Bari is the vibrant heart of Puglia—a city where history, culture, and mouthwatering cuisine come together on the shores of the Adriatic Sea. Lose yourself in the maze-like streets of Bari Vecchia, the city’s enchanting old town, where every twist and turn reveals a glimpse of its rich heritage. Treat your taste buds to freshly handmade orecchiette, the region’s signature pasta, and immerse yourself in the bold, unforgettable flavors of Puglia’s culinary tradition. Marvel at ancient churches and imposing castles that stand as proud reminders of Bari’s storied past.
Despite its rising popularity with travelers, Bari has managed to hold on to its authentic, down-to-earth charm—a quality that leaves every visitor longing to return.
In this blog, we’ll take you on a journey through the most captivating sights Bari has to offer. Explore its majestic churches, wander through the atmospheric streets of Bari Vecchia, and visit the iconic Orecchiette Street, where local women skillfully craft fresh pasta right in front of you. We’ll also highlight the best day trips from the city, including the storybook village of Alberobello with its charming trulli houses and the dramatic cliffs of Polignano a Mare, perched high above the turquoise sea.
Let this guide inspire your adventure to this sparkling gem of Southern Italy!
Where is Bari located in Italy?
Bari is located in the southeastern corner of Italy, along the stunning Adriatic Sea, and serves as the vibrant capital of the Puglia region. This picturesque area forms the heel of Italy’s famous boot, celebrated for its dramatic coastline, charming historic villages, and sprawling olive groves. Positioned centrally on the coast, Bari is about 350 kilometers southeast of Rome and over 800 kilometers south of Milan. The city is easily reached via the Bari Karol Wojtyła International Airport and is home to a bustling port offering ferry services to nearby Croatia, Albania, and Greece.
Bari’s central location makes it an ideal base for exploring the surrounding region. Just 30 kilometers to the south, you’ll find Polignano a Mare, famous for its dramatic cliffs and the serene Lama Monachile beach nestled between them. A little further down the coast, the charming town of Monopoli awaits, with its picturesque historic center and lively harbor. Here, you can experience the town’s deep maritime history while enjoying its welcoming atmosphere and coastal beauty.
A short one-hour drive inland will take you to Alberobello, a charming UNESCO World Heritage town famous for its iconic trulli—whitewashed stone cottages topped with cone-shaped roofs that seem almost otherworldly. A bit further, just an hour and a half away, you’ll find Matera, one of the oldest cities in the world, renowned for its ancient cave dwellings known as the Sassi. These unique, centuries-old homes have been lovingly transformed into a blend of boutique hotels, cozy restaurants, and fascinating museums, offering visitors a chance to explore the city’s rich history while enjoying all the comforts of modern life.
To the north, you’ll find Trani, a picturesque town famous for its magnificent cathedral standing proudly by the sea, offering sweeping views and a peaceful, serene ambiance. Venture a little further inland, and you’ll encounter the striking Castel del Monte, a 13th-century UNESCO World Heritage site with its distinctive octagonal shape, serving as a remarkable example of medieval architecture. If you’re a fan of baroque beauty, make sure to visit Lecce, just two hours away. Often referred to as the “Florence of the South,” Lecce is a treasure trove of elaborate baroque buildings, each more stunning than the last, creating an atmosphere of timeless elegance that will transport you to a different age.
What is Bari known for?
Bari, the vibrant capital of Italy’s southern Puglia region, is famed for its bustling harbor, picturesque old town, rich culinary traditions, and the iconic Basilica di San Nicola. Nestled along the Adriatic Sea, Bari has long been a crucial center of trade and commerce. In ancient times, the Greeks and Romans used its port as a gateway to the Mediterranean, setting the stage for centuries of maritime importance. Over the years, the city evolved into a vital link between Europe and the East, a role that continues today as the port thrives, connecting diverse cultures and continents in a bustling exchange of goods and ideas.
