Where to Stay in Bari, Italy: 5 Areas & Hotels

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Planning a trip to Bari and wondering where to stay? We’ve got you covered.

This charming port city in southern Italy is full of character, from its maze-like old town and lively piazzas to its seafront promenades and golden beaches. But on our various trips to Bari, we’ve noticed that each of the city’s neighborhoods offers something a little different, whether you’re here for historic sights, nightlife, or easy airport access.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the five best areas to stay in Bari, along with hotel recommendations for every budget. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning traveler, there’s a spot that’ll suit your style, and we’re here to help you find it. Let’s dive in!

Where To Stay in Bari Map

Overview of the Best Areas to Stay in Bari 

One of the best things about Bari is that it’s compact and easy to navigate. You can walk pretty much everywhere or use public transport to get around. We think that the best area to stay is Bari Vecchia, because this is the historic heart of the city and home to most of the top sights. But wherever you stay, make sure to book well in advance because accommodation here is mostly made up of small guest houses, which fill up fast. 

• Bari Vecchia – Bari’s charming old town is the heart of the city, and it’s the perfect spot for first-time visitors. Il Serafino Holiday Suites offers a stylish stay in a historic building, right in the center of town.

• Murat – Murat is full of shops, nightlife, and city energy just outside of the old town. Zodiacus Residence offers bright, modern rooms in a convenient location.

• Madonnella – A quieter, more residential area near the sea, which is perfect for families or returning visitors looking for a slower pace. Anna Suites is a cozy and affordable base just a short walk from the Lungomare.

• Teatro Petruzzelli – This is a small, elegant pocket near the iconic theater, so it’s ideal if you’re after culture and a central location without the bustle of Bari Vecchia. LAUS Teatro Petruzzelli Suite blends comfort and style in the heart of the action.

• Bari Palese – Right by the airport, this is the most budget-friendly area and a great choice if you’ve got an early flight or a short stopover. Hermes 14 is a clean and comfortable guesthouse with easy access to both the airport and the beach.

Where to Stay in Bari

Bari Vecchia

Bari Vecchia is the beating heart of the city and easily the best area for first-time visitors to stay in! This is the old town, so in true Italian style, it’s home to a maze of cobblestone streets, laundry-lined balconies, and hidden piazzas. We love just walking around and soaking up the atmosphere, but there are lots of historic attractions to check out here, too. 

You’ll hear church bells echo through narrow alleys and catch the scent of fresh focaccia drifting from corner bakeries. In the mornings, locals sip espresso in tucked-away courtyards while chatting with neighbors. It’s easy to feel like you’ve stepped into another time!

Plus, the Basilica di San Nicola, Bari Cathedral, and the Norman-Swabian Castle are all in Bari Vecchia! There’s also a lovely waterfront promenade here, which is lined with restaurants, gelaterias, and aperitif bars. Whilst this area is not exactly a nightlife hub, it’s the place to be at sunset! Then, if you want to party, you’ll need to head on over to Murat, which, to be fair, is just a 10-minute walk or a 5-minute cab ride away.

Bari Vecchia is ideal for travelers who want to soak up the atmosphere, explore on foot, and be close to everything. Just keep in mind that this area is popular and the accommodation is mostly made up of guesthouses and boutique stays, so you’ll need to be organized and book in advance.

Pros

• Super central and packed with history
• Walking distance to top attractions and the sea

Cons

• Limited nightlife 
• Accommodation books up quickly

Palazzo Calò – $$$

Palazzo Calò offers a stylish stay in the heart of Bari Vecchia. This gorgeous hotel is housed in a beautifully restored building, with vaulted stone ceilings, wooden beams, and a rooftop terrace overlooking the area’s historic buildings. However, despite its old-world charm, the decor is chic, modern, and minimalist. 

