Are you looking for the perfect day trips from Bari? There are plenty of fantastic options to explore when you base yourself in this wonderful city in the Puglia region. This post will help you make a choice about which day trip from Bari is the best for you.

In the sunny town square reminiscent of Alberobello, 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
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As someone who has explored Puglia as a solo traveller, I can attest to the region’s stunning beauty and abundance of attractions. My latest visit to the region was in April 2023. If you’re planning a trip to Puglia, you may find my other Puglia posts useful for inspiration and planning.

Day trips from Bari – introduction.

This guide provides information about 10 of the best day trips from the city of Bari. I have included how to get to each destination by train, bus or car, along with recommendations on what to do when you arrive.

Additionally, I’ll suggest tours that offer hotel pickup and a guide for the day, should you prefer a more structured excursion.

There is also a map at the bottom of the post and FAQs about day trips from Bari.

Before delving into the specifics, here is a quick overview of the 10 best day trips from Bari.

  1. Alberobello
  2. Matera
  3. Polignano a Mare
  4. Trani
  5. Ostuni
  6. Castel del Monte
  7. Castellana Caves
  8. Lecce
  9. Taranto
  10. Monte Sant’Angelo

Read on for the full list of day trips to take from Bari.

1. Alberobello.

The whitewashed town of Alberobello is located about 50km southeast of Bari. The town is a listed UNESCO world heritage site for its historical conical houses known as ‘trulli’. These houses are made of local limestone and were built without mortar, using a prehistoric building technique. Everywhere you look in Alberobello there is a beautiful photo opportunity.

Nestled in the heart of Alberobello, a village boasts white, conical-roofed houses, framed by lush trees with a palm tree standing prominently in the foreground.

What to do in Alberobello

The town’s main attraction is the unique trulli houses, which can be found throughout the town. You can take a guided walking tour to explore the trulli and learn about their history and significance.

In addition to its historical attractions, Alberobello is also known for its delicious local cuisine, including homemade pasta, olive oil, and wine. You can enjoy traditional dishes at one of the many restaurants in Alberobello, or try out a local street food tour.

If you have more time to spend in Alberobello, you can also explore the surrounding countryside and Itria Valley, which is dotted with olive groves and vineyards. Cycling tours and hiking tours are very popular. For the full Alberobello experience, you could stay overnight in a trulli – read about my trullo experience here.

A person with long hair and sunglasses takes a selfie in front of the iconic conical-roofed trulli buildings of Alberobello, under a clear blue sky.
Alberobello rooftops

How to get to Alberobello from Bari

The journey from Bari to Alberobello takes around 1 hour by car, 1.5 hours by train, or 2 hours by bus.

The easiest way to get to Alberobello is by renting a car in Bari and driving along the scenic coastal road before heading inland towards Alberobello.

  • Drive: Start by heading south on the SS16/E55 towards Brindisi. After about 40km, take the exit for Alberobello and follow the signs into town.
  • Train: take the Ferrovie del Sud Est (FSE) train from Bari to Alberobello. The journey takes around 1.5 hours and the train station in Alberobello is near the town centre.
  • Bus: Take a regional bus from Bari Largo Sorrentino to Alberobello, which is operated by the Ferrovie del Sud Est (FSE) bus company. The journey takes around 2 hours and the bus station in Alberobello is near the town centre.
  • Tour: Get hotel pickup with one of the guided tours I have listed below.

Organised trips and tours from Bari to Alberobello

2. Matera & UNESCO Sassi Caves

The ancient city of Matera is a beautiful and historic city located in the Basilicata region of southern Italy, about 65km southwest of Bari. The city is known for its fascinating Sassi, or cave dwellings, which were inhabited for thousands of years and have now been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Panoramic view of Matera, Italy, one of the best places to stay in Puglia; its stone buildings and a prominent church tower stand majestically under a partly cloudy sky.
Ancient dwellings of Matera

What to do in Matera

The Sassi of Matera are the city’s main attraction, and you can take a guided tour to explore the ancient cave dwellings and learn about the history of the city. You can also visit the Cathedral of Matera, which is located in the heart of the city and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

If you have the time to stay in Matera overnight, I recommend staying in a stunning cave hotel and seeing the city all lit up in the evening – it is truly spectacular.

How to get to Matera from Bari

To get to Matera from Bari, you can take a bus or drive. The journey takes around 1 hour by car or 1.5 hours by bus.

