Bari Puglia, Italy Travel Guide
Easily available from major mobile providers like TIM, Vodafone, WindTre, and Iliad. Find their stores in the city center.
Wi-Fi is widely available and usually free in hotels, B&Bs, and vacation rentals.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted. ATMs (Bancomat) are plentiful for cash withdrawals. Exchange rates at banks are usually better than airport currency exchanges.
Provided by Poste Italiane. You find post offices (Uffici postali) throughout the city. Services include sending postcards, letters, or packages.
Learning basic phrases like "Grazie" and "Per favore" makes a positive connection with locals.
For mobile data, Airalo eSIMs offer convenience. Consider Solis Wi-Fi for portable internet. For language learning before your trip, Rosetta Stone is a resource.
Familiarity with local operating hours makes planning simpler.
Generally open from 9:00/9:30 AM to 1:00/1:30 PM, then close for a midday break (Riposo or Pausa pranzo), and reopen from 4:30/5:00 PM to 8:00/8:30 PM.
Lunch service typically runs from 12:30/1:00 PM to 2:30/3:00 PM. Dinner service usually begins from 7:30/8:00 PM to 10:30/11:00 PM.
Banks typically operate from 8:30 AM to 1:30 PM on weekdays, with a short afternoon opening a few days a week. Closed on weekends.
Italy observes several national public holidays during which businesses, banks, post offices, and some attractions may be closed or have reduced hours.
Some coastal restaurants or smaller businesses may close during the low season. Bari celebrates its patron saint, San Nicola, with major festivities on May 7-9 and December 6.
Always verify specific site websites for current hours and any holiday closures, especially for museums and attractions. Plan around local festivals for a richer experience.
A polite "Buongiorno" (good morning/day) or "Buonasera" (good evening) upon entering a shop, restaurant, or addressing someone new always meets appreciation. "Ciao" for informal greetings.
Casual wear remains generally acceptable for sightseeing. Modest attire (shoulders and knees covered) becomes important for religious sites.
Wait to be seated by staff in restaurants. Tipping is not mandatory. If a Coperto or Servizio shows on the bill, no further tip.
Generally acceptable in public spaces. Be respectful when photographing people; ask for permission for close-up shots, especially of children or older individuals.
Modest attire (shoulders and knees covered) is appropriate for religious sites. Maintaining a low voice or silence is appreciated in quiet places.
Bari steadily improves its infrastructure for travelers with disabilities.
The Murat new town, with its grid plan, wider pavements, and more modern buildings, generally has more accessibility than Bari Vecchia.
Newer public buildings and AMTAB buses often possess accessibility features. Older churches and historical sites may have limited accessibility.
Resources and services are gradually being enhanced. Some larger museums may offer audio guides or tactile exhibits. Information in Braille or sign language interpretation may be limited.
Accessible taxis may be limited. Booking in advance with a specialized service remains recommended for wheelchair-accessible vehicles. Public transport generally supports some needs.
Contact local tourism offices in Bari or Puglia in advance of your trip for specific guidance on accessible routes, accommodations, and attractions. Websites like Wheelchair Accessible Travel can also offer resources.