The hotel is just a short walk from Bari Vecchia’s major landmarks, but it’s tucked away enough to feel peaceful. In fact, the rooms are even soundproofed! Studios cost between €225 and €365 per night during peak season.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Il Serafino Holiday Suites – $$

Il Serafino Holiday Suites offers a clean and comfy stay in the center of the old town. The suites are set in a charming historic building but feel fresh and modern inside, with comfortable beds and plenty of space. There’s even a shared terrace where you can relax after sightseeing or sip your morning coffee.

It’s just a short stroll to all the key sights, and there’s a wonderful bakery right around the corner. We think that it’s perfect for travelers who want a stylish but affordable base in the most atmospheric part of Bari. Expect to pay between €140 and €190 per night for a large double room.

Find the best prices and book your stay over at Booking.com!

Le Nicchie – $

Le Nicchie is a budget-friendly guesthouse that puts you in the middle of Bari Vecchia without breaking the bank. In fact, the location really couldn’t be better. The rooms are simple, but they’re sparkling clean with a cozy feel, and there’s a cute little terrace where you can hang out, read a book, and enjoy the sunshine.

We think that this is an ideal pick if you’re on a budget and are more interested in exploring the city than spending time in your room. After all, nothing beats wandering straight out the door into the Bari Vecchia’s lively alleyways. Double rooms at this cozy guesthouse cost €125 per night.

Book your stay here before they sell out!

Related Read: To make the most of your time in Bari, check out our detailed 3-day itinerary here, complete with what to do and where to eat!

Murat

Murat is Bari’s modern city center. While it lacks the historic charm of the old town, it boasts fun nightlife and a buzzing restaurant scene. Besides, with elegant, wide boulevards and pretty 19th-century architecture, this area is no slouch! So if your idea of a fun trip to Bari includes lots of eating and drinking, Murat could be the perfect place for you to stay. 

Murat is also home to some top cultural attractions, including the Teatro Petruzzelli and the Petruzzelli Art Gallery. It also boasts the best of Bari’s shopping scene, especially along the celebrated Via Sparano. If you want to check out the city’s designer boutiques, make a beeline for this street! 

This area is just a 10-minute walk or a 5-minute drive to Bari Vecchia, so it’s super easy to head on over to the old town and check out all of the historic sights there. Meanwhile, you’ll have tons of amenities on your doorstep, and there’s a slightly less touristy vibe.

Another big pro of this area is that there’s a wider range of hotels here, so you’ve got your pick of both more luxurious options and budget-friendly stays.

Pros

• Central, walkable, and packed with shopping and dining options
• Close to the old town and main train station
• Wider choice of accommodation

Cons

• Can feel busy and commercial at times
• Less character than the old town

Bra Hotel – $$$

Bra Hotel is a sleek hotel in the heart of Murat. With sumptuous black-and-gold decor and lots of marble and chandeliers, this place has a very luxurious feel. There’s also a modern spa and wellness center on site, and a rooftop pool and bar where guests can hang out when they’re not exploring the nearby sights. 

This chic property is just a 10-minute walk from the old town, and Via Saponaro shopping street is just 5 minutes away, as is the famous Teatro Petruzzelli. So not only is this hotel beautifully decorated, it also boasts a first-class location. Deluxe rooms generally cost between €550 and €850 per night, while you’re looking at around €1,200 for a suite with a private hot tub.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Zodiacus Residence – $$

Zodiacus Residence offers charming apartment-style rooms with a bit more space than your average hotel. The suites are clean, albeit a little dated, but if you’re looking for a place that has an old-school Italian vibe, you’ll feel right at home here. 

The property is located on a quiet street in Murat, just a few blocks from both the old town and the main train station. The staff are friendly and helpful, and you’ve got plenty of shops, restaurants, and cafes nearby. For the price, you can’t go wrong!

Double rooms here cost around €130–€150 per night, but single rooms are available, which is a great way for solo travelers to save money.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Palazzo Gatto Bianco – $

Palazzo Gatto Bianco is a great-value pick right in the center of Murat. The rooms are fairly simple, but they’re modern and very tasteful with a bright, airy feel. I particularly like the big, standalone bathtubs in the middle of the rooms!  

