Top Things to Do in Bari

About the City

Bari brings to life the vibrant tapestry of Italian culture, where the aroma of freshly baked focaccia beckons from the storied streets of Bari Vecchia, an old town maze that invites the curious to lose themselves in its ancient charm. There's a joyous cacophony of fish market banter as locals haggle over the day's catch in a scene unchanged by time, while the Lungomare promenade hosts leisurely promenades against the backdrop of the mesmeric Adriatic Sea. However, like an overenthusiastic pizzaiolo who's generous with the anchovies, Bari isn't without its less appealing bits. The city's flirtation with modernity sometimes clashes with its historic heart, leading to areas that feel incongruously industrial or lackluster. Visitors seeking the classic Puglian countryside will find Bari more brusque in its urbanity, its bustling port and business districts driving the tempo. And while navigating the web of Bari's streets, one must be wary of mischievous pickpockets who dance like shadows amongst the crowds. Yet, even when the sirocco winds dust the cityscape in a haze that veils its beauty, Bari remains an undeniably complex and captivating character in Italy's narrative.

Things to Do in Bari

Sip on Primitivo Wine

Food & Drink

Uncork the fun with Primitivo, a robust red wine that's a pride of Puglia! Imagine lounging on a sunny piazza, sipping this fruity vino that's been aged to perfection. It's like a high-five for your s...

Master the Art of Sailing

Outdoors

Ahoy there! Ready to feel like a sea captain with the wind as your guide? Learn to sail on the waves of the Adriatic, and you'll be tacking and jibing like an old pro. It's just you, the boat, and the...

Accidental Archaeologist

The Unexpected

Unleash your inner history buff by simply meandering through Bari's storied streets! Keep an eye out for unexpected cultural treasures, like a chunk of ancient Roman road or a hidden piece of Byzantin...

Harbor Lights Kayak Nights

The Unexpected

See Bari from a kayak, with the city lights twinkling like diamonds on the water. Paddle out as the sun sets and the harbor comes alive. Feel the rhythm of the waves, the peace of the night, and the t...

Ancient Dough Discovery

The Unexpected

Who's up for a carb treasure hunt? Dive into the alleys of old Bari and find the pasta grannies! Watch in awe as they craft orrecchiette by hand, right on the street, and maybe even try your hand at i...

Splish-Splash Olive Oil Bash

The Unexpected

Ditch the beach for a day and get your hands oily! Tour an authentic masseria to see how olives morph into that liquid gold known as olive oil. You'll sniff, sip, and swirl like a pro, even if you can...

Rock 'n' Row Boat Bonanza

Outdoors

Splash into a boating bonanza! Rent a rowboat and take to the waters for a splash-tastic time out on the sea. Show those waves who's boss, feel the burn in those biceps, and don't forget to pack some ...

Eco Bliss in Parco Perotti

Outdoors

Get your green on and take a leisurely jaunt through the lush landscapes of Parco Perotti. Plop down for a picnic, spot some local birdies, or just frolic in the open fields. Mother Nature's calling, ...

Catch the Sunrise from San Nicola

Outdoors

There's nothing like a Bari sunrise, and where better to catch it than from the heights of San Nicola! Hike up in the early hours, and be rewarded with a sky painted in a symphony of colors. Trust me,...

Pedal Through History on the Via Francigena

Outdoors

Pedal like the past is just behind you on the historic Via Francigena! This is your chance to bike where pilgrims have trekked for centuries, all while soaking in the Italian landscape. Don't sweat th...

Devour Bombette Pugliesi

Food & Drink

Carnivores, rejoice! Bombette Pugliesi are like little meaty presents stuffed with cheese and spices, wrapped up in a slice of pancetta, then grilled to utter perfection. One bite and you'll be like, ...

Delve into the Treasures of Pinacoteca Provinciale di Bari

Sights

Get artsy at the Pinacoteca Provinciale di Bari, where masterpieces from the Middle Ages to modern times will have you saying 'Ooh la la'. Wander the halls, feast your eyes on the canvas magic, and le...

Capture the Charm of Piazza Mercantile

Sights

Piazza Mercantile is like the living room of Bari, where history slaps hands with lively urban vibes. Saunter around this bustling square, peep at the cool architecture, and if you're feeling cheeky, ...

Catch a Breeze at the Parco 2 Giugno

Sights

Need to escape the hustle and bustle? Mosey on down to Parco 2 Giugno—the green heart of Bari! It's perfect for a leisurely stroll, a picnic, or just lounging under a tree like an Italian poet. Pure z...

Uncover the Secrets of the Piazza del Ferrarese

Sights

Pulse-racing history lesson, anyone? Head over to Piazza del Ferrarese and walk on actual slabs of the ancient Via Traiana—Roman road alert! It's where old meets new, and you'll be dancing on centurie...

Admire the Baroque Brilliance of the Palazzo Mincuzzi

Sights

Ready to have your mind blown by some architectural eye candy? Strut down to Palazzo Mincuzzi and let the baroque beauty of this shopping temple leave you dazzled. Its facade is a feast of elaborate s...

Savor the Sea with Cozze Ripiene

Food & Drink

Get ready to smack your lips over Bari's famous stuffed mussels, cozze ripiene, where fresh mussels are crammed with a scrumptious breadcrumb mix, Parmesan cheese, and herbs, then baked to perfection....

Nosh on Focaccia Barese

Food & Drink

Let's get real—the best thing after a slice of pizza is Bari's Focaccia Barese. Imagine a fluffy, olive oil-soaked bread, topped with cherry tomatoes, olives, and a sprinkle of oregano. Take a bite, a...

Get Your Sweet Fix with Cartellate

Food & Drink

Got a sweet tooth? Cartellate will treat you right! These traditional Christmas pastry spirals come drenched in vincotto or honey, boasting a crunchy-and-sweet experience. They'll make your taste buds...

Passeggiata with Puppets

The Unexpected

Add some whimsy to your stroll with a puppet-filled escapade at Bari's Margherita Theatre! Bask in the old-world charm as you watch marionettes dance and prance in a spectacular show that'll make you ...