The heart of Bari’s charm lies in Bari Vecchia, the historic old town, which feels like a maze brimming with hidden gems. Winding streets lead you past whitewashed buildings, cozy squares, and ancient churches that whisper tales of the past. Everywhere, laundry flutters between balconies, and the rhythm of daily life unfolds on the streets. Locals sit outside, chatting with friends or expertly crafting orecchiette by hand, the beloved pasta that defines Bari’s culinary heritage. This lively neighborhood is also home to some of the city’s most iconic sights, giving visitors a chance to step into the authentic pulse of Bari, where tradition and beauty blend seamlessly.
One of Bari’s most iconic landmarks is the Basilica di San Nicola, a stunning 11th-century church dedicated to Saint Nicholas—the very figure who inspired the beloved Santa Claus. The basilica is steeped in history; in 1087, a group of Bari sailors brought the saint’s relics from Myra, a city in present-day Turkey, and they have been preserved in the basilica’s crypt ever since. This sacred site attracts pilgrims from both Catholic and Orthodox Christian traditions, making it a significant religious destination. The church’s simple Romanesque exterior gives way to an awe-inspiring interior, where the beauty and grandeur of the space reflect not only its spiritual importance but also its architectural brilliance.
Bari is not only rich in history but also celebrated for its vibrant culinary traditions. The city’s cuisine is a delightful blend of simplicity and bold flavor, with each dish telling its own story. Everywhere you go, you’ll encounter local favorites like focaccia Barese—soft, fluffy bread topped with juicy tomatoes and briny olives—and panzerotti, golden, crispy pockets of pastry filled with gooey mozzarella and tangy tomato. At the lively fish market by the harbor, you can sample ricci di mare—fresh, raw sea urchins straight from the Adriatic, offering an unforgettable taste of the sea. And no visit to Bari is complete without trying sgagliozze, warm, fried cubes of polenta, which are best enjoyed straight from the vendor’s hand as you wander the picturesque streets of the old town.
Bari’s modern side comes to life in the 19th-century Murat district, where wide boulevards are lined with stylish boutiques, charming shops, and inviting cafés. This vibrant area pulses with a contemporary energy, blending the best of fashion, culture, and urban flair. The Lungomare, a scenic promenade that runs along the coastline, is the perfect place for a leisurely walk, offering breathtaking sea views and the refreshing embrace of the ocean breeze. Whether you’re indulging in some window shopping or simply enjoying the lively atmosphere, this area presents a lively contrast to the timeless beauty of Bari’s historic old town.
Top 10 things to do in Bari
#1 Bari Vecchia (Old Town)
Bari Vecchia is the soul of Bari, a place where history and local culture collide in the most captivating way. This charming, old quarter feels like a living museum, with its labyrinth of narrow streets, quaint squares, and ancient buildings that have stood the test of time. Amid the popular tourist attractions and souvenir shops, you’ll find everyday life unfolding before your eyes, with locals going about their routines in the heart of this historic district. The atmosphere is lively yet steeped in tradition, offering a truly unique window into both the past and the present of this fascinating neighborhood.
The district sits between the sea and the modern city, a peaceful enclave where cars are a rare sight, allowing you to stroll at your own pace. The winding streets here form a charming maze, and it’s easy to lose yourself in the atmosphere. There’s no need to rush or worry about finding your way—simply wander and enjoy the vibrant street life that unfolds around you. Here, life happens in the open: children laughing as they play, older residents catching up on their doorsteps, and women skillfully crafting orecchiette, the signature pasta of Puglia. It’s a place where every corner offers a new slice of authentic Italian life.
In Bari Vecchia, you’ll discover some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, like the Basilica di San Nicola and the Cattedrale di San Sabino, each with its own rich history. As you meander through the area, you’ll stumble upon quaint churches, picturesque squares, and traditional restaurants that give the neighborhood its undeniable charm. Don’t miss the chance to savor a freshly baked focaccia or watch the locals skillfully preparing and selling their homemade pasta, offering a genuine taste of Bari’s culinary heritage.
#2 Basilica of Saint Nicholas
The Basilica of San Nicola is undeniably the crown jewel of Bari. This awe-inspiring 11th-century church is dedicated to Saint Nicholas, the beloved patron saint of the city and the inspiration for the figure of Santa Claus. In 1087, the saint’s relics were brought to Bari, where they have been preserved in the church’s crypt ever since. As a result, the basilica has become not only an architectural marvel but also a revered pilgrimage site, drawing visitors from around the globe.
