Mid-Range Travel Guide: Bari

Accommodation

$60-140 per night

Three-star hotels, boutique guesthouses in historic center, private rooms with ensuite bathrooms, some sea views

Food & Dining

$35-75 per day

Mix of local restaurants and tourist-friendly spots, seafood lunches, gelato, wine with dinner, occasional fine dining

Transportation

$15-35 per day

Combination of public transport and taxis, day trips by regional train, occasional ride-sharing

Activities

$25-60 per day

Paid walking tours, museum entries, boat trips along coast, cooking classes, wine tastings

Eat focaccia barese and street food from local bakeries instead of tourist restaurants (typically 60-70% cheaper)

Stay in neighborhoods like Madonnella or Carrassi rather than the historic center for 30-50% accommodation savings

Use public buses and walk within the compact old town instead of taking taxis (saves 70-80% on transport)

Visit beaches like Pane e Pomodoro for free instead of paid beach clubs (saves $15-30 per day)

Shop at local markets like Mercato del Pesce for fresh ingredients if self-catering (50-60% cheaper than restaurants)

Take advantage of aperitivo buffets in early evening for dinner-sized portions at drink prices

Book accommodation 2-3 months ahead during peak summer season for 20-40% discounts

Eating only in the tourist-heavy areas around the cathedral and waterfront (typically 100-150% markup over neighborhood spots)

Taking taxis for every trip instead of using the efficient local bus system (3-4x more expensive)

Booking accommodation during peak August weeks without advance planning (prices can be 200-300% higher)

Buying groceries at tourist convenience stores instead of local supermarkets (typically 40-60% markup)