Interested in the best things to do in Bari, Italy? In this guide I will describe 21 wonderful things to do in this exciting town in Puglia, Southern Italy. The old town is filled with medieval buildings, churches and alleyways, while the streets are packed with locals going about their daily life.

Waterfront view of a historic building with domes in Bari, surrounded by small boats on a sunny day.
Bari, Puglia
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I’m Hazel 👋 a British travel blogger. I have visited southern Italy several times as a solo traveller, and I always base myself in Bari, as it is an excellent transport hub connecting to other parts of Puglia.

Below are 21 wonderful things to do in Bari, from the historic Old Town with its imposing castle, beautiful churches and cultural sites, to the lively waterfront promenade and picturesque Adriatic Coastline.

You will also find a map, hotel suggestions and general travel advice for Puglia at the bottom of the page.

1. Stroll through Bari’s old town.

My favourite thing about the old town of Bari (also known as ‘Bari Vecchia’) is how authentically Italian it is. There are families going about their daily business and laundry hanging out to dry. There are elderly men in white vests sitting at street corners playing cards, and ladies sitting at their tables outdoors making pasta by hand.

Narrow, cobblestone alley with archways, lined with plants and balconies. Furniture and motorbikes are near the stone walls. A distant blue sky is visible.
Bari Vecchia
A historic stone fountain in a plaza with buildings in the background, including a clock tower.
Piazza Mercantile

Bari Vecchia is home to two historical squares, Piazza Mercantile and Piazza del Ferrarese, which are adjacent to each other. These beautiful flagstone piazzas offer lots to see and do.

Just to the south lies Corso Vittorio Emanuele II, which separates the ancient and modern areas. You can see the remains of the earlier walls at this point, as well as the remnants of the earliest street (from the 13th century). These streets used to have guarded gates that divided both sides in the past.

In this area are also the impressive 11th-century Norman-Swabian Castle and the 13th-century Romanesque Basilica di San Nicola, one of Bari’s most important churches.

Various walking tours take you around Bari Vecchia. Try this small group guided walking tour of Bari’s old town.

2. See grandmothers making pasta in the street.

In Bari, you can observe the time-honoured tradition of grandmothers making fresh pasta in the streets – a skill which has been passed down through generations for centuries.

The street is colloquially referred to as ‘Strada delle Orrechiette’ (Pasta Alley), although its name on Google Maps is ‘Arco Basso’.

It’s a medieval passage almost directly opposite Bari Castle. It is just off Corso Italia on the road that connects the old town to the harbourfront.

An elderly woman is seated inside a room, shaping dough at a table. A tray with handmade pasta sits on the floor near an open door with lace curtains.
Person sitting at a table in a narrow cobblestone alley, displaying various types of dumplings on wooden trays. Stone walls and an air conditioning unit are visible in the background.
Pasta Alley

The women can be seen rolling out dough on wooden boards, cutting it into thin strips, and then twisting them into traditional shapes like orecchiette, or ‘little ears’. Many restaurants in the city feature fresh homemade pastas made by these experienced artisans.

You can buy the pasta and tarallis straight from women in the street, even at night time. Usually, they leave some of their wares on the tables outside their houses at night, and if you want to buy, you can just knock on their doors to make your purchase.

Narrow cobblestone street with overhead string lights. Tables display packaged goods on the left. Archway and stairs are visible in the background.
Pasta Alley at night
Plastic bags filled with various pasta and snacks displayed on a wooden table.
Taralli and pasta for sale

Pasta tours

Try this excellent private walking tour with pasta experience, where you will do some sightseeing in Bari before learning to cook pasta with a local. This walking tour also passes down the street where the pasta is made.

3. Visit the Basilica of San Nicola.

One of the most popular things to do in Bari, the Basilica San Nicola, is the city’s most renowned church. It has a 12th-century Romanesque facade, with a golden frescoed ceiling that soars high above traditional wooden pews.

There are mosaics and tombs to explore, as well as a rather famous resident.

The underground chamber below holds the remains of St Nicholas (also famously known as Father Christmas) after they were taken from Turkey in 1087.

Orthodox pilgrims frequently come to this site, which locals further celebrate each May during their grand festivities dedicated to Saint Nicholas.