The location is excellent, too. You’ll be just a few minutes from Corso Vittorio Emanuele and close to Bari Vecchia, the train station, and Lungomare. All in all, we think that this place is an amazing find, and the perfect pick for budget travelers who want to stay central without sacrificing comfort or style. Double rooms with balconies cost between €175 and €290 per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Madonnella

Madonnella is Bari’s breezy, residential seaside neighborhood just south of the city center. It’s quieter and more laid-back than Bari Vecchia or Murat, but still close enough that you can easily walk to the old town and main attractions in about 10-15 minutes. This area runs along the Lungomare, Bari’s scenic waterfront promenade, making it a great pick if you love coastal walks, sea views, and lazy mornings in cafés.

Madonnella is especially well-suited to families, couples, or anyone looking for a slower pace without being too far from the action. While it’s not packed with big landmarks, you’ll find charming restaurants, local bakeries, and small shops that give it a more lived-in, authentic feel. In the summer months, there are a few beach clubs open nearby for those who want to enjoy a fun day relaxing on the sand.

You won’t find much in the way of nightlife here, but that’s part of the appeal. Madonella offers a calm retreat after a busy day of sightseeing. And hotel-wise, Madonnella has a nice mix of mid-range and budget-friendly options, some with sea views and rooftop terraces. If you’d rather fall asleep to the sound of waves than church bells or street noise, this is probably your spot.

Pros

• Close to the sea and Lungomare promenade
• Quiet, local feel but still walkable to the city center

Cons

• Fewer restaurants and attractions right on your doorstep
• Not as lively at night

JR Hotels Bari Grande Albergo delle Nazioni – $$$

While the name might be a bit of a mouthful, JR Hotels Bari Grande Albergo delle Nazioni offers a comfortable stay with a quintessentially seaside feel. The rooms are spacious and airy with marine-themed decor, so if you’re looking for a light-hearted stay near the water, this is a great choice. 

Many rooms have nice views of the boardwalk below, and the on-site restaurant serves up some of the best seafood in town! There’s also a seasonal outdoor pool and a spa for those who fancy a bit of pampering—when on vacation, right? Classic double rooms here usually cost between €250 and €330 per night.

They fill up fast, though, so book your stay in advance here!

La finestra sul Campanile Luxury Suite & Loft – $$

La finestra sul Campanile Luxury Suite & Loft is a guesthouse with a bit of a difference. Rather than a quaint, local feel, this place has a very sleek and contemporary design. Really, this place feels more like a luxury apartment than anything else! 

It’s located just a few blocks from the promenade, so you’ve got plenty of great bars and restaurants right on your doorstep. We think that this place offers excellent value for money. If you want a super modern stay for your seaside vacation, you can’t go wrong here! Queen rooms here usually cost between €200 and €225 per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Anna Suites – $

Anna Suites is a budget-friendly option in Madonnella that doesn’t skimp on comfort. The rooms are simple, but they’re cozy and modern, with parquet floors, soft lighting, and stylish bathrooms. Some units have a balcony too, and the property is just a few blocks from the seafront. 

You can walk to Murat in about 20 minutes from here or get to Bari Vecchia in 25 minutes on foot. But best of all, the Pane e Pomodoro Beach is just a couple of minutes from the property! Expect to pay €155 per night for a double room with a private bathroom, or €305 for a two-bedroom apartment that sleeps up to four people.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Teatro Petruzzelli

The area around Teatro Petruzzelli sits between Murat and Madonnella. It’s a fantastic pick if you’re traveling to Bari for culture and elegance! It’s the heart of the city’s arts scene, and the theatre itself is one of Bari’s most iconic landmarks. It’s a stunning opera house that regularly hosts concerts, ballet, and classical performances, so if you want to catch one of those while you’re here, this is an ideal part of the city to stay in. 

Staying here puts you just a short walk from the seafront, the shopping streets of Via Sparano, and the restaurants and cafés that line Corso Cavour. It’s also less than 15 minutes on foot to Bari Vecchia, making it easy to explore the old town while enjoying a slightly calmer, more polished base.

