Bari, the capital of Puglia, is a sunlit city that embodies the authentic spirit of southern Italy — a mix of seafaring tradition, vibrant street life, and refined culture.
Leaning over the Adriatic Sea, Bari charms visitors with its historic old town, world-class cuisine, elegant Liberty-style architecture, and one of Italy’s most beautiful seafront promenades.
Whether you come for its art, food, or atmosphere, Bari is more than a stop — it’s an experience.
Why Visit Bari
As Puglia’s capital and gateway to the region, Bari offers a perfect blend of ancient soul and modern energy.
You can stroll along its famous Lungomare, explore medieval churches, and then sip an aperitivo while locals prepare homemade orecchiette on their doorsteps.
It’s a city where authentic traditions meet cosmopolitan flair, making it the perfect starting point for any journey through Puglia.
The 5 Best Things to Do in Bari
1. Walk the “Lungomare” and Visit the Port
Bari’s waterfront promenade, inaugurated in 1927, is one of Italy’s longest and most scenic seaside walks.
Stretching from the old port to the new, it’s lined with elegant Liberty-style buildings, palm trees, and sea breezes that make it ideal for sunrise jogs or sunset strolls.
At Molo San Nicola, fishermen sell the day’s fresh catch — octopus, sea urchins, mussels — while locals gather for an aperitif overlooking the sea and the Teatro Margherita, a stunning Art Nouveau theater built directly on the water.
2. Visit Teatro Petruzzelli
The Petruzzelli Theater is Bari’s pride and one of Italy’s grandest opera houses — the fourth largest in the country.
Built in 1903, it hosted world-class performances before being tragically destroyed by fire in 1991. Reborn in 2009, the theater today represents Bari’s cultural resilience and love for art.
Don’t miss the chance to attend an opera or guided tour: the restored interiors are a triumph of craftsmanship and elegance.
3. Explore the Norman-Swabian Castle
Built by Roger the Norman in 1131 and later rebuilt under Frederick II of Swabia, this fortress dominates the entrance to Bari Vecchia (Old Town).
Its towers, Gothic portal, and Renaissance courtyard tell stories of emperors, knights, and centuries of maritime defense.
From its ramparts, enjoy panoramic views of the sea and city skyline — a reminder of Bari’s historic importance as a crossroads of cultures.
4. Basilica di San Nicola
The Basilica of Saint Nicholas is Bari’s spiritual heart and one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in Europe.
Built in 1089 to house the relics of the saint — known worldwide as the inspiration for Santa Claus — it’s unique for welcoming both Catholic and Orthodox worshippers.
Inside, admire the gilded wooden ceilings, the silver altar, and the Chair of Elia, a Romanesque masterpiece.
Next door, the Museo Nicolaiano preserves relics, manuscripts, and votive treasures donated by pilgrims through the centuries.
5. Discover “Bari Vecchia” – The Old Town
Bari Vecchia (Old Bari) is a living postcard of southern Italy.
Between the old and new ports, its maze of cobblestone alleys reveals whitewashed houses, archways, and laundry fluttering in the sea breeze.
Here, life unfolds on the streets: women handmake orecchiette pasta on wooden boards, children play under ancient arches, and the aroma of panzerotti fills the air.
Within its walls, you’ll find the Basilica di San Nicola, the Cathedral of San Sabino (12th century), and the Fort of Sant’Antonio Abate, a 14th-century lookout over the Adriatic.
As evening falls, Bari Vecchia transforms into a lively hub of cafés, restaurants, and local nightlife — authentic, joyful, and full of southern warmth.
Plan Your Visit
Best time to visit: April–June and September–October for warm weather and fewer crowds.
How to get there: Bari International Airport is Puglia’s main hub, with direct flights from major European cities.
Perfect for: Travelers seeking art, history, food, and genuine Apulian atmosphere.
