Bari
Your travel destination
Travel destination from Linz Airport
Bari—the capital of the southern Italian region of Apulia—combines Mediterranean charm with a rich history. Situated on the Adriatic coast, this city enchants visitors with its picturesque old town, cultural treasures, and quintessential Italian joie de vivre. Bari offers the perfect blend of a beach vacation and cultural experiences. As a gateway to Apulia, it allows travelers to explore Italy’s rich history while enjoying the beauty of the Mediterranean coast.
Holiday in Bari
A City of Tradition and Modernity
Bari offers a fascinating mix of historical landmarks and vibrant city life. The heart of the city is Bari Vecchia, the old town with its maze of narrow alleys. Stroll through these winding streets where laundry hangs between houses, and the air is filled with the aroma of fresh pasta. A standout attraction is Via dell'Arco Basso, also known as "Strada delle Orecchiette," where women traditionally make pasta in front of their homes.
Among Bari's top landmarks is the magnificent Basilica of San Nicola, dedicated to Saint Nicholas and dating back to the 11th century. Art enthusiasts should visit the Cathedral of San Sabino, famous for its exquisite mosaics. The Castello Svevo, a Norman-Swabian castle, tells the city’s complex history and today houses a museum.
Take a break from sightseeing at the lively Piazza Mercantile, where you can enjoy Italian coffee culture in one of the many cafés while watching the bustling activity around the square. For shopping, head to the elegant Via Sparano.
Bari is an excellent base for a road trip through Apulia. A must-see is Lecce, known as the “Florence of the South,” with its grand cathedral and a Roman amphitheater in the old town. Don’t miss Ostuni, the “White City,” perched on three hills and offering incredible photo opportunities.
The Valle d’Itria is home to some of Apulia’s most iconic sights—the Trulli. In Alberobello, entire neighborhoods are made up of these traditional whitewashed roundhouses. Nearby, Matera, although in the neighboring region of Basilicata, is well worth a visit. This spectacular rock city, known for its cave dwellings later fronted with facades, is one of the oldest cities in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The long Apulian coastline is dotted with beaches and seaside resorts. With abundant sunshine, this region is an ideal destination for a beach holiday. Spiaggia Pane e Pomodoro is a favorite among Bari locals. Many coastal towns along the Adriatic offer the perfect mix of beach relaxation and sightseeing.
The picturesque town of Polignano a Mare is famous for its dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters. Monopoli boasts a charming old town and family-friendly beaches with crystal-clear water and excellent infrastructure. North of Bari, the Giovinazzo beaches feature rocky coastlines with small sandy stretches, perfect for a peaceful day by the sea.
The medieval town of Vieste on the Gargano Peninsula is a haven for surfers and sailors, thanks to the strong coastal breezes.
Popular sights
- Lungomare Nazario Sauro: A scenic seaside promenade with stunning ocean views.
- Teatro Petruzzelli: One of Italy’s largest theaters, known for its impressive architecture.
- Piazza del Ferrarese: A lively square at the entrance to the old town, featuring remnants of the ancient Via Appia Traiana.
- Alberobello: Famous for its unique Trulli houses, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Matera: One of the oldest cities in the world, renowned for its cave dwellings (Sassi) and also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Castellana Grotte: A spectacular cave system with stunning stalactite formations.
- Gargano National Park: A beautiful nature reserve with scenic coastal landscapes and hiking trails.
ari is not just famous for its sights but also for its delectable cuisine. Don’t miss trying the local specialty Orecchiette, a small ear-shaped pasta, as well as fresh fish and seafood dishes.
Learn more about apulia
Ideal travel time
The best time to visit Bari is from April to October. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for sightseeing, while summer is ideal for beach vacations. A special highlight is the Festival of Saint Nicholas from May 7th to 9th, when the saint’s relics are paraded through the city. In July and August, the Bari International Film Festival attracts cinema enthusiasts to the city.
