Bari Itinerary 7 Days: A Taste of Puglia's Coastal Charm (2026)

Arrive at Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport (BRI) and make your way to your accommodation. After settling in, it's time to dive headfirst into the heart of Bari: the enchanting old town, Bari Vecchia. Lose yourself in the labyrinthine alleyways, where laundry flutters from balconies and the scent of simmering tomato sauce fills the air. Your first stop is the magnificent Basilica di San Nicola, a stunning example of Apulian Romanesque architecture. Step inside to admire the ornate decorations and pay your respects at the tomb of Saint Nicholas, the patron saint of Bari. Afterward, wander over to the Cattedrale di San Sabino, another architectural gem with a beautiful rose window and a fascinating archaeological area beneath the main church. As you continue your exploration, be sure to seek out the famous 'Orecchiette Street' (Strada Arco Basso), where local women sit outside their homes, skillfully shaping pasta by hand. It's a truly authentic and captivating sight. For dinner, indulge in a traditional Barese meal at one of the many trattorias in the old town. Be sure to try the orecchiette con le cime di rapa (orecchiette with turnip tops), a local specialty. End your day with a leisurely stroll along the Lungomare, Bari's picturesque seafront promenade, and enjoy the refreshing sea breeze.

Start your day with a visit to the imposing Castello Svevo (Swabian Castle), a massive fortress that has stood guard over the city for centuries. Explore the castle's ramparts, courtyards, and museum to learn about its fascinating history. From the top of the castle walls, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of the old town and the Adriatic Sea. Afterward, immerse yourself in the local culture at the Mercato del Pesce, Bari's bustling fish market. Watch as the fishermen bring in their daily catch and soak up the lively atmosphere. For lunch, sample some of the freshest seafood you'll ever taste at one of the market's food stalls. In the afternoon, it's time for a culinary adventure. Join a street food tour and let a local guide introduce you to Bari's most delicious specialties. You'll have the chance to taste everything from sgagliozze (fried polenta) and panzerotti (fried dough filled with mozzarella and tomato) to the city's famous focaccia Barese. As you wander through the streets, your guide will share stories and insights into Bari's culinary traditions. In the evening, put your newfound knowledge to the test with a pasta-making class. Learn how to make orecchiette from scratch and enjoy a delicious dinner of your own creation.

Today, you'll venture out of Bari to explore two of Puglia's most picturesque coastal towns: Polignano a Mare and Monopoli. Take a short train ride from Bari Centrale and your first stop will be Polignano a Mare, a town perched dramatically on a limestone cliff overlooking the turquoise waters of the Adriatic. Wander through the charming historic center, with its whitewashed houses and flower-filled balconies. Don't miss the famous Lama Monachile, a small pebble beach nestled between two cliffs, which offers one of the most iconic views in Puglia. For the adventurous, there are several sea caves to explore by boat. In the afternoon, continue your journey to Monopoli, a charming fishing town with a beautiful harbor and a well-preserved historic center. Get lost in the maze of narrow streets, discover hidden courtyards, and admire the town's many churches. Be sure to visit the Cattedrale Maria Santissima della Madia, which houses a miraculous icon of the Madonna. As the sun begins to set, find a spot at one of the waterfront cafes and enjoy an aperitivo while watching the fishing boats return to the harbor. For dinner, indulge in some fresh seafood at one of Monopoli's excellent restaurants before taking the train back to Bari.

Prepare to be transported to a fairytale world as you take a day trip to Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its unique trulli houses. These traditional Apulian dry stone huts with conical roofs are found nowhere else in the world. Take a train or bus from Bari and spend the day exploring this enchanting town. The two main trulli districts are Rione Monti and Aia Piccola. Rione Monti is the larger and more commercialized of the two, with many of the trulli converted into souvenir shops, restaurants, and bars. It's a great place to wander around and get a feel for the town. Aia Piccola, on the other hand, is a quieter and more residential area where you can see how the locals still live in these traditional dwellings. Be sure to visit the Trullo Sovrano, the only two-story trullo in Alberobello, which is now a museum furnished with period furniture. For a panoramic view of the town, climb to the top of the Church of Saint Anthony, a trullo-style church. As you explore, you'll find many opportunities to sample local products, such as olive oil, wine, and cheese. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a trullo restaurant before heading back to Bari in the evening.

Today, you'll journey to another UNESCO World Heritage site, the incredible city of Matera. Located in the neighboring region of Basilicata, Matera is famous for its Sassi, a complex of cave dwellings carved into the mountainside. Take a bus or train from Bari and prepare to be amazed by this ancient city, which is one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in the world. The Sassi are divided into two districts: Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano. Sasso Caveoso is the more ancient of the two, with cave dwellings that date back to the Paleolithic era. Sasso Barisano has been more extensively renovated and is home to many hotels, restaurants, and artisan shops. Spend the day exploring the labyrinthine streets of the Sassi, discovering rock-hewn churches, and learning about the city's fascinating history. Be sure to visit the Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario, a recreated cave dwelling that shows what life was like for the inhabitants of the Sassi until the 1950s. For a breathtaking view of the city, head to the viewpoint at Piazza Vittorio Veneto. As you wander through the Sassi, you'll feel as though you've stepped onto the set of a biblical film – and in fact, Matera has been the backdrop for many movies, including Mel Gibson's 'The Passion of the Christ'. Enjoy dinner at a restaurant in the Sassi before returning to Bari.

After several days of exploring, it's time for a more relaxed day in Bari. Start your morning with a visit to Pane e Pomodoro, Bari's main city beach. Soak up the sun, take a refreshing dip in the Adriatic Sea, and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere. If you're feeling active, you can rent a paddleboard or a kayak. For lunch, grab a delicious panino or a slice of focaccia from one of the beachside kiosks. In the afternoon, it's time for some retail therapy. Head to the Murat district, Bari's elegant 19th-century shopping area. Here, you'll find a mix of high-end boutiques, international brands, and local artisan shops. Stroll down Via Sparano da Bari, the city's main shopping street, and browse the latest Italian fashions. If you're looking for souvenirs, you'll find plenty of shops selling local crafts, ceramics, and food products. In the evening, treat yourself to a special farewell dinner. Choose a restaurant with a view of the sea and indulge in a multi-course meal of Apulian specialties. Raise a glass of local wine to toast your unforgettable week in Bari.

Enjoy a final Italian breakfast and a cappuccino at a local cafe. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for some last-minute souvenir shopping or a final stroll through the charming streets of Bari Vecchia. Take one last look at the sparkling Adriatic Sea and bid farewell to this captivating city. When it's time, make your way to Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport (BRI) for your departure, taking with you memories of a wonderful week filled with history, culture, and delicious food.