We’re so excited to announce the date of our upcoming, free, LIVE event! We’ve been workshopping, planning and testing things out for the past couple of months and are ready to bring this to you. If you joined us for the Future Vision Event, you already know…our live sessions aren’t just motivational. They’re actionable, interactive, … Read more
We’re so excited to announce the date of our upcoming, free, LIVE event! We’ve been workshopping, planning and testing things out for the past couple of months and are ready to bring this to you.
If you joined us for the Future Vision Event, you already know…our live sessions aren’t just motivational. They’re actionable, interactive, and designed to get you moving. This one’s no different, it’s called The Shift.
During The Shift, we’ll be live in realtime, and to get the most out of it, you’ll want to be there too. But if you can’t make it, you still need to register in order to get the replay. Spots are limited, click here to sign up.
Why We Created The Shift
We created The Shift because, well… the world is shifting, and fast – can you feel it? And I don’t mean the doom and gloom stuff…
…there are SO many positive things happening right now!
AI is shaking up traditional careers, and when used correctly, can be an excellent tool.
The knowledge economy is exploding.
With all of the noise online, people want real guidance, real stories, real humans! Not influencers or fake content.
People are turning what they already know into income, offers, and communities online.
It’s the perfect time to take matters into your own hands, and create a life that’s yours – one where you’re not reliant on others, one that brings you joy, one that helps people.
Make money from what you know and love..then work from Greece
We constantly receive emails and messages on our social media accounts from people looking for more freedom in their lives, and wanting to start something of their own. But, they feel like they don’t know where to start.
Or, they’ve tried and it just hasn’t worked out. Of course, we have our close proximity, paid coaching group, but we wanted to offer something for free so the rest of our community can benefit from what we know as well.
You’re Probably Already Doing It
You might not realize it yet, but you’re probably already doing the thing that could become your first offer!
Take us for example, we turned our love for travel and making money remotely into Goats On The Road. We took our skills of knowing how to build websites & SEO into digital courses and products.
Nick took his passion for fly fishing and built it into a successful online brand. He even took his interest of music and guitars and turned it into a music affiliate website.
And for the past 1.5 years, we’ve taken our expertise and experience of turning what we know into income, and built our Creator Kickstarter Coaching program to help people do just that!
We now teach others what we’ve learned over our 12+ years in the space
Think about it for a second. Have you ever:
Supported a friend through a breakup or big decision?
Planned a trip down to the last detail?
Helped your colleagues with tech stuff?
Shared advice people always come back to you for (skincare, budgeting, fashion, job interviews, gardening, cooking, etc.)?
Been through a big life experience and came out the other side (weight loss, divorce, menopause, relocation, addiction, trauma, etc.)?
Or maybe you’ve:
Posted on social media?
Written emails?
Recorded videos?
Taken photos?
All of those things are valuable! It means you have experience, and it’s the beginning of a way for you to make an income doing something you’re already know – which is the whole point.
So you know it’s going to be valuable and packed with inspiration and actionable steps. Here’s what’s included:
A free, live, 2-hour event hosted by us personally.
Clarity on your direction.
Discovering how your passions, skills, knowledge & life experiences can be turned into an income.
How to finally start the thing you’ve been thinking about!
Simple steps to creating your first offer (coaching, digital product, course, community, etc.)
A roadmap to turn your vision into income.
Free replay of the event if you register.
Special bonus if you show up live and stick around until the end of the call
How to Join
This event is open to anyone who is ready for a change in their life. To be the architect of their reality. To create a life that’s pulling them towards their BIG vision for their ideal future.
If you’re ready to learn how to package up what you already know and sell it online…all you need to do to join is click here and sign up. Then, you’ll receive an email with all the details on the date, time and what to bring.
See You There!
We’ve been where you are – maybe feeling like there has to be more to life, and wanting a change – but not sure exactly where to start. The Shift is something we wished we had back in 2008 when we started our freedom-filled lifestyle and were trying to figure things out on our own.
But, we’ve been through it all so you don’t have to. Think of us like a launchpad to get you from where you are to where you want to be – much faster than if you try to figure it out yourself…aka, Googling around aimlessly
Since 2008, we’ve travelled to 80 countries, started 5 remote businesses, and helped thousands of people make money online based on what they know, do and love.
Once we decided to bet on ourselves, to follow our hearts and ultimately, take a leap towards the big vision for our future, everything fell into place…and we want that for you, too.
Paros is an island in the heart of the Cyclades Islands in Greece with over 10,000 inhabitants and 120 kilometers of coastline. Serene landscapes, fertile valleys, and rolling hills are dotted with small churches and monasteries, complemented by endless sandy beaches with azure blue waters. Not only is the natural landscape stunning, but there are … Read more
The capital of the southeastern Puglia region of Italy, Bari, is a vibrant port city on the Adriatic Sea. Known for its atmospheric Old Town, medieval churches, stunning beaches, and delicious food and wine, there are so many incredible things to do in Bari.
I spent time in Bari last month and really loved the city. It receives far fewer tourists than other Italian cities like Rome, Florence, and Naples, it’s much cheaper and has a really authentic and laidback vibe.
In this post, I’ll describe some of the top things to see and places to visit in Bari. Some of these are free, others you have to pay for, but all are great and definitely worthwhile.
Best Things to Do in Bari
However long you have to spend sightseeing in Bari, I recommend checking out at least some of the following.
1. Explore the Citta Vecchia
Many of the top places to visit in Bari are located in its Old Town – a maze of narrow, winding streets and back alleys that lies just south of the modern port area. It’s a fascinating place, with more than 2,000 years of history.
The majority of the historic buildings in Citta Vecchia are intact, and the whole district has a wonderfully unique feel. It’s easy to get lost wandering through the backstreets, but this is part of the fun.
Every corner you turn you’ll see something new. Women sit at wooden tables in the street making handmade orecchiette pasta, picturesque little squares are decorated with flowers, and locals sit together chatting over a coffee or glasses of wine.
The whole place feels like a time warp, and you get the sense that life hasn’t changed much here in hundreds of years. It’s an amazing place to while away a few hours and exploring it is one of the best activities in Bari. Click here for a highly-rated guided tour of the old town.
2. Visit the Basilica Di San Nicola
Dating back to the 12th century, the Basilica of Saint Nicholas was built on the site of a church that was destroyed by an earthquake in 1089.
The exterior of the basilica is incredibly ornate, with two large towers and a stunning façade. The interior is just as impressive, with beautiful mosaics and paintings adorning the walls and ceilings.
It’s dedicated to Saint Nicholas (AKA Saint Nick, or Santa Claus, of Christmas Eve fame), who was born in Patara, in modern-day Turkey, and later became the Bishop of Myra.
The remains of Saint Nicholas are actually buried in the crypt of the basilica, and it’s a place of pilgrimage for Orthodox Christians from all over the world. This rickshaw tour of the old town actually takes in the Basilica of Saint Nicholas.
Address: Largo Abate Elia, 13, 70122, Bari BA, Italy
The cathedral is located in the heart of Citta Vecchia and is a beautiful example of Romanesque architecture. Inside, the cathedral’s treasury (Tesoro) contains a series of precious relics and other historical artifacts, as well as a museum.
Underneath the cathedral lies a series of archaeological excavations, showing the remains of an ancient Roman road from the 2nd century and a Byzantine church from the 9th century. There are also the remains of a beautifully ornate mosaic.
