Bari Italy Itinerary
Crafting the perfect Puglia holiday can be an exhilarating journey in itself. If you're considering including Bari in your next adventure, look no further. This comprehensive guide presents the best places to visit in Bari Puglia. Let's dive in!
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Practical Information:
Location: Bari is positioned on the eastern coast of the Apulian peninsula, overlooking the Adriatic Sea. It is strategically located between the Adriatic and the Apennine Mountains, offering stunning coastal views and easy access to both the sea and the rugged terrain of the Apennines. The city of Bari is well-connected to other parts of Italy and Europe, with its international airport, Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport, serving as a major transportation hub for the region.
Transportation & Exploration: to get around Bari's city center, on foot, you will be able to see all the important sights. Please note that parking a car is very hard, therefore plan before your vacation. The best way to go is to find a hotel that provides a parking spot. Alternatively, you can park your car outside the city center, several park-and-ride options will provide a public bus to get into the city (that runs every 20 minutes). I picked Park and Ride Bread and Tomato, which cost 1€ for 24 hours. You can leave the car here overnight.
Weather: Bari experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. Here's an overview of the weather in Bari throughout the year:
-- Summer (June to August): average temperatures range from 19°C to 29°C (66°F to 84°F) in June, reaching highs of 22°C to 31°C (72°F to 88°F) in July and August. Summer is the peak tourist season in Bari, with warm weather perfect for beach activities, outdoor dining, and sightseeing. However, it can be crowded, especially in popular tourist areas.
-- Autumn (September to November): average temperatures range from 18°C to 26°C (64°F to 79°F) in September, cooling to 13°C to 19°C (55°F to 66°F) in November. While early autumn can still be warm and pleasant, late autumn may bring occasional rain showers and cooler temperatures. It's still a good time to visit Bari, with fewer crowds and lower accommodation prices.
--Winter (December to February): average temperatures range from 8°C to 12°C (46°F to 54°F) in December and January, rising slightly to 9°C to 14°C (48°F to 57°F) in February. Winter is the wettest season in Bari, with occasional storms and cloudy days. While temperatures rarely drop below freezing, it's advisable to pack warm clothing and an umbrella if visiting during this time.
--Spring (March to May): average temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F) in March, rising to 14°C to 24°C (57°F to 75°F) by May. Spring is a pleasant time to visit Bari, with blooming flowers, fewer tourists, and ideal conditions for exploring the city and nearby attractions.
Accommodation: finding accommodation in Bari is relatively easy, as the city offers a wide range of options to suit every budget and preference. The huge problem was to find a hotel which was able to provide a parking spot. At the end, I decided to stay outside the city center, at Valentino hotel, which I highly recommend since it's quite affordable.
Bari Italy Sightseeing:
Bari, the capital of Italy's Puglia region, is a vibrant city with a rich history, a charming old town, and a beautiful seaside promenade. You can book on Get Your Guide many tours and experiences, and to hire a guide to truly understand the history and culture of this city.
Things to do in Bari:
Bari Vecchia (Old Town)
Explore the narrow alleys and historic buildings of Bari's old town, which is divided into three main areas: the Medieval Quarter, the Romanesque Quarter, and the Renaissance Quarter. Highlights include the Basilica di San Nicola, the Cathedral of San Sabino, and the Swabian Castle.
Basilica di San Nicola
Visit this important pilgrimage site dedicated to Saint Nicholas, also known as Santa Claus. Admire the stunning architecture, beautiful mosaics, and the crypt where the relics of Saint Nicholas are kept. Free to enter.
Castello Svevo (Swabian Castle)
Explore this imposing fortress, built by the Normans in the 12th century and later expanded by the Swabians. Climb the ramparts for panoramic views of the city and sea. It costs 6€.
Cattedrale di San Sabino (Cathedral of San Sabino)
Marvel at the Romanesque architecture of this ancient cathedral, which dates back to the 12th century. Admire its intricate stone carvings, elegant columns, and beautiful frescoes. Free to enter.
Piazza del Ferrarese
Relax in this bustling square, surrounded by cafes, restaurants, and shops. It's a great place to soak up the lively atmosphere of Bari and watch the world go by.
Promenade Lungomare Nazario Sauro
Take a leisurely stroll along Bari's picturesque seafront promenade, lined with palm trees, cafes, and gelaterias. Enjoy views of the Adriatic Sea and watch the sunset over the horizon.
La Strada delle Orecchiette
The "Strada delle Orecchiette" (Bari pasta street) in Bari, Italy, is a charming and picturesque street known for its traditional handmade pasta. Orecchiette, which translates to "little ears" in Italian, is a type of pasta that's particularly popular in the Puglia region, where Bari is located. This street is famous for its many small shops and stalls where local women make and sell orecchiette pasta by hand. Walking along the Strada delle Orecchiette, you can witness the fascinating process of pasta-making and even have the opportunity to taste some freshly prepared pasta dishes. Aside from orecchiette, you'll find other local specialties and souvenirs along the street, making it a delightful destination for food enthusiasts and travelers interested in experiencing authentic Italian cuisine and culture.
Food from Bari Italy
Bari boasts a rich culinary tradition. Here's a glimpse into the delicious world of Bari's cuisine:
Panzerotti: panzerotti are one of Bari's most beloved street foods. These deep-fried turnovers are similar to calzones but typically smaller and filled with a variety of ingredients such as tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and sometimes ham or other meats. They're crispy on the outside and wonderfully gooey on the inside, making them a perfect snack or quick meal.
Orecchiette alle Cime di Rapa: orecchiette pasta, shaped like little ears, is a staple in Apulian cuisine, and one of the most iconic dishes featuring them is Orecchiette alle Cime di Rapa. The pasta is typically paired with sautéed turnip greens, garlic, chili flakes, and sometimes anchovies or grated cheese. It's a simple yet flavorful dish that showcases the region's fresh produce.
Taralli: taralli are small, crunchy bread snacks that are popular throughout southern Italy, including Bari. They're typically made with flour, olive oil, white wine, and sometimes fennel seeds or other spices. Taralli come in various flavors and are often enjoyed as a snack with a glass of wine or served alongside antipasti.
Crudo di mare: typically, crudo di mare consists of thinly sliced raw seafood, such as fish, shellfish, or crustaceans, served with minimal seasoning to allow the natural flavors of the seafood to shine. Lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, and a sprinkle of sea salt are often used to enhance the taste.
This dish is typically served as an appetizer or starter, showcasing the freshness and quality of the region's seafood. One restaurant where you can taste fish dishes at affordable prices in Bari: Nicolaus - Il Bistrot dal Mare. Here you can also order Ricci di mare (sea urchin roe) a must to try. You will not see them listed in the menu, but ask for them.
In summary, exploring Puglia offers a diverse range of experiences, from the unique trulli houses to the charming towns and beautiful coastline. This itinerary provides a glimpse into the region's cultural heritage and natural beauty, promising an unforgettable journey through one of Italy's most enchanting regions. Get ready to immerse yourself in history, cuisine, and breathtaking scenery. Buon viaggio!