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What Is There To Do In Bari, Italy?

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What Is There To Do In Bari, Italy?

Travelers to Bari, Italy, have no shortage of activities and attractions to explore. As with any city, the best way to discover the city’s hidden gems is to simply explore and enjoy all the unique sights, sounds, and flavours of Bari. Here are some of the top things to do in Bari for the curious traveler.

Visit Murat Quarter

The Murat Quarter is an area located in the Caracciolo district of Bari that dates back centuries. It is a haven of charming streets and alleyways sprinkled with local restaurants, cafes, art galleries, and historical landmarks. At the heart of it, sits the Sant’Antonio Cathedral and its 17-century bell tower. Other attractions worth exploring include Basilica San Nicola, Palazzo della Provincia, and Castello Normanno Svevo.

Enjoy A Day At The Beach

With its crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches, Bari is the perfect place to relax and enjoy a day by the beach. Head to the marina in Pane e Pomodoro for sunbathing, sailing, and swimming. Or visit Camping Village Ge.Tur for a picnic and beach volleyball with family and friends. If you’re up for a more adventurous experience, head down to Santa Sabina and partake in kitesurfing and surfing lessons.

Discover Bari Vecchia

Bari Vecchia is one of the oldest parts of the city and home to the most impressive historical monuments with evidence of cooking in the Roman Empire. A stroll through its streets will take visitors through a maze of cobbled alleyways, ancient churches, towers, street art, and quirky shops and restaurants. Stop by the Porta di San Sabino to take in the beautiful 12th-century architecture and be sure to pop into Piazza del Ferrarese for some traditional Pugliese specialties.

Take A Food Tour

If you’d like to experience true Italian cuisine then you should definitely join a food tour in Bari. A fun way to discover some of the best eateries in the city while learning more about local culture, recipes, and traditions. Sample traditional dishes such as orecchiette alle cime di rapa or immerse yourself in authentic seafood dishes like friseddu e pappeledelle al sugo di mare as you walk around.

Browse Ancient Markets

The ancient markets of Bari have been standing for centuries. In these markets you’ll find some of the freshest seafood in the city, colourful farm stands teeming with fresh fruit and vegetables, local delicacies such as taralli and tarallini biscuit rings, and Italian delicacies such as prosciutto and salami. Journey to Mercato del Fischio or Mercato Adriatico to experience a true taste of Italy.

Explore Castle Lecce

Castle Lecce is considered one of the most important monuments in Bari. Located near the ancient centre of Bari Vecchia, this residential fortress boasts a collection of edifices from Romanesque, Gothic and Renaissance eras spread across its eight hectares. Other attractions worth exploring include Castello Svevo, Piazza Massari, and Basilica San Nicola della Catena.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or an adventure-packed holiday in Italy, Bari has something for everyone. From exploring its historical neighborhoods to lounging by its beautiful beaches, there’s truly an activity for all ages. So take in the spectacular sights and sounds that Bari has to offer with our guide on What Is There To Do In Bari, Italy?

For more information on what things to do while in Bari please visit Passportlease, a website devoted to helping travellers plan out their next destination visit.

An Insider’s Guide to Bari, Italy

If you are planning a trip to Italy, be sure to include Bari on your itinerary. Located on the Adriatic Sea, Bari is a city steeped in history and charm. Here’s an insider’s guide to help you make the most of your visit.

Attractions

Bari has plenty of attractions for visitors to explore. One of the most popular is Basilica di San Nicola, a monumental church built in the 12th century. The basilica showcases an impressive collection of sacred art, including the relics of Saint Nicholas, the patron saint of the city.

Another must-visit landmark in Bari is the Castello Svevo. This colossal castle was built in the 12th century by Norman and Swiss architects and is a testament to the cultural mix that has influenced Bari since its founding. The castle contains several exhibitions that display the city’s long history.

If you are a fan of the outdoors, don’t miss the chance to walk along Bari’s Promenade a Mare. The promenade is a beautiful place to stroll along the sea, and there are plenty of cafes and restaurants to enjoy. There are also parks and gardens to explore, such as the Pinacoteca Metropolitan Museum and Botanic Garden.

Dining Spots

Bari has a thriving culinary scene with plenty of local specialties to try. One of the must-try foods in Bari is the famous Focaccia barese. It is a kind of soft bread topped with a layer of tomato sauce, oregano, olive oil, and sometimes olives or onions. You can find Focaccia barese in local bakeries, but the best one is in the old town and is called Pasticceria Bonci.

For seafood lovers, Bari’s port is home to many seafood restaurants with mouth-watering menus. Try the seafood risotto or the Spaghetti with clams at the Ristorante Biancofiore.

Finally, don’t leave Bari without trying Polpo Affogato, a traditional Pugliese dish of octopus cooked in red wine, served with potatoes. You can find this delectable dish at restaurants such as Trattoria dai Tosi.

Cultural Experiences

Bari has a long and rich cultural history, and there are plenty of cultural experiences for visitors to enjoy. One of the cultural highlights of the city is the Teatro Petruzzelli. It is one of the largest theaters in Italy and hosts operas, ballets, and concerts.

Another cultural experience worth noting is the Mercato delle Erbe. This daily market is located in the old town, and it’s the perfect place to discover the culinary traditions of the region. If you’re feeling adventurous, try something new like the local snack ‘sgagliozze,’ which is fried polenta.

Local History

The history of Bari dates back to the Roman times, and the city is home to many historical landmarks. The Norman-Hohenstaufen Castle, also known as Castello Svevo, is a testament to the city’s long history and has been a witness to many battles throughout history. You can visit the castle to explore the exhibitions that showcase its past.

Another historical landmark worth visiting is the Cathedral of San Sabino, one of the largest and most significant churches in the city. This cathedral was built in the 12th century and showcases impressive Romanesque architecture.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you’re looking to escape the tourist crowds and discover Bari’s lesser-known areas, visit the small alleyways and picturesque courtyards in the old town. You can wander the winding streets and discover intriguing architecture and unique shops.

Another off-the-beaten-path suggestion is to visit the Swabian Walls that date back to the 12th century. These walls offer stunning views of the sea and the old town and are the perfect place to capture memorable photos.

Bari is a beautiful city full of culture, history, and charm. With this insider’s guide, you can create the perfect itinerary to make the most of your visit.

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What Is There To Do In Bari, Italy?

Experience Adventure Like Never Before: Book Your Tour Today!