  • Drive: Take the SS7 towards Altamura, then continue on the SS99 towards Matera.
  • Bus: Take a regional bus from Bari Centrale to Matera, which is operated by Itabus or Marinobus. The journey takes around 1.5 hours and the bus station in Matera is located near the city centre.
  • Tour: Enjoy hotel pickup with one of the guided tours I have listed below.

Organised tours and trips from Bari to Matera

3. Polignano a Mare

Polignano a Mare is a beautiful town located in the southern Italian region of Apulia. It is situated on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Adriatic Sea and is famous for its gorgeous views, historic architecture, and 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

What to do in Polignano a Mare

One of the main attractions is the old town, which is perched on a rocky cliff overlooking the sea. Here, you can wander the narrow streets and admire the traditional whitewashed houses and balconies adorned with flowers. You can also visit the historic churches and buildings, such as the Chiesa di San Vito and the Palazzo dell’Archivio.

Another must-see attraction is the stunning beach at Lama Monachile. This small, rocky cove is surrounded by high cliffs and crystal-clear water, making it a perfect spot for swimming and sunbathing.

There are also several other beaches in the area, including Cala Paura and Porto Cavallo, which are both within walking distance of the town centre.

The beaches here are one of the most popular day trips from Bari – be aware they can get crowded during peak season.

How to get to Polignano a Mare from Bari

To get to Polignano a Mare from Bari, you have several options.

  • Drive: Take the SS16/E55 southbound and exit towards Polignano a Mare. Follow the signs into town and you will reach your destination in approximately 30 minutes.
  • Train: Take a Trenitalia train from Bari Centrale train station. The journey takes around 20-30 minutes. Once you arrive at Polignano a Mare station, you can walk to the town in about 10-15 minutes (or get a taxi).
  • Bus: Take a Flixbus from Bari (Via Capruzzi) all the way down the coast. The bus station in Polignano a Mare is located in Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II, which is just a few minutes’ walk from the town centre.
  • Boat: A different but very popular option is to arrive by boat. See my tour recommendations at the end of this section for some boat tours going from Bari harbour to Polignano.

Organised tours and trips to Polignano a Mare from Bari

4. Trani

Trani is a coastal town located 52km from Bari. It is known for its beautiful Romanesque architecture, historic harbour, and stunning views of the Adriatic Sea.

Colorful fishing boats float in Trani's calm harbor, framed by historic stone buildings and a church, all under a clear blue sky.
Trani, Puglia

What to do in Trani

One of the main attractions is the stunning harbour, which is lined with historic buildings and fishing boats. You can also visit the Cathedral of St. Nicholas the Pilgrim, a beautiful Romanesque church that dates back to the 12th century.

Another must-see attraction is the Swabian Castle, a medieval fortress that overlooks the sea. The castle is open to the public and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Trani is also famous for its seafood, and there are plenty of restaurants in the town centre where you can sample fresh seafood dishes. Some popular local specialties include oysters, mussels, and sea urchins.

How to get to Trani from Bari

  • Train: Take a Trenitalia train from Bari Centrale train station. The journey takes around 40 minutes. Once you arrive at Trani station, you can walk to the town in about 10-15 minutes.
  • Drive: Take the SS16/E55 in the direction of Barletta. After about 30km, take the exit for Trani and follow the signs into town.
  • Bus: There are three different bus companies, but they each only run one bus per day to Trani. Check here or ask at the train station for further details.

Organised tours and trips to Trani from Bari

5. Ostuni

Ostuni (also known as the ‘White City’) is a beautiful hilltop town located 80km south of Bari. It is known for its historic whitewashed houses, narrow winding streets, and stunning views of the Adriatic Sea.

The view captures a historic town with white buildings cascading down a hillside under a clear blue sky, embodying the charm of one of the best places to stay in Puglia.
Ostuni, Puglia

What to do in Ostuni

One of the main attractions in Ostuni is the historic old town, which is characterised by its narrow streets and whitewashed houses. You can wander around the town’s labyrinthine alleys and admire the traditional architecture, which dates back to the Middle Ages.

Another must-see attraction is the Ostuni Cathedral, a beautiful 15th-century church that sits at the highest point of the town. The cathedral features a stunning rose window and a baroque-style interior with ornate decorations and frescoes.

In addition to its historic attractions, Ostuni is also known for its beautiful beaches, such as Torre Pozzelle and Rosa Marina. These beaches are located just a short drive from the town centre and offer crystal-clear water and pristine sandy beaches.

How to get to Ostuni from Bari

The easiest way to get to Ostuni is to drive – either by renting a car in Bari or going on an organised tour (see tour section below).