The Basilica of San Nicola is a magnificent example of Apulian Romanesque architecture, with its solid white walls, clean lines, and impressive arches that command attention. Step inside, and you’re greeted by a space that is both grand and serene—vaulted ceilings stretch high above, and the baroque-style decorative ceiling adds a touch of elegance.
One of the most poignant features of the basilica is the crypt, where the tomb of Saint Nicholas lies. Pilgrims often gather here in quiet contemplation and prayer, making it a deeply spiritual experience. Equally captivating is the marble throne of Saint Nicholas, a powerful symbol of the saint’s lasting influence.
Best of all, admission is free, and both the church and the crypt are open to visitors, inviting everyone to experience the beauty and significance of this sacred site.
#3 Orecchiette Street
In the heart of Bari Vecchia lies a street like no other: Via delle Orecchiette. Here, you can immerse yourself in an age-old tradition that has been lovingly passed down through the generations. Women sit on small stools outside their homes, their hands skillfully shaping orecchiette—the signature “little ear” pasta that Bari is so famous for. With practiced hands, they roll the dough, slice it into small pieces, and mold each one into its distinctive round shape. It’s a mesmerizing sight, offering a window into the city’s rich culinary heritage and showcasing the time-honored craftsmanship that continues to flourish in this charming neighborhood.
As you stroll along the street, you’ll see wooden boards lined with fresh pasta, gently drying in the warm embrace of the sun—adding to the timeless charm of this lively scene. Visitors are not only invited to watch the women skillfully craft the pasta, but they also have the opportunity to buy bags of freshly made orecchiette to take home. Often priced at just a few euros, it’s an affordable way to carry a piece of Bari’s rich culinary tradition with you. Tucked away in one of the narrow side streets of Bari Vecchia, this delightful spot is easy to find as you explore the neighborhood, offering an authentic slice of local life that’s both captivating and memorable.
#4 Cathedral of San Sabino
The Cattedrale of San Sabino is Bari’s second most important church, nestled in the heart of the historic Bari Vecchia district. Constructed in the 12th century, this cathedral stands as a fine example of Romanesque architecture. Its white façade is elegantly simple, with a grand rose window and towering arches that rise above the narrow streets, giving it a commanding presence. The exterior’s quiet beauty beckons visitors to stop and admire its architectural grace. Inside, the cathedral unfolds even more of its rich history and charm, offering a glimpse into the past while remaining a place of deep reverence.
Inside, the cathedral exudes a sense of grandeur, with its soaring columns and serene, minimalist interior that highlights the beauty of its design. One of the most captivating features is the crypt, where the relics of Saint Sabinus are carefully preserved, adding a deeply spiritual element to the space. Below the cathedral, hidden beneath the stone floor, lie fascinating archaeological treasures—remnants of an ancient Byzantine church and delicate mosaic floors that date back to the early Middle Ages, offering a glimpse into the past. In June, the cathedral plays host to a facinating natural spectacle: during the summer solstice, sunlight pours through the rose window, casting its golden rays onto the floor below in an extraordinary play of light and shadow.
There is a small entrance fee to visit the cathedral. Located at the heart of Bari Vecchia, the cathedral is perfectly situated for combining with other nearby attractions. Just across the square, you’ll find a delightful, trendy café that’s ideal for a relaxing break. It’s where Sebastiaan enjoyed a charming coffee date with our toddler.
#5 Norman-Swabian Castle
The Castello Normanno-Svevo is undoubtedly one of Bari’s most impressive landmarks. This imposing fortress, originally built by the Normans in the 12th century, was later expanded by Frederick II, the Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire. Over the centuries, it has served a variety of roles—from a powerful military stronghold and royal residence to a prison. Its architecture is equally captivating, making it a must-visit destination for anyone eager to explore Bari’s storied heritage. As you wander through its walls, you’ll not only step back in time but also be treated to spectacular views of the surrounding area.
