10 Best Things to do in Bari, Italy

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Planning a trip to Bari, Italy? You’re in the right place!

We fell for Bari the moment we strolled through the maze of whitewashed alleys in the Old Town, all while dodging Vespas and catching the scent of fresh seafood. This coastal city in Puglia has a raw charm and authenticity that’s easy to love, especially when you dive into its food, history, and sun-soaked streets.

We’ve explored Bari by bike, on foot, and even from the deck of a boat. This guide brings together our favorite tours that show off the best sides of the city, whether it’s your first visit or you’re coming back for more.

Let’s dive into the best things to do in Bari, experiences we think you’ll remember long after the trip.

Things to do in Bari, Italy

1. Taste your way around Bari

• Duration: 3 hours
• Time: 11:30 am and 6:30 pm
• Highlights: Taste your way through Bari’s buzzing food scene, visit the local spots tourists usually miss, join a small-group tour with a limit of 12 people, enjoy expert commentary from your guide
• Inclusions: Your local guide, all tastings, bottled water
• Rating: 5 stars (check 850+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

We always say the best way to understand a place is through its food, and in Bari, that couldn’t be more true! This 3-hour street food tour took us deep into the heart of Bari Vecchia to visit the very best local favorites.

We kicked things off in a quiet piazza, where our guide, Alessia, introduced us to the city’s culinary roots and steered us toward spots we’d never have found on our own. From crispy panzerotti oozing with cheese to a perfectly salted slice of focaccia barese, every stop came with a story. We even tried the Bari specialty panino col polpo, an octopus sandwich, which was surprisingly delicious.

What really made the tour special was how local it felt. We weren’t weaving through tourist crowds or ticking off big-name restaurants. Instead, we popped into family-run bakeries and corner stalls where locals chatted over espresso, sampled local ice cream, and debated the best olive oil. Our group was small, just 10 of us, which made it easy to ask questions and really connect with the guide.

Expect about three hours of walking, snacking, and storytelling. Bring your appetite and wear comfy shoes. This is perfect for first-timers or anyone who wants a deeper bite into Bari’s everyday life.

This was one of our favorite ways to explore the city. If you’re a food lover, don’t miss it!

Check out over 820 5-star reviews and book here!

2. Explore the caves and the Polignano a Mare Coast by boat

• Duration: 1.5 hours
• Time: Multiple departure times from 10 am to 5:30 pm
• Highlights: Zip around by boat on a small-group tour, explore the scenic grottoes and caves along the Polignano a Mare coastline, stop to swim and snorkel, listen to the skipper talk about the area’s history and culture
• Inclusions: Your expert guide, beverages, snorkeling equipment
• Rating: 4.8 stars (check 640+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

There’s something magical about seeing Puglia’s coastline from the water, and this small-group boat trip gave us a front-row seat to one of the region’s most beautiful stretches. Cruising along the cliffs of Polignano a Mare, it was really hard to decide where to look first, the sunlit houses stacked high above or the secret caves tucked into the cliffs!

The boat was also just the right size, intimate enough to feel relaxed, but roomy enough for everyone to take in the views. Our skipper, Nicholas, doubled as our guide, pointing out landmarks and sharing stories about Polignano’s history, including how some of the caves were once used by fishermen and smugglers. 

As we glided through the water, we dipped in and out of sea-carved grottoes, some so narrow we had to duck under the limestone arches!

The best part? We anchored in a calm cove and jumped straight into the clear, turquoise water. Snorkeling gear was available, but even just floating under the sun was pure bliss. It felt like the kind of spot you’d only find with a local.

Tours typically run about 90 minutes and depart from the Polignano harbor. It’s an easy train ride from Bari, and well worth the short trip. Just bring a towel, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure.

If you’re up for a relaxed escape with incredible views, this one’s a must. But don’t just take our word for it—read hundreds of 5-star reviews here to see why this is a top-rated tour!

Grab your swimsuit and explore this beautiful stretch of Italian coastline—book here!