This area is ideal for couples, solo travelers, and culture lovers who want easy access to both sightseeing and modern comforts. The vibe is refined but central, with wide streets, 19th-century buildings, and a bit more breathing room than the older parts of town. Hotels here range from upscale to simple and affordable, and many of them are just steps away from the theatre.

Pros

• Central location near major sights and the seafront
• Close to Bari’s best shopping and cultural venues

Cons

• Less historic charm than Bari Vecchia
• Can be busy when theatre events are on 
• Few budget accommodation options

JR Hotels Oriente Bari – $$$

JR Hotels Oriente Bari offers an elegant stay right across from Teatro Petruzzelli. The hotel is set inside a grand early 20th-century building with beautifully preserved details, and the rooftop terrace offers sweeping views of Bari and the Adriatic Sea. Rooms are classic and comfortable, with soundproofing and plush furnishings that make it easy to relax after a day of exploring. 

The onsite restaurant and bar are another bonus, especially if you’re catching an evening performance across the street. This is a great pick if you’re after convenience and comfort in a timeless setting! Expect to pay between €210 and €300 per night for a double room.

Check availability and book your stay here!

LAUS Teatro Petruzzelli Suite – $$

LAUS Teatro Petruzzelli Suite is ideal if you’re after a bit more space and privacy than a standard hotel room. It’s stylish and modern, with boutique design touches and soundproofing to ensure you always get a good night’s rest. Guests especially love the small details here, like the rainfall showers and comfy armchairs that make it feel more like a chic city apartment than a typical hotel.

This property is in a great location, too, because not only is Teatro Pertruzzelli one of Bari’s most walkable neighborhoods, but you’re also close to shops, plenty of restaurants, and the seafront. Deluxe rooms or junior suites here cost between €130 and €200 per night. There’s a two-night minimum, and availability is limited, so we suggest booking ahead of time.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Guesthouse City Center – $

Guesthouse City Center is a simple but well-located option for budget-conscious travelers who still want to be close to the action. Rooms are basic but clean, and the property is just a short stroll from Teatro Petruzzelli, the waterfront, and Bari’s main shopping district.

The guesthouse has a casual, no-frills feel, but you’ll have everything you need for a comfortable stay, including a shared kitchen. It’s a great base if you’re spending most of your time out exploring and want to stay in a nice area without breaking the bank. Rooms here cost between €90 and €140 per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Related Read: Wondering how to spend your time in Bari? Check out our guide to the 10 best things to do in Bari here for food, culture, and coastal fun.

Bari Palese 

Bari Palese is the area surrounding Bari’s international airport. It’s about 20–30 minutes northwest of the center by car, or 35–45 minutes away by train. I have to be honest, it’s definitely not the most exciting part of town, but I promise there’s a good reason I included it in this guide! 

And that reason is because Bari Palese is super convenient AND budget-friendly. If you arrive in Bari late or have an early flight, it’s worth spending at least one night here because it’s so easy to get to the airport. You can roll out of bed and be at your gate in under 15 minutes, which is pretty priceless if you’ve got a 6 a.m. departure.

It’s also a good choice if you’re on a tight budget because the accommodation and restaurants are more affordable around here. It’s also easy to get in and out of central Bari, as there’s a direct train from the airport to Bari Centrale station in Murat.

All in all, we think that Bari Palese is well-suited to budget travelers, those on stopovers, and road trippers, since it offers easy access to the main highways as well as the airport. While nightlife and tourist attractions are limited here, the quiet vibe and lower prices make up for it.

Pros 

• Very close to the airport
• Good value accommodation options

Cons 

• Further from the historic center
• Not much in terms of attractions or nightlife

Vittoria Parc Hotel – $$$ 

Vittoria Parc Hotel is a polished hotel just minutes from the airport. It’s got a cute little garden with sun loungers and a swimming pool, so if you’re struggling with jet lag, this is an ideal place to unwind. The rooms are clean and comfortable, with modern furnishings and soundproof windows. 