The castle stands proudly with its thick stone walls, towering turrets, and a grand courtyard that tells the story of its illustrious past. Inside, visitors are invited to explore fascinating exhibits that illuminate both the history of Bari and the castle itself. The collection includes archaeological discoveries, medieval artworks, and intricate models that reveal how the city looked in centuries past. These displays offer a immersive experience that deepens your understanding of the castle’s pivotal role in the city’s history.
There is an entrance fee to visit the castle. Situated at the edge of Bari Vecchia, the castle is an excellent addition to any tour of the historic old town.
#6 Petruzzelli Theatre
The Teatro Petruzzelli stands as the vibrant heart of Bari’s cultural life and ranks among Italy’s largest and most stunning theaters. This magnificent opera house, built in 1903, was commissioned by the Petruzzelli family—wealthy merchants with a vision of gifting the city a theater befitting its cultural legacy.
The theater’s façade immediately commands attention, with its elegant classical details and grand presence that exudes timeless beauty. Step inside, and you’re greeted by even more splendor: plush red velvet seats, intricate gilded accents, and an awe-inspiring ceiling fresco depicting scenes from mythology that transports you to a world of ancient gods and legends. Whether you’re attending a performance or simply taking in the architectural splendor, Teatro Petruzzelli offers a captivating blend of artistry and history.
In 1991, tragedy struck when a fierce fire ravaged the Teatro Petruzzelli, leaving only a smoking ruin and a profound sense of loss among the people of Bari. Yet, through unwavering determination and a remarkable display of resilience, the Teatro Petruzzelli was painstakingly rebuilt and reopened to the public in 2009. Today, it stands proudly once again, more splendid than ever, a living symbol of Bari’s enduring spirit and its commitment to safeguarding its rich cultural legacy.
Today, the Teatro Petruzzelli stands as a vibrant cultural landmark, hosting world-class operas, concerts, and ballet performances. It continues to uphold its legacy as a premier venue for the arts. For those eager to learn more, the theater also offers insightful guided tours, providing a fascinating glimpse into its storied history and stunning architecture. Situated in the heart of Bari’s modern district, it’s just a short walk from the lively shopping streets.
#7 Provincial Pinacoteca of Bari
For art and history enthusiasts, the Pinacoteca Provinciale di Bari is a must-visit. Nestled within the grand Palazzo della Provincia, this distinguished museum is situated right along Bari’s picturesque Lungomare, the bustling seafront promenade. The museum’s extensive collection offers a fascinating journey through the artistic history of Puglia, featuring works that span from the medieval era all the way to the 20th century. Each exhibit not only showcases the region’s rich cultural heritage but also highlights its evolution through the centuries. Whether you’re an art aficionado or a curious traveler, this museum is an unmissable destination, offering a deeper understanding of Bari’s artistic legacy and the broader history of the region
The museum is home to an impressive array of religious art, featuring Byzantine icons and stunning frescoes from churches throughout the region. It also showcases masterpieces by some of the most renowned artists in history, including Bellini and Tintoretto. The baroque paintings and sculptures stand out as true masterpieces, drawing visitors in with their exquisite detail and dramatic presence. In addition, the museum’s modern art collection offers a captivating exploration of how the artistic landscape of Puglia has evolved over the centuries, revealing the dynamic and ever-changing nature of the region’s creativity. A special section is also dedicated to Bari’s own artists, providing a fascinating glimpse into the local art scene.
The Pinacoteca is a compact museum, offering an ideal experience for those seeking a brief cultural escape. Take your time to wander through its impressive collection, then make sure to step out onto the balcony for breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea. There is a small entrance fee.
#8 Margherita Theatre
Teatro Margherita is one of Bari’s most distinctive landmarks, celebrated not only for its graceful architecture but also for its exceptional location. Built in 1914, this former theater rises on stilts above the harbor’s waters. Its unique setting creates a striking visual contrast, where the elegance of the building meets the serene backdrop of the sea.