Address: Piazza dell’Odegitria, 70122, Bari BA, Italy
4. Take a Historical Walking Tour of Bari
One of the best ways to learn about the rich and fascinating history of this amazing city is to take part in a historical walking tour of Bari.
There are several different tours to choose from, but I recommend this one. Your passionate local guide will show you around the city’s most important and iconic sights, and teach you about the history, culture, and lifestyle of the people of Bari.
I thought I knew a lot about what to do in Bari, but after taking this walking tour, I realized there’s so much more to the city. If it’s really hot outside, or if you have mobility issues…or, if you’re just feeling lazy…this rickshaw tour is a great way to get around the old town!
5. Chill Out at the Beach
Puglia is home to some of the best beaches in Italy. Many of these are located a short distance from Bari and make a perfect day trip (or half-day trip) away from the city.
Perhaps the most famous beach near Bari is Lama Monachile (also known as Cala Porto), in the pretty little town of Polignano a Mare. This small white pebble beach is at the end of a steep-sided rocky canyon framed by vertical cliffs and has gorgeous turquoise water.
Other great beaches near Bari include Cala Paura (also in Polignano a Mare) and Cala Porta Vecchia (in romantic Monopoli). These are all easy to reach with public transport (train or bus) from Bari.
However, if you don’t have time to leave the city, you can still enjoy some beach time. Check out Pane e Pomodoro Beach, a sandy beach 3 kilometers southeast of the city center. The name translates as “Bread and Tomato” (don’t ask me why).
6. Go on a Street Food Tour
Bari is famous for its delicious street food, so be sure to try as much of it as possible while you’re in town. One of the best ways to sample some of Bari’s best street food is to go on a street food tour.
This is an excellent option and will introduce you to some of the city’s most famous dishes. You’ll visit popular local places, and immerse yourself in Bari’s rich culinary culture.
Orecchiette pasta with sautéed broccoli rabe (also known as rapini).
Tiella – a hearty traditional dish made with rice, potatoes, and mussels (think of it as a Puglian paella).
Focaccia Barese – probably the best focaccia you will ever eat, topped with ripe tomatoes, olives, olive oil, and oregano.
Polpette – cheesy fried dumplings made using stale bread (and sometimes fish, meat, or vegetables), either served crispy by themselves, or in a rich sauce.
7. Explore Castello Svevo (One of My Favorite Places to Visit in Bari)
Castello Svevo di Bari is a Norman castle that was built, destroyed, and then rebuilt in the 12th and 13th centuries. It’s an imposing structure right next to the sea, and with its thick walls and moat, it’s easy to imagine how this castle served as one of the old city’s main points of defense throughout the centuries.
The castle has been through a lot historically and has been damaged by earthquakes on several occasions. Despite this, the whole structure is amazingly well intact.
Today, the castle is used as an exhibition center and a museum dedicated to the history of the castle, as well as the city of Bari more widely. Exploring the giant rooms and extensive grounds is extremely evocative and is definitely one of the best places to see in Bari.
8. Stroll Along the Seafront Promenade
Bari has a beautiful long promenade (called Lungomare Nazario Sauro) that runs along the seafront. It’s a great place to take a stroll, relax, and take in the views. There are also several cafes and restaurants along the promenade, so you can stop for a coffee or a bite to eat if you like.
You can also extend the walk all the way to the Molo Sant’Antonio lighthouse, which is located at the end of the sea wall marking the entrance to the sailing and pleasure boat harbor. This used to be the city’s main harbor, until the construction of the larger commercial Port of Bari in 1850.
Here you’re likely to see people fishing and hanging out with friends, painting boats, or taking sailing lessons in the sheltered marina. I love to sit and watch all this go on while enjoying the fresh sea air.
In the evening, the promenade comes alive with locals and tourists alike, and people come to watch the spectacular sunset. This is one of my favorite things to do in Bari at night – there’s just a really lovely atmosphere here.
9. Take a Traditional Puglian Cooking Class
Puglian food tends to be fairly simple and showcases the freshness and high quality of local and seasonal ingredients, including tomatoes, beans, artichokes, peppers, and seafood.
For an unforgettable experience where you can learn how to make some classic and delicious, local dishes, take a traditional Puglian cooking class. There are several different classes to choose from, but I recommend this one, which takes place at the host’s home.
During the class, you’ll learn how to make 2 fresh pastas, including orecchiette (Puglia’s famous pasta that looks like little ears), tiramisu, and of course, prosecco, snacks and wine are included. This is one of the most fun things to do in Bari – I highly recommend it! Click here to learn more and book your spot.
10. People-Watch in the Piazza Mercantile
Piazza Mercantile is one of the main squares on the edge of the Old Town of Bari. It’s a great place to sit with a spritz or gelato and people-watch.
This historical medieval square has been a meeting place for centuries. People have come here to trade their goods ever since the 14th century, and even today it’s a popular spot for locals to meet and hang out together.
The buildings around the square are incredibly picturesque, including the Palazzo della Dogana, the 16th-century clock tower, and the baroque Fontana della Pigna fountain. Taking a seat and enjoying this pretty little corner of the city is one of the best free things to do in Bari, Puglia.
11. See Bari on a Segway Tour
Segways can be very divisive: some people love them, and some people really don’t. If you’re in the first camp, consider joining this tour.
After a quick briefing, you’ll set off exploring some of the city’s better-known sights, as well as some hidden gems and secret spots. You’ll visit places in both the Old Town and the modern city, including the Petruzzelli Theater and Bari’s main fish market.
And at the end, you can enjoy some delicious traditional homemade ice cream. I had a great time on the segway, but maybe the ice cream was my favorite part.
12. Chill Out in Parco 2 Giugno
Parco 2 Giugno is a public park just south of the center of Bari. It’s a popular spot with locals and is the perfect place to relax and take a break during a busy day of sightseeing.
The park has a variety of different plants and trees, as well as a lake that’s home to turtles, ducks, and other birds. If you’re looking for things to do in Bari for families, I recommend checking this place out.
There’s also a playground for children, and a little cafe kiosk selling coffee, water, beer, and other refreshments.
13. Go on a Sailing Trip
Bari is located on the Adriatic Sea, and sailing is a popular pastime here. There are several operators that offer sailing trips from Bari, and you’ll get to relax on deck and enjoy the stunning coastline as you sail past.
Being on the water gives you a unique perspective of Bari itself, and many sailing trips allow you the chance to swim in the clear blue waters of the Mediterranean. It’s fairly common to see dolphins and a range of other aquatic life while you’re on the boat too.
This is an excellent sunset trip that has fantastic reviews and is one of the best things to do in Bari for couples, or groups of friends. What could be more romantic than sitting on the deck of a vintage gozzo boat, watching the sunset over the sea, with an aperitivo in hand? Click here for details.
(To be honest, even if you’re traveling by yourself, this is still a pretty awesome experience!)
14. Snag a Bargain at Poggiofranco Market
Mercato di Poggiofranco is one of the largest open-air markets in Bari and is the perfect place to pick up some souvenirs. The main market takes place on Saturday mornings, from 8 am until around 1.30 pm.
To find the market, head to Viale Madre Teresa di Calcutta, which is located 2.5 kilometers south of the Central Station, in the Poggiofranco district. You can either walk or take a bus, or a taxi.
