What to Do in Bari in 3 Days: 10 Experiences You Must Try

If you’re planning a visit to the charming city of Bari in southern Italy and want to make the most of your time, you’ve come to the right place! I’ll tell you all about what to do in Bari in 3 days: What to visit, how to get around, and where to eat and more. Bari is a coast city rich in history, culture, and gastronomy, offering a variety of experiences that are sure to captivate you!

If you’re short on time to explore Bari, I recommend starting with a Free Tour! It’s a chance to discover Bari in an authentic and budget-friendly way. Join a passionate local guide as they take you through the city’s historic streets, sharing fascinating stories and revealing hidden secrets. They’ll show you the most iconic places, and then you can go back to enjoy the ones you liked the most!

Now, let’s get down to business! In this little Bari travel guide, I’ll present you with 10 great activities to enjoy during your stay.

1 Explore the Old Town of Bari Vecchia and the Basilica of San Nicola

Start your adventure in Bari by exploring its charming old town, known as Bari Vecchia. Get lost in the narrow cobblestone streets and admire the medieval architecture. Pay attention to the doors decorated with paintings – there are plenty, and some are really beautiful! Don’t miss the Basilica of San Nicola, which houses the relics of the city’s patron saint.

2 Take a walk down Via delle Orecchiette

If you want to try the traditional dishes of the region right in the historic center, I recommend going to taste the orecchiette con cime di rapa, or any of the other traditional dishes they prepare at La Cantina dello Zio, a small traditional restaurant that serves incredible and delicious dishes!

3 Watch the Sunset from Lungomare Promenade

Nearby, on the lively Corso Vittorio Emanuele street, you’ll find Ristorante Biancofiore, which is definitely worth a stop! They offer tasting menus of seafood and land dishes, and both are truly extraordinary!

4 Visit the Fortress of Bari

Discover the history of Bari by visiting its imposing fortress, built in the 13th century to protect the city from enemy attacks. Explore the walls, towers, and inner courtyards as you learn about the fascinating military history of the region.

5 Explore Bari’s Fish Market

I’ll warn you: to fully enjoy the market in all its splendor, you’ll have to get up early, but it’s totally worth it! Immerse yourself in Bari’s local life by visiting its lively fish market. Explore stalls filled with fresh seafood and watch as local fishermen sell their daily catches. And why not? If you can cook at your accommodation, take advantage of buying some super fresh fish! It’s an authentic experience you can’t miss.

6 Relax at Pane e Pomodoro Beach

7 Visit the Petruzzelli Theater

Discover the architectural beauty of the Petruzzelli Theater, one of Italy’s largest opera houses. If there’s a show during your stay, don’t hesitate to attend! If not, you can admire the magnificent facade of the building as you walk through the city center.

8 Explore the New Town of Bari

Explore Bari’s new town and discover its elegant squares, shops, and cafes. Do some shopping on Via Sparano, one of the most popular shopping streets.

Bari’s new town, also known as “Bari Nuova” offers a fascinating blend of history, culture, and modernity. Located north of the historic center, this part of the city reflects the vibrant contemporary life in Bari. Here you’ll find elegant avenues like Via Sparano, lined with fashion boutiques, modern cafes, and restaurants, contrasting with the medieval atmosphere of the old town. The new town is the perfect place to enjoy a day of shopping or immerse yourself in the city’s lively nightlife.

9 Visit Piazza del Ferrarese and Piazza Mercantile

When it comes to exploring the authentic essence of an Italian city, there’s nothing like strolling through its historic squares. In Bari, two squares stand out for their charm and vitality: Piazza del Ferrarese and Piazza Mercantile. These squares, located in the heart of the historic center, offer a window into the city’s everyday life and are steeped in history, culture, and architectural beauty.

Located next to the port, Piazza del Ferrarese is a hidden gem that captivates with its maritime charm and vibrant atmosphere. It’s a lively place where locals and tourists gather to enjoy outdoor cafes, explore boutique shops, and take in the sea views.

A short walk from Piazza del Ferrarese is Piazza Mercantile, the historic and commercial heart of Bari since the Middle Ages. This medieval square, with its impressive ancient buildings and bustling market, is a must-visit for history and culture lovers. Here you can admire the Palazzo del Sedile, an imposing Renaissance building that was once the city hall. Today, it houses the Pinacoteca Metropolitana, where important medieval and Renaissance artworks are displayed.

Enjoy Bari’s Vibrant Nightlife

End your days in Bari by enjoying the city’s vibrant nightlife. Visit one of the many bars and restaurants in the old town and enjoy live music, delicious food, and the company of the locals.

Experience the Full Bari in 3 Days

In summary, Bari is a city full of history, culture, and charm that offers a variety of experiences to enjoy during your stay. From exploring its old town and fortresses to tasting its delicious food and enjoying its vibrant nightlife, there’s plenty to see and do in Bari in just 3 days. So, prepare your itinerary and get ready for an unforgettable experience in this charming city in southern Italy!

If you want to discover other dreamy places to visit, check out my blog; you’re sure to find inspiration there!