Bari (province) Travel Guide

Explore the rich culture, natural attractions, food and drink scene, and do's and don'ts of Bari (Province), Southern Italy in this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Bari (Province)

Located in the heel of Italy’s boot-shaped peninsula, Bari (Province) is a hidden gem in Southern Italy. With its rich cultural heritage, unspoiled landscape, and delicious cuisine, Bari (Province) is the perfect holiday destination for those who want to experience the authentic Italian way of life.

List of Places to Visit in Bari (Province)

With so many things to do and see in Bari (Province), it can be overwhelming to plan your itinerary. Here are some of the top attractions to add to your must-see list.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Castel del Monte: a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this 13th-century castle is a masterpiece of medieval architecture and an important symbol of Puglia.
  • Bari Vecchia: the historic center of Bari is a maze of narrow alleys and whitewashed houses, home to ancient churches, charming piazzas, and artisan shops.
  • Trani Cathedral: this stunning Romanesque cathedral, overlooking the harbor of Trani, boasts incredible frescoes, intricate carvings, and an impressive rose window.

Natural Attractions of Bari (Province): Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Gargano: a wild and mountainous region on the eastern coast of Puglia, Gargano offers breathtaking views of the sea, dramatic cliffs, and secluded beaches.
  • Alta Murgia National Park: covering over 68,000 hectares, this park is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers, offering a unique landscape of rolling hills, dry grasslands, and rocky plateaus.
  • Polignano a Mare: perched on a cliff overlooking the Adriatic Sea, the town of Polignano a Mare is famous for its crystal-clear waters, unspoiled beaches, and impressive sinkholes.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bari (Province)

There are many hiking and biking trails in Bari (Province) that offer stunning views and opportunities to explore the region’s natural beauty. Some of the most popular routes include:

  • The Gargano Circuit: a challenging 8-day trek through the Gargano Peninsula, passing through ancient forests, hidden monasteries, and picturesque fishing villages.
  • The Alta Murgia Trail: a 4-day hike through the rolling hills and rocky plateaus of the Alta Murgia National Park, with stunning views of the Adriatic Sea and the Apennine Mountains.
  • The Appian Way: an easy cycling route along the ancient Roman road, connecting the cities of Bari and Brindisi, passing through olive groves, vineyards, and charming towns along the way.

Best Things to Do in Bari (Province): Activities and Tours

In addition to the cultural and natural attractions, there are plenty of other things to do and experiences to enjoy in Bari (Province), including:

  • Olive Oil Tasting: Puglia is famous for its high-quality olive oil, and there are many tours that take you through the olive groves, explaining the production process and offering tasting sessions of the different varieties.
  • Cooking Classes: learn how to make traditional Puglian dishes like Orecchiette pasta, Minestrone soup, and Taralli biscuits from the local chefs, using fresh ingredients from the region.
  • Wine Tasting: Puglia also produces some of the best wines in Italy, and there are many vineyards and wineries that offer wine-tasting tours, as well as opportunities to explore the cellars and vineyards.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bari (Province)

For those who want to explore Bari (Province) in-depth, here’s a suggested week-long itinerary:

Day 1: Explore the historic center of Bari and visit the Basilica di San Nicola. Day 2: Visit Polignano a Mare and take a boat tour of the sea caves. Day 3: Hike in the Alta Murgia National Park and visit the ancient Rupestrian churches.
Day 4: Visit the Castel del Monte and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Day 5: Take a day trip to the Trulli of Alberobello and explore the unique architecture of these traditional houses.
Day 6: Visit the Baroque city of Lecce and admire the impressive architecture and ornate cathedrals.
Day 7: Relax on the beach in the Gargano Peninsula and enjoy the clear waters and unspoiled nature.

Food and Drink Scene of Bari (Province)

The food and drink scene in Bari (Province) is a reflection of the region’s rich history and cultural heritage, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients and traditional recipes.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Orecchiette: small ear-shaped pasta, served with a variety of sauces, such as tomato and basil, garlic and olive oil, or broccoli rabe.
  • Burrata: a soft and creamy cheese, made from mozzarella and cream, served in salads or sandwiches.
  • Focaccia Barese: a flatbread topped with tomato, oregano, and olives, often eaten as a snack or lunch.

