Bari

Bari is the vibrant, authentic capital of the Puglia (Apulia) region in southern Italy. It’s a city that has long been a crossroads of the Mediterranean, offering a compelling mix of a historic old town, a bustling modern port, and a gateway to some of Italy’s most beautiful landscapes.

Here is a comprehensive overview of Bari.

1. The Identity of Bari: The Capital of the South

Bari feels like a true southern Italian city—full of life, passion, and a strong local identity.

• A Major Port City: Bari has one of the largest ports on the Adriatic Sea, with ferries connecting Italy to Croatia, Greece, and Albania. This gives it a bustling, multicultural energy.

• The “Real” Italy: Like Naples and Palermo, Bari is a working city, not a polished tourist destination. Its charm lies in its authenticity, its fantastic food, and the warmth of its people.

• A City of Two Halves: Bari is clearly divided into two parts:

  • Bari Vecchia (Old Town): A mesmerizing maze of narrow white alleyways, churches, and courtyards on a peninsula between the old and new ports.

  • Murat (or Borgo Murat): The 19th-century grid-planned new town, with elegant shopping streets like Via Sparano and large squares like Piazza Aldo Moro.

2. Major Attractions: The Old Town and the Sea

Bari’s main attraction is its incredibly atmospheric old town, a place to get lost and soak up the local life.

Bari Vecchia (The Old Town):

• Basilica di San Nicola (St. Nicholas Basilica): This is the heart and soul of Bari. It is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Christendom, as it holds the bones of Saint Nicholas (the inspiration for Santa Claus). The basilica is a beautiful example of Puglian Romanesque architecture.

• Bari Cathedral (Cattedrale di San Sabino): Another stunning Romanesque church, dedicated to Saint Sabinus, and located not far from the Basilica of St. Nicholas.

• The Lungomare: The seaside promenade that skirts the old town, offering beautiful views of the Adriatic Sea. It’s a perfect place for an evening stroll.

• Castello Normanno-Svevo (Swabian Castle): A formidable fortress built by the Normans and later fortified by Frederick II. It sits at the edge of the old town and often hosts exhibitions.

The Essence of Bari: Street Life in Bari Vecchia
The real magic of Bari is not in museums, but in the daily life of the old town. Don’t miss:

• The Orecchiette Ladies (Le Signore delle Orecchiette): In the alleyways, especially around Arco Basso, you can see local women sitting outside their homes making fresh pasta by hand, including the iconic orecchiette (“little ears”). They often sell it directly from their doorsteps.

• Getting Lost: The best thing to do in Bari Vecchia is to wander without a map. Discover hidden piazzas, laundry hanging between buildings, and small shops selling traditional products.

3. The Barese Lifestyle & Cuisine

The food in Bari is a highlight, characterized by fresh seafood, vegetables, and simple, flavorful dishes.

• Street Food & Pasta:

  • Orecchiette con le Cime di Rapa: The iconic dish of the city. The handmade orecchiette pasta is served with turnip tops (a bitter green), anchovies, and chili pepper.

  • Panzerotto: A fried or baked half-moon of pizza dough stuffed with tomato and mozzarella. The most famous place to get one is at Lu Panzerotto near the castle.

  • Focaccia Barese: A soft, thick focaccia topped with tomatoes and olives.

  • Riso, Patate e Cozze (Tiella Barese): A baked casserole of rice, potatoes, and mussels—a classic of cucina povera (poor cooking).

• The Sea: Being a port, Bari has fantastic fresh seafood. Enjoy a meal of raw or grilled fish at a restaurant by the harbor.

4. Practical Tips for Visiting

• Best Time to Go: Spring (April-June) and Early Autumn (September-October) are ideal, with pleasant temperatures perfect for exploring. Summers can be very hot and crowded.

• Getting Around: The city center, including Bari Vecchia and the Murat district, is very walkable. Bari has a good local train system (Ferrovie del Sud Est) that is perfect for day trips.

• Vigilance: Bari is generally safe, but as in any busy city, be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas like the central station and markets.

• Day Trips: Bari is the perfect base for exploring Puglia.

  • Polignano a Mare: A stunning town built on limestone cliffs with a famous beach cove. Just a 20-minute train ride away.

  • Alberobello: The UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its unique trulli—whitewashed, conical-roofed houses. About an hour by train or car.

  • Locorotondo & Ostuni: Other beautiful white towns of the Itria Valley, known for their beauty and wine.

In a Nutshell

Bari is an authentic, unpretentious, and deeply charming city. It offers a captivating old town where tradition is still alive, some of the best food in Italy, and a strategic location for discovering the wonders of Puglia. It’s a city that welcomes you to see the “real” south of Italy, far from the main tourist trails.