Here you’ll find a huge range of items from clothes, shoes, and accessories to food and drink, homeware, and kitchen utensils. You name it, you’ll probably get it here.
You’ll also find stalls selling locally made products, which make great gifts to take home. If you’re in town on a Saturday and are looking for a bargain, and an insight into the lives of the people who live in Bari, I recommend swinging by Mercato di Poggiofranco.
15. Take a Trip to Monopoli
Monopoli is a beautiful coastal city and one of the best places to visit near Bari. It takes about 40 minutes to drive there, or you can catch the regional train from Bari Central Station, which takes about 35 minutes.
At the heart of Monopoli is the centro storico, or historical center – a labyrinth of beautiful old whitewashed buildings, with green window shutters, colorful flowerboxes, and cobbled streets polished smooth by hundreds of years of passing feet.
There’s also an ancient fishing harbor that’s still used today, where you can see local fishermen bringing in their catch, ready to be taken straight to the city’s restaurants.
If you’re looking to spend some time on the beach, check out Cala Porta Vecchia, which is located just south of the main Old Town.
I also recommend taking a stroll along the paved pedestrianized walkway that runs along the edge of the Old Town, next to the seafront. It’s beautiful here at any time of day but it’s especially magical and atmospheric at sunset.
16. Learn About the City’s History at Museo Civico
The Museo Civico is a small museum dedicated to the history of Bari. It’s located in an old palazzo in the Old Town and is definitely worth a visit if you’re interested in learning about the city’s past.
The museum houses a collection of historical artifacts, as well as a library and an archive. There’s also a section dedicated to the city’s traditional culture, which is really interesting.
The museum hosts a range of events and exhibitions throughout the year. See here for more information on what’s on during your visit.
Address: Str. Sagges, 13, 70122, Bari BA, Italy
17. Make A Day Trip To Alberobello
Alberobello is a small Puglian town famous for its unique “trulli” houses – traditional conical-roofed dwellings that are made entirely from stone.
If you have the time, there are many other things to do near Bari, and Alberobello is one of the most interesting.
It’s about an hour away from Bari by car, and there’s also a bus that runs between the two places (although this does take almost twice as long). An easier option if you don’t have your own car is to take a guided trip from Bari (see below). Learn more about Alberobello in this post.
18. Check Out the Teatro Petruzzelli
The Teatro Petruzzelli is one of the most important cultural institutions in Bari. It’s a large theater and opera house that regularly hosts a range of theater, ballet, opera, and concert performances.
The building itself dates from 1904 and is incredibly ornate and beautiful inside. Even if you’re not planning to catch a performance there, it’s still well worth taking a look inside.
Address: Corso Cavour, 12, 70122, Bari BA, Italy
19. Join a Bike Tour
Another fun way to see the main tourist attractions in Bari, Italy is to take a bike tour. You’ll cover far more ground than you could on foot, so it’s a great way to see more of the city, especially if you only have a limited amount of time.
This tour has excellent reviews and will take you through the Old Town of Bari, as well as a few of the city’s other, less-visited neighborhoods. Your guide will also take you to one of their favorite ice cream shops for you to cool off and enjoy a well-earned treat.
Alternatively, you could always hire a bike and explore by yourself. But for the tour, click here for more information.
20. Go on a Day Trip to Matera
Matera is a city in the neighboring region of Basilicata. Historians believe Matera to be the third-oldest continually inhabited city in the world, and that people have lived here for at least 9,000 years.
Built on top of a rocky hill, it’s really spectacular and definitely worth a visit. The city is best known for its Sassi District, which is home to a complex of prehistoric cave dwellings and a medieval rock church carved into the mountain.
Tip: When deciding what things to do around Bari, if you had to pick only one of Alberobello or Matera to visit, personally I would go with Matera. I found it more atmospheric and less touristy. However, if you’d like to visit both cities in one day, consider joining this guided trip.
21. Bonus!
When traveling to Italy, it’s impossible to have “too much food”! Check out this fun trip which combines eating, drinking wine, and walking — which is great as you’ll want to walk off some calories. You’ll visit popular landmarks, sample traditional food, and drink local wine as well. Click here for details.
Quick Travel Itineraries for Bari
Here are a few suggested itineraries to help you decide what to see and do in Bari.
1 Day in Bari Itinerary
You can see most of the main Bari attractions in one day. Joining a walking tour allows you to see the main sights, and learn about the city and its history.
Start your day by exploring the Old Town. Visit the Basilica di San Nicola, the Castello Normanno-Svevo, and the Cattedrale di San Sabino. Then head to the Murat district for some shopping.
Later on, head to the beach for a swim, and end your day with a meal at one of Bari’s excellent restaurants.
2-3 Days in Bari Itinerary
If you have two or three days, you can explore Bari’s surroundings as well as the city itself.
Spend the first day exploring the city, as per the above itinerary. On day two, take a day trip to either Matera or Alberobello (or, if you’d like to see both places in one day, consider joining this tour).
If you have a third day, take the train to the nearby town of Polignano a Mare, which is perfectly picturesque and home to some of southern Italy’s best beaches, including Lama Monachile and Cala Paura. You can get there by boat, including an aperitif and exploration of caves and coves with this trip. End your last day with this amazing sunset sailing trip.
1 Week in Bari Itinerary
With a week, you can comfortably do all of the activities in Bari I’ve described in this post, and still have some spare time to spend however you wish.
I recommend spending at least two days in the city itself, essentially following the above itinerary, but giving yourself more time to enjoy each activity and spend longer in each place. On one of your Bari days, hiring a bike will enable you to see even more of the city.
With the additional days, I’d recommend taking day trips to Monopoli and Matera/Alberobello. Another option is this day trip which actually takes in Polignano a Mare, Monopoli, and Alberobello! And if you want to spend a whole day on the beach, go right ahead.
Where to Stay in Bari
These are a few of the best neighborhoods in Bari for tourists.
Bari Vecchia – Best for First-time Visitors and Sightseeing
Bari Vecchia (Old Bari) is the historic center of Bari and is where you’ll find most of the city’s most famous sights and attractions.
It’s super atmospheric, with a maze of cobbled backstreets, and many quaint restaurants and cafes spilling out into the attractive little plazas. Check out this great accommodation in Bari Vecchia.
Murat – Best for Shopping and Nightlife
Located just south of Bari Vecchia, Murat is the modern heart of Bari. Here you’ll find many of the city’s best shops, restaurants, and bars. This is a great place to stay in Murat.
Madonnella – Best for Beach Lovers
If you want to be close to the beach, I recommend staying in Madonella. Here you’ll be near Pane e Pomodoro beach (the best beach in the city), as well as the Lungomare Nazario Sauro seafront promenade where there are also loads of cafes and bars that are particularly popular with locals. Have a look at this excellent apartment in the area.
Best Restaurants in Bari
There’s amazing food throughout Bari. If you’re looking for some specific recommendations, check out these places.
Al Pescatore
Located right next to the Castello Svevo, Al Pescatore serves some of the best fresh fish and seafood in the city. The quality is excellent and the prices are reasonable. Try the traditional local raw fish and the fritto misto (mixed fried seafood).
Assaporando le Delizie Pugliesi
This traditional little restaurant is in a small square next to the Metropolitan Cathedral, in the heart of Bari’s Old Town. They serve delicious pasta and a range of other local specialties, all of which are cheap and fantastic.