At that time, the nearby Teatro Petruzzelli held an exclusive right to stage performances within the city limits, a privilege secured by a contract that prevented the construction of any other theaters in Bari as long as it remained active. To work around this restriction, the architects of Teatro Margherita came up with an ingenious solution. They built the theater on stilts above the water, cleverly ensuring that it was not physically part of the “solid ground” of the city. This bold design allowed them to bypass the terms of the contract, opening the door to a new cultural venue for the people of Bari while preserving the integrity of the agreement.
The theater, a stunning example of Art Nouveau, boasts graceful arches, expansive windows, and intricate details that beautifully reflect the elegance of the early 20th century. Once left in disrepair and closed for many years, Teatro Margherita has been thoughtfully revitalized and now serves as a vibrant center for modern and contemporary art. Today, it hosts a rotating series of exhibitions, offering everything from captivating paintings and striking photography to immersive interactive installations.
#9 The Archaeological Museum
The Archaeological Museum of Bari, also known as the Museo Archeologico Provinciale, is a hidden gem filled with captivating stories from ancient Puglia. Stepping inside, you’ll be transported through time, exploring the rich history of the region from its prehistoric roots all the way to the Roman era. Housed in a historic building, the museum presents a compact yet fascinating collection, offering an insightful look into the area’s cultural legacy.
Among the exhibits, you’ll encounter a diverse array of artifacts, including delicate pottery, intricate figurines, ancient jewelry, and weapons. A standout feature is the impressive collection of Daunian art. The Daunians, an ancient civilization that predated the Romans in Puglia, left behind striking pottery and sculptures that provide a rare glimpse into their world. In addition, Roman and Greek relics—such as beautifully crafted vases and vibrant mosaics—offer compelling narratives of daily life in antiquity, showcasing the artistic and cultural exchanges of the time.
With its thoughtfully curated displays, the museum is both easy to navigate and accessible, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a brief yet enriching experience. There is an entrance fee.
#10 Modern Bari
In addition to the charming and historic Bari Vecchia, the city also offers a modern and lively shopping district, perfect for a leisurely afternoon of retail therapy. The most well-known shopping street is Via Sparano, a spacious promenade lined with elegant boutiques, renowned fashion chains, and luxury brands. Here, iconic names like Prada and Gucci mingle with prestigious Italian fashion houses and smaller, chic shops.
Corso Cavour is another prominent shopping area, where you’ll find a wide range of fashion, accessories, and perfumes. Both streets are pedestrian-friendly, with grand buildings adding a touch of architectural beauty to your shopping experience. In the charming side streets, you’ll come across cozy cafés and inviting bakeries, perfect spots for taking a break. Enjoy a refreshing espresso or indulge in a freshly baked focaccia, making for a delightful pause during your shopping stroll.
The Best Food in Bari
#11 Sgagliozze
Sgagliozze might just be the most authentic street food Bari has to offer: golden, crispy cubes of polenta that are simple yet utterly irresistible. Once a humble dish made from inexpensive ingredients like cornmeal and water, sgagliozze has evolved into a beloved snack, now an essential part of the culinary landscape in Bari Vecchia.
What truly sets sgagliozze apart is the way they’re served. Outside their homes, women sit behind large pans of sizzling oil, carefully frying the cubes until they’re perfectly crisp. Once golden, they scoop them out, sprinkle them with a pinch of salt, and hand them to you on a small square of kitchen paper. This intimate, hands-on approach to serving the dish creates a truly authentic experience, offering a taste of Bari’s rich street food culture with every bite.
#12 Orecchiette
Orecchiette, the small “little ear” pasta that has become a symbol of Bari, is found throughout the city in all its forms. Handmade for centuries, this iconic pasta is the cornerstone of Barese cuisine. Made from nothing but durum wheat flour and water, the true craftsmanship lies in its shape—tiny, cupped forms that are perfectly designed to hold onto rich, flavorful sauces.
In the historic streets of Bari Vecchia, you can witness the pasta-making process firsthand. Women sit at long tables in the narrow alleys, skillfully cutting the dough into small pieces with sharp knives and shaping each piece with their fingers into the traditional orecchiette form. Purchasing a bag of freshly made orecchiette has almost become a tourist attraction in itself—it’s not just a meal, but an authentic piece of Bari’s culinary culture, making it the perfect souvenir to bring home.
