Bari , Italy

Bari - Private Historic walking tour

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About this experience

Explore historical attractions in the Old Town of Bari. Visit the Basilica San Nicola amongst other attractions such as the Bari Cathedral and the Castello Normanno-Svevo. You will also stroll on one of the most famous streets in Bari where you will find fresh homemade pasta. Finally head towards the Palazzo Mincuzzi before reaching the Bari promenade where you will enjoy seaside views and have a chance to see a small stone lighthouse dating back to the 19th century.

Available options

Bari - Private Historic walking tour

What's included

Official tour guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Start your tour in the Old town at the Piazza del Ferrarese, also known as the Ferrarese Square. It is named after the merchant Stefano Fabri who owned several buildings here. Located closeby, you will find the Tatro Margherita, the predecessor of which was made of a wooden structure and first opened in 1910.

As you continue, you will walk by the Palazzo del Sedile, a very historic building used for various purposes. Here, you will see a 16th century clock tower. You will then reach the Piazza Mercantile, a square which has been used by merchants since its historical past. These days, it is a very famous meeting point and is the center for commercial and administrative activities.

Stop 3

Admire the Basilica San Nicola built from limestone in Romanesque style and dates back to the late 11th century. It is dedicated to Saint Nicholas. Here, you will also see other related buildings including the oldest consecrated church of the city, the Church of San Gregorio.

Visit the Bari Cathedral and admire its architecture which is also in Romanesque style. Here, you will see its facade, the bell tower, altar structure, the crypt and its interiors including mosaics and remains of frescoes and signs of an ancient church that may have existed here.

Stop 5 Pass by

You will then walk by the Castello Normanno-Svevo (Norman-Swabian Castle) which was built, destroyed and rebuilt. One side of the castle faces the sea side. It was one of the most important fortifications of its time. Today, it is used for exhibitions.

Stroll on the most famous street in Bari known as the Strada delle Orecchiette. One of the most interesting things about this place is that you will find fresh homemade orecchiette pasta here.

Next, you will see the Palazzo Mincuzzi, a historic building before you reach the street known as Corso Vittorio Emanuele II where you will have a chance to see numerous administrative and cultural buildings.

Finally, you will come across a public garden and reach the Bari promenade where you will enjoy seaside views and also have a chance to see a small stone lighthouse from the 19th century.

What's not included

Entrance Fees

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

At the staircase of the Teatro Margherita, your tour guide shall be waiting with a Signboard.

About Bari

Bari, the capital of Puglia, is a vibrant coastal city with a rich history and stunning architecture. Known for its Baroque buildings, lively markets, and delicious cuisine, Bari offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern energy. The city's historic center, Bari Vecchia, is a maze of narrow streets, ancient churches, and hidden squares, while the modern part of the city boasts a beautiful waterfront promenade and bustling commercial areas.

Top Attractions

Basilica di San Nicola

This 11th-century basilica is one of the most important religious sites in Bari. It houses the relics of Saint Nicholas and is a major pilgrimage destination.

Religious 1-2 hours Free

Castello Svevo

This 13th-century castle was built by Emperor Frederick II and has been used as a prison, military barracks, and now a museum. It is a key historical landmark in Bari.

Historical 1-2 hours €4 for the museum

Bari Vecchia

The old town of Bari is a maze of narrow streets, ancient churches, and hidden squares. It is a charming area with a rich history and unique atmosphere.

Historical Several hours Free to explore

Lungomare Nazario Sauro

This beautiful waterfront promenade offers stunning views of the Adriatic Sea and is perfect for a leisurely stroll or bike ride.

Scenic 1-2 hours Free

Teatro Petruzzelli

This is one of the largest and most prestigious theaters in Italy, known for its stunning architecture and world-class performances.

Cultural 2-3 hours for a performance Varies depending on the performance

Must-Try Local Dishes

Orecchiette con le Cime di Rapa

A traditional Puglian dish made with homemade orecchiette pasta and turnip greens, cooked with garlic, olive oil, and chili pepper.

Main Dish Vegetarian

Focaccia Barese

A delicious flatbread topped with olive oil, salt, and sometimes herbs. It is a staple of Puglian cuisine and a must-try in Bari.

Snack Vegetarian

Bomba di Bari

A traditional dessert made with almonds, sugar, and egg whites, shaped into a small ball and coated in sugar.

Dessert Vegetarian

Friselle

A twice-baked bread that is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, typically served with tomatoes, olive oil, and oregano.

Snack Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Cave exploration in Castellana Grotte Hiking in the surrounding countryside Beach days in Polignano a Mare Leisurely walks along the Lungomare Nazario Sauro Exploring the historic center of Bari Vecchia Visiting the Basilica di San Nicola Swimming and sunbathing at the beaches in Polignano a Mare Boat tours along the Adriatic coast

Best Time to Visit

May to September

The peak season in Bari is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and sunny, perfect for beach activities and exploring the city. This is the busiest time of year, with festivals, events, and a lively atmosphere.

20°C to 35°C 68°F to 95°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Italian
Widely spoken: English, French, Spanish
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Central European Time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in certain areas

Bari is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, it is important to exercise caution in certain areas, especially at night, and to be aware of common scams and pickpocketing.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your belongings, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation
• Use licensed taxis or app-based services to avoid scams
• Avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit or isolated areas

Getting there

By air

Karol Wojtyla Airport • 10 km from city center

By train

Bari Centrale

By bus

Bari Centrale Bus Station, Bari Polignano Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

AMTAB operates an extensive network of buses covering the city and its suburbs. The buses are efficient and affordable.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Bari Vecchia Murattiano San Nicola Madonnella

Day trips

Alberobello

60 km from Bari • Full day

Alberobello is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its unique trulli houses, which are cone-shaped dwellings with a rich history.

Polignano a Mare

40 km from Bari • Half day

This charming coastal town is known for its stunning views of the Adriatic Sea and its beautiful beaches.

Matera

100 km from Bari • Full day

Matera is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient cave dwellings, known as Sassi, and its rich history.

Festivals

Fiera del Levante • September Bari International Film Festival • October Sagra del Polpo • August

Pro tips

Visit the Basilica di San Nicola early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Explore the historic center of Bari Vecchia on foot to discover hidden gems and local life.
Try the local specialties, such as orecchiette pasta and focaccia barese, at local restaurants and street food vendors.
Take a day trip to Alberobello to see the unique trulli houses and learn about the city's rich history.
Visit the Castello Svevo for cultural events and concerts, especially during the summer months.