Facade of a historic white stone church under a clear blue sky, featuring arched windows and a central entrance, with an empty cobblestone square in the foreground.
St Nicholas Basilica

The Basilica San Nicola is free to enter, and is open from 07:15 to 20:30 each day, with a later closing time on Sundays (22:15).

📍Basilica San Nicola, Largo Abate Elia, 13, 70122 Bari BA, Italy.

4. Say Hi to Saint Nicholas 👋

Even if you don’t go inside the church, you can still say Hi to the statue of Saint Nicholas, which stands diagonally across the piazza from the Basilica San Nicola. The statue is one of the most important religious artefacts in the country and has been a symbol of faith for centuries.

The bronze statue, created by Russian sculptor Zurab Tsereteli, was donated from Russia to Bari in 2003. The inscription on the plaque can be read in Russian or Italian.

A bronze statue of a robed and bearded man holding a staff stands on a stone pedestal in front of a historic stone building with an arched entryway.
Saint Nicholas

On December 6th each year, thousands make the pilgrimage to Bari to celebrate the day that Saint Nicholas’ remains were relocated here in 1087. Various celebrations take place around the city during this time of year, including candlelight processions, concerts and fireworks displays.

I also find the statue of Saint Nicholas helpful for navigation when one gets lost among Bari’s winding, maze-like alleyways!

📍Estatua de San Nicolás de Bari, Str. S. Luca, 70122 Bari BA, Italy

5. Hang out in Piazza Mercantile.

This historic square was once the commercial hub of Bari, and is now a popular gathering place for locals and tourists alike. Its name means ‘Merchant Square’ and you can still find street vendors selling things – mostly delicious Pugliese food – in the square today.

In the sunny town square in Puglia, historic buildings and a clock tower stand proudly as people stroll by. Outdoor cafes with umbrellas invite visitors to linger and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
Piazza Mercantile, Bari, Puglia

The vibrant Piazza Mercantile is surrounded by 16th-century buildings such as Palazzo del Sedile dei Nobili and historical attractions like the majestic Pigna fountain (also known as ‘of the 4 faces’) and the ominous Column of Justice (or colloquially ‘infamous column’).

I love spending an evening here just soaking up the atmosphere. There are plenty of bars, restaurants and street food vendors to keep you busy (one photo below of ‘popizze’ street food, but do check out my post on Bari street food if you are interested in further Bari specialities).

A historic stone fountain in a plaza with buildings in the background, including a clock tower.
Piazza Mercantile
A hand holds a pastry wrapped in a napkin with a historic plaza in the background during dusk.
Fried popizze

Also in Piazza Mercantile, you can see the haunting Colonna della Giustizia (Column of Justice), also known as Colonna Infame. This column was used as a form of punishment for debtors during the 16th century. These unfortunate individuals were bound naked against it for three days to punish them for their debts. You can still see marks from the ropes on the stone today.

A stone lion statue rests on a stepped circular base in a sunlit plaza surrounded by light-colored buildings with balconies.
‘Column Infamous’, or ‘Column of Justice’ in Piazza Mercantile.

📍Piazza Mercantile, 29, 70122 Bari BA, Italy

6. Sample local cuisine.

One of the best things to do in Bari is try some of its amazing street food. I recommend taking a street food tour of Bari with Do Eat Better – you can see my review of their Bari street food tour here. The focaccia Barese was the best focaccia I have ever tasted!

Bari’s cuisine is renowned for its delicious, locally-produced dishes, and you won’t want to miss out on trying some of its authentic specialities.

In addition to Focaccia Barese, you can try Panzerotti (fried pocket pastries filled with cheese and tomatoes), sgagliozze (fried polenta), popizze (fried focaccia dough) and many other delicious street treats.

Below is a collage of *some* of the food I ate on my last visit in 2023.

A collage of various Italian street foods, including pizza, sandwiches, pasta, fried snacks, and skewers, is artfully presented in different settings reminiscent of Alberobello's charming streets in Puglia.

If you prefer restaurants, you’re spoilt for choice in Bari.

These photos show restaurants situated on Piazza Mercantile, but another good option is to head down to one of the many eateries along the promenade to try out the local cuisine.