The quintessential way to enjoy orecchiette is orecchiette con cime di rapa, pasta with turnip tops. The slightly bitter bite of the greens beautifully complements the richness of garlic, olive oil, and a touch of chili pepper, creating a simple yet unforgettable dish that truly embodies the flavors of Bari and its surrounding region.
#13 Focaccia Barese
Focaccia Barese is a beloved specialty, prepared with care and pride in every bakery throughout Bari. What makes this dish so irresistible is the perfect blend of soft, boiled potatoes in the dough, a generous drizzle of olive oil, and a vibrant topping of juicy tomatoes and olives, creating a delightful burst of flavor in every bite.
In Bari, focaccia is a treat enjoyed at any time of day. It’s the ideal snack for a quick pick-me-up, but it also doubles as a satisfying lunch or even a hearty breakfast. For those seeking the ultimate taste of authentic focaccia Barese, a visit to Panificio Fiore is a must. This centuries-old bakery continues the tradition of baking its focaccia in a wood-fired oven, adding a distinctive smoky flavor that makes it all the more irresistible.
#14 Panzerotti
Panzerotti are a beloved snack in Bari, similar to small, fried calzones. These delicious little pockets of dough are filled with a flavorful combination of tomato and mozzarella, then fried to golden perfection, resulting in a crispy, mouthwatering treat.
While the classic version remains a local favorite, there are plenty of variations to explore, such as ricotta, prosciutto, or spinach, each bringing its own unique flavor to the table. Biting into a warm panzerotto offers a comforting experience, reminiscent of the savory pastries enjoyed in Spanish-speaking countries, like the empanada—but with a distinctly Bari twist that makes it all the more irresistible.
#15 Ricci di mare and other seafood
In Bari, the sea is not just a backdrop—it’s the very heart of the city’s culture, and that connection is deeply reflected in the local cuisine. One of the region’s most prized delicacies is ricci di mare, or sea urchins, which are typically enjoyed raw, straight from the shell. The soft, golden-orange interior bursts with a briny, subtly sweet flavor that captures the essence of the sea. These sea urchins are especially popular during the spring, when they are at their peak. At the bustling fish market by the harbor, you’ll often find fishermen cracking open the sea urchins by hand and selling them fresh to passersby—giving you the perfect opportunity to savor their delicate taste right there on the spot.
Beyond sea urchins, Bari is also renowned for its fresh seafood offerings. Mussels, raw shrimp, and squid all feature prominently in the city’s culinary scene. Each bite of these seafood treasures is a testament to the region’s close relationship with the Adriatic Sea. The preparation is typically simple yet sublime, with olive oil, lemon, and parsley letting the natural flavors shine through in every dish.
What to do from Bari?
#16 Alberobello
Just a short drive from Bari, you’ll discover Alberobello, a magical town unlike any other in the world. This UNESCO World Heritage site is famous for its trulli—charming, whitewashed houses with conical roofs, built using flat stones from the region, without any mortar. The origins of these unique structures date back to the 17th century. The reason? During tax inspections, the inhabitants could easily dismantle their homes to avoid paying hefty taxes.
The trulli are most abundant in the Rione Monti district, where hundreds of these fairy-tale buildings line the narrow streets. As you wander through the winding alleys, you’ll encounter quaint souvenir shops, cozy Airbnb rentals, and inviting cafés. For a more peaceful and authentic experience, head to Rione Aia Piccola, where many of the trulli are still homes for locals. Don’t miss the opportunity to go up to the Belvedere terrace, where you’ll be treated to a breathtaking panoramic view of a sea of white roofs and gray cones of Rione Monti stretching across the horizon.
Although Alberobello is small enough to explore in a few hours, we highly recommend staying for at least one night. This will give you the chance to experience the village at its most serene—early in the morning or late in the evening—when the crowds of day-trippers have gone. Plus, staying overnight allows you to escape the midday heat, making for a much more relaxed visit.
#17 Matera
Matera is renowned for its ancient Sassi, a captivating part of the city that holds the title of one of the oldest continuously inhabited places in the world. Located just an hour and a half from Bari, Matera’s Sassi consists of cave dwellings carved into the region’s limestone hills centuries ago. For much of its history, many families lived in these caves, often sharing space with their animals, creating a unique and fascinating way of life that lasted well into the 20th century.