Their menu changes frequently, but I had the orecchiette pasta with broccoli rabe and it was incredible. This is also a lovely place to sit with a spritz and watch the world go by.
Per Bacco
In the new part of town, close to the Lungomare seafront promenade, Per Bacco is a midrange, intimate restaurant with a very cozy atmosphere and wonderful owners.
The menu is small and features traditional Puglian specialties – try the ravioli stuffed with turnip tops and anchovies. Prices are midrange and very fair.
Magda
Magda is a bakery and a cafe located on the bustling Via Prospero Petroni. It’s a solid favorite with the locals and serves a range of focaccias, flatbreads, sweet and savory pastries, and other traditional snacks.
This is the perfect place to come if you’re looking for a cheap and delicious place to eat in the center of Bari. I had the best focaccia of my life here, and their arancini balls are also insanely good.
Getting to Bari
Bari has an international airport with flights from all over Europe, including budget carriers Ryanair, EasyJet, and Wizz Air. If you’re flying from outside of Europe, you’ll probably have to connect via Rome, Milan, or another major European city.
You can also reach Bari by train. The city is a major stop on the Frecciargento high-speed railway network, which connects it to various other major Italian destinations such as Rome, Venice, and Naples.
Alternatively, you can reach Bari by ferry from Albania, Greece, Montenegro, and Croatia. These ferries also transport cars.
Once you get to Bari, the city center is walkable, and you can get to most other major destinations via public transport. However, if you’d like to explore more of the surrounding region, including more out-of-the-way places, you can also hire a car (often the cheapest from the airport).
Things to Do in Bari: FAQs
Still wondering what to do in Bari? Here are some answers to commonly asked questions about visiting Bari and what stuff to do in Bari.
What is Bari known for?
Bari is known for its beautiful architecture, atmospheric Old Town, great food, and lovely beaches. It’s also one of southern Italy’s major ports and is a major transport hub for the region.
When is the best time to visit Bari?
The best time to visit Bari is in the spring (April-May) or autumn (September-October), when the weather is warm but not too hot and there are fewer tourists. However, Bari is a great destination year-round, so visit whenever you can.
Is Bari worth visiting?
Absolutely! Bari is a charming city with plenty to see and do. Whether you’re interested in history, art, food, or just relaxing on the beach, Bari has something for you.
How many days should I spend in Bari?
You can see most of Bari’s main sights in one day. However, I recommend spending two or three days here if you can, to really get a feel for the atmosphere of the city and surrounding region.
Is Bari safe?
Yes, Bari is as safe as any other major Italian city. Of course, petty crime can happen anywhere, but as long as you take the usual sensible precautions, you shouldn’t have any issues during your time there.
What is the most popular thing to do in Bari?
The most popular thing to do in Bari is to stroll around the atmospheric Old Town, which is full of beautiful medieval buildings and winding alleyways. Here you can watch women making pasta by hand on the street – one of the most iconic things to see in Bari, Italy.
What is the best beach in Bari?
The best beach in Bari itself is Pane e Pomodoro beach. However, the most famous beach in the area is Lama Monachile, in the nearby town of Polignano a Mare.
What foods should I try in Bari?
Orechiette pasta is probably Bari’s most iconic dish and is typically served with broccoli rabe (or rapini). Other must-try dishes include tiella (a rice dish with potatoes and mussels), focaccia barese, and polpette (cheesy fried dumplings).
Now You Know What to Do in Bari
These are just a few of the top things to do in Bari, Italy. It’s a great city and one that I would love to return to.
The vibe is friendly and chill, it’s sunny for most of the year, and you’ll be surrounded by far fewer tourists than in many other popular Italian cities. If you get the chance to visit Bari, I highly recommend it.
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The capital of the southeastern Puglia region of Italy, Bari, is a vibrant port city on the Adriatic Sea. Known for its atmospheric Old Town, medieval churches, stunning beaches, and delicious food and wine, there are so many incredible things to do in Bari.
I spent time in Bari last month and really loved the city. It receives far fewer tourists than other Italian cities like Rome, Florence, and Naples, it’s much cheaper and has a really authentic and laidback vibe.
In this post, I’ll describe some of the top things to see and places to visit in Bari. Some of these are free, others you have to pay for, but all are great and definitely worthwhile.
Best Things to Do in Bari
However long you have to spend sightseeing in Bari, I recommend checking out at least some of the following.
1. Explore the Citta Vecchia
Many of the top places to visit in Bari are located in its Old Town – a maze of narrow, winding streets and back alleys that lies just south of the modern port area. It’s a fascinating place, with more than 2,000 years of history.
The majority of the historic buildings in Citta Vecchia are intact, and the whole district has a wonderfully unique feel. It’s easy to get lost wandering through the backstreets, but this is part of the fun.
Every corner you turn you’ll see something new. Women sit at wooden tables in the street making handmade orecchiette pasta, picturesque little squares are decorated with flowers, and locals sit together chatting over a coffee or glasses of wine.
The whole place feels like a time warp, and you get the sense that life hasn’t changed much here in hundreds of years. It’s an amazing place to while away a few hours and exploring it is one of the best activities in Bari. Click here for a highly-rated guided tour of the old town.
2. Visit the Basilica Di San Nicola
Dating back to the 12th century, the Basilica of Saint Nicholas was built on the site of a church that was destroyed by an earthquake in 1089.
The exterior of the basilica is incredibly ornate, with two large towers and a stunning façade. The interior is just as impressive, with beautiful mosaics and paintings adorning the walls and ceilings.
It’s dedicated to Saint Nicholas (AKA Saint Nick, or Santa Claus, of Christmas Eve fame), who was born in Patara, in modern-day Turkey, and later became the Bishop of Myra.
The remains of Saint Nicholas are actually buried in the crypt of the basilica, and it’s a place of pilgrimage for Orthodox Christians from all over the world. This rickshaw tour of the old town actually takes in the Basilica of Saint Nicholas.
Address: Largo Abate Elia, 13, 70122, Bari BA, Italy
The cathedral is located in the heart of Citta Vecchia and is a beautiful example of Romanesque architecture. Inside, the cathedral’s treasury (Tesoro) contains a series of precious relics and other historical artifacts, as well as a museum.
Underneath the cathedral lies a series of archaeological excavations, showing the remains of an ancient Roman road from the 2nd century and a Byzantine church from the 9th century. There are also the remains of a beautifully ornate mosaic.
Address: Piazza dell’Odegitria, 70122, Bari BA, Italy
4. Take a Historical Walking Tour of Bari
One of the best ways to learn about the rich and fascinating history of this amazing city is to take part in a historical walking tour of Bari.
There are several different tours to choose from, but I recommend this one. Your passionate local guide will show you around the city’s most important and iconic sights, and teach you about the history, culture, and lifestyle of the people of Bari.
I thought I knew a lot about what to do in Bari, but after taking this walking tour, I realized there’s so much more to the city. If it’s really hot outside, or if you have mobility issues…or, if you’re just feeling lazy…this rickshaw tour is a great way to get around the old town!
5. Chill Out at the Beach
Puglia is home to some of the best beaches in Italy. Many of these are located a short distance from Bari and make a perfect day trip (or half-day trip) away from the city.
Perhaps the most famous beach near Bari is Lama Monachile (also known as Cala Porto), in the pretty little town of Polignano a Mare. This small white pebble beach is at the end of a steep-sided rocky canyon framed by vertical cliffs and has gorgeous turquoise water.