3. Learn about Bari’s historic sights on a walking tour

• Duration: 2 hours
• Time: 11 am and 3 pm
• Highlights: Enjoy a budget-friendly introduction to Bari, see both the highlights and hidden gems, taste ice-cold gelato, listen to expert commentary from your local guide
• Inclusions: Your professional guide, tasting of homemade gelato, free Wi-Fi and luggage storage
• Rating: 4.7 stars (check 310+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

There’s no better way to get your bearings in a new city than spending it with someone who knows it inside and out. This budget-friendly walking tour gave us a solid feel for Bari, not just where things are, but how the city works, breathes, and surprises you.

We started in the modern part of town before slipping into the winding lanes of Bari Vecchia, where laundry fluttered overhead and kids played soccer against ancient church walls. Our guide kept things fun and relaxed while still giving us great context, from the origins of Saint Nicholas (yes, that Saint Nick) to how the Old Town has evolved over the years.

Along the way, we popped into quiet courtyards, admired Romanesque facades, and got to see spots we wouldn’t have found on our own. It never felt rushed or overly scripted. There was even a stop for gelato, which hit just right!

This is a great intro tour, especially if you’re visiting Bari for the first time or want a thoughtful overview early in your trip. It usually lasts around two hours and covers a good mix of sights, stories, and local color, all at a very wallet-friendly price.

If you’re after a casual, informative stroll with a gelato in hand, this one’s an easy yes.

Book this popular walking tour with FREE 24-hour cancellation here!

4. Learn how to cook pasta

• Duration: 2 hours
• Time: 11 am and 3 pm
• Highlights: Learn all about the highlights of Bari on a walking tour, make your own delicious pasta using local recipes, enjoy a more personal experience with a smaller group
• Inclusions: Your walking tour, cooking class, expert guide, food and drink tasting
• Rating: 4.7 stars (check 210+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

This 2-hour experience combined two of our favorite things—exploring a new city and learning how to cook like a local. It started with a walk through the Old Town, where Barbara, our guide, brought the city to life with stories from her childhood growing up here. 

Her love for Bari was infectious, and you could feel how connected she was to the neighborhood as she waved to locals and pointed out spots we’d have easily missed.

After visiting a few of the main sights, including the Basilica of Saint Nicholas and some hidden corners of Bari Vecchia, we headed to a cozy kitchen space where the second half of the tour began—pasta-making. With aprons on and flour everywhere, Barbara walked us through how to shape traditional orecchiette by hand, just like the nonnas we’d seen making them outside their homes earlier that day.

It wasn’t just a demonstration—we actually rolled, cut, and shaped our own pasta, laughing as we compared results and tried to master the technique. Afterward, we got to enjoy our creations together with a few simple toppings that let the pasta shine.

The group was small, which made it easy to ask questions and enjoy the slower pace. This tour runs about two hours and is ideal for anyone who wants a hands-on cultural experience with a warm local touch.

Feel just like a local on this fun walking and cooking tour—book here!

5. Explore Bari on a bicycle

• Duration: 2 hours
• Time: 11:30 am and 3:30 pm
• Highlights: Cover more distance than a traditional walking tour, see local highlights like the San Sabino Cathedral and the Basilica di San Nicola, enjoy commentary from an expert guide, try some delicious local pizza and ice cream
• Inclusions: Your guide, bicycle, helmet, ice cream tasting, free Wi-Fi and luggage storage
• Rating: 4.8 stars (check 225+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

If you’re short on time but still want to see a lot, this 2-hour bike tour is a fun way to experience the best of Bari! Our laid-back guide, Danny, made everyone feel at ease, and with bikes, we effortlessly covered more of the city without feeling rushed.

We rolled through both the modern parts of Bari and its old historic heart, zipping past Romanesque churches, sunny piazzas, and breezy seaside spots. Every turn felt like we were uncovering a new postcard moment!

We stopped at the Basilica di San Nicola and the San Sabino Cathedral, where Danny dropped fun, bite-sized facts that actually stuck. One minute he was pointing out an ancient column, the next he was raving about his favorite sandwich shop around the corner.

The pace was relaxed, and the route was mostly flat and easy to follow, even for those who hadn’t biked in a while. Midway through, we paused for some ice cream and a slice of pizza, which we really enjoyed!

