Bari is a stunning coastal city located in the southern part of Italy’s Apulia region, known for its picturesque Old Town, stunning beaches, and delicious Italian cuisine.
Although it may be one of Italy’s lesser-known cities, Bari is a central hub for shipping around the southern region of Puglia, Italy. With routes across to Greece, as well as north to Croatia, Bari is on the rise for tourism.
Like many popular tourist destinations, visiting Bari can quickly become expensive, especially if you don’t know how to navigate the city’s prices.
If you are looking to plan a weekend in Bari, Italy, we will share with you some tips and tricks for visiting Bari on a budget, without sacrificing any of the city’s charm or beauty. From finding affordable accommodations to eating delicious local food without breaking the bank.
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Bari Italy: The Perfect City for a Budget Break
Bari is a charming port city located in the southern region of Italy. It is a popular destination among tourists due to its rich history, beautiful architecture, and delicious cuisine. However, visiting Bari can be expensive, especially if you don’t plan your trip carefully. In this article, we will provide you with tips on how to visit Bari on a budget without compromising on the experience. In this article, we go into more detail on the following points.
Table of Contents
Planning Your Trip
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Where to Stay in Bari
There is a wide range of accommodations available in Bari, so you will not be short on options. Here are our top suggestions for the best places to stay in Bari for any budget.
Luxury – Sparano Top Class, located in the heart of Bari, is in close proximity to Teatro Margherita and Bari Cathedral. The property offers guests free WiFi, air conditioning, and various household amenities, such as a dishwasher and coffee machine. With its city views, the accommodation also boasts a patio. Additionally, the apartment offers private parking, a rooftop pool, and a 24-hour front desk.
The spacious apartment comprises 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with streaming services, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with garden views. The apartment also features a balcony that can be utilised as an outdoor dining area. Furthermore, there is a dressing room available for guests to use.
A coffee shop and mini market are conveniently located nearby.
Sparano Top Class also offers a bicycle rental service.
Popular attractions close to the accommodation include Bari Central Train Station, Basilica San Nicola, and Petruzzelli Theatre. The nearest airport is Bari Karol Wojtyla Airport, situated 6.2 miles from Sparano Top Class.
Book your stay at Sparano Top Class here.
Mid-Range –
Casa Almika Sparano, located in the heart of Bari, provides guests with free WiFi and stunning city views. The property is conveniently situated just 650 yards away from Teatro Margherita and Bari Cathedral, and is also just 1.2 miles from Pane e Pomodoro Beach. The guest house has a lift and offers family rooms.
The units at Casa Almika Sparano include a balcony, air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, and a private bathroom with a bidet and slippers. In addition, each unit is equipped with a minibar, coffee machine, and kettle. Bed linen and towels are provided in every unit.
The guest house also offers a car rental service.
Popular nearby attractions include Basilica San Nicola, Bari Central Train Station, and Petruzzelli Theatre. Bari Karol Wojtyla Airport is the nearest airport, located 6.2 miles away from the accommodation.
Book your stay at Casa Almika Sparano here.
Budget – Gatto Bianco le Dimore, located in Bari, provides free WiFi and features both air-conditioned rooms and apartments. The property is situated within a 15-minute walk from Bari Central Train Station and a 10-minute walk from Bari Cathedral.
The rooms and apartments at Gatto Bianco le Dimore are equipped with a private bathroom that includes toiletries, a hairdryer, and a shower. Additionally, the studios come with a kitchenette, and some are spread out over two levels.
Located just 450 yards away, the Petruzzelli Theatre is easily accessible from the property, while the Fiera del Levante exhibition center is 1.9 miles away. Bari Karol Wojtyla Airport is located 6.2 miles from the accommodation.
Book your stay at Gato Bianco le Dimore here.
Is Bari Worth Visiting
Bari, located in the southern region of Puglia in Italy, is a city that boasts a rich history, stunning architecture, and beautiful coastline. The city is steeped in history, and it offers visitors an opportunity to experience the authentic Italian lifestyle. Here are some reasons why a Bari city break is worth your time and money.
Firstly, Bari is home to many historical sites that showcase the city’s rich cultural heritage. The Basilica di San Nicola, for example, is an iconic religious site that dates back to the 11th century and houses the relics of Saint Nicholas. The Castello Svevo, a fortress that was built in the 12th century, is another must-visit site that provides visitors with a glimpse into the city’s history.
Secondly, Bari is known for its stunning architecture. The old town, also known as the Bari Vecchia, is a maze of narrow alleys and ancient buildings that have stood for centuries. The Norman-Swabian Castle is a prime example of the city’s architectural beauty, with its impressive walls and towers.
Lastly, Bari’s location on the Adriatic Sea provides visitors with access to beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters. The Lungomare Nazario Sauro, a scenic promenade that stretches along the coastline, is a great place to take a stroll and enjoy the sea breeze.
