Discover Bari: Food and Culture

Bari is a city that enchants with its beauty and culinary tradition. If you are visiting, you cannot miss its gastronomic specialties. Pizza is one of the most loved dishes by the locals. Among the most renowned pizzerias is Desideria, located in the Madonnella district, which also offers vegan options. Another very popular pizzeria is Pizzeria di Cosimo, known for its tasty pizza, although it can be divisive. If you want a more traditional experience, Enzo & Ciro is the right place, with two locations serving typical dishes.

Fresh fish is another cornerstone of Bari's cuisine. Le Terrazze del Santa Lucia, located near the Fiera del Levante, offers breathtaking views of the sea and fish dishes that you cannot miss. The raw seafood is a local specialty that will leave you speechless. Don’t forget to try rice, potatoes, and mussels, a typical dish that tells the culinary history of the city. If you find yourself in the city center, La Tana del Polpo is a highly appreciated restaurant where you can enjoy fish-based dishes.

You cannot leave Bari without tasting street food. The panzerotti from Venezia 40, located on the city walls, are a must. Sgagliozze and popizze, fritters sold by local women, are a true delight, especially in Piazza Albicocca. Barese focaccia is another dish not to be missed, to be enjoyed in one of the many bakeries like El Focacciaro, Violante, or Santa Rita. A curiosity: many bakeries use boiled potatoes in the dough to make the focaccia softer.

When it comes to tourist attractions, Bari offers a wide range of monuments and historical sites. The Basilica of San Nicola is the symbol of the city and houses the relics of the patron saint. The Cathedral of San Sabino is another must-see, with its fascinating architecture. Don’t forget to stroll along Pasta Street, where local women prepare fresh orecchiette in front of their doors.

Other places to visit include the Teatro Margherita, now a museum with temporary exhibitions, and the Lungomare di Bari, one of the longest in Europe, perfect for sunset walks. The squares by the sea are filled with bars and outdoor restaurants, ideal for enjoying an aperitif.

Bari is also an excellent starting point for trips to nearby areas. Torre a Mare is a small port with charming beaches, while Mola di Bari is famous for its octopus and seaside castle. Polignano a Mare, with its breathtaking views of the Adriatic, is another destination not to be missed. Monopoli offers a lively historic center and beaches in the city, while Capitolo is known for its beach clubs. Alberobello, with its UNESCO heritage trulli, and Matera, famous for its Sassi, are easily reachable by train or bus.

Regarding safety, the old town is much safer than in the past and frequented even in the evening. As in all cities, it is always good to stay alert and not leave belongings unattended. The urban beaches, like Pane e Pomodoro, are very beautiful, but don’t forget to explore the small bays of Polignano or the rocky stretches of the coast to the south, where you can dive into the sea.

Finally, regarding accommodation, there are many options in the historic center and the Murat district. It is advisable to check recent reviews and choose properties well connected to the station or the city center.