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There are so many cool things to do in Bari, Italy! Bari is the largest city in Puglia, Italy’s heel of the boot, though it doesn’t get as much attention as other popular Puglian cities like Monopoli, Lecce, Alberobello, and nearby Matera.
While Bari is home to the biggest port and busiest airport in the region, so many Puglia visitors hop in and hop out without taking time to explore the city. And honestly, I think that’s a mistake. Bari may not be the prettiest place in Puglia, but it’s absolutely worth a quick exploration.
How much time do you need to explore Bari? A morning or an afternoon should be sufficient. There are lots of things to do in Bari to fill a few hours.
Bari reminds me a lot of Naples — a city that appears a bit gritty on the outside and doesn’t bend over backwards catering to tourists. That’s why Naples is one of my favorite places in Italy, and Bari has so many of the same vibes!
Instead, you’ll find a true Puglian old town with a rich history and vibrant food scene, where life here goes on as it has for decades.
Let me show you how to spend your time in the capital of Puglia — Bari!
This post was published in December 2023 and was co-written by Adventurous Kate and Riana Ang-Canning.
The Best Things to Do in Bari, Italy
Explore the historic center of Bari
Bari Vecchia, also known as Bari’s Old Town, is the most charming and historic part of the city. While most of Bari consists of not-that-special gridded streets, the Old Town is full of squiggly streets and narrow passageways.
My favorite way to explore Bari Vecchia is to just get lost in its maze of narrow streets, 13th century monuments, piazzas, churches, and shops. You can explore the Old Town on your own or with a guide on a Bari walking tour from 30 EUR ($32 USD) per person.
Along the way you’ll stop at Bari Cathedral, or Basilica Cattedrale Metropolitana Primaziale San Sabino, which was rebuilt in 1292 after the original was destroyed by William the Wicked in 1156 (and yes, tantalizing tidbits like the fact that there was a dude named William the Wicked are why it’s worth paying for a city tour).
Don’t miss the museum underneath the Romanesque cathedral, where excavated parts of the original church remain.
You’ll also pass…
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