Is Verona or Bari a more walkable city?

Verona and Bari are superb when it comes to walkability.

Verona is a very walkable city. It's a compact city that's easy to explore on foot. Many locals get around by walking or biking.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Bari or Verona?

How long in Verona or Bari?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bari than Verona 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 Verona or Bari?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Verona. 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.

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 Verona or Bari?

Verona 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 Verona or Bari?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the romantic destination of Verona. This city 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.

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 Verona or Bari?

The cultural city of Verona 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the authentic 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 10-Day Tours in Italy, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Italy, The Best 2-Week Tours in Italy, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Verona or Bari?

Bari has a larger population, and is about 25% larger than the population of Verona. When comparing the sizes of Verona 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 Verona 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 Verona or Bari in the Summer?

Both Bari and Verona are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Verona for 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.

In the summer, Verona is around the same temperature as Bari. Typically, the summer temperatures in Verona in July average around 24°C (75°F), and Bari averages at about 25°C (76°F).

It's quite sunny in Bari. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Verona. Verona usually receives less sunshine than Bari during summer. Verona gets 286 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 336 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Verona usually receives more rain than Bari. Verona gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Bari receives 9 mm (0.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Verona or Bari in the Autumn?

Both Bari and Verona during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Verona because of the shopping scene 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 October, Verona is generally cooler than Bari. Daily temperatures in Verona average around 14°C (57°F), and Bari fluctuates around 18°C (65°F).

In the autumn, Verona often gets less sunshine than Bari. Verona gets 137 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 178 hours of full sun.

Verona usually gets more rain in October than Bari. Verona gets 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Bari receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Verona or Bari in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Verona and Bari. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Verona this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bari for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Verona in the winter. Verona is much colder than Bari in the winter. The daily temperature in Verona averages around 2°C (36°F) in January, and Bari fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

Verona usually receives less sunshine than Bari during winter. Verona gets 98 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 110 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Verona usually receives less rain than Bari. Verona gets 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Bari receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Verona or Bari in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Verona as well as Bari. Many travelers come to Verona for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Bari in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In the spring, Verona is cooler than Bari. Typically, the spring temperatures in Verona in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Bari averages at about 14°C (58°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bari. In the spring, Verona often gets less sunshine than Bari. Verona gets 169 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 203 hours of full sun.

Verona usually gets more rain in April than Bari. Verona gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Bari receives 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bari and Verona