Are you thinking about visiting Bari, Italy? Here's what you need to know before planning your trip.
Is Bari worth visiting?
Yes, it's worth visiting this port city for one to three days because of the many great activities. Bari is located in the Puglia region of Southern Italy. It's a port city that is popular with travelers who are catching ferries on to Greece or other Adriatic destinations. It's also a fascinating city in and of itself, with a great old town and many authentic local restaurants.
Bari, Italy
Reasons to Visit Bari
Food
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.
Museums
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.
Nightlife
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.
Historical Sights
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.
Beaches
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.
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.
Authenticity
Bari has an authentic vibe where you can experience local culture, cuisine, and activities without the large tourist crowds of other popular destinations.
Is Bari worth visiting in the Summer?
Summer is the high season for travel in Bari, so expect more visitors and higher prices. Even though this destination is not very touristy, in the high season it's busier than usual because this is when most visitors come here.
The warm weather in summer is one of the reasons people visit at this time of year. Temperatures average around 25°C (76°F) with daily high temperatures often more than 29°C (83°F).
You'll also find it quite easy to get around on foot, because this is a very walkable port city, especially in the nice weather. You'll find plenty to do during summer, as you'll be able to lounge on the beach, browse through museums, and discover the big city activities. Also, you can experience the historic old town and the nightlife.
Summer Weather in Bari
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| July | 25°C (76°F) | 9 mm (0.3 in) |
| August | 25°C (76°F) | 26 mm (1 in) |
| September | 22°C (72°F) | 47 mm (1.9 in) |
Is Bari worth visiting in the Autumn?
This is the shoulder season for travel in Bari. This destination is not very touristy, and in the shoulder season it can become fairly quiet.
You'll find the weather to be very nice here during autumn with average temperatures around 18°C (65°F).
Autumn is a great time of year to explore the numerous museums and landmarks around town. They are fun for the whole family as well great for couples. Soaking up that old town charm in the autumn is one of the favorite activities of visitors. The quaint scenery combined with the weather this time of year is quite nice. During this season it's fun to experience the historic old town, the famous sights and museums, and the big city activities.
Autumn Weather in Bari
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| October | 18°C (65°F) | 70 mm (2.7 in) |
| November | 14°C (57°F) | 75 mm (3 in) |
| December | 11°C (52°F) | 67 mm (2.6 in) |
Is Bari worth visiting in the Winter?
The weather in Bari can be quite cold during winter, and averages around 10°C (49°F). But be prepared for much lower temperatures, too.
The low season for travel in Bari is during the winter. This destination is not very touristy, so in the low season it can become fairly quiet.
This is a great time of year to browse the museums, taste delicious cuisine, and admire the historic sights. Also, you can check out the nightlife and the big city activities.
Winter Weather in Bari
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| January | 10°C (49°F) | 62 mm (2.4 in) |
| February | 10°C (50°F) | 61 mm (2.4 in) |
| March | 12°C (53°F) | 65 mm (2.6 in) |
Is Bari worth visiting in the Spring?
Spring is the shoulder season for travel in Bari. This destination is not very touristy, and in the shoulder season it can become fairly quiet.
You'll find the weather to be very nice here during spring with average temperatures around 14°C (58°F).
Soaking up that old town charm in the spring is one of the favorite activities of visitors. The quaint scenery combined with the weather this time of year is quite nice. You'll find plenty to do during spring, as you'll be able to find the best deals at the shops, spend time at the museums, and browse around the old town. Also, you'll be able to dance the night away.
Spring Weather in Bari
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| April | 14°C (58°F) | 32 mm (1.3 in) |
| May | 18°C (64°F) | 25 mm (1 in) |
| June | 22°C (71°F) | 20 mm (0.8 in) |
Things to Consider Before Visiting Bari
Not As Romantic
For couples, this destination does not have a great vibe for romance compared to other places.
The Cost
Depending on your budget, schedule, and travel style, Bari might be an expensive destination for you. You can find out the travel costs for Bari here or see if Bari is expensive here.
Related
What is Bari most famous for?
Bari is most famous for its authentic old town and its role as a ferry port for travelers headed across the Adriatic. People visit this impressive port city for its great food. Also, it's known for museums, nightlife, and historical sights. Many people love the beaches and shopping, too. It is often described as authentic, local, and cultural.
What is the most famous sight in Bari?
The most popular sight in Bari is San Nicola. You can see prices and costs for this and other sights in Bari on our travel costs page.
Or, see tickets, activities, and tours for San Nicola and other attractions here.
How touristy is Bari? Is it a popular port city to visit?
Bari is an off-the-beaten-path port city that many travelers overlook. Here are some of the most popular activities and tours. (Prices in US Dollars)
- Alberobello Private Tour with Pick Up: $175
- Town of Puglia Private Day Tour: $104
- Bari Rickshaw Tour with Museum Visits: $82
- Bike Tour in the Alta Murgia National Park (Pulo of Altamura): $82
- Private Sunset Tour in Matera: $240
- Private tour in Polignano a Mare: overlooking the sea: $68
- Day tour by car and on foot among the Apulian beauties of Matera: $175
- Bike Tour into the nature around Castel del Monte: $82
How long should I spend in Bari?
The ideal length of time for a trip to Bari is one to three days. Since Bari has a variety of activities such as dining, most people need this much time to see and do everything here.
If you have a specific amount of time for your trip, see our advice about how much time to spend here: Should I spend 1, 2, or 3 days in Bari? and Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Bari?.
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