Local Beverages

  • Primitivo: a red wine, with intense fruity flavors and high alcohol content, often served with rich meat dishes.
  • Negroni Sbagliato: a cocktail made with Campari, red vermouth, and sparkling wine, invented in Milan but popular in Bari.
  • Limoncello: a lemon liqueur, made from the region’s famous lemons, often served as a digestif after dinner.

Where to Stay in Bari (Province): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Bari (Province) offers many options for accommodation, from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. Some of the most popular areas to stay include:

  • Bari Vecchia: a charming and historic neighborhood, full of traditional B&Bs, churches, and artisan shops.
  • Polignano a Mare: a picturesque town on the Adriatic coast, with many guesthouses and hotels with stunning views of the sea.
  • Alberobello: a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with many unique Trulli houses that have been converted into hotels and guesthouses.

What to Buy in Bari (Province): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When in Bari (Province), it’s hard to resist the local products, such as:

  • Olive oil: the region’s golden liquid is of high quality and volume.
  • Taralli: All purpose knotted biscuits, made with olive oil and made in multiple varieties like sweet, salty and with fennel
  • Ceramics: Puglia is famous for its colorful ceramics in traditional styles and decorations.

Local Culture and Customs of Bari (Province)

Like all Italian regions, Puglia has its own customs and traditions that have been shaped by its history and geography. Some of the most notable cultural practices include:

  • Tarantella: a traditional dance, dating back to the middle ages, performed at wedding and festivals, often accompanied by live music.
  • Festivals and Fairs: Puglia is home to many festivals and fairs, celebrating everything from the harvest season to the patron saints of different towns.
  • Trulli Houses: traditional stone houses with conical roofs, unique to the Puglia region and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Best Time to Visit Bari (Province)

The best time to visit Bari (Province) is between April and June or September and October when the weather is mild, and the crowds are thinner. However, if you are interested in the beach activities, the peak summer months of July and August are the best bet.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bari (Province)

Do:

  • Greet locals with a “Buongiorno”
  • Wander through the historic centers
  • Try the local cuisine and wine

Don’t:

  • Wander into unauthorized tourist areas.
  • Try to haggle in stores or shops.
  • Indulge in excessive alcohol drinking in public

Safety and Health

Safety in Bari (Province)

Bari (Province) is a safe destination, however like anywhere else in the world, travelers should be cautious with their belongings and avoid wandering into desolate areas after dark.

Health in Bari (Province)

The healthcare system in Italy is good, and pharmacies are available in most towns. Tap water is safe to drink, and locals pride themselves on being able to offer suitable medical aid.

Getting to Bari (Province): Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Bari (Province)

Bari (Province) is served by Bari Karol Wojtyla Airport (BRI), which is well connected to the major Italian cities and some European destinations.

Bus Stations Near Bari (Province)

Bari’s main bus station is located near the train station, with frequent services to nearby towns and cities, such as Lecce and Matera.

Other Options

There is regular train service connecting Bari to Rome, Florence, and Venice.

How to Get Around in Bari (Province)

Bari, city’s historical centre is small enough to explore on foot. For longer journeys, the railway networks are the best bet as there are less frequent bus services those connecting main cities in the Province and beyond. Car rentals are also available throughout the province for more road-based adventure.

Where to Go Next from Bari (Province): Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Bari (Province) is located in a strategic position that allows visitors to explore many other beautiful destinations in Southern Italy. Some of the most popular places to visit nearby include:

  • Matera: a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its ancient cave dwellings and unique architecture.
  • Naples: the birthplace of pizza, Neapolitan music, and art, also in close connection with Pompeii.
  • Amalfi Coast: one of the most scenic coastlines in the world, with sheer cliffs, turquoise seas, and colorful towns.

Conclusion

Bari (Province) may not be as famous as some of the other Italian regions, but it has plenty to offer to travelers who are interested in discovering the authentic side of this beautiful country. From its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty to its delicious cuisine and friendly locals, Bari (Province) is a destination that should not be missed.



    Bari
    Bitetto
    Mola di Bari
    Molfetta
    Monopoli
    Polignano a Mare
    Ruvo di Puglia
    Toritto