  • Train: Take a Trenitalia train from Bari Centrale. The journey takes around 1 hour. Once you arrive at Ostuni station, you can take a short taxi ride or walk uphill for about 20-25 minutes to reach the town centre.
  • Drive: take the SS16/E55 southbound towards Brindisi. Take the exit for Ostuni and follow the signs into town. The journey takes approximately 1 hour 15 minutes.
  • Bus: The buses are operated by Flixbus and Itabus, and there may be a limited service depending on the day. The bus journey takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Organised tours and trips to Ostuni from Bari

6. Castel Del Monte

One of the more intriguing day trips from Bari, Castel Del Monte has been mystifying historians for centuries. It is a medieval castle located about 60km northwest of Bari, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The original purpose of this castle remains unclear, although recent discoveries on site suggest it may have been used for more than just aesthetic purposes.

Castel del Monte, a medieval stone fortress with an octagonal shape, stands under a partly cloudy sky surrounded by the lush greenery of Puglia, echoing the charm of Alberobello's unique landscape.
Castel del Monte

What to do at Castel del Monte

Once you arrive at Castel Del Monte, you can take a guided tour of the castle to learn about its history and architecture. The castle was built in the 13th century by the Holy Roman Emperor Frederick II and is known for its unique octagonal shape and impressive defence system.

You can also explore the castle’s interior, which features a series of rooms and halls with ornate decorations and impressive frescoes.

The castle is surrounded by vineyards, so you could combine your tour of world heritage sites with some relaxed wine tasting too!

How to get to Castel Del Monte from Bari

To get to Castel Del Monte from Bari, the easiest way is to take a rental car or a taxi. Public transport requires a bit more effort for this trip.

  • Drive: Take the SS96 towards Andria, then follow the signs to the castle. The journey takes approximately 1 hour, covering a distance of approximately 60km.
  • Bus: Take a Flixbus from Bari to Andria, the nearest town to Castel Del Monte. It takes about 1 hour 20 minutes. Then take a taxi to the castle, or there is a local bus which takes about 20 minutes. The castle is located just a short walk from the bus stop.
  • Train: take a Ferrovienord train to Andria (it takes about 50 minutes). Once you arrive in Andria, you can take a taxi to reach the castle, or there is a local bus.

If you like to hike, there is also a hiking trail from Andria to Castel Del Monte. The trail is well-marked and takes approximately 2-3 hours to complete, depending on your pace. Along the way, you can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding countryside and admire the castle from a distance before arriving at the main entrance.

Organised tours and trips to Castel del Monte from Bari

7. Castellana Caves

The Castellana Caves are a spectacular series of limestone caves located in the Apulia region of southern Italy, about 40km south of Bari. The caves are one of the most popular tourist attractions in the region in the region and are known for their stunning rock formations, underground lakes, and vast network of tunnels.

A cavernous underground space with large, irregularly shaped rock formations and various light sources illuminating the scene.
Castellana Grotte

What to do at Castellana Caves

Once you arrive at the Castellana Caves, you can choose from several guided tours to explore the underground wonderland. The tours vary in length and difficulty and offer a unique experience to discover the caves’ beauty.

The classic tour is the most popular and takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. It covers a distance of about 1.5km and leads visitors through a series of spectacular chambers, such as the White Grotto, the Black Grotto, and the Cave of the Monuments.

If you are feeling more adventurous, you can opt for a longer tour that takes you deeper into the caves’ network of tunnels and leads you to see underground lakes and waterfalls. The longest tour lasts about 3 hours and covers a distance of about 3km.

The caves are one of the most popular day trips from Bari – they do get busy in high season.

How to get to Castellana Caves from Bari

To get to the Castellana Caves from Bari, you can drive or take an FSE bus to the nearby town of Castellana Grotte.

  • Drive: Take the SS16/E55 southbound towards Brindisi. After approximately 35km, take the exit for Castellana Grotte and follow the signs to the caves. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes.
  • Bus: Take an FSE bus from Bari Centrale to Castellana Grotte. The bus station in Castellana Grotte is located near the cave entrance. It takes about 1 hour 10 minutes.

Organised tours and trips to the Castellana Caves from Bari

8. Lecce

Lecce is a beautiful ancient city located about 160km south of Bari, known as the ‘Florence of the South’. The city is famous for its Baroque architecture, charming narrow streets, and delicious local cuisine.

You could spend a whole day here, so consider making it one of your longer day trips from Bari, if you can spare the time.

