The city consists of a modern and historic part. Bari Vecchia in the old city centre represents the charm of authentic Italy. Stroll through narrow alleys and bustling piazzas. Visit the city's many cathedrals and basilicas, such as Basilica di San Nicola or San Sabino cathedral. Or stroll along the Lungomare boulevard, by the old port, and gaze out over the turquoise sea. For the best shopping, head to the modern part of the city, especially around the Via Sparano. The Normand Svevo castle is a must see. Go to a concert or an opera in Teatro Petruzzelli.
Make time to sample local delicacies as you explore Bari and its surrounding region. Known for its many olive trees, the region is a major producer of Italian olive oil. Would you like to eat seafood? Then you have come to the right place. The fish market at the old port sells fresh catches of the day straight from the Adriatic waters. Sample the most famous regional dish: orecchiette alle cime di rapa. In the morning you can watch the orecchiette pasta being made on the Via delle Orecchiette in Bari Vecchia. Also order some panzerotti, focaccia or burrata. The delicious ring-shaped savoury taralli come in many different flavours and are a frequent staple of bread baskets. Another speciality of Puglia is the pasticciotti pastry. A delicious sweet shortcrust pastry filled with cream. Buon appetito!
The area around Bari is also worth exploring. Conveniently book your rental car with Transavia Holidays. Set off on a road trip in Italy's heel and don't miss the trulli in Alberobello. These are traditional white limestone houses with conical roofs. Another magical spot is Polignano a Mare, a picturesque city clinging to a cliff with an impressive bay and beautiful pebble beach. Other unique spots worth seeing include Locorotondo, Ostuni, Lecce, Otranto and Gallipoli. Driving all the way down to the most southern point? Make sure you visit the so-called ‘Maldives of Italy'. Spend a delightful day on the white sandy beach of Spiaggia di Pescoluse.
