Things to Do in Bari in March
March weather, activities, events & insider tips
March Weather in Bari
Is March Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect walking weather - daytime temperatures of 14-16°C (57-60°F) ideal for exploring Bari Vecchia's narrow stone streets without summer's crushing heat
- Shoulder season pricing - accommodation costs 30-40% less than peak summer months, with boutique hotels averaging €70-90 versus €120+ in July
- Local life in full swing - March sees the return of outdoor dining culture, with locals filling café terraces along Lungomare Nazario Sauro as soon as afternoon sun hits
- Ideal museum and indoor attraction weather - when brief afternoon showers hit (20-30 minute duration), it's perfect timing to explore Castello Svevo or Teatro Petruzzelli without tourist crowds
Considerations
- Unpredictable rain patterns - while only 41mm (1.6 inches) total, the 10 rainy days are scattered randomly, making beach days at nearby Polignano a Mare risky without backup plans
- Cool evenings require layers - temperatures drop to 6°C (42°F) after sunset, catching many travelers off-guard who pack only for daytime warmth
- Limited ferry schedules - March is still considered off-season for connections to Albania and Montenegro, with reduced frequency and some routes not yet operating
Best Activities in March
Old Town Walking Tours and Food Experiences
March weather is absolutely perfect for exploring Bari Vecchia's labyrinthine streets. Cool mornings (6-10°C/42-50°F) are ideal for photographing the pasta-making nonnas along Via Arco Basso, while afternoon warmth (14-16°C/57-60°F) brings locals out for aperitivo. The 70% humidity isn't oppressive like summer, and intermittent rain creates atmospheric lighting for photography. Local restaurants start serving outdoor tables again, offering authentic orecchiette experiences without July's tourist markup.
Alberobello and Itria Valley Day Trips
March is the secret season for trulli exploration - cool enough for comfortable walking between the unique cone-shaped houses, but warm enough that flowers begin blooming in the countryside. Tourist numbers are minimal compared to summer, meaning better photos and authentic interactions with locals. The 1-hour drive from Bari (60km/37 miles) is pleasant with spring landscapes emerging, and afternoon showers often create dramatic sky backdrops for trulli photography.
Polignano a Mare Coastal Exploration
While swimming isn't realistic in March, this clifftop town 33km (20 miles) south of Bari is spectacular for photography and cave exploration. March's variable weather creates dramatic seascapes, with morning mists lifting from turquoise waters and afternoon light illuminating white limestone cliffs. Fewer crowds mean you can properly explore the sea caves and enjoy lunch at clifftop restaurants without reservations. The famous Grotta Palazzese restaurant reopens in late March.
Matera UNESCO Site Visits
March offers ideal conditions for exploring the ancient Sassi cave dwellings 65km (40 miles) inland. Cool temperatures make the steep stone stairways manageable, while spring light creates stunning photography conditions in the ancient cave churches. The city starts coming alive after winter closure of many attractions, but before summer crowds arrive. Early morning visits (8-10am) when temperature is 6-8°C (42-46°F) provide mystical atmosphere with fog sometimes settling in the ravine.
Local Cooking Classes and Market Tours
March brings seasonal ingredients like wild asparagus, artichokes, and early spring vegetables to Bari's markets. The moderate weather makes morning market tours comfortable, followed by indoor cooking sessions - perfect for rainy afternoons. Local cooking schools restart regular programming after February's quiet period, offering authentic experiences with smaller class sizes. You'll learn to make orecchiette, focaccia barese, and seasonal dishes using March's fresh produce.
Wine Tours in Puglia Countryside
March marks the beginning of vineyard activity in Puglia, with pruning complete and new growth starting. While not harvest season, wineries offer intimate experiences with smaller groups, and cool weather makes countryside driving pleasant. The region's primitivo and negroamaro wines pair perfectly with March's cooler evenings. Many estates reopen their full tour programs after winter maintenance, offering better availability than peak season.
March Events & Festivals
Festa di San Giuseppe
March 19th celebration honoring Saint Joseph features traditional altars decorated with seasonal foods, particularly in the San Nicola neighborhood. Local families open their homes to display elaborate bread sculptures and offer visitors traditional zeppole pastries. It's an authentic cultural experience rarely seen by tourists.
Spring Equinox at Castel del Monte
Around March 20th, the UNESCO World Heritage octagonal castle 55km (34 miles) from Bari aligns with astronomical phenomena. Special guided tours explain the mathematical and astronomical significance of Frederick II's architectural masterpiece. Limited to small groups and advance booking essential.