This tour lasts about two hours and is a great fit for anyone who enjoys being active but still wants a solid overview of Bari’s culture and history. Helmets and bikes are all included, making the whole experience feel super seamless.

We loved how this tour struck the perfect balance between sightseeing and snacking, and it’s clear we aren’t the only ones. Check out the glowing reviews here to see why travelers rave about this fun, laid-back way to explore Bari!

Book this fantastic biking tour of Bari here in advance!

6. Take a day trip to the UNESCO town of Alberobello

• Duration: 8.5 hours
• Time: 9 am
• Highlights: Explore three scenic locations, including Trulli di Alberobello (a world heritage site), enjoy easy transport to and from Bari, get expert tips from your local guide throughout the day, fill up your camera with stunning photos
• Inclusions: Round-trip transport from Bari, advice from your driver, free Wi-Fi in the car
• Rating: 4.6 stars (check 130+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

One of the best parts about staying in Bari is how easy it is to explore the rest of Puglia, and this full-day tour made it effortless. We hopped into a comfortable, air-conditioned car and spent the day visiting three of the region’s most postcard-worthy spots, with our driver Francisco offering tips and local insight along the way.

First up was Alberobello, home to the famous trulli houses with their conical stone roofs. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site for a reason! While the tour doesn’t include a guided walk in each town, Francisco gave us plenty of background and suggestions before dropping us off, which helped us make the most of our free time.

Next, we stopped in Monopoli, a charming seaside town where we had time to explore the waterfront, peek into quiet alleyways, and grab a quick bite by the harbor. The pace was relaxed, and we loved having the flexibility to go at our own rhythm.

Our last stop was Polignano a Mare, where cliffs, caves, and panoramic views had us reaching for our cameras every few steps. Francisco pointed out a few must-see spots before we set off to explore on our own.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want to see more of Puglia without the stress of navigating trains or renting a car. Francisco made it all feel smooth, comfortable, and fun, and his local tips were spot on.

Fill up your camera on this scenic day out—check their reviews and book here!

7. See Bari on a relaxing rickshaw city tour

• Duration: 1.5 hours
• Time: Multiple departure times from 10 am to 6 pm
• Highlights: Visit the best spots in Bari without all the walking, listen to your rickshaw driver/guide as you navigate the narrow streets, enjoy a tasty ice cream tasting
• Inclusions: Your guide/rickshaw driver, ice cream tasting, free Wi-Fi and luggage storage
• Rating: 4.9 stars (check 200+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes 
• Price: Check price here!

If you’d love to explore the best of Bari without a lot of walking, this 1.5-hour rickshaw tour is ideal! When we went, we zipped through the city’s narrow alleys and sunlit squares with Anna, our friendly guide and driver, who somehow managed to pedal and narrate at the same time, all with a huge smile.

Riding through the Old Town this way felt like a treat. We passed historic churches, local markets, and quiet corners where residents sat chatting outside their doors. Anna knew exactly when to slow down, point something out, or pause for a quick story. She had a warm, easygoing vibe and was clearly proud to show off her hometown.

Because the rickshaw could squeeze into tight spots, we got to see parts of the city that cars can’t access, and without breaking a sweat. It was a surprisingly relaxing way to take in the atmosphere, especially with the breeze and shade offering a break from the midday heat.

Towards the end of the tour, Anna brought us to a small gelateria for a quick tasting. The gelato was as good as you’d expect in Italy, creamy, refreshing, and just the right amount of sweet.

If you’re traveling with kids, have limited mobility, or just want to see the city from a different angle, this one’s a great pick.

Check out their glowing reviews and book this unique experience here!

8. Dip your toes into scuba diving in Polignano a Mare

• Duration: 2.5 hours
• Time: 10 am, 12:30 pm, and 3 pm
• Highlights: A scuba diving experience designed for beginners, learn at your own pace, explore the gorgeous waters off the Polignano a Mare coast, all the equipment and instruction you’ll need
• Inclusions: All scuba diving equipment, your certified instructors, snacks
• Rating: 4.9 stars (check 70+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

If you’ve ever wanted to try scuba diving but felt a little nervous about taking the plunge, this beginner-friendly experience is the perfect way to ease into it. We joined a small group in Polignano a Mare, and from the very first moment, the instructors made us feel calm, safe, and totally looked after.