Outdoor restaurant seating on a cobblestone street lined with potted plants, surrounded by historic stone buildings at dusk.
Bari Restaurants
Outdoor dining area with white tablecloth-covered tables and chairs, enclosed by transparent panels. Warm indoor lighting creates a cozy atmosphere. Building facade visible in the background.
Bari Restaurants

7. Visit the cathedral of San Sabino.

Although Bari Cathedral may be somewhat overshadowed by the nearby Basilica San Nicola, it has a remarkable history of its own.

The grand structure (also known as Il Duomo) was finished in the late 13th century after William the Wicked demolished its predecessor while pillaging through town.

Inside, there are Byzantine mosaics depicting scenes from the Bible, as well as stunning stained glass windows. It also houses a number of important relics, such as the skull of St. Sabinus, the patron saint of Bari.

People walk in front of a historic stone church with a large rose window and a wooden door under a blue sky.
Cattedrale di San Sabino
Two large potted palm plants in a stone courtyard with benches, surrounded by a historic brick wall and windows. A staircase is on the left, and a green trash bin and bicycle are visible.
Cattedrale di San Sabino

Over the years, several artworks and statues were added to the cathedral’s interior, with the intention of turning it into a Baroque-style church.

However, it was decided that these changes should be undone so that the original vision could be restored. Consequently, all additional features were removed. You can see some of these articles in the museum underneath the church (see number 20 below).

Entry to the cathedral is free, but it is closed in the afternoons.

📍Piazza dell’Odegitria, 70122 Bari BA, Italy.

8. Grab a coffee at Stefy’s Cathedral Coffee.

Stefy’s is a well-loved coffee place right opposite the cathedral. It’s the perfect place to grab a quick coffee or indulge in a relaxing breakfast while admiring the stunning view of the Cathedral of San Sabino.

The café is run by Stefy, who has been in the business for over a decade, and her team of passionate baristas who make every cup with love and care.

Slice of marble cake next to a white cup of espresso on a saucer with a spoon and a sugar cube, set outdoors on a gold surface.
Photo courtesy of Stefy’s Cathedral Coffee official website.

In addition to coffee Stefy’s Cathedral Coffee serves a variety of sweet and savoury treats plus a range of sandwiches and paninis too.

One of the best things about Stefy’s Cathedral Coffee is its location. Situated just a stone’s throw away from the Cathedral of San Sabino, it offers a stunning view of the iconic church.

📍Piazza dell’Odegitria, 26, 70122 Bari BA, Italy

9. Visit Bari harbour.

Bari harbour has a long and fascinating history that dates back to ancient times. It was an important centre for trade and commerce in the Roman era, and was later a key port during the Byzantine and Norman periods.

During WWII, it was the site of a huge mustard gas explosion, which was promptly covered up by Allied forces. It was a disaster, but it also inadvertently led to the discovery of a cancer treatment. You can read more about it here.

Today, the port is a modern and dynamic hub of activity, with ships and boats coming and going throughout the day.

Tree-lined waterfront street with parked cars and a marina in the background under a blue sky.
Bari
Person in a black coat and hat stands smiling in front of a stone wall with a view of a marina, boats, and cityscape in the background.
Bari harbour

One of the most popular activities at Bari Harbour is simply strolling along the promenade and watching the ships and boats come and go.

10. Stroll along the Lungomare Nazario Sauro.

Lungomare Nazario Sauro is a scenic promenade along the Adriatic Sea coastline. It stretches for approximately 2 kilometres and offers breathtaking views of the sea and the city.

Named after the Italian admiral Nazario Sauro, the promenade is lined with palm trees and benches, providing a lovely setting for a leisurely stroll or bike ride.

Seaside promenade with black lampposts and benches, overlooking a calm body of water. In the background, historic buildings and a tall clock tower under a clear blue sky.
Lungomare Nazario Sauro
Coastal road lined with cars, palm trees, and leafless trees beside a calm sea under a clear blue sky with scattered clouds.

Along the Lungomare Nazario Sauro, you will find the famous Pane e Pomodoro Beach, one of the most popular beaches in Bari. The beach is clean and well-maintained, with several cafes, restaurants, and gelato shops nearby.

Another popular attraction on the promenade is Castello Svevo, a medieval castle built in the 12th century. The castle was used as a residence by the Norman, Angevin, and Aragonese rulers of Bari and is now a museum.

