Itineraries for Your Trip to Bari
1 Day in Bari for First Timers
1st-person intro: Bustling Bari is the largest metropolis in Puglia and a major port on the Adriatic Sea. For many years, I considered the city to be merely a jumping-off point for visiting Greece and other Mediterranean destinations that can be reached by ferry or cruise ship. However, I have recently started pausing longer to enjoy the city's charms, from Bari Vecchia—the atmospheric old town with its warren of maze-like lanes, lively squares, and storied churches—to its Lungomare Nazario Sauro (waterfront promenade), with a cosmopolitan nightlife that showcases the city’s trendy side.
Don’t make the same mistake I did and overlook this historic, culture-rich city when passing through. Instead, follow this itinerary for one day in Bari to spend time exploring its historic sights, sampling the local cuisine, and soaking in its relaxed atmosphere.
If you only have time for one thing, make it a stop at Strada Arco Basso to watch local women make orecchiette pasta.
Temperatures in Bari soar in summer, so come prepared with a hat, sunscreen, and light clothing.
Begin with a walking tour through the old town to cover the top historic landmarks and must-see attractions in Bari in just a few hours without the hassle of following a guidebook and map. Most itineraries cover such headliners as the Swabian Castle and the St. Nicholas Basilica, as well as the main Piazza del Ferrarese and the city’s cathedral, dedicated to San Sabino. Some tours also make a stop at the Strada delle Orecchiette, known for the local women who sit outside their homes making orecchiette pasta along the lane.
In the afternoon, take a break from the bustling town of Bari and head to the towering Castel del Monte, set a short distance from the city. This impressive 13th-century fortress is one of the most famous built during Frederick II’s reign, and a guided tour is a must to appreciate this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Alternatively, take a quick day trip to the nearby coastal town of Trani, which is connected via public transportation from Bari Centrale Station. Stroll through its charming old town, home to a picture-perfect Norman cathedral, and a harbor filled with bobbing boats.
No guide on how to spend one day in Bari would be complete without at least a few hours dedicated to the local cuisine. One of the best things to do in Bari for first-timers is a street food tour through Bari’s old town, which includes tastings of regional specialties, including focaccia and gelato. Aspiring home chefs can also opt for a hands-on cooking class to discover the secrets to preparing fresh orecchiette pasta and other classic dishes, capped off by a sit-down dinner to sample your handiwork.