Nestled in the heart of Puglia, the ancient Roman amphitheater in Lecce boasts stone seating surrounded by historic buildings, all under a vibrant blue sky.
Lecce, Puglia

What to do in Lecce

The city’s historic centre is a maze of narrow streets and charming piazzas, where you can admire the magnificent Baroque buildings, such as the Basilica di Santa Croce and the Palazzo dei Celestini. You can also visit the Roman Amphitheatre, the Cathedral of Lecce, and the Castle of Charles V.

In addition to its architectural wonders, Lecce is also renowned for its delicious local cuisine. Some of the must-try dishes include orecchiette pasta with tomato sauce and ricotta cheese, grilled lamb chops, and pasticciotto, a traditional sweet pastry filled with cream.

How to get to Lecce from Bari

The quickest and cheapest way to get to Lecce is by train.

  • Train: There are several Trenitalia trains running to Lecce from Bari Centrale station. The trains are comfortable, affordable, and offer stunning views of the Apulian countryside. The journey takes 1 hour and 40 minutes. Once you arrive at Lecce station, you can take a short walk or a taxi to reach the city centre.
  • Drive: Take the SS16/E55 southbound towards Brindisi, then take the exit for the SS613 towards Lecce. Follow the signs into town, and the journey takes approximately 2 hours, covering a distance of approximately 155km.
  • Bus: Take a Flixbus bus from Bari Via Capruzzi to Brindisi (1 hour 40 minutes). Then switch to a bus to Lecce from Brindisi (30 minutes). The journey takes between 3 and 4 hours, depending on the length of time you have to wait for your connection.

Organised tours and trips to Lecce from Bari

9. Taranto

Taranto is a ‘city of two seas’ located about 90km south of Bari. It is known for its beautiful old town, ancient Greek ruins, 15th century castle, cathedral and stunning seaside views. Taranto is one of the furthest-distance day trips from Bari, but still remains a popular spot.

Aerial view of a coastal city with a historic stone fortress on the left, modern buildings on the right, and a bridge connecting both over calm blue water.
Taranto

What to do in Taranto

The city’s old town is a maze of narrow streets and charming squares, where you can admire the beautiful Baroque architecture, such as the Cathedral of San Cataldo and the Church of San Domenico. You can also visit the ancient Greek ruins of the city of Taras, which date back to the 8th century BC.

One of the highlights of Taranto is its beautiful seaside promenade, where you can take a stroll and enjoy stunning views of the Ionian Sea. You can also visit the Aragonese Castle, which was built in the 15th century and offers a fantastic view of the city and the sea.

Stone fortress with rounded towers on a waterfront, featuring palm trees and a clear blue sky.
Taranto

How to get to Taranto from Bari

The best way to get to Taranto is to take a rental car and drive.

  • Drive: take the SS16/E55 southbound towards Taranto. After approximately 80km, take the exit for Taranto and follow the signs into town. The journey takes approximately 1 hour, covering a distance of approximately 90 km.
  • Train: The journey by Trenitalia train takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, and there are several trains that run throughout the day from Bari Centrale station. Once you arrive at Taranto station, you will need to take a taxi or a bus to reach the city centre.
  • Bus: Take a bus from Bari Viale Unità d’Italia to Taranto Porto Mercantile. The journey takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Organised tours and trips to Taranto from Bari

10. Monte Sant’Angelo

Monte Sant’Angelo is a small town located in the Gargano National Park. It is not the closest of day trips from Bari, but it is known for its ancient history, stunning views, and religious significance. The town is located approximately 150km northeast of Bari.

A hillside town with clusters of white and gray buildings, featuring red-tiled roofs, under a clear blue sky.
Monte Sant’Angelo

What to do in Monte Sant’Angelo

The town is known for the Sanctuary of San Michele Arcangelo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that attracts pilgrims from all over the world. The sanctuary is located on the top of a hill and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Stone building facade with arches, religious statues, and a cross on the roof. The sky is clear and blue.
Famous Archangel Michael pilgrimage church

You can also visit the Castle of Monte Sant’Angelo, a medieval fortress that was built by the Normans in the 10th century. The castle offers a fantastic view of the town and the sea.

In addition to its historical and religious attractions, Monte Sant’Angelo is also known for its delicious local cuisine, including fresh seafood and local cheeses. You can enjoy traditional dishes at one of the many restaurants in the town centre.

How to get to Monte Sant’Angelo from Bari

To get to Monte Sant’Angelo from Bari, you can take two buses or drive. The journey takes around 2 hours by car or 3 hours by bus.