11. Admire the Teatre Margherita.

The Teatro Margherita is a historic former theatre located in the heart of Bari. Built in the early 20th century, it has been an important cultural landmark in the city, hosting a wide range of theatrical and musical performances.

Boats docked near a historic building with a domed roof and ornate towers evoke the charm of Alberobello in Puglia, all under a cloudy sky.
Illuminated historic building by a waterfront at night, with small boats docked in the foreground and a dark sky above.
Teatre Margherita

The theatre, designed by the architect Luigi Santarella and built between 1912 and 1914, was named after Queen Margherita of Savoy, who visited Bari in 1898 and was a patron of the arts.

During WWII, Allied forces occupied it and used it as a venue for entertaining troops. After 1979, it was used as a cinema.

Unfortunately, Teatro Margherita fell into disrepair and was closed to the public in the early 1990s. However, in recent years, it was repurposed and transformed into the Museum of the Twentieth Century (Museo del Novecento), which opened in 2018. It now hosts excellent art and photography exhibitions.

📍Teatro Margherita, Piazza IV Novembre, 70122 Bari BA, Italy.

12. See the Norman castle of Bari.

Of course, no list of things to do in Bari would be complete without the Norman Castle, also known as the Castello Svevo di Bari. The Normans built it in the 12th century and it has since undergone several renovations and additions.

The castle was an important defensive structure during medieval times. It protected the city from invaders and provided a safe haven for its citizens.

A stone fortress with high walls and a central tower under a clear blue sky. The dry grass surrounds the fort's base.
Bari Castle

The castle has undergone numerous renovations over the years, including the addition of a courtyard and the construction of the Aragonese Tower in the 15th century. Inside, there is a museum with exhibits on the castle’s history and the city of Bari.

Right opposite the castle is the best place for gelato in Bari – Antica Gelateria Gentile (see my post on street food in Bari for more details). You are also right next to Pasta Alley here too.

📍Piazza Federico II di Svevia, 70122 Bari BA, Italy.

13. Go for an evening stroll in Largo Albicocca.

One of the more little-known things to do in Bari is Largo Albicocca, a charming square in the old town.

The square takes its name from the apricot trees that once grew in the area. It is known for its lively atmosphere and delicious street food. In the evening, the square is lit up with twinkling lights, creating a magical ambience perfect for an evening stroll.

Quite randomly, the square seems to have entered into a collaboration with Swedish furniture store Ikea (that’s where the lights are from) and you can see Ikea is credited on the wall plaque as you enter the square!

A lit plaza at night with string lights overhead, surrounded by historic stone buildings. Sparse trees and a few parked motorcycles on the paved ground.
An old olive tree in a small courtyard at night, surrounded by buildings with balconies and string lights overhead. Motorbikes are parked to the right.

One of the highlights of Largo Albicocca is its street food scene. There are street food stalls that offer fresh seafood, grilled meats, and vegetarian options.

Largo Albicocca is also known as the ‘Square of Lovers’.

📍Largo Albicocca, 70122 Bari BA, Italy

14. Visit the Teatro Petruzzelli.

The Teatro Petruzzelli is an iconic opera house located in Bari which was inaugurated in 1903.

The theatre is named after its founders, the brothers Onofrio and Antonio Petruzzelli, who wanted to create a space that would showcase the best of Italian opera and theatre.

Red historic theater building with arched windows and sculptures on the roof, set against a partly cloudy sky. Crosswalk and street in foreground.
Teatro Petruzzelli

The Teatro Petruzzelli is a magnificent example of neoclassical architecture. With a seating capacity of 1,700, it has hosted some of the world’s most renowned acts, including Maria Callas, Enrico Caruso, and Luciano Pavarotti.

The Teatro Petruzzelli is also the venue for the annual Bari International Film Festival.

📍Corso Cavour, 12, 70122 Bari BA, Italy

15. Relax at Bread and Tomato beach.

Bread and Tomato Beach, also known as Pane e Pomodoro Beach, can be accessed via the Lungomare promenade. The beach takes its name from the traditional Puglian snack of bread and tomatoes.

It’s a lovely beach, although it does get very busy. However it is free of charge; though bear in mind you’ll need your own chairs and umbrellas if you want seating.