Is Bari Expensive?
The cost of visiting Bari in Italy can vary depending on your travel style, preferences, and the time of year you visit. However, overall, Bari is not considered to be one of the most expensive cities in Italy and you can definitely visit Bari cheap.
- Accommodation prices in Bari can range from budget hostels to high-end hotels, and the cost will depend on the type of accommodation you choose and its location. In general, staying in the historic centre of the city can be more expensive than staying in the suburbs or outskirts.
- Food and drink prices in Bari can also vary depending on where you eat and drink. Eating at local markets or street food vendors can be more affordable than dining at fancy restaurants. However, keep in mind that Italy is known for its excellent cuisine, and you may want to splurge on some of the local specialties.
- Transportation costs in Bari are relatively low, and you can easily get around the city using public transportation or by walking.
The cost of a Bari city break can be considered moderate, especially compared to other Italian cities such as Rome or Florence. However, it is always a good idea to plan and budget accordingly to make sure you can enjoy your trip without breaking the bank.
When to Visit Bari, Italy?
One of the best ways to save money is to go for a Bari weekend break during the off-peak season. The peak tourist season in Bari is from June to August, and during this time, everything from flights to accommodations and even food prices can be significantly higher. If you can, try to plan your trip during the shoulder season, which is from March to May or September to November. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also avoid the crowds.
Accommodation in Bari
Bari has a variety of accommodation options, ranging from budget hostels to luxury hotels. If you’re looking to save money, consider staying in a hostel or a budget hotel. Hostels in Bari are a great option for solo travelers or those on a tight budget. Some popular hostels in Bari include the Bari Central Hostel, the Ostello Bari, and the Bari Youth Hostel. Budget hotels in Bari are also a great option for those looking for more privacy. Some popular budget hotels in Bari include the Hotel Costa, Hotel Adria, and Hotel Boston.
Another way to save money on accommodation is to book your stay in advance. Many hotels offer early bird discounts, which can save you up to 30% on your stay. You can also try booking your accommodation through a travel aggregator site like Booking.com or Expedia. These sites often offer deals on hotel stays, and you may be able to save even more by bundling your flights and hotel.
Restaurants in Bari
Italian cuisine is famous all over the world, and Bari is no exception. However, eating out in Bari can be expensive, especially if you’re dining in tourist areas. To save money, try eating like a local. Head to the markets and buy fresh produce and ingredients to cook your own meals. You can also try street food, which is cheap and delicious. Some popular street foods in Bari include panzerotti, focaccia barese, and orecchiette.
If you do decide to eat out, try to avoid tourist traps and head to local restaurants. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also get to experience authentic Italian cuisine. Some popular local restaurants in Bari include the Trattoria La Tana del Polpo, Osteria del Borgo Antico, and La Cecchina.
Our favourite part of Bari, Italy is obviously the fantastic food choices available. This makes the price and availability of such one of the more important parts of any city experience to us. Luckily, we were very impressed by the range of choices and the prices available around the city.
There is plenty of higher class, more expensive restaurants to choose from, around both the old and the new towns. However, there is also an incredible number of cheap eats and delicious restaurants hidden around too! Some of the best places to eat in Bari are the back alley, local restaurants, sitting around the old town. Some particular favourites of ours were the Castle Bar and Café Italiano.
How to get around Bari
Public transportation in Bari is cheap and efficient. Buses and trains are the main modes of transportation in the city, and you can easily get around without breaking the bank. If you plan on using public transportation, consider buying a BariCard. This card gives you access to all buses and trains in the city for a set fee, and you can save up to 30% on transportation costs.
Another way to save money on transportation is to walk or cycle. Bari is a walkable city, and you can easily explore its historic streets on foot. You can also rent a bike for a day and explore the city on two wheels. There are bike rental options available, from just €15 a day, you can rent a bike of your own and explore the entire city at your own free will.
One of the most impressive things we found about Bari, is just how bike-friendly drivers tend to be. Italy has a reputation for having wild drivers and manic traffic junctions. However, as an outsider I can’t deny some of the traffic in cities I visited are absolute mayhem, it seems to be controlled mayhem. There are rarely ever any bumps and it seems to just work!
As a cyclist, pedalling through this madness can be a terrifying experience! However, you will soon realise most drivers seem to bend over backwards to accommodate for you. There were even times when cars stopped in the middle of a roundabout to let us on!
In Bari, there are plenty of opportunities to rent bikes for short or extended periods of time. There are even cycling guided tours around the old town! We highly recommend getting a bike for your stay, as it makes getting around the city so much easier!
The Bari city hub itself is split into two sections, the old town and the new town. The new town is incredibly easy to navigate as a cyclist, with the entire area split into perfect blocks and grids. This makes finding your way around very simple! It’s worth noting that I said as a cyclist, as pretty much the entire new town is a one-way system. This makes driving around the city centre a nightmare!