The easiest way to get to Monte Sant’Angelo is by renting a car in Bari and driving along the scenic coastal road. The journey takes you through the charming towns of Trani, Barletta, and Margherita di Savoia before reaching Monte Sant’Angelo.

  • Drive: Take the A14 towards Foggia, then take the exit for the A16 towards Napoli. After approximately 30km, take the exit for Monte Sant’Angelo and follow the signs into town. The journey takes approximately 2 hours, covering a distance of approximately 160km.
  • Bus: Take a regional bus from Bari Via Capruzzi to Manfredonia Capitaneria (in Foggia), and then switch to another bus to Monte Sant’Angelo. The bus service is operated by Sita Sud, and the journey takes around 3 hours. You may also be able to get a direct Flixbus, depending on the day.

Organised tours and trips to Monte Sant’Angelo from Bari

  • The spiritual sanctuary of Archangel St Michael: Guided tour of the sanctuary which avoids all the street peddlers and queueing. Visit the castle, caves and museum. There is a local meeting point, but also an option to request Bari pickup.

Map of day trips for Bari – destinations

The Google map below shows all the day trips from Bari as listed in this post. Click the blue icons to see more information about each place, or click the star to add to your own Google Maps.

FAQs about day trips from Bari

Below are some frequently asked questions about day trips from Bari.

Q: Is it better to visit these destinations on a weekday or a weekend?

A: For Bari day trips, it’s generally better to visit on a weekday, as they can get quite crowded with tourists on weekends.

Q: What should I wear on Bari day trips?

A: You should dress comfortably and wear sturdy shoes, as many of these destinations have uneven terrain and steep hills. You should also dress appropriately for the weather, as it can get quite hot in the summer. Always use a decent sunscreen and take a packable sun hat. If you are visiting religious buildings, you will need a light scarf to cover your shoulder and/or legs.

Q: What are the best times of year to go on day trips from Bari?

A: The warm weather in summer makes it an ideal time for exploring outdoors. However, if you don’t mind chillier temperatures, winter and early spring can be great times to visit as they tend to be less crowded. Many people like to take advantage of long weekends or public holidays to plan longer trips away from Bari.

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 always 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: Are there any organised tours available for day trips from Bari?

A: Yes, several tour companies offer guided day trips from Bari to the most popular destinations in the area. Most tours include roundtrip transportation, guided visits to the attractions, and a traditional Italian lunch. Check my tour recommendations above, or click here to see the top rated Bari trips on Viator.

Q: Are there any food or drink specialties to try in these destinations?

A: Each destination has its own local specialties to try, but some general Apulian specialties include orecchiette pasta, burrata cheese, and local wines such as Primitivo and Negroamaro. See my street food tour in Bari review too.

Q: Can I visit the beach on a day trip from Bari?

A: Yes, you can visit the beach on a day trip from Bari. Polignano a Mare has a beautiful beach, as does the nearby town of Monopoli. I recommend this sand-repellent beach towel and cute picnic set for beach days. Check out 24 things to do in Bari for beach suggestions.

Q: What other cities and towns are close to Bari?

A: The region of Puglia has a lot to offer, with many interesting cities and towns within easy reach of Bari. Just a few hours away you can visit places such as Alberobello, Brindisi, Monopoli, Gallipoli, and Fasano – each offering something unique for visitors. You can find out more in my article about the top 14 towns in Puglia.

Q: Are there any safety concerns when travelling on a day trip from Bari?

A: Generally speaking, the Puglia region is quite safe for tourists.

As with anywhere you travel, it’s important to remain aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions such as not leaving valuables unattended in public places or walking alone at night.

If you’re planning to rent a car for your day trip, be sure to check that it is insured and in good condition before driving off.

For peace of mind, I recommend the following travel safety items (from Amazon).

Coastal road lined with cars, palm trees, and leafless trees beside a calm sea under a clear blue sky with scattered clouds.
View of Bari Lungomare

Pin for later – best day trips from Bari.

If you enjoyed this post about the best day trips from Bari, feel free to use the images below to pin the post to your Pinterest account, for reading later.

Collage of scenic locations in Bari, Puglia, Italy, including coastal and historic sites. Text reads: "10 Day Trips from Bari, Puglia" with travel website link.
Text reading "10 Best Day Trips from Bari, Italy" over a background of a whitewashed Italian hillside town. Website URL at the bottom.

Below are some further posts relating to this one about day trips to take from 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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