Things to Do in Bari, Puglia: Pasta, Palazzos & Piazza Life 🇮🇹

Bari is the beating heart of southern Italy’s Puglia region. It’s a sun-drenched port city that’s far more than just a gateway to the Adriatic. If you’re wondering about the best things to do in Bari, you’re in for a treat. It’s a place where medieval alleyways buzz with mopeds and nonnas hand-roll orecchiette on wooden tables outside their homes. In short, Bari is full of soul.

If you’re after that raw, authentic Italy vibe, Bari has it in spades. Here’s my guide to the best things to do in Bari, Italy – from ancient churches to pasta-making grandmas, vibrant piazzas and mouthwatering street food. 🍝✨

1. Wander the Streets of Bari Vecchia 🏘️

The old town, known as Bari Vecchia, is the soul of the city. Get lost among its maze-like alleyways where every turn brings a surprise: kids playing football, the smell of garlic and tomato sauce, or locals chatting from balconies.

Don’t miss Piazza Mercantile and Piazza del Ferrarese, both brimming with atmosphere and surrounded by historic buildings.

The old and new parts of Bari meet around Corso Vittorio Emanuele II, where you’ll spot remnants of ancient walls.

🎟️ Book a walking tour of Bari Vecchia here.

2. Meet the Pasta-Making Nonnas 🍝

On Arco Basso (aka “Pasta Alley”), just opposite the Norman castle, you’ll find local grandmothers crafting orecchiette by hand.

It’s one of the most charming traditions in Bari – and yes, you can buy the pasta directly from their tables (even at night, just knock on the door!).

🎟️ Tours: book a pasta experience to see the city and learn something new.

3. Visit the Basilica di San Nicola ⛪

This grand 12th-century church houses the relics of Saint Nicholas (yep, the original Santa Claus!). The crypt is a pilgrimage site for Orthodox Christians and the church itself is an architectural beauty, with Romanesque stonework and a stunning gold ceiling.

📌 Largo Abate Elia, 13, Bari.

4. Snap a Selfie with Saint Nick ✝️

Just outside the basilica stands a bronze statue of Saint Nicholas, gifted by Russia in 2003.

It’s a handy landmark for navigating Bari Vecchia’s twisty streets – and it’s especially lively around December 6, Saint Nicholas Day.

📌Str. S. Luca, Bari.

5. Chill in Piazza Mercantile 🍹

One of the best spots for people-watching, this lively square is ringed with bars, cafés, and plenty of history. Check out the Column of Justice, once used for public shaming!

Grab an aperitivo and watch Bari life unfold. You’ll see street musicians, market stalls, and families out for their evening stroll.

🎟️ Tours: book a walking tour to get your bearings.

6. Eat All the Street Food 🌮

Bari is a foodie paradise. You’ve got to try:

• Focaccia Barese (thick, oily, and addictive).
• Panzerotti (fried dough pockets stuffed with cheese and tomato).
• Popizze (dough balls, deep-fried and salty).
• Sgagliozze (crispy fried polenta squares).

🎟️ Fancy a guided nibble? Book this Bari street food tour – it’s one of my faves.

👉 Read more: Bari Street Food Tour.

7. Peek Inside Bari Cathedral ⛪

The Cathedral of San Sabino may get less fanfare than San Nicola, but it’s a gem.

Finished in the 13th century, it has a dreamy Romanesque facade and a fascinating underground crypt housing ancient mosaics.

📌 Piazza dell’Odegitria, Bari.

8. Grab Coffee at Stefy’s ☕

Directly opposite the cathedral, Stefy’s Cathedral Coffee is the perfect pit stop for espresso and a pastry. It’s tiny, friendly, and has a fabulous view of the church.

📌 Piazza dell’Odegitria, 26, Bari.

9. Explore the Norman-Swabian Castle 🏰

Castello Svevo di Bari is a fortress of thick stone walls and towers, originally built by the Normans and later fortified by the Swabians. Inside, you’ll find exhibits on local history and architecture.

📌 Piazza Federico II di Svevia, Bari

10. Catch the Buzz at Largo Albicocca 🌙

Nicknamed the “Square of Lovers”, Largo Albicocca lights up at night with twinkling fairy lights and sizzling street food.

The lights are from IKEA, with a plaque to acknowledge it too!

📌 Largo Albicocca, Bari

It’s a bit of a local secret and a lovely place to soak up the evening vibe. Largo Albicocca is also known as the ‘Square of Lovers’.

📌 Largo Albicocca, 70122 Bari.

11. Admire the Teatro Petruzzelli 🎭

One of Italy’s most important opera houses, the Teatro Petruzzelli is grand inside and out. If you can, catch a performance or take a peek inside during a guided tour.

📌 Corso Cavour, 12, Bari.

12. Hit the Shops on Via Sparano 🛍️

This pedestrianised street is Bari’s shopping central.

Expect high street fashion, local boutiques, and a few ornate buildings thrown in for good measure (don’t miss the old Mincuzzi Department Store).

In addition to shopping, Via Sparano also offers plenty of cafes, restaurants, and bars along the street.

13. Visit Bari Fish Market 🐟

If you’re a fan of fresh seafood or simply love the buzz of a local market, don’t miss the Bari Fish Market (Mercato del Pesce).

It’s at its liveliest in the morning, when local fishermen haul in the catch of the day – from squid and mussels to octopus and clams.

You can watch deals being done, grab a plate of ultra-fresh seafood, or just soak up the salty atmosphere. Some vendors will even cook your fish for you on the spot.

📌 Piazza del Ferrarese, Bari

Where to Stay in Bari 🏨

Want to wake up in the heart of it all? Here are a few handpicked stays:

🏨 Luxury: The Nicolaus Hotel – modern, sleek and spa-equipped.

🏨 Budget: B&B Murex – right in Bari Vecchia.

🏨 Mid-range: iH Hotels Bari Oriente – near Petruzzelli Theatre.

Map of Bari Attractions 🗺️

Check out the interactive Google Map below to plan your trip around Bari.

FAQs about things to do in Bari 💡