Other great beaches near Bari include Cala Paura (also in Polignano a Mare) and Cala Porta Vecchia (in romantic Monopoli). These are all easy to reach with public transport (train or bus) from Bari.
However, if you don’t have time to leave the city, you can still enjoy some beach time. Check out Pane e Pomodoro Beach, a sandy beach 3 kilometers southeast of the city center. The name translates as “Bread and Tomato” (don’t ask me why).
6. Go on a Street Food Tour
Bari is famous for its delicious street food, so be sure to try as much of it as possible while you’re in town. One of the best ways to sample some of Bari’s best street food is to go on a street food tour.
This is an excellent option and will introduce you to some of the city’s most famous dishes. You’ll visit popular local places, and immerse yourself in Bari’s rich culinary culture.
Orecchiette pasta with sautéed broccoli rabe (also known as rapini).
Tiella – a hearty traditional dish made with rice, potatoes, and mussels (think of it as a Puglian paella).
Focaccia Barese – probably the best focaccia you will ever eat, topped with ripe tomatoes, olives, olive oil, and oregano.
Polpette – cheesy fried dumplings made using stale bread (and sometimes fish, meat, or vegetables), either served crispy by themselves, or in a rich sauce.
7. Explore Castello Svevo (One of My Favorite Places to Visit in Bari)
Castello Svevo di Bari is a Norman castle that was built, destroyed, and then rebuilt in the 12th and 13th centuries. It’s an imposing structure right next to the sea, and with its thick walls and moat, it’s easy to imagine how this castle served as one of the old city’s main points of defense throughout the centuries.
The castle has been through a lot historically and has been damaged by earthquakes on several occasions. Despite this, the whole structure is amazingly well intact.
Today, the castle is used as an exhibition center and a museum dedicated to the history of the castle, as well as the city of Bari more widely. Exploring the giant rooms and extensive grounds is extremely evocative and is definitely one of the best places to see in Bari.
8. Stroll Along the Seafront Promenade
Bari has a beautiful long promenade (called Lungomare Nazario Sauro) that runs along the seafront. It’s a great place to take a stroll, relax, and take in the views. There are also several cafes and restaurants along the promenade, so you can stop for a coffee or a bite to eat if you like.
You can also extend the walk all the way to the Molo Sant’Antonio lighthouse, which is located at the end of the sea wall marking the entrance to the sailing and pleasure boat harbor. This used to be the city’s main harbor, until the construction of the larger commercial Port of Bari in 1850.
Here you’re likely to see people fishing and hanging out with friends, painting boats, or taking sailing lessons in the sheltered marina. I love to sit and watch all this go on while enjoying the fresh sea air.
In the evening, the promenade comes alive with locals and tourists alike, and people come to watch the spectacular sunset. This is one of my favorite things to do in Bari at night – there’s just a really lovely atmosphere here.
9. Take a Traditional Puglian Cooking Class
Puglian food tends to be fairly simple and showcases the freshness and high quality of local and seasonal ingredients, including tomatoes, beans, artichokes, peppers, and seafood.
For an unforgettable experience where you can learn how to make some classic and delicious, local dishes, take a traditional Puglian cooking class. There are several different classes to choose from, but I recommend this one, which takes place at the host’s home.
During the class, you’ll learn how to make 2 fresh pastas, including orecchiette (Puglia’s famous pasta that looks like little ears), tiramisu, and of course, prosecco, snacks and wine are included. This is one of the most fun things to do in Bari – I highly recommend it! Click here to learn more and book your spot.
10. People-Watch in the Piazza Mercantile
Piazza Mercantile is one of the main squares on the edge of the Old Town of Bari. It’s a great place to sit with a spritz or gelato and people-watch.
This historical medieval square has been a meeting place for centuries. People have come here to trade their goods ever since the 14th century, and even today it’s a popular spot for locals to meet and hang out together.
The buildings around the square are incredibly picturesque, including the Palazzo della Dogana, the 16th-century clock tower, and the baroque Fontana della Pigna fountain. Taking a seat and enjoying this pretty little corner of the city is one of the best free things to do in Bari, Puglia.
11. See Bari on a Segway Tour
Segways can be very divisive: some people love them, and some people really don’t. If you’re in the first camp, consider joining this tour.
After a quick briefing, you’ll set off exploring some of the city’s better-known sights, as well as some hidden gems and secret spots. You’ll visit places in both the Old Town and the modern city, including the Petruzzelli Theater and Bari’s main fish market.
And at the end, you can enjoy some delicious traditional homemade ice cream. I had a great time on the segway, but maybe the ice cream was my favorite part.
12. Chill Out in Parco 2 Giugno
Parco 2 Giugno is a public park just south of the center of Bari. It’s a popular spot with locals and is the perfect place to relax and take a break during a busy day of sightseeing.
The park has a variety of different plants and trees, as well as a lake that’s home to turtles, ducks, and other birds. If you’re looking for things to do in Bari for families, I recommend checking this place out.
There’s also a playground for children, and a little cafe kiosk selling coffee, water, beer, and other refreshments.
13. Go on a Sailing Trip
Bari is located on the Adriatic Sea, and sailing is a popular pastime here. There are several operators that offer sailing trips from Bari, and you’ll get to relax on deck and enjoy the stunning coastline as you sail past.
Being on the water gives you a unique perspective of Bari itself, and many sailing trips allow you the chance to swim in the clear blue waters of the Mediterranean. It’s fairly common to see dolphins and a range of other aquatic life while you’re on the boat too.
This is an excellent sunset trip that has fantastic reviews and is one of the best things to do in Bari for couples, or groups of friends. What could be more romantic than sitting on the deck of a vintage gozzo boat, watching the sunset over the sea, with an aperitivo in hand? Click here for details.
(To be honest, even if you’re traveling by yourself, this is still a pretty awesome experience!)
14. Snag a Bargain at Poggiofranco Market
Mercato di Poggiofranco is one of the largest open-air markets in Bari and is the perfect place to pick up some souvenirs. The main market takes place on Saturday mornings, from 8 am until around 1.30 pm.
To find the market, head to Viale Madre Teresa di Calcutta, which is located 2.5 kilometers south of the Central Station, in the Poggiofranco district. You can either walk or take a bus, or a taxi.
Here you’ll find a huge range of items from clothes, shoes, and accessories to food and drink, homeware, and kitchen utensils. You name it, you’ll probably get it here.
You’ll also find stalls selling locally made products, which make great gifts to take home. If you’re in town on a Saturday and are looking for a bargain, and an insight into the lives of the people who live in Bari, I recommend swinging by Mercato di Poggiofranco.
15. Take a Trip to Monopoli
Monopoli is a beautiful coastal city and one of the best places to visit near Bari. It takes about 40 minutes to drive there, or you can catch the regional train from Bari Central Station, which takes about 35 minutes.
At the heart of Monopoli is the centro storico, or historical center – a labyrinth of beautiful old whitewashed buildings, with green window shutters, colorful flowerboxes, and cobbled streets polished smooth by hundreds of years of passing feet.
There’s also an ancient fishing harbor that’s still used today, where you can see local fishermen bringing in their catch, ready to be taken straight to the city’s restaurants.
If you’re looking to spend some time on the beach, check out Cala Porta Vecchia, which is located just south of the main Old Town.