Before we even got near the water, they walked us through the gear and what to expect, no pressure, no rushing. Everything was explained clearly, and they made sure we felt comfortable before moving forward. Once we were geared up and ready, we entered the water gradually and practiced a few breathing techniques before heading out on a short guided dive.

The sea here is incredibly clear, and we got to see marine life up close, colorful fish, shimmering sea plants, all while enjoying the surreal feeling of floating beneath the surface. Our instructors stayed right by our sides, checking in constantly and offering encouragement. They were both professional and fun, and the whole experience had a supportive, relaxed vibe.

This tour includes all the gear you’ll need, and it’s designed specifically for first-timers, so no prior experience is necessary. It’s about two and a half hours in total, with plenty of time in the water.

If you’re looking for something a little more adventurous to do in Bari and want a glimpse of the world below the waves, this is the tour for you.

Book this unforgettable scuba diving experience here!

9. Go on a Segway tour of Bari

• Duration: 1 to 3 hours
• Time: Multiple departure times from 10 am to 6:30 pm
• Highlights: Have fun riding around the city without needing to do lots of walking, very small group (just 3 riders), see Bari’s best attractions, lots of time slots available throughout the day
• Inclusions: Your expert guide, Segway, helmet, bottled water, luggage storage
• Rating: 4.9 stars (check great reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

This Segway tour was pure fun from start to finish, the kind of activity that makes you feel like a kid again, even while taking in centuries of history! With just three of us in the group, it felt more like a private outing than a full-blown tour, and the small group size made it easy to navigate the city’s narrow streets without feeling rushed.

We started off with a quick lesson on how to use the Segways. Within minutes, we were zipping along the waterfront, weaving through Bari Vecchia, and stopping at major landmarks like the Basilica di San Nicola and Piazza del Ferrarese. Riding a Segway meant we could cover a lot more ground than on foot, but still stay close to the action.

Our guide kept things light and interesting, blending just the right amount of history with local anecdotes. And because there are multiple time slots available throughout the day, it’s easy to fit this tour into your schedule, whether you’re kicking off your visit or looking for something spontaneous in the afternoon.

If you want a breezy way to explore the city without breaking a sweat, this is a great option. Especially for travelers who like something a little different (and a lot of fun).

Grab your spot on this popular Segway tour here!

10. Enjoy local wine on a guided tour and tasting at a wine museum

• Duration: 1 to 2 hours
• Time: Open hours 11 am to 5 pm
• Highlights: Taste your way through the region’s wines, enjoy pairings of local cheeses and cured meats, listen to expert commentary about the history of the winery, a fully private tour
• Inclusions: All wine tastings and pairings, your guided commentary
• Rating: 5 stars (check 240+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

For a slower, more intimate experience, we headed inland to Altamura for this private tour and tasting at La Cantina Frrud, a beautifully restored wine museum set inside a 17th-century building. 

That said, this was more than just a tasting. It felt like stepping into the story of Puglia’s winemaking tradition, told by passionate locals who truly love what they do.

Our host, Paolo, walked us through the old cellars, sharing how the winery was brought back to life and how production methods have evolved over the centuries. The space itself was full of character, with old stone arches and original equipment on display, all setting the stage for a relaxed and deeply personal tasting.

We sampled three different regional wines, each paired thoughtfully with local cheeses and cured meats. From crisp whites to robust reds, every sip came with a bit of backstory about the grapes, the land, and the people behind the bottle. Because the tour is fully private, we had time to ask questions, linger over our favorites, and soak it all in without feeling rushed.

If you’re a wine lover or just want to connect with Puglia’s traditions in a more hands-on way, this experience is absolutely worth the short trip from Bari.

Read over 240 5-star reviews and book the same tour we took here!

Related Read: Want to maximize your time? Check out our 3-Day Bari Itinerary to fit in all of these activities!

Where to Stay in Bari, Italy

Now that you’ve got your Bari itinerary packed with epic sights, eats, and seaside strolls, it’s time to find a place to stay that suits your vibe. Whether you’re dreaming of five-star Adriatic views, a comfy hotel near the old town, or a budget-friendly spot that still delivers on style and convenience, Bari has you covered. 