Sandy beach with gentle waves and clear water under a partly cloudy sky. Urban skyline in the distance. Rocks and a person walking along the shoreline.
Pane e Pomodoro Beach

It’s a 30-minute walk from Bari Vecchia, or there is a paid car park nearby.

For a less crowded option, you could head south to Spiaggia Torre Quetta. Here, you’ll find a tranquil stretch of sand and sea. If you venture further out, you can find many beautiful beaches in Puglia, such as the beaches at Polignano a Mare or Monopoli.

Many of the beaches in Puglia are stunning, but bear in mind some of them are actually lidos – they will require an entrance fee.

Need some beach reading? Try one of these novels set in Puglia for some true immersion!

📍Corso Trieste, 70126 Bari BA, Italy

16. Take a boat tour.

Taking a boat tour from Bari is a fantastic way to explore the beautiful coastline of the Apulian region. The city is situated on the Adriatic Sea, making it a perfect starting point for a range of sea excursions.

One popular boat tour option from Bari is to visit Polignano a Mare, a charming coastal town known for its stunning sea cliffs and crystal-clear waters.

Another popular destination is the seaside town of Monopoli, which boasts a beautiful historic centre and several picturesque beaches.

Nestled in Polignano a Mare, this coastal town features stone buildings perched on cliffs overlooking a turquoise sea, where people are swimming.
Polignano a Mare, Puglia

A boat tour from Bari also offers the opportunity to visit the fascinating sea caves, which are only accessible by boat and are known for their unique geological formations and crystal-clear waters.

Many boat tours also include stops for swimming and snorkelling, as well as onboard refreshments and snacks.

Here is a good boat tour from Bari to Polignano a Mare.

17. Take a ride on the Bari ferris wheel.

The ‘Ruota Panoramica’ in Bari is located in Largo Luigi Giannella, between the harbour and the old town.

The wheel rises to a height of 55 metres and offers stunning views of the city and the Adriatic sea. On Google Maps the wheel is called the Blue Sky Wheel.

Waterfront cityscape featuring a ferris wheel, historic buildings, and a clock tower under a clear blue sky reflecting in the calm water.

You can ride the wheel during the day, but it is wonderful at night when the city is beautifully lit up. Even better, try to visit at sunset for a magical experience.

📍Largo Luigi Giannella, 70121 Bari BA, Italy.

18. Admire the Russian Church.

The Russian church is officially called the Chiesa Ortodossa Russa di San Nicola, or the Russian Orthodox Church of Saint Nicholas. This holy place was erected as a tribute to Saint Nicholas and serves as a pilgrimage site for Russian pilgrims.

The church is a stunning example of Byzantine-style architecture, with its distinctive onion domes and intricate decorations. It was built in the early 20th century to serve the Russian Orthodox community in Bari, and it remains an important religious and cultural centre in the city.

A church with a green onion-shaped dome and a cross, set against a clear blue sky.

The interior has frescoes, icons, and other works of art. The church also holds regular religious services, which visitors are welcome to attend.

If you would like to enter the church, you must dress appropriately, and women must cover their heads. I recommend taking a scarf like this one to use as a cover-up.

📍Corso Benedetto Croce, 130, 70125 Bari BA, Italy.

19. Shop till you drop on Via Sparano.

If shopping is your thing, then head to Via Sparano, one of the most famous shopping streets in Bari. There are beautiful ornate buildings (such as the Mincuzzi building below – originally a department store), designer shops, and independent boutiques.

One of the highlights of shopping on Via Sparano is the opportunity to discover local fashion and design brands, as well as international brands.

Many of the shops here are owned by local designers and artisans.

Historic ornate building with intricate carvings, a dome, and multiple windows, under a partly cloudy sky.
Via Sparano
Various hats displayed on shelves, including fedoras, straw hats, and caps, with a woven basket hanging on the right.

In addition to shopping, Via Sparano also offers plenty of cafes, restaurants, and bars along the street.

20. Be amazed at the Museo del Succorpo della Cattedrale.

The Museo del Succorpo della Cathedrale, also known as the Cathedral Museum of Bari, is hidden in the basement of the Cathedral of San Sabino.