Luckily as cyclists, we didn’t have to worry about this too much.
However, the same can’t be said for the old town. It is mostly built in a circular shape, with tiny, winding roads through the middle. All of these roads are built around the ancient Bari Castle (which is also worth a visit!). The stark contrast between these two towns are reason enough to visit; they are both completely stunning in their own way.
With all of these highlights combined, Bari makes for an incredible city break that is easily done on a budget. Our favourite part of this beautiful city is how undiscovered it continues to be. This gives visitors a chance to see a more authentic side of Italy than the main tourist traps further north. If you are wanting to visit an authentic part of Italy, then a Bari weekend break is perfect for you!
Free Attractions in Bari
If you are planning a weekend break in Bari, Italy, you won’t be short on things to do. History on every corner, friendly and welcoming locals, and even beautiful beaches ALL FREE! During our 4-day visit to Bari, we didn’t spend a penny on any sightseeing or activities and we still maximised our time in the city.
The old town is large enough to take a day to walk around, admiring the small streets, beautiful colours and quirky locals as they go about their daily lives. The walk back around the seaside is then so beautiful, you could sit and admire it for an entire day.
There are many great things to do in Bari ranging from historic landmarks to beautiful beaches. However, visiting all these attractions can add up quickly. To save money, consider visiting free attractions in Bari. Some popular free attractions in Bari include the Basilica di San Nicola, the Castello Svevo, the Piazza del Ferrarese, and the Lungomare Nazario Sauro.
The Basilica di San Nicola is a must-visit attraction in Bari, and it’s free to enter. This beautiful church is dedicated to Saint Nicholas and is an important pilgrimage site for Christians. The Castello Svevo, also known as the Swabian Castle, is another popular attraction in Bari. The castle dates back to the 12th century and is a great place to explore for history buffs. The Piazza del Ferrarese is a bustling square in the heart of Bari, and it’s a great place to people-watch and soak up the local culture. Finally, the Lungomare Nazario Sauro is a beautiful waterfront promenade that offers stunning views of the Adriatic Sea.
Free Tours in Bari
Bari has a variety of free walking tours that are a great way to explore the city and learn about its history and culture. Free tours are a great way to save money while still experiencing the best of Bari. Some popular free walking tours in Bari include the Bari Free Walking Tour and the Bari Street Food Tour.
The Bari Free Walking Tour is a three-hour tour that takes you through the historic center of Bari. You’ll get to see landmarks like the Basilica di San Nicola and the Castello Svevo, and learn about the city’s fascinating history. The Bari Street Food Tour is a great way to experience the local cuisine. You’ll get to try local specialties like panzerotti and focaccia, and learn about the history and culture of Bari’s food scene.
Day Trips from Bari
Bari is located in the heart of the Apulia region, which is known for its beautiful beaches, picturesque towns, and delicious food. Taking day trips from Bari is a great way to explore the surrounding area without breaking the bank. Some popular day trips from Bari include:
- Polignano a Mare: This beautiful seaside town is located just 20 minutes from Bari and is famous for its stunning cliffs and crystal-clear waters. You can spend the day sunbathing on the beach, exploring the historic center, and enjoying the local cuisine.
- Alberobello: This UNESCO World Heritage site is known for its unique trulli houses, which are traditional Apulian dwellings made of limestone. Alberobello is located about an hour from Bari and is a great place to explore the local culture and history.
- Matera: Matera is a beautiful city located in the neighboring region of Basilicata. The city is famous for its Sassi, which are ancient cave dwellings carved into the rock. Matera is about an hour and a half from Bari, but it’s well worth the trip.
Facilities in Bari
The most impressive thing we found in Bari is the incredible facilities it has to offer all over the city, which are completely free! There is a wireless network available at key tourist spots, such as the old town square and the beach, which is free and offers a reliable connection.
Along the beach, you will find free toilets and showers, all of which are well kept and clean. Drinking water taps are also readily available at the beach and spread throughout the city, allowing you to top up your reusable water bottles and stay hydrated!
Before You Leave for Bari
Before you set off on your way to Edinburgh, there are a number of things you will need to get organised to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. These include what to pack, where to stay and what is the best insurance for your trip to Scotland. All of this is discussed in detail below.
How to Get to Bari
Bari, located in the southern region of Italy, is easily accessible through various modes of transportation. Here are some options to consider:
Plane: Bari is home to an international airport, Karol Wojtyla Airport, which is serviced by major airlines such as Ryanair, Alitalia, and Lufthansa. From the airport, you can take a shuttle bus or taxi to the city center.
Train: Bari is well-connected to other major cities in Italy and Europe by train. The city has two main train stations, Bari Centrale and Bari Palese, which offer connections to destinations like Rome, Naples, and Florence.