We’ve rounded up top hotel picks for every budget, so you can kick back, settle in, and enjoy this sunny southern Italian gem to the fullest.

Luxury – $$$

Set along Bari’s sparkling seafront, JR Hotels Bari Grande Albergo delle Nazioni is the city’s only five-star hotel—and it shows. With sweeping Adriatic views, an ocean-facing rooftop pool, and elegant rooms styled in soft marine tones, this urban retreat blends luxury with coastal charm. Enjoy Mediterranean cuisine at the panoramic La Terrazza restaurant or unwind in the wellness area after exploring Bari Vecchia just minutes away.

Rates typically range from €250 to over €1,000+ per night. Book your luxury stay now on Booking.com.

Mid-range – $$

Residence Hotel Moderno is a solid mid-range option in Bari, just a 10-minute walk from the central train station and close to Quintino Sella metro. Rooms and suites are spacious, clean, and air-conditioned, with flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi. Some even feature kitchenettes and balconies. Guests appreciate the helpful 24-hour staff, generous breakfast buffet, and convenient on-site parking. It’s also near the Policlinico hospital and easy to reach from the ferry terminal.

Rates typically range from €100–€180 per night. Check availability and prices on Booking.com.

Budget – $

For a stylish and affordable stay in Bari, Habari We Dorm hits the mark! Located just a short walk from the train station and Bari’s historic center, this cozy hostel offers air-conditioned dorms, a fully equipped kitchen, and a chill communal vibe. Guests rave about the friendly staff, clean bathrooms, and comfy bunks—plus there’s free WiFi, coffee perks, and even a terrace to relax on.

Beds start around €45 per night. Book your budget stay now on Booking.com.

For more options, see all of Bari’s hotels listed here!

Related Read: For a detailed look at the best areas to stay in Bari and more great hotel options, have a look at our where to stay guide here!

Renting a Car in Italy

Renting a car in Italy is one of the best ways to explore the country beyond the cities—think charming Tuscan villages, dramatic Amalfi Coast drives, and hidden gems in the countryside. While Italy’s roads can be a little chaotic (especially in cities), with the right preparation, renting a car here can be an unforgettable and rewarding experience!

We always use Discover Cars when booking our rentals, and highly recommend them. They compare dozens of providers to find you the best rates, include important filters like “automatic transmission,” and offer affordable full insurance coverage. For more info, you can read our in-depth Discover Cars review here.

Tips for Renting a Car in Italy

• Drive on the right: Italians drive on the right-hand side of the road and overtake on the left. Right turns on red are illegal, and you must often yield to vehicles coming from the right at intersections.
• Stay alert and confident: Italian driving can feel aggressive in cities—expect assertive drivers, scooters weaving through traffic, and liberal horn use (often just a form of communication). Stay calm and practice defensive driving.
• Insurance is a must: We highly recommend adding full coverage insurance when booking. Minor damage like scratches and dents is common, especially in cities, and Discover Cars’ full protection gives you peace of mind at a low cost!
• Mind the ZTL zones: Many city centers have restricted traffic zones called ZTLs. Entering without a permit can result in a fine. Check with your hotel and use GPS with ZTL alerts.
• Choose the right vehicle: Roads in Italy can be narrow and parking tight, so a compact car is usually best. Most rentals are manual, but if you need an automatic, you can easily filter for one when booking with Discover Cars. 

What You Need to Rent a Car in Italy

• A valid driver’s license from your home country.
• If you’re from outside the EU, you’ll likely need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
• A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
• You must be at least 18 years old, but renters under 25 may incur a young driver surcharge.

Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring Italy on your own terms!

Thanks for reading!

We hope this guide to Bari has you just as excited as we were to explore this coastal gem! Between its flavorful street food, historic old town, and crystal-clear waters, Bari has a little something for everyone. Whether you’re coming for the pasta or the sea caves, you’re in for a good time.

If you’re planning on traveling near Bali, check out all our Italy blogs here. Or browse some of our favorites below!

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