Traveling Expats

Nestled along the Adriatic Sea, Bari is a city that often flies under the radar for many travelers exploring Italy. While it might not have the blockbuster attractions of Rome or Florence, Bari’s authentic charm, vibrant local culture, and picturesque streets make it a hidden gem worth discovering. 

Bari is the capital of the southern region of Italy known as Puglia, which may be referred to as the “Heel of the Italian Boot.” It serves as a major port and university town, so it has a lively, youthful energy that blends well with the centuries old traditions that it holds dear. This was our third visit to Bari and we are already looking forward to our next visit. We arrived via train from Rome. The journey by rail was very comfortable and took about three hours. Bari also has an international airport that supports flights coming from and going to cities throughout Europe.  If you are flying in to explore any city in Puglia, you will likely fly into the Bari airport.  Car rental is available for reasonable prices at the airport. 

Arrival in Bari: A Warm Welcome

From the moment we arrived in Bari, we were struck by its welcoming atmosphere. Our  first stop was Bari Vecchia, the historic old town, where we would begin our exploration.

Wandering Through Bari Vecchia

Bari Vecchia, with its labyrinth of narrow alleys, is a place where time seems to stand still. As we meandered through the winding streets, we encountered locals going about their daily lives – children playing soccer, elderly women chatting, and vendors selling fresh produce. The highlight was witnessing the making of orecchiette pasta by hand, right on the doorsteps of family homes. This traditional pasta, shaped like little ears, is a local specialty and seeing it made with such care was a delightful experience.

The Seafront Promenade: Lungomare

No visit to Bari is complete without a stroll along the Lungomare, the city’s stunning seafront promenade. Stretching for miles along the Adriatic coast, the Lungomare offers breathtaking views of the sea and the city skyline. We took a leisurely walk, soaking in the fresh sea breeze and enjoying the sight of fishing boats bobbing in the harbor. The promenade is also a great spot for people-watching, with locals jogging, cycling, and socializing.

If you are a morning person, be sure to visit the waterfront as fishermen are bringing in the day’s catch and preparing to sell it under the covered dock. The hustle and bustle and lively banter of the fishermen is an experience that you will not forget. 

Local Markets

The local markets in Bari are vibrant hubs of activity. I visited the Mercato di Piazza del Ferrarese, where stalls overflow with fresh fruits, vegetables, seafood, and local delicacies. The market is a sensory overload in the best possible way – the colors, smells, and sounds create an exhilarating atmosphere. I couldn’t resist picking up some fresh olives and taralli, a type of crunchy breadstick that’s perfect for snacking.

Culinary Delights: A Taste of Puglia

Bari is a food lover’s paradise. We indulged in a variety of local dishes, each more delicious than the last. One of our favorite experiences was dining at a cozy trattoria in the old town. We savored traditional Apulian dishes like orecchiette with broccoli rabe, creamy burrata cheese, freshly baked focaccia and panzerotti. Each meal was a celebration of local ingredients and culinary traditions, and the warm hospitality of the restaurateurs made it even more special.

One place that cannot be missed is the historic Panficio Fiore which has been in operation since 1508. They have perfected the art of focaccia. The first bite of focaccia barese is a revelation. The exterior is crunchy and slightly salty, giving way to a tender, fluffy interior that practically melts in your mouth. The sweetness of the cherry tomatoes, the briny tang of the olives, and the aromatic oregano create a harmonious blend of flavors that is both simple and incredibly satisfying.

Mornings would find us at sipping cappuccino and enjoying a delicious cornetto con crema al pistacchio (croissant with pistachio cream) or a pasticciotto (a delicious custard/ricotta filled shortbread pie) or, most likely, we’d be having one of each.  

Exploring the Puglia Region and beyond

Bari is a fantastic base from which you can visit some of the other beautiful destinations in southern Italy.  Lecce, Alberobello, Polignano, Ostuni, and Matera are just some of the breathtaking cities and towns that southern Italy has to offer. 

Conclusion: The Unforgettable Charm of Bari

It’s somewhat difficult to describe why we love Bari so much. It may not have the fame of other Italian cities, but its unique charm and authenticity make it a destination that should not be overlooked. From the historic streets of Bari Vecchia to the lively markets and stunning seafront, every corner of the city has something special to offer. Our visit to Bari was a journey of discovery, filled with memorable experiences and warm encounters. If you’re looking for a true taste of Italy, away from the typical tourist paths, Bari is the perfect place to explore.

To share more of our experience and to help plan your own visit, be sure to check out our YouTube video on Bari.