There’s an on-site restaurant serving traditional Apulian dishes, plus a free airport shuttle, which is so handy! Or if you’re hiring a car, there’s free parking here as well. To my mind, this is the ideal stress-free base if you’re arriving in Bari late or have an early flight to catch. Double rooms here cost around €170 per night, including breakfast.

Book this great-value stay here, with free cancellation!

Hermes 14 – $$ 

Hermes 14 offers comfy, contemporary rooms with everything you need for a short stay. There’s a Nespresso machine which, as I’m sure you know, is a must when you’ve got an early flight! There’s also a handy self-check-in system, which means no stress if you’re arriving late or leaving early.

The bathrooms are clean and modern, and this property is within walking distance of the train station, which makes it easy to get into central Bari. I think it’s ideal if you’re only here for a few days and want a home-from-home base that won’t break the bank. Deluxe rooms here cost between €100 and €147 per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

GL Rooms and Apartments – $ 

GL Rooms and Apartments offer a budget-friendly stay right near the airport. It’s only a 5-minute drive to the terminal, so you won’t be stressing about traffic or early check-ins. The rooms are very chic and modern, so we’re pretty impressed with how much bang for your buck you get here. 

The hostess is super friendly and always on hand with great recommendations for local restaurants to check out, so you’ll eat well! There’s a nice terrace area to relax in, a bakery right out front, and a wine shop a few doors down, so you’re well covered for snacks and aperitivo. A deluxe room here typically costs between €90 and €105 per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Top Activities to do in Bari, Italy

Once your Bari accommodation is sorted, it’s time to experience everything this southern Italian gem has to offer. From hands-on pasta classes to coastal dives and quirky city tours, we found so many fun ways to explore beyond the usual guidebook stops.

Here are five experiences we absolutely loved:

• Learn to make orecchiette in Bari Vecchia – Wandering through the old town before rolling fresh pasta with a local nonna made this cooking tour feel totally authentic. From historic sights to handmade bites, this walking and pasta-making tour gave us a warm, memorable intro to life in Bari Vecchia.

• See Puglia by car – Hilltop towns, coastal views, and stories from a local driver made this full-day car tour one of the easiest ways to explore the region. With hotel pickup and a flexible itinerary, this private tour helped us discover Puglia’s hidden gems without the hassle.

• Ride through Bari by rickshaw – This rickshaw tour was a relaxing, open-air way to explore Bari, and our guide’s mix of history and humor made the whole experience feel extra special. We cruised past Roman ruins, quiet courtyards, and breezy waterfront paths without breaking a sweat.

• Try scuba diving in Polignano a Mare – This beginner-friendly scuba tour made our first dive feel totally safe and stress-free. Patient instructors, crystal-clear water, and colorful marine life made it unforgettable. We floated beneath the surface like pros, thanks to this relaxed, well-paced introduction to diving.

• Explore the city by Segway – Effortless, fun, and surprisingly informative, this Segway tour took us through the main sights and local spots with ease. We loved zooming around town with our guide, and this tour gave us a great mix of history, laughs, and iconic views.

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!

After a day of exploring Bari’s old town, strolling the Lungomare, or devouring focaccia straight from the oven, having the right home base really makes a difference. Whether you’re staying seaside in Madonnella, deep in the historic charm of Bari Vecchia, or steps from Teatro Petruzzelli, each neighborhood brings its own vibe to your trip.

We hope this guide helps you find a stay that fits your style—and your budget! Still planning your Italian itinerary? Glance through all our Italy blogs here. We’ve explored plenty more spots across the country, from the hill towns of Tuscany to the beaches of Sardinia. Or check out a few of our favorites below:

Where to Stay in Naples, Italy: 5 Areas & Hotels

How to Spend TWO Days in Cagliari, Italy: 2-Day Itinerary

How to Spend ONE WEEK on Sardinia, Italy: 7-Day Itinerary