MileHacker Logo
Things to Do in Bari

Things to Do in Bari

Bari Puglia, Italy Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

Explore Bari's natural side, from scenic coastal activities to inland trails.

Land-Based Activities

Hiking and Trekking

Light trails in Parco Naturale Regionale Lama Balice. For extensive hiking, Alta Murgia National Park (car needed). Maps are available.

Cycling and Mountain Biking

Cycle along Bari's Lungomare. For adventurous cycling, explore rural roads through olive groves. Mountain biking in Alta Murgia National Park.

Wildlife Encounters

Puglia's natural parks offer bird watching. Observe local wildlife like foxes in remote areas. Coastal areas are migratory bird routes.

Water Sports & Boat Tours

  • Swimming: Bari's urban beach, Pane e Pomodoro. Clearer waters in Polignano a Mare or Monopoli.
  • Coastal Sports: Kayaking, Paddleboarding, Snorkeling, Scuba Diving in Polignano a Mare or Monopoli. Rental shops available.
  • Boat Tours: From Bari or Polignano a Mare. Explore scenic sea caves and grottoes along Puglia's Adriatic coast.
  • Excursions: Options range from short trips to full-day excursions. Some tours include swimming stops in secluded coves.

Coastal Exploration

  • Paddleboarding along the cliffs of Polignano.
  • Kayaking into hidden sea caves.
  • Snorkeling in crystal-clear waters near Monopoli.
  • Booking these activities via GetYourGuide.

Beach Days

  • Relax at Pane e Pomodoro Beach.
  • Discover Lidos and beach clubs for structured experiences.
  • Enjoy sunbathing and swimming at convenience.
  • Find family-friendly spots along the Lungomare.

Inland Nature

  • Gentle walks in Lama Balice Regional Natural Park.
  • Explore unique karstic landscapes.
  • Bird watching opportunities.
  • A contrast to the bustling city environment.

Transportation Note for Outdoor Activities

For hiking in National Parks or reaching specific water sports centers in nearby towns, having a rental car is highly recommended for flexibility.

Cultural Immersion

Deepen your understanding of Bari's culture through hands-on experiences and local interactions.

Workshops & Classes

  • Cooking Classes: Learn to make traditional Puglian dishes, especially Orecchiette pasta from scratch. Many classes with local families in Bari Vecchia. Book via GetYourGuide.
  • Craft Workshops: Some artisans in Bari Vecchia offer small workshops on traditional crafts like olive wood carving or terracotta pottery. Inquire at local craft shops.
  • Language Learning: Learning basic Italian phrases enhances interaction with locals. Even simple greetings go a long way.
  • Community Tourism: Engage with local artisans and support family-run eateries. Consider tours that involve local residents for cultural exchange.

Performances & Festivals

Teatro Petruzzelli

Attend an opera, ballet, or classical concert for a prestigious cultural evening. Check GetYourGuide for performance related tours.

Religious Ceremonies

Observe or participate in ceremonies at the Basilica di San Nicola, including Orthodox liturgies for a spiritual and cultural experience.

Cultural Festivals & Events

Check local calendars for Feste and Sagre celebrating regional traditions, patron saints, and local produce. Often feature music, dancing, parades, street food. The Feast of San Nicola (May 7-9 and Dec 6) is a major event.

Hands-On Learning

Participate in classes to learn traditional crafts and culinary skills, connecting directly with local heritage.

Community Engagement

Seek out opportunities to interact with locals, whether through guided tours or spontaneous conversations.

Relaxation & Wellness

Bari has opportunities for relaxation, from urban beaches to tranquil spots.

Wellness Facilities

  • Spa and Wellness Centers: Some luxury hotels (The Nicolaus Hotel, iH Hotels Bari Grande Albergo delle Nazioni) have spa facilities, pools, saunas, massage.
  • Hot Springs: Puglia does not have many natural hot springs directly near Bari.
  • Traditional Healing: Not a prominent feature in mainstream tourism. Local pharmacies and herbalists offer natural remedies.
  • Yoga & Meditation: While not a main focus in Bari, some rural Masserie or specialized centers in wider Puglia offer retreats.

