Where to stay in Bari, Puglia
Bari often gets labelled as the place you fly into to explore the rest of Puglia. But it shouldn't be pigeonholed - it's a really beautiful old town, full of charm. As the regional capital, it has plenty to offer and is well worth spending time in.
For millennia, Bari has been a busy commercial centre and trading port, and since 1930 Bari has played host to one of the Mediterranean's most prestigious trade fairs, the Fiera del Levante. It's the busiest passenger port in the Adriatic, with regular ferry links to the Balkans and Greece.
Bari boasts a beautiful, long seafront promenade that leads from Bari Vecchia (a fascinating weave of streets that was cleaned up over a decade ago, to become a wonderful area for strolling, full of cafés, bars and restaurants) to the more modern shopping district (which, incidentally, was designed by Napoleon's brother-in-law).
For opera lovers, a trip to Bari should include a night at the Teatro Petruzzelli, the fourth largest opera house in Italy, after the Teatro Massimo in Palermo, La Scala in Milan and the San Carlo in Naples.Â
So it's well worth taking a couple of days to explore the city - our top 10 best hotels and places to stay in Bari are below.
Best hotels and accommodation in Bari
Discover the best hotels and accommodation in Bari - all are a minimum 4-star stay, and rated in the top-10 by the people who have stayed there.Â
01 | VIS Urban Suites & Spa
Set in the centre of Bari, 2.6 km from Pane e Pomodoro Beach, VIS Urban Suites&Spa offers accommodation with free WiFi, spa facilities, wellness packages and a steam room.
Couples particularly like the location — they rated it 9.4 for a two-person trip.
Rooms from £265 / $333
03 | The Nicolaus Hotel
The 4-star Nicolaus Hotel offers stylish rooms, free Wi-Fi, and a fully equipped wellness area with indoor pool, gym, sauna, Turkish bath and hot tub. It is in Poggiofranco, a residential area of Bari.
This hotel was highly rated for its very comfy beds.
Rooms from £136 / $171
06 | Palazzo Calò
Offering a stunning rooftop terrace with views across Bari, Palazzo Calò offers unique studios with wood-beamed ceilings and exposed brick walls, reflecting the atmosphere of Bari Vecchia. An ideal location between the city’s shopping and historic districts.
Rated 8.6/10 by guests.
Rooms from £146 / $183
07 | Imago Plus Hotel
The Imago is a design hotel in the heart of Bari, a 7-minute walk from Bari Q. Sella Metro Station and 15 minutes' walk from the cathedral. It offers free WiFi and elegant, air-conditioned rooms. Only 1km from the Petruzzelli Theatre, it perches above an arts and culture centre.
Rated 8.7/10 by guests.
Rooms from £134 / $169
09 | Zodiacus Residence
A favourite location for couples, Zodiacus Residence is in the centre of Bari and just 10 minutes from Bari Train Station.
Accommodation is simply and stylishly decorated and fitted with parquet floors and wooden furnishings. All rooms have an en suite bathroom and a flat-screen TV. Bari Cathedral is 750 metres away.
Rated 8.3/10 by guests.
Rooms from £76 / $95
10 | Mercure Villa Romanazzi Carducci
The spacious, elegant rooms at Mercure Villa Romanazzi Carducci feature design furnishings and have en suite marble bathrooms.
Their Carducci restaurant specialises in Italian and international cuisine, served on the terrace in the summer. Guests can unwind in the spa, equipped with a sauna, Turkish bath and hot tub.
Rated 8.2/10 by guests.
Rooms from £112 / $141
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Discovering the enchanting gem of Bari, Puglia
Bari, nestled in the captivating region of Puglia in southern Italy, stands as an enchanting city offering a treasure trove of experiences for travelers seeking authentic Italian charm. Its rich history, cultural tapestry, delectable cuisine, and picturesque landscapes beckon visitors from around the world. From the labyrinthine streets of the old town to the stunning coastline, Bari promises an unforgettable sojourn.
Historical tapestry
Bari’s historical significance dates back centuries, evident in its myriad architectural marvels and ancient sites. The old town, known as Bari Vecchia, boasts a maze of narrow streets lined with whitewashed buildings, evoking a sense of medieval charm. The Basilica di San Nicola, an architectural masterpiece housing the relics of Saint Nicholas, stands as a testament to the city's religious heritage.
The Swabian Castle, a formidable fortress overlooking the Adriatic Sea, narrates tales of conquests and resilience through the ages. Furthermore, the intriguing Romanesque Cathedral and the historical theaters serve as windows to Bari's vibrant past, captivating history enthusiasts and culture aficionados alike.
Cultural splendour
Bari pulsates with cultural vibrancy, celebrated through its festivals, traditions, and artistic expressions. The city's folkloric traditions, notably the 'Festa di San Nicola' honoring the patron saint, showcase elaborate processions, music, and traditional dances, immersing visitors in the local heritage.
Art enthusiasts find solace in the plethora of galleries and museums showcasing regional artistry, from contemporary exhibitions to ancient artifacts, highlighting the city’s artistic evolution.
Gastronomic delights
No visit to Bari is complete without indulging in its gastronomic wonders. Renowned for its delectable cuisine, Bari tantalizes taste buds with a myriad of culinary delights. The city's bustling markets brim with fresh seafood, locally grown produce, and aromatic spices, providing a glimpse into the culinary traditions of Puglia.
Visitors can relish the tantalizing 'orecchiette' pasta, a local specialty crafted by skilled artisans, or savor the heavenly 'panzerotti,' a fried dough stuffed with various fillings. Pair these culinary gems with exquisite local wines, such as Primitivo and Negroamaro, for an authentic taste of Bari’s gastronomic heritage.
Scenic beauty
Bari, adorned by the azure waters of the Adriatic Sea, boasts captivating landscapes that captivate nature enthusiasts and beach lovers alike. The city’s coastline beckons with picturesque beaches, offering serene retreats for relaxation and seaside adventures.
Moreover, a short drive from Bari leads to the stunning countryside of Puglia, adorned with olive groves, vineyards, and quaint villages steeped in rustic charm. The Trulli of Alberobello, UNESCO World Heritage site with its distinctive conical-roofed houses, stands as a testament to the region’s unique architecture.
Warm hospitality
Beyond its attractions, what truly distinguishes Bari is the warmth and hospitality of its people. Visitors are welcomed with open arms, invited to partake in the city's daily life, and encouraged to immerse themselves in its vibrant culture. Whether it's savoring an espresso at a local café or engaging in friendly banter with the locals, Bari offers an authentic Italian experience steeped in conviviality.
Have we changed your mind about staying in Bari?
Bari, Puglia, embodies the quintessence of Italian allure, offering a harmonious blend of history, culture, culinary delights, natural beauty, and warm hospitality. A visit to this mesmerizing city not only allows travelers to delve into its rich past but also presents an opportunity to create enduring memories amidst its charming streets and welcoming embrace. Bari, with its alluring tapestry of experiences, undoubtedly stands as a hidden gem waiting to be explored and cherished by wanderlust-driven souls.
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