It contains a collection of Byzantine and Romanesque sculptures and reliefs dating back to the 11th and 12th centuries. These pieces were originally part of the cathedral’s façade and interior but were removed and preserved over time.

One of the museum’s highlights is the underground crypt, which contains the remains of the original church that stood on the site before the current cathedral was built.

📍Piazza dell’Odegitria, 24, 70122 Bari BA, Italy.

Small boats float on calm water near historic stone buildings and a church at dusk.
Bari Old Town

21. Visit Bari fish market.

The Bari Fish Market, or Mercato del Pesce, is an energetic marketplace located in the heart of Bari’s old town.

Every morning, boats full of freshly caught fish arrive and are unloaded onto the market’s tables. A wide selection of freshly caught seafood is on offer, including fish, clams, mussels, squid, and octopus.

The market is known for its high-quality products, which are sourced from local fishermen and sold at reasonable prices.

Plates of assorted seafood, including shrimp, octopus, and shellfish, displayed on a market table with lemon wedges.
Street food market in Bari.

In addition to buying seafood, you can also enjoy a meal at one of the market’s many seafood restaurants. These restaurants offer a range of fresh and delicious seafood dishes, often prepared right in front of the customer.

📍Piazza del Ferrarese, 13, 70122 Bari BA, Italy.

Map of things to do in Bari

FAQs about things to do in Bari.

Below are some frequently asked questions about things to do in Bari.

Q: What is the best time to visit Bari, Italy?

A: The best time to visit Bari is during the spring and fall seasons, which are typically from April to June and September to November, respectively. The weather is mild, and there are fewer crowds than during the summer months.

Q: How do I get to Bari?

A: Bari has an international airport, Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport, which is served by several airlines. Alternatively, you can reach Bari by train, car or bus from other parts of Italy.

Q: Do I need a car for a trip in Puglia? 

A: Renting a car is highly recommended for a Puglia Italy trip, as it provides the flexibility to explore the region at your own pace and reach the more remote areas. It allows you to add multiple destinations to your Puglia trip itinerary and access the beautiful countryside and coastal areas with ease. I use Discover Cars, which is a brilliant car comparison site.

It is possible to travel in Puglia using public transport, but it would take a lot longer.

Q: What are some must-see attractions in Bari?

A: Some must-see attractions in Bari include the Basilica di San Nicola, the Castello Svevo, and the historic old town. Visitors should also explore the city’s vibrant markets, such as the Bari fish market.

Q: What are some traditional dishes to try in Bari?

A: Bari is known for its delicious cuisine, and visitors should try some traditional dishes, such as orecchiette pasta with broccoli rabe, tiella di riso (a baked rice dish), and focaccia barese. A popular street food Bari dish is panzerotti (or panzerotto singular). Puglia has lots of famous wines too.

Q: What are some good day trips to take from Bari?

A: There are many great day trips from Bari, including Alberobello, Castel del Monte and Matera.

Here are some group tours you could join:

Polignano a Mare – boat trip to see caves and Polignano a Mare with refreshments and swimming stop.
Alberobello, Monopoli & Polignano – all three towns in one private trip.
Castel del Monte and Trani – including cathedral visit.
Alberobello and Matera – see two UNESCO sites in one day.

Q: Is Bari safe for tourists?

A: Bari is generally safe for tourists, but like any city, visitors should take basic precautions such as being aware of their surroundings and not leaving valuables unattended. It is also recommended to avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas.
Here are some of my favourite travel safety recommendations from Amazon:

Pin for later – things to do in Bari

If you enjoyed this post about things to do in Bari, feel free to use these images to pin the post to your Pinterest account, for later reading.

Front of a historic stone building in Bari, Italy, with statues and circular window, under a banner reading, "What to do in Bari, Puglia.
Collage of Bari, Puglia showing a church, colorful street, boats on water, and a historic building with text: "24 Things to Do in Bari, Puglia." Links to www.hazeltravels.co.uk.

Quick links for Bari.

In a hurry? Here are some quick Links for Bari:

General Travel Resources:

Booking.com is the best site for hotels with free reservation and cancellations.
Viator and Get Your Guide are the best sites for tours and activities.
Discover Cars is the best comparison site for car rentals.
Trip.com is good for booking flights and packages.
See my Travel Resources page for a full list of helpful booking links.

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