Beach & Pool Clubs

Pane e Pomodoro Beach

Bari's urban beach for convenient relaxation by the sea.

Lidos / Beach Clubs

Along the Puglian coast (Monopoli, Polignano a Mare), offering sun loungers, umbrellas, changing facilities, bars/restaurants for a structured beach experience.

Hotel Pools

Many hotels, especially in the luxury and mid-range categories, have swimming pools for guest relaxation.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Live Music

Check local listings for bars, pubs, and cafes in Murat and around Piazza Mercantile hosting live music (jazz, blues, Italian acts).

Theater

Teatro Petruzzelli (opera, ballet, classical concerts) and Teatro Piccinni (various performances).

Bars & Nightclubs

Piazza Mercantile and Piazza Ferrarese in old town are lively in evenings for Aperitivo. Murat quarter has modern bars and cocktail lounges. Nightclubs in Murat and along Lungomare.

Shopping & Markets

Bari has varied shopping opportunities, from bustling traditional markets to elegant boutiques.

Traditional Markets

  • Mercato del Pesce (Fish Market): Lively daily morning market near the old port. Fishermen sell fresh catch directly.
  • Mercato Coperto (Covered Market): Via G. Sangiorgi. Fresh produce, local cheeses, cured meats, spices, Puglian delicacies.
  • Fiera del Levante: International trade fair (usually Sept). Has a large public market section for artisan crafts, food products.
  • Insider Tip: Engage with vendors at markets. They appreciate a few Italian words and share helpful advice.

Artisan & Luxury Shopping

Artisan Workshops

In Bari Vecchia, find small workshops selling local crafts like olive wood items, terracotta pottery, and local textiles. Unique handmade souvenirs.

Luxury Shopping

Via Sparano da Bari and Via Argiro in Murat quarter are main streets for luxury and boutique shopping. International fashion brands, Italian designers, jewelry stores.

Ethical Shopping

Prioritize products marked "Made in Puglia" or "fatto a mano" (handmade) and buy directly from small, local producers. This supports local communities and ensures authenticity.

Edible Souvenirs

  • Authentic Orecchiette Pasta (fresh from nonnas).
  • High-Quality Puglian Olive Oil.
  • Taralli (savory cracker-like rings).
  • Local Wines (Primitivo, Negroamaro, Verdeca).

Crafts & Gifts

  • Handcrafted Ceramics (from nearby towns).
  • Olive Wood items (cutting boards, utensils).
  • Local Textiles.
  • Avoid mass-produced souvenirs.

Shipping & Customs

  • Inquire about shipping services for large items.
  • Check home country's customs regulations.
  • Limits on alcohol, certain food items, cured meats.
  • Plan purchases accordingly to avoid issues.

Practical Shopping Advice

Bargaining
  • Bargaining is generally not common in shops or boutiques.
  • At some informal market stalls, a slight negotiation might be possible for larger purchases.
  • Always approach with respect and a friendly attitude.
Opening Hours
  • Many smaller shops close for a midday break (riposo), typically from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM.
  • Larger stores in Murat often have continuous hours.
  • Hours may vary seasonally, especially in coastal areas during summer.

Support Local Artisans

Look for workshops selling handmade olive wood products or ceramics.

Activity Planning Summary

Embrace Bari's Offerings

  • Combine outdoor activities with cultural deep dives for a comprehensive Bari experience.
  • Look for seasonal festivals and events for unique local immersion.
  • Explore both the bustling city center and the serene coastal areas.
  • Support local businesses and artisans to truly connect with Bari.

Practical Considerations

  • Check opening hours and book popular tours or classes in advance.
  • Consider car rental for exploring outside the city or rely on public transport for city and main town connections.
  • Pack according to the season and expected activities, especially for outdoor adventures.
  • Have some cash for smaller vendors or markets.