Bari, with its international airport, will certainly be your gateway to Puglia.
Take the opportunity to discover the charm of its medieval old town, in the Borgo Antico, where Italian “mamas” prepare delicious “orecchiette“, fresh pasta in the shape of an ear, in the street.
In this article, we’ve put together a walking itinerary for you, along with our best addresses in Bari so you don’t miss a thing. Enjoy your reading!
How to get to Bari?
The international airport, Bari-Palese Macchie (Karol Wojtyła airport), is the largest in the Puglia region, around 20 minutes from the center of Bari. From France, there are regular direct flights at attractive rates (varying according to season and airline).
To reach the city center, you have two easy options: the AMTAB n°16 bus (approx. 45-55 minutes depending on traffic, economy ticket) or the Ferrotramviaria train from the airport to Bari Centrale (fast journey, approx. 15-20 minutes). Buy your tickets at the kiosk/app or at the points of sale for the best fares.
What to do in Bari in 1 day?
Our itinerary with our highlights on our map
Our itinerary starts in Borgo Murattiano, with its wide, straight streets, to admire two must-see buildings.
We then take you to the Borgo Antico, the heart of the walled old town, to admire its pretty facades, enter its beautiful churches and watch the making of the famous orecchiette. Finally, you’ll end your visit by walking along the coast to Bari beach.
1. The Mincuzzi Palace
This is one of Bari’s most interesting buildings, with its art nouveau architecture. This magnificent palace belongs to the Mincuzzi family, who built it in 1928.
Its facade features exuberant decorations and an imposing dome. You can also take a look inside (now a store), all in marble: admission is generally free during opening hours.
2. The Petruzzelli Theater
An unmissable building with a photogenic red façade. Built in the early 20th century, it has been completely restored to its original condition after a fire.
A guided tour of the gilded interior is available to learn more about its history. For shows, the online ticketing service remains the reference: availability and prices vary according to the program.
To attend a performance, reduced-visibility seats are available at low prices. Book on the official website.
3. Piazza del Ferrarese
A large , airy square lined with cafés and restaurants, contrasting with the narrow streets of the old town. From here, you can see the sea and the lungomare, the seaside promenade ideal for passeggiata at sunset.
4. Via delle Orecchiette and its orecchiette
The name comes from the shape of the pasta: a concave disk, smooth on one side and rough on the other, reminiscent of a small ear.
This little street is well worth a visit to watch Italian mamas making orecchiette. You can sometimes buy them directly (prices vary, often around €5/kg). Eat them quickly: ultra-fresh products with no preservatives.
5. The “Norman castle” svevo di Bari
Take a detour to this 12th-century castle. The fortress impresses with its size and austere appearance right in the center of town.
The interior has undergone a number of changes over the last few years, with new paths and exhibitions. Find out about opening times and current prices: discounts are available according to period and visitor category.
6. The Cathedral of San Sabino
A large, beautiful cathedral, with a superb Romanesque rose window on the façade (12th century). Its immense campanile can be seen from afar. Built on the remains of a Byzantine church, the crypt preserves some remarkable elements, which can be viewed according to the visiting schedule.
7. The Mercantile Plaza
The square in the heart of the historic district. Perfect for a gelato before resuming your stroll. In summer evenings, the atmosphere is very lively: remember to make a reservation if you’re aiming for a specific restaurant.
8. The Basilica of San Nicola
A must-see in Bari Vecchia. Its sober facade flanked by two square towers invites you to enter; the building (late 11th-early 12th century) houses the relics of Saint Nicholas. Please respect the peacefulness of the site and dress appropriately in summer.
Inside, admire the magnificent painted ceiling and the crypt, when open to visitors.
Does this saint’s name ring a bell? No wonder: Saint Nicholas is celebrated in December in several European countries (Netherlands, Serbia, Ukraine…).
9. A walk by the sea on the Lungomare (Porto di Bari)
One of the most beautiful seawalls in southern Italy. We recommend you start from the harbor master’s office and walk down to the Pane e Pomodoro urban beach.
Panoramic views of the Adriatic and the old town, benches for a break, and a local atmosphere at the end of the day: perfect for the passeggiata.
10. The beach of Pane e Pomodoro
Urban beach just a few minutes’ walk from the center of Bari, ideal for relaxing after sightseeing. Place your towel on the sand or rocks, depending on the space available.
Ideas for activities and guided tours of Bari
Bari is full of activities: book your excursions before you leave to save time on site.
➡️ Book your guided bike tour (≈ 2 h): ideal for the main centers of interest (San Nicola basilica, San Sabino cathedral, Swabian castle, theaters, squares…) and plenty ofanecdotes with a local guide.
➡️ Not a fan of cycling? Opt for a guided segway tour (≈ 1 h) to see as many places as possible in a short time.
➡️ Last idea, a half-day sailing cruise from Bari: crystal-clear water, swimming and great views of the coast.
The most beautiful beaches around Bari
The most beautiful beaches in the area are to the south of Bari, easily accessible by train or car.
The unmissable Lama Monachile: one of Puglia’s most beautiful beaches, with crystal-clear waters nestling between the rocks of the lovely village of Polignano a Mare. Plan to arrive early in high season.
Spiaggia la Scaletta, just a few minutes from Monopoli: clear sand, translucent water, small coves one after the other. Wilderness atmosphere, no services: bring water/shade.
Spiaggia di porto marzano, a few kilometers from Monopoli and 20 minutes fromAlberobello: magnificent sandy cove with clear water. Perfect for a relaxing afternoon (parking charges may apply depending on the season).
Practical information (car rental, hotel and restaurants)
Where to rent a car?
The best way to explore Puglia is to rent a car. Total freedom on the itinerary, and photo stops whenever you like. Compare offers early to get good rates, and check deposits/franchises/insurance.
Car rental: To compare car rental prices, we recommend the RentalCars website, which compares the prices of hundreds of car rental companies to find the best price.
A charming hotel in the city center
Il Pumo – Apulian Rooms Bari Piazza Moro, a 10-minute walk from the old town: comfortable rooms, tastefully decorated, impeccably clean. Autonomous check-in by code, very practical if you arrive late.
Are you looking for a place to stay during your stay in Puglia ? To help you, find out more about our tips in Where to stay in Puglia our best addresses for hotels and unusual accommodation.
Where to taste good Italian specialties?
- Chez Magda for a quick bite to eat: arancini, focaccia barese and daily specials. Don’t count the calories!
- At Mastro Ciccio for sandwiches, burgers and pizzas made with good local produce. Try spaghetti all’assassina when you find it on the menu.
What to do in Puglia?
- Visit the coastal towns of Monopoli and Polignano a Mare
- Visit the village ofAlberobello
- Discover the incredible town of Matera and its sassi
Take the opportunity to stay in a Masseria: charming addresses with swimming pools, the local equivalent of our bed & breakfasts. Very popular in summer, book early.
We wish you an excellent trip! Don’t hesitate to leave us a note or 5 stars below if you’re planning this trip, or ask us any questions you may have, here or on Instagram: we’ll be delighted to answer them.
