Bari

Bari is a charming city with a rich history, beautiful coastline, and delicious cuisine. Let’s create a relaxed 3-day itinerary that allows you to soak in the local culture without the rush. Ready? Let’s dive in!

Day 1: Explore the Old Town and Waterfront

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Local Café: Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café. Try a cornetto (Italian croissant) with a cappuccino. There are plenty of charming spots in the Old Town (Bari Vecchia).

• Stroll through Bari Vecchia: After breakfast, wander through the narrow, winding streets of Bari Vecchia. Admire the beautiful architecture, colorful houses, and the vibrant atmosphere. Don’t miss the iconic Piazza del Ferrarese and the nearby Castello Normanno-Svevo, where you can take a few photos.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at a Trattoria: Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a traditional trattoria. Try some local specialties like orecchiette pasta with broccoli rabe or a seafood dish.

• Visit the Lungomare: After lunch, take a stroll along the Lungomare, Bari’s beautiful seafront promenade. It’s perfect for a relaxed walk, and you can enjoy the views of the Adriatic Sea. Grab a gelato from a nearby shop to cool off!

Evening:

• Dinner in the Old Town: Head back to the Old Town for dinner. Look for a cozy restaurant where you can enjoy fresh seafood or a classic Italian pizza.

• Evening Walk: After dinner, take a leisurely evening walk through the Old Town. The atmosphere is magical at night, with the streets lit up and locals enjoying their evening.

Day 2: Culture and Culinary Delights

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Bakery: Start your day with a visit to a local bakery. Try some focaccia barese, a local specialty, along with your coffee.

• Visit the Petruzzelli Theatre: After breakfast, take a guided tour of the Petruzzelli Theatre, one of Italy’s most important opera houses. The architecture is stunning, and it’s a great way to learn about Bari’s cultural scene.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at Mercato del Pesce: Head to the Fish Market (Mercato del Pesce) for lunch. You can find fresh seafood and local delicacies. Grab a bite at one of the nearby eateries or enjoy a casual meal at the market.

• Cooking Class: In the afternoon, consider joining a cooking class where you can learn to make orecchiette pasta or other local dishes. It’s a fun way to immerse yourself in the culinary culture of Bari!

Evening:

• Dinner at a Local Osteria: After your cooking class, enjoy dinner at a local osteria. Savor the dishes you learned to make or try something new.

• Nightcap at a Wine Bar: End your day with a glass of local wine at a cozy wine bar. Relax and reflect on your day while enjoying the ambiance.

Day 3: Day Trip to Polignano a Mare

Morning:

• Breakfast and Travel to Polignano a Mare: Have a light breakfast in Bari before taking a short train ride to Polignano a Mare (about 30 minutes). This picturesque coastal town is famous for its stunning cliffs and crystal-clear waters.

• Explore the Town: Once you arrive, take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets. Don’t forget to check out the famous viewpoint at the Lama Monachile beach.

Afternoon:

• Lunch with a View: Enjoy lunch at a seaside restaurant. Try the local seafood dishes while soaking in the breathtaking views of the Adriatic.

• Relax at the Beach: After lunch, spend some time relaxing at the beach. You can swim, sunbathe, or simply enjoy the stunning scenery.

Evening:

• Return to Bari: Head back to Bari in the late afternoon.

• Farewell Dinner: For your last evening, treat yourself to a special dinner at a nice restaurant. Enjoy a multi-course meal featuring local wines and dishes.

• Evening Stroll: Take one last stroll through the Old Town, soaking in the atmosphere and perhaps picking up a souvenir or two.

And there you have it! A relaxed 3-day itinerary in Bari that allows you to explore, indulge, and enjoy the local culture at your own pace. Enjoy your trip! 🌞🍝🌊