The city is divided into two main districts: Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano, each lined with winding streets and offering jaw-dropping views. As you wander through this maze of ancient homes, don’t miss the awe-inspiring Rupestrian churches, where you can admire frescoes dating back centuries. One of the most famous is the Chiesa di San Pietro Caveoso, perched dramatically on the edge of a cliff, with panoramic vistas that stretch across the surrounding ravines.
Once a city in decline, Matera underwent a remarkable revival when it was named the European Capital of Culture in 2019. Today, many of the ancient cave dwellings have been converted into stylish hotels, inviting restaurants, and fascinating museums. This transformation has brought a vibrant energy to the city, while still preserving its historical charm. Take your time to stroll through the cobblestone streets, sip a coffee while soaking in the views over the ravines, or explore one of the many cave museums. Matera is enchanting, particularly at sunrise or sunset, when the city glows in a golden light.
#18 Giovinazzo
Just a short twenty-minute drive from Bari, you’ll discover Giovinazzo, a picturesque coastal town that has managed to escape the clutches of mass tourism. Its old town may be small, but it’s full of charm, with narrow, winding streets that lead to a delightful little harbor. Here, colorful fishing boats sway gently in the tranquil waters, while locals relax with a steaming espresso at one of the cafés lining the central square, creating the perfect setting for a peaceful, coastal retreat.
At the heart of the town stands the Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta, a striking 13th-century church that showcases the elegance of Romanesque architecture, with its graceful arches and awe-inspiring rose window. Beyond the cathedral, Giovinazzo offers a beautiful seafront promenade, ideal for a leisurely walk with breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea. Our favorite stretch of the promenade is where a small bridge leads you between the ancient city walls and the sea, guiding you along a path that hugs the edge of the old town and offers a seamless blend of history and natural beauty.
#19 Polignano a Mare
Polignano a Mare, just thirty kilometers south of Bari, is one of those places that will make you want to reach for your camera again and again. This picturesque town dramatically sits atop towering cliffs, offering breathtaking views over the Adriatic Sea. The most iconic sight is the small beach of Lama Monachile, tucked between two imposing rock walls—an image you’ll never forget.
The old town is a maze of narrow, winding streets and charming squares, with each corner revealing a new scenic viewpoint that looks out over the sea and the dramatic cliffs surrounding the village. Polignano a Mare is also the birthplace of the legendary singer Domenico Modugno, immortalized by his world-renowned song “Volare.” His statue, a popular selfie spot for Italian visitors, greets you at the beginning of the promenade.
For a truly unforgettable experience, take a boat tour along the coast, where you’ll be able to discover hidden caves and secluded coves. And if you’re looking to add a dash of romance to your visit, did you know you can dine in one of those enchanting sea caves, enjoying a candlelit meal surrounded by nature’s beauty?
#20 Lecce
Lecce, just a two-hour drive south of Bari, is often called the “Florence of the South,” and it’s easy to see why. The city is famous for its breathtaking baroque architecture, crafted from the local pietra leccese, a limestone that gives off a warm, golden glow. The effect is particularly striking at sunset, when the buildings light up with a soft, radiant beauty that feels almost magical.
The centerpiece of Lecce’s architectural splendor is the Basilica di Santa Croce, a true baroque masterpiece. Its façade is a stunning display of elaborate sculptures, flowers, and mythical figures, capturing the grandeur of the era. In the heart of the city, the Piazza del Duomo unfolds, offering a breathtaking view of the imposing cathedral and its towering bell tower, forming one of the most captivating squares in Italy.
But Lecce’s charm doesn’t end with its impressive buildings. The city also has a long-standing tradition of papier-mâché artistry, born out of necessity when marble was scarce in the region. Local artisans perfected the craft, creating intricate religious artwork from papier-mâché. As you wander through Lecce’s churches, you’ll discover these delicate masterpieces—subtle, yet adding an extra layer of beauty to the city’s already rich heritage.