Bus: Buses are a popular and affordable way to travel within Italy. Bari is served by several bus companies, including Flixbus, which offers connections to other cities in Italy and Europe.
Car: If you prefer to drive, Bari is easily accessible by car. The city is located along the A14 highway, which connects it to other major cities in Italy like Rome, Florence, and Bologna. However, keep in mind that parking can be a challenge in the city center.
Ferry: Bari is also a major port city, with ferry connections to other destinations in Italy and beyond. You can take a ferry to Bari from cities like Dubrovnik, Igoumenitsa, and Corfu.
Where to Stay in Bari
There is a wide range of accommodations available in Bari, so you will not be short on options. Book your stay in the box below.
What to Pack for Your Trip to Bari
What you need to pack for Bari will rely highly on when you make your trip to Italy. During the Spring and Autumn months, temperatures and weather patterns vary wildly between beautiful sunny skies and rainy days. During the Summer, you are pretty much guaranteed nice weather with temperatures ranging from 20-35 oC. The hottest months are July and August, so these will be the most popular for a Summer holiday.
During the Winter months in Puglia, the weather can go as low as freezing, so make sure you wrap up warm if you are coming between October and April. If you need more inspiration on what to pack for your trip, check out our full packing guides for all-weather conditions over here.
When it comes to toiletries, we recommend that you don’t forget to pack sunscreen. The sun in Italy is very strong, especially during the summer months. Apply a lot of cream regularly to prevent a nasty burn from ruining your trip. We use this specific sunscreen to protect us as it is not as oily and irritating as other sunscreens.
Given the beautiful sights and scenery that you will see in Italy, we highly recommend packing a good camera for your trip. If you want to read more about the cameras we use and why we love them, check out the link below.
Photography Equipment
Main Photography Camera – Sony A7v Mirrorless Camera and Sony A7iii Mirrorless Camera
Microphone – Sony Mic ECM-B1M
Main Lens – Tamron 17-28mm f/2.8
Zoom Lens – Tamron 70-180mm f/2.8
Camera Tripod – ZOMEI Z669C Camera Tripod
Gorilla Pod – JOBY JB01507-BWW GorillaPod
Action Camera – GoPro Hero 11 and Insta 360 One RS
Drone Camera – DJI Mavic Pro 3
Camera Bag – Wandrd PRVKE 41L and The Nest by Tropicfeel
Phone Tripod – Manfrotto MKPIXICLAMP-BK, Mini Tripod with Universal Smartphone Clamp
Sturdy Phone Tripod & Selfie Stick – ATUMTEK 61″ Selfie Stick Tripod, Sturdy Phone Tripod Stand with Wireless Remote
Hard Drives – LaCie Rugged Mini, 5TB, 2.5″, Portable External Hard Drive
SSD – SanDisk Extreme Pro 1TB Portable NVMe SSD
Travel Adapter –Worldwide Travel Adapter Universal Travel Plug with 4 USB Ports+Universal AC Socke
What is the Best Travel Insurance for Bari
I know travel insurance is the least enjoyable thing to purchase and look at when you’re planning a trip, however, you wouldn’t want to be without it in the event that something happened. Accidents can happen anywhere and the extortionate medical bills will ruin your trip if you are not covered.
To ensure you have a stress-free trip with no worries about potential medical bills, make sure you cover yourself when you travel. We can recommend using SafetyWing, a backpacker-friendly and cheap insurance company that provides good coverage and support. It is also nomad-friendly, unlike most other insurance companies, meaning you do not need to worry about being out of your home country for too long.
Get a quote for your travel insurance right here and get covered!
So there you have it, a guide to visiting Bari in Italy on a budget. If you are visiting this incredible city and have any other questions on what to expect, leave us a comment down below. We love to chat about this stuff! If you have already been, let us know how it was!
Also, remember to share this with your friends and family that you are going to share this amazing experience with. Sharing is caring and we want to ensure that everyone is fully prepared to maximise their experience on this trip.
If you are planning an Italy trip soon then check out our other Italy content right here. Come and find us on social media to see where we are currently exploring. Tag us in your photos from your stay and we will share them with the rest of our community of explorers and backpackers.
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I love Italy, I went there last year. I never went to Bari though, it looks absolutely beautiful, I’ll have to check it out next time I go.
Italy is great isn’t it! You would love Bari I’m sure.
Italy is on my bucket list. Thanks for all the tips!
That’s great! I hope you get to Italy soon ?
Looks a great place to visit. Thanks for sharing.
Bari is awesome!
I will be visiting Italy in October-November this year. Bari is one of the places I am yet to visit – I would love to after reading your post! 🙂
Awesome! I hope you make it to Bari ? it’s such a lovely place!
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