I also recommend taking a stroll along the paved pedestrianized walkway that runs along the edge of the Old Town, next to the seafront. It’s beautiful here at any time of day but it’s especially magical and atmospheric at sunset.
16. Learn About the City’s History at Museo Civico
The Museo Civico is a small museum dedicated to the history of Bari. It’s located in an old palazzo in the Old Town and is definitely worth a visit if you’re interested in learning about the city’s past.
The museum houses a collection of historical artifacts, as well as a library and an archive. There’s also a section dedicated to the city’s traditional culture, which is really interesting.
The museum hosts a range of events and exhibitions throughout the year. See here for more information on what’s on during your visit.
Address: Str. Sagges, 13, 70122, Bari BA, Italy
17. Make A Day Trip To Alberobello
Alberobello is a small Puglian town famous for its unique “trulli” houses – traditional conical-roofed dwellings that are made entirely from stone.
If you have the time, there are many other things to do near Bari, and Alberobello is one of the most interesting.
It’s about an hour away from Bari by car, and there’s also a bus that runs between the two places (although this does take almost twice as long). An easier option if you don’t have your own car is to take a guided trip from Bari (see below). Learn more about Alberobello in this post.
18. Check Out the Teatro Petruzzelli
The Teatro Petruzzelli is one of the most important cultural institutions in Bari. It’s a large theater and opera house that regularly hosts a range of theater, ballet, opera, and concert performances.
The building itself dates from 1904 and is incredibly ornate and beautiful inside. Even if you’re not planning to catch a performance there, it’s still well worth taking a look inside.
Address: Corso Cavour, 12, 70122, Bari BA, Italy
19. Join a Bike Tour
Another fun way to see the main tourist attractions in Bari, Italy is to take a bike tour. You’ll cover far more ground than you could on foot, so it’s a great way to see more of the city, especially if you only have a limited amount of time.
This tour has excellent reviews and will take you through the Old Town of Bari, as well as a few of the city’s other, less-visited neighborhoods. Your guide will also take you to one of their favorite ice cream shops for you to cool off and enjoy a well-earned treat.
Alternatively, you could always hire a bike and explore by yourself. But for the tour, click here for more information.
20. Go on a Day Trip to Matera
Matera is a city in the neighboring region of Basilicata. Historians believe Matera to be the third-oldest continually inhabited city in the world, and that people have lived here for at least 9,000 years.
Built on top of a rocky hill, it’s really spectacular and definitely worth a visit. The city is best known for its Sassi District, which is home to a complex of prehistoric cave dwellings and a medieval rock church carved into the mountain.
Tip: When deciding what things to do around Bari, if you had to pick only one of Alberobello or Matera to visit, personally I would go with Matera. I found it more atmospheric and less touristy. However, if you’d like to visit both cities in one day, consider joining this guided trip.
21. Bonus!
When traveling to Italy, it’s impossible to have “too much food”! Check out this fun trip which combines eating, drinking wine, and walking — which is great as you’ll want to walk off some calories. You’ll visit popular landmarks, sample traditional food, and drink local wine as well. Click here for details.
Quick Travel Itineraries for Bari
Here are a few suggested itineraries to help you decide what to see and do in Bari.
1 Day in Bari Itinerary
You can see most of the main Bari attractions in one day. Joining a walking tour allows you to see the main sights, and learn about the city and its history.
Start your day by exploring the Old Town. Visit the Basilica di San Nicola, the Castello Normanno-Svevo, and the Cattedrale di San Sabino. Then head to the Murat district for some shopping.
Later on, head to the beach for a swim, and end your day with a meal at one of Bari’s excellent restaurants.
2-3 Days in Bari Itinerary
If you have two or three days, you can explore Bari’s surroundings as well as the city itself.
Spend the first day exploring the city, as per the above itinerary. On day two, take a day trip to either Matera or Alberobello (or, if you’d like to see both places in one day, consider joining this tour).
If you have a third day, take the train to the nearby town of Polignano a Mare, which is perfectly picturesque and home to some of southern Italy’s best beaches, including Lama Monachile and Cala Paura. You can get there by boat, including an aperitif and exploration of caves and coves with this trip. End your last day with this amazing sunset sailing trip.
1 Week in Bari Itinerary
With a week, you can comfortably do all of the activities in Bari I’ve described in this post, and still have some spare time to spend however you wish.
I recommend spending at least two days in the city itself, essentially following the above itinerary, but giving yourself more time to enjoy each activity and spend longer in each place. On one of your Bari days, hiring a bike will enable you to see even more of the city.
With the additional days, I’d recommend taking day trips to Monopoli and Matera/Alberobello. Another option is this day trip which actually takes in Polignano a Mare, Monopoli, and Alberobello! And if you want to spend a whole day on the beach, go right ahead.
Where to Stay in Bari
These are a few of the best neighborhoods in Bari for tourists.
Bari Vecchia – Best for First-time Visitors and Sightseeing
Bari Vecchia (Old Bari) is the historic center of Bari and is where you’ll find most of the city’s most famous sights and attractions.
It’s super atmospheric, with a maze of cobbled backstreets, and many quaint restaurants and cafes spilling out into the attractive little plazas. Check out this great accommodation in Bari Vecchia.
Murat – Best for Shopping and Nightlife
Located just south of Bari Vecchia, Murat is the modern heart of Bari. Here you’ll find many of the city’s best shops, restaurants, and bars. This is a great place to stay in Murat.
Madonnella – Best for Beach Lovers
If you want to be close to the beach, I recommend staying in Madonella. Here you’ll be near Pane e Pomodoro beach (the best beach in the city), as well as the Lungomare Nazario Sauro seafront promenade where there are also loads of cafes and bars that are particularly popular with locals. Have a look at this excellent apartment in the area.
Best Restaurants in Bari
There’s amazing food throughout Bari. If you’re looking for some specific recommendations, check out these places.
Al Pescatore
Located right next to the Castello Svevo, Al Pescatore serves some of the best fresh fish and seafood in the city. The quality is excellent and the prices are reasonable. Try the traditional local raw fish and the fritto misto (mixed fried seafood).
Assaporando le Delizie Pugliesi
This traditional little restaurant is in a small square next to the Metropolitan Cathedral, in the heart of Bari’s Old Town. They serve delicious pasta and a range of other local specialties, all of which are cheap and fantastic.
Their menu changes frequently, but I had the orecchiette pasta with broccoli rabe and it was incredible. This is also a lovely place to sit with a spritz and watch the world go by.
Per Bacco
In the new part of town, close to the Lungomare seafront promenade, Per Bacco is a midrange, intimate restaurant with a very cozy atmosphere and wonderful owners.
The menu is small and features traditional Puglian specialties – try the ravioli stuffed with turnip tops and anchovies. Prices are midrange and very fair.
Magda
Magda is a bakery and a cafe located on the bustling Via Prospero Petroni. It’s a solid favorite with the locals and serves a range of focaccias, flatbreads, sweet and savory pastries, and other traditional snacks.
This is the perfect place to come if you’re looking for a cheap and delicious place to eat in the center of Bari. I had the best focaccia of my life here, and their arancini balls are also insanely good.
Getting to Bari
Bari has an international airport with flights from all over Europe, including budget carriers Ryanair, EasyJet, and Wizz Air. If you’re flying from outside of Europe, you’ll probably have to connect via Rome, Milan, or another major European city.
You can also reach Bari by train. The city is a major stop on the Frecciargento high-speed railway network, which connects it to various other major Italian destinations such as Rome, Venice, and Naples.
Alternatively, you can reach Bari by ferry from Albania, Greece, Montenegro, and Croatia. These ferries also transport cars.
Once you get to Bari, the city center is walkable, and you can get to most other major destinations via public transport. However, if you’d like to explore more of the surrounding region, including more out-of-the-way places, you can also hire a car (often the cheapest from the airport).
Things to Do in Bari: FAQs
Still wondering what to do in Bari? Here are some answers to commonly asked questions about visiting Bari and what stuff to do in Bari.
What is Bari known for?
Bari is known for its beautiful architecture, atmospheric Old Town, great food, and lovely beaches. It’s also one of southern Italy’s major ports and is a major transport hub for the region.
When is the best time to visit Bari?
The best time to visit Bari is in the spring (April-May) or autumn (September-October), when the weather is warm but not too hot and there are fewer tourists. However, Bari is a great destination year-round, so visit whenever you can.
Is Bari worth visiting?
Absolutely! Bari is a charming city with plenty to see and do. Whether you’re interested in history, art, food, or just relaxing on the beach, Bari has something for you.
How many days should I spend in Bari?
You can see most of Bari’s main sights in one day. However, I recommend spending two or three days here if you can, to really get a feel for the atmosphere of the city and surrounding region.
Is Bari safe?
Yes, Bari is as safe as any other major Italian city. Of course, petty crime can happen anywhere, but as long as you take the usual sensible precautions, you shouldn’t have any issues during your time there.
What is the most popular thing to do in Bari?
The most popular thing to do in Bari is to stroll around the atmospheric Old Town, which is full of beautiful medieval buildings and winding alleyways. Here you can watch women making pasta by hand on the street – one of the most iconic things to see in Bari, Italy.
What is the best beach in Bari?
The best beach in Bari itself is Pane e Pomodoro beach. However, the most famous beach in the area is Lama Monachile, in the nearby town of Polignano a Mare.
What foods should I try in Bari?
Orechiette pasta is probably Bari’s most iconic dish and is typically served with broccoli rabe (or rapini). Other must-try dishes include tiella (a rice dish with potatoes and mussels), focaccia barese, and polpette (cheesy fried dumplings).
Now You Know What to Do in Bari
These are just a few of the top things to do in Bari, Italy. It’s a great city and one that I would love to return to.
The vibe is friendly and chill, it’s sunny for most of the year, and you’ll be surrounded by far fewer tourists than in many other popular Italian cities. If you get the chance to visit Bari, I highly recommend it.
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The capital of the southeastern Puglia region of Italy, Bari, is a vibrant port city on the Adriatic Sea. Known for its atmospheric Old Town, medieval churches, stunning beaches, and delicious food and wine, there are so many incredible things to do in Bari.
I spent time in Bari last month and really loved the city. It receives far fewer tourists than other Italian cities like Rome, Florence, and Naples, it’s much cheaper and has a really authentic and laidback vibe.
In this post, I’ll describe some of the top things to see and places to visit in Bari. Some of these are free, others you have to pay for, but all are great and definitely worthwhile.
Best Things to Do in Bari
However long you have to spend sightseeing in Bari, I recommend checking out at least some of the following.
1. Explore the Citta Vecchia
Many of the top places to visit in Bari are located in its Old Town – a maze of narrow, winding streets and back alleys that lies just south of the modern port area. It’s a fascinating place, with more than 2,000 years of history.
The majority of the historic buildings in Citta Vecchia are intact, and the whole district has a wonderfully unique feel. It’s easy to get lost wandering through the backstreets, but this is part of the fun.
Every corner you turn you’ll see something new. Women sit at wooden tables in the street making handmade orecchiette pasta, picturesque little squares are decorated with flowers, and locals sit together chatting over a coffee or glasses of wine.
The whole place feels like a time warp, and you get the sense that life hasn’t changed much here in hundreds of years. It’s an amazing place to while away a few hours and exploring it is one of the best activities in Bari. Click here for a highly-rated guided tour of the old town.
2. Visit the Basilica Di San Nicola
Dating back to the 12th century, the Basilica of Saint Nicholas was built on the site of a church that was destroyed by an earthquake in 1089.
The exterior of the basilica is incredibly ornate, with two large towers and a stunning façade. The interior is just as impressive, with beautiful mosaics and paintings adorning the walls and ceilings.
It’s dedicated to Saint Nicholas (AKA Saint Nick, or Santa Claus, of Christmas Eve fame), who was born in Patara, in modern-day Turkey, and later became the Bishop of Myra.
The remains of Saint Nicholas are actually buried in the crypt of the basilica, and it’s a place of pilgrimage for Orthodox Christians from all over the world. This rickshaw tour of the old town actually takes in the Basilica of Saint Nicholas.
Address: Largo Abate Elia, 13, 70122, Bari BA, Italy
The cathedral is located in the heart of Citta Vecchia and is a beautiful example of Romanesque architecture. Inside, the cathedral’s treasury (Tesoro) contains a series of precious relics and other historical artifacts, as well as a museum.
Underneath the cathedral lies a series of archaeological excavations, showing the remains of an ancient Roman road from the 2nd century and a Byzantine church from the 9th century. There are also the remains of a beautifully ornate mosaic.
Address: Piazza dell’Odegitria, 70122, Bari BA, Italy
4. Take a Historical Walking Tour of Bari
One of the best ways to learn about the rich and fascinating history of this amazing city is to take part in a historical walking tour of Bari.
There are several different tours to choose from, but I recommend this one. Your passionate local guide will show you around the city’s most important and iconic sights, and teach you about the history, culture, and lifestyle of the people of Bari.
I thought I knew a lot about what to do in Bari, but after taking this walking tour, I realized there’s so much more to the city. If it’s really hot outside, or if you have mobility issues…or, if you’re just feeling lazy…this rickshaw tour is a great way to get around the old town!
5. Chill Out at the Beach
Puglia is home to some of the best beaches in Italy. Many of these are located a short distance from Bari and make a perfect day trip (or half-day trip) away from the city.
Perhaps the most famous beach near Bari is Lama Monachile (also known as Cala Porto), in the pretty little town of Polignano a Mare. This small white pebble beach is at the end of a steep-sided rocky canyon framed by vertical cliffs and has gorgeous turquoise water.
Other great beaches near Bari include Cala Paura (also in Polignano a Mare) and Cala Porta Vecchia (in romantic Monopoli). These are all easy to reach with public transport (train or bus) from Bari.
However, if you don’t have time to leave the city, you can still enjoy some beach time. Check out Pane e Pomodoro Beach, a sandy beach 3 kilometers southeast of the city center. The name translates as “Bread and Tomato” (don’t ask me why).
6. Go on a Street Food Tour
Bari is famous for its delicious street food, so be sure to try as much of it as possible while you’re in town. One of the best ways to sample some of Bari’s best street food is to go on a street food tour.
This is an excellent option and will introduce you to some of the city’s most famous dishes. You’ll visit popular local places, and immerse yourself in Bari’s rich culinary culture.
Orecchiette pasta with sautéed broccoli rabe (also known as rapini).
Tiella – a hearty traditional dish made with rice, potatoes, and mussels (think of it as a Puglian paella).
Focaccia Barese – probably the best focaccia you will ever eat, topped with ripe tomatoes, olives, olive oil, and oregano.
Polpette – cheesy fried dumplings made using stale bread (and sometimes fish, meat, or vegetables), either served crispy by themselves, or in a rich sauce.
7. Explore Castello Svevo (One of My Favorite Places to Visit in Bari)
Castello Svevo di Bari is a Norman castle that was built, destroyed, and then rebuilt in the 12th and 13th centuries. It’s an imposing structure right next to the sea, and with its thick walls and moat, it’s easy to imagine how this castle served as one of the old city’s main points of defense throughout the centuries.
The castle has been through a lot historically and has been damaged by earthquakes on several occasions. Despite this, the whole structure is amazingly well intact.
Today, the castle is used as an exhibition center and a museum dedicated to the history of the castle, as well as the city of Bari more widely. Exploring the giant rooms and extensive grounds is extremely evocative and is definitely one of the best places to see in Bari.
8. Stroll Along the Seafront Promenade
Bari has a beautiful long promenade (called Lungomare Nazario Sauro) that runs along the seafront. It’s a great place to take a stroll, relax, and take in the views. There are also several cafes and restaurants along the promenade, so you can stop for a coffee or a bite to eat if you like.
You can also extend the walk all the way to the Molo Sant’Antonio lighthouse, which is located at the end of the sea wall marking the entrance to the sailing and pleasure boat harbor. This used to be the city’s main harbor, until the construction of the larger commercial Port of Bari in 1850.
Here you’re likely to see people fishing and hanging out with friends, painting boats, or taking sailing lessons in the sheltered marina. I love to sit and watch all this go on while enjoying the fresh sea air.
In the evening, the promenade comes alive with locals and tourists alike, and people come to watch the spectacular sunset. This is one of my favorite things to do in Bari at night – there’s just a really lovely atmosphere here.
9. Take a Traditional Puglian Cooking Class
Puglian food tends to be fairly simple and showcases the freshness and high quality of local and seasonal ingredients, including tomatoes, beans, artichokes, peppers, and seafood.
For an unforgettable experience where you can learn how to make some classic and delicious, local dishes, take a traditional Puglian cooking class. There are several different classes to choose from, but I recommend this one, which takes place at the host’s home.
During the class, you’ll learn how to make 2 fresh pastas, including orecchiette (Puglia’s famous pasta that looks like little ears), tiramisu, and of course, prosecco, snacks and wine are included. This is one of the most fun things to do in Bari – I highly recommend it! Click here to learn more and book your spot.
10. People-Watch in the Piazza Mercantile
Piazza Mercantile is one of the main squares on the edge of the Old Town of Bari. It’s a great place to sit with a spritz or gelato and people-watch.
This historical medieval square has been a meeting place for centuries. People have come here to trade their goods ever since the 14th century, and even today it’s a popular spot for locals to meet and hang out together.
The buildings around the square are incredibly picturesque, including the Palazzo della Dogana, the 16th-century clock tower, and the baroque Fontana della Pigna fountain. Taking a seat and enjoying this pretty little corner of the city is one of the best free things to do in Bari, Puglia.
11. See Bari on a Segway Tour
Segways can be very divisive: some people love them, and some people really don’t. If you’re in the first camp, consider joining this tour.
After a quick briefing, you’ll set off exploring some of the city’s better-known sights, as well as some hidden gems and secret spots. You’ll visit places in both the Old Town and the modern city, including the Petruzzelli Theater and Bari’s main fish market.
And at the end, you can enjoy some delicious traditional homemade ice cream. I had a great time on the segway, but maybe the ice cream was my favorite part.
12. Chill Out in Parco 2 Giugno
Parco 2 Giugno is a public park just south of the center of Bari. It’s a popular spot with locals and is the perfect place to relax and take a break during a busy day of sightseeing.
The park has a variety of different plants and trees, as well as a lake that’s home to turtles, ducks, and other birds. If you’re looking for things to do in Bari for families, I recommend checking this place out.
There’s also a playground for children, and a little cafe kiosk selling coffee, water, beer, and other refreshments.
13. Go on a Sailing Trip
Bari is located on the Adriatic Sea, and sailing is a popular pastime here. There are several operators that offer sailing trips from Bari, and you’ll get to relax on deck and enjoy the stunning coastline as you sail past.
Being on the water gives you a unique perspective of Bari itself, and many sailing trips allow you the chance to swim in the clear blue waters of the Mediterranean. It’s fairly common to see dolphins and a range of other aquatic life while you’re on the boat too.
This is an excellent sunset trip that has fantastic reviews and is one of the best things to do in Bari for couples, or groups of friends. What could be more romantic than sitting on the deck of a vintage gozzo boat, watching the sunset over the sea, with an aperitivo in hand? Click here for details.
(To be honest, even if you’re traveling by yourself, this is still a pretty awesome experience!)
14. Snag a Bargain at Poggiofranco Market
Mercato di Poggiofranco is one of the largest open-air markets in Bari and is the perfect place to pick up some souvenirs. The main market takes place on Saturday mornings, from 8 am until around 1.30 pm.
To find the market, head to Viale Madre Teresa di Calcutta, which is located 2.5 kilometers south of the Central Station, in the Poggiofranco district. You can either walk or take a bus, or a taxi.
Here you’ll find a huge range of items from clothes, shoes, and accessories to food and drink, homeware, and kitchen utensils. You name it, you’ll probably get it here.
You’ll also find stalls selling locally made products, which make great gifts to take home. If you’re in town on a Saturday and are looking for a bargain, and an insight into the lives of the people who live in Bari, I recommend swinging by Mercato di Poggiofranco.
15. Take a Trip to Monopoli
Monopoli is a beautiful coastal city and one of the best places to visit near Bari. It takes about 40 minutes to drive there, or you can catch the regional train from Bari Central Station, which takes about 35 minutes.
At the heart of Monopoli is the centro storico, or historical center – a labyrinth of beautiful old whitewashed buildings, with green window shutters, colorful flowerboxes, and cobbled streets polished smooth by hundreds of years of passing feet.
There’s also an ancient fishing harbor that’s still used today, where you can see local fishermen bringing in their catch, ready to be taken straight to the city’s restaurants.
If you’re looking to spend some time on the beach, check out Cala Porta Vecchia, which is located just south of the main Old Town.
I also recommend taking a stroll along the paved pedestrianized walkway that runs along the edge of the Old Town, next to the seafront. It’s beautiful here at any time of day but it’s especially magical and atmospheric at sunset.
16. Learn About the City’s History at Museo Civico
The Museo Civico is a small museum dedicated to the history of Bari. It’s located in an old palazzo in the Old Town and is definitely worth a visit if you’re interested in learning about the city’s past.
The museum houses a collection of historical artifacts, as well as a library and an archive. There’s also a section dedicated to the city’s traditional culture, which is really interesting.
The museum hosts a range of events and exhibitions throughout the year. See here for more information on what’s on during your visit.
Address: Str. Sagges, 13, 70122, Bari BA, Italy
17. Make A Day Trip To Alberobello
Alberobello is a small Puglian town famous for its unique “trulli” houses – traditional conical-roofed dwellings that are made entirely from stone.
If you have the time, there are many other things to do near Bari, and Alberobello is one of the most interesting.
It’s about an hour away from