Bari Safety Guide
Health, security, and travel safety information
Emergency Numbers
Save these numbers before your trip.
Healthcare
What to know about medical care in Bari.
Healthcare System
Italy has a public healthcare system (Servizio Sanitario Nazionale - SSN) that provides universal coverage. In Bari, both public and private healthcare facilities are available, with public hospitals offering free or low-cost emergency care to EU citizens with an EHIC card.
Hospitals
Main hospitals include Policlinico di Bari (university hospital with emergency department), Ospedale San Paolo, and Ospedale Di Venere. Emergency rooms (Pronto Soccorso) are available 24/7. Private clinics offer faster service for non-emergency situations and often have English-speaking staff.
Pharmacies
Pharmacies (farmacie) are marked with a green cross and widely available throughout Bari. Pharmacists are knowledgeable and can provide advice for minor ailments. Many medications requiring prescriptions elsewhere are available over-the-counter. After-hours pharmacies (farmacie di turno) rotate for night and weekend coverage; schedules are posted on pharmacy doors.
Insurance
Travel insurance is highly recommended for all visitors. While EU citizens can use EHIC for emergency care, it doesn't cover repatriation, private care, or all services. Non-EU visitors should have comprehensive travel insurance as they will be charged for medical services.
Healthcare Tips
- Bring a copy of prescriptions with generic drug names as brand names differ in Italy
- EU citizens should carry their EHIC card at all times
- For non-emergency medical issues, visit a pharmacy first as pharmacists can often help without a doctor visit
- Keep receipts and medical documentation for insurance claims
- The emergency number 118 provides free ambulance service regardless of insurance status
Common Risks
Be aware of these potential issues.
Petty theft is the most common crime affecting tourists in Bari. Pickpockets operate in crowded areas, and bag snatching by motorcycle thieves (scippatori) occurs, particularly targeting handbags and phones.
Cars, especially rental vehicles with foreign plates, are targeted for break-ins. Thieves look for luggage, GPS devices, and valuables left visible in vehicles.
Italian driving style can be aggressive and chaotic by some standards. Pedestrians need to be cautious as drivers don't always respect crosswalks, and scooters often use sidewalks.
Some establishments near tourist areas may charge inflated prices or add unexpected service charges. Taxi drivers occasionally overcharge tourists unfamiliar with standard rates.
During summer months, beaches can be crowded and sun exposure is intense. Jellyfish occasionally appear in the Adriatic Sea.
Scams to Avoid
Watch out for these common tourist scams.
Individuals posing as plainclothes police officers approach tourists, claim to be investigating counterfeit money or drugs, and ask to inspect wallets or bags. They then steal cash or cards during the 'inspection.'
Restaurants add extra items to bills that weren't ordered, charge excessive coperto (cover charges), or bring unrequested appetizers or bread then charge for them. Some tourist-area restaurants have different prices for tourists versus locals.
Taxi drivers take longer routes, claim the meter is broken and quote inflated flat rates, or add bogus surcharges for luggage or night service beyond legal rates.
Someone approaches offering a 'free' friendship bracelet, rose, or other small item. Once you accept it, they aggressively demand payment, sometimes with accomplices surrounding you.
One person creates a distraction (spilling something on you, asking for directions with a map, dropping coins) while an accomplice steals your belongings. Sometimes involves children as distractors.
Devices are placed on ATMs to capture card information and PIN numbers, which are then used to create duplicate cards and steal from accounts.
Safety Tips
Practical advice to stay safe.
Money and Valuables
- Use hotel safes for passports, extra cash, and valuable items you don't need daily
- Carry only the cash you need for the day; split money between different pockets
- Use ATMs inside banks during business hours rather than standalone street machines
- Keep a photocopy or digital copy of your passport separate from the original
- Consider using a money belt or concealed pouch under clothing for important documents
- Notify your bank and credit card companies before traveling to avoid cards being blocked
- Be discreet when handling money; don't count large amounts in public
Transportation Safety
- Book taxis through your hotel or use official taxi stands; avoid unmarked vehicles
- If renting a car, familiarize yourself with ZTL (Zona a Traffico Limitato) restricted zones to avoid fines
- Keep car doors locked and windows up when driving, especially at traffic lights
- Use official parking garages rather than street parking when possible
- On public buses, keep bags in front of you and stay alert in crowded conditions
- Validate bus tickets before boarding to avoid fines
- When walking, stay aware of motorcycles and scooters that may not follow traffic rules
Accommodation Safety
- Choose accommodations in well-reviewed, well-lit areas
- Keep your hotel room locked at all times; use the deadbolt and chain when inside
- Don't open the door to unexpected visitors; verify identity through the peephole
- Know the location of emergency exits in your accommodation
- Store valuables in the room safe or at hotel reception
- Be cautious about sharing your room number or accommodation details with strangers
Personal Safety
- Stay in well-lit, populated areas, especially after dark
- Trust your instincts; if a situation feels uncomfortable, remove yourself
- Keep your phone charged and save emergency numbers
- Let someone know your itinerary, especially if traveling alone
- Avoid excessive alcohol consumption which can make you vulnerable
- Be cautious accepting drinks from strangers
- Learn basic Italian phrases including 'aiuto' (help) and 'polizia' (police)
Old Town (Bari Vecchia) Specific
- Visit Bari Vecchia during daylight hours for the best experience and safety
- Stay on main thoroughfares; avoid deserted narrow alleys, especially alone
- The area is generally safe but remain vigilant as it's a target for pickpockets
- Don't leave bags unattended at outdoor cafes and restaurants
- Be respectful of residential areas; it's a living neighborhood, not just a tourist attraction
- If exploring at night, go in groups and stick to well-lit, busy streets
Food and Water Safety
- Tap water in Bari is safe to drink, though many prefer bottled water
- Choose busy restaurants with good hygiene standards
- Be cautious with raw seafood in summer heat if not from reputable establishments
- Wash hands before eating, especially after using public transport
- Food safety standards in Italy are generally high; trust your judgment on cleanliness
Information for Specific Travelers
Safety considerations for different traveler groups.
Women Travelers
Bari is generally safe for women travelers, including solo female visitors. Italy has a relatively good safety record for women, though like much of southern Italy, you may encounter catcalling or unwanted attention, particularly from men. This is usually harmless but can be uncomfortable. Most local women deal with this by ignoring it completely. Serious harassment or assault is uncommon, and locals are typically helpful if you need assistance. Standard urban precautions apply, with extra vigilance in crowded areas and at night.
- Dress modestly to reduce unwanted attention, though Bari is less conservative than some southern Italian cities
- Ignore catcalls and comments; responding often encourages more attention
- Avoid walking alone in isolated areas, quiet streets, or deserted parts of Bari Vecchia after dark
- If staying out late, use official taxis rather than walking back to accommodation
- Consider sitting near other women or families on public transport
- Book accommodations in well-reviewed, central locations with good lighting and security
- Keep your phone charged and easily accessible
- Trust your instincts; if a situation feels uncomfortable, leave immediately
- Wedding rings (real or fake) can sometimes deter unwanted attention
- Join group tours or activities to meet other travelers if traveling solo
- Carry a whistle or personal alarm if it makes you feel more secure
- Learn basic Italian phrases to firmly say 'no' or ask for help: 'No, grazie,' 'Lasciami in pace' (leave me alone), 'Aiuto' (help)
- Be cautious about sharing your solo travel status or accommodation details with strangers
- Italian women often dress stylishly but conservatively; following local norms can help you blend in
LGBTQ+ Travelers
Homosexuality is legal in Italy with the age of consent equal to heterosexual relationships (14 years). Same-sex civil unions have been legal since 2016, though same-sex marriage is not recognized. Discrimination based on sexual orientation is illegal, and hate crimes based on sexual orientation are subject to enhanced penalties.
- Exercise discretion with public displays of affection, especially outside tourist areas and in the old town
- Research LGBTQ+-friendly accommodations in advance; many hotels are welcoming but some smaller establishments may be conservative
- Bari has limited LGBTQ+ specific venues; the scene is much smaller than in Rome, Milan, or Bologna
- Connect with local LGBTQ+ communities online before traveling for current information and recommendations
- Nearby cities like Lecce have slightly more visible LGBTQ+ communities and events
- Be aware that conservative Catholic values influence social attitudes in the region
- Younger people and those in tourist-facing industries are generally more accepting
- If you experience discrimination, you can report it to police, though enforcement may vary
- Consider joining LGBTQ+ travel groups or tours for added support and community
- International Pride events occur in larger Italian cities; Bari occasionally hosts smaller LGBTQ+ events
- Use LGBTQ+ travel apps to connect with local community and find welcoming venues
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is highly recommended for all visitors to Bari. While Italy has excellent healthcare, medical costs can be significant for non-EU visitors. Even EU citizens with EHIC cards should consider supplemental insurance as EHIC doesn't cover repatriation, private healthcare, or many non-emergency services. Given the risk of petty theft in Bari, insurance covering stolen belongings is particularly valuable. Trip cancellation coverage protects your investment if you need to cancel or interrupt your trip.
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