A Long Weekend in Bari: Puglia's Coastal Gem
From Medieval Streets to Adriatic Shores
Trip Overview
Experience the authentic charm of Bari, southern Italy's vibrant port city where medieval architecture meets sparkling Adriatic waters. This three-day itinerary balances cultural exploration with coastal relaxation, taking you through the labyrinthine streets of Bari Vecchia, into magnificent underground caves, and along sun-drenched seafront promenades. You'll discover Byzantine basilicas, Norman castles, and local traditions like pasta-making in doorways. The pace allows for leisurely morning explorations, afternoon cultural visits, and evenings savoring Puglia's renowned cuisine. With compact distances and walkable neighborhoods, you'll experience both tourist highlights and everyday Italian life, from bustling fish markets to tranquil botanical gardens.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Old Town Treasures & Coastal Strolls
Where to Stay Tonight
Bari Vecchia or Murat District (Mid-range B&B in a renovated historic building)
Central location provides easy walking access to all Old Town attractions and evening dining options
Underground Wonders & Cultural Riches
Where to Stay Tonight
Bari Vecchia or Murat District (Same accommodation as Day 1)
Staying in the same location maximizes your time for exploration rather than checking in and out
Art, Gardens & Coastal Farewell
Where to Stay Tonight
Same as previous nights or near airport if departing early (Continue at same B&B or transfer to airport hotel)
Flexibility based on departure time; staying central allows for final evening exploration
Practical Information
Getting Around
Bari is highly walkable, especially the Old Town and Murat districts where most attractions are located within 15-20 minutes on foot. For the Grotte di Castellana excursion, take the regional train from Bari Centrale to Castellana Grotte station (40 minutes, approximately $5 round trip), then a local bus or taxi to the caves. City buses connect outer neighborhoods but aren't necessary for this itinerary. The airport is 20 minutes from the center by bus or taxi. Consider purchasing a day pass if using public transport.
Book Ahead
Grotte di Castellana tickets (especially for weekend visits), any special exhibitions at Teatro Margherita or museums during peak season
Packing Essentials
Comfortable walking shoes for cobblestones, modest clothing for churches, light jacket for caves and evening breezes, sun protection, reusable water bottle, beach wear if visiting in summer
Total Budget
$260-330 for 3 days (excluding accommodation and international travel)
Customize Your Trip
Budget Version
Skip paid museum entries and focus on free attractions like the basilicas, cathedral, and waterfront walks. Stay in a hostel in the Old Town, eat at tavola calda establishments and bakeries for quick, inexpensive meals, make picnic lunches from local markets, and use only walking for transportation. Total daily budget can drop to $50-70 per day.
Luxury Upgrade
Stay at a boutique hotel in a restored palazzo with sea views, book private guided tours of the Grotte di Castellana and Old Town with expert historians, enjoy multi-course tasting menus at Michelin-recommended restaurants, arrange private transfers, add a sunset boat tour along the coast, and include wine tastings at prestigious Pugliese vineyards. Daily budget increases to $250-400.
Family-Friendly
Add visits to Planetario sky skan for interactive astronomy shows children will love, spend more time at Parco 2 Giugno with playgrounds, choose the shorter cave tour at Grotte di Castellana, break up museum visits with gelato stops, stay in family apartments with kitchenettes in Murat district, and schedule beach time at nearby Pane e Pomodoro beach for swimming and relaxation.
Book Activities for Your Trip
Tours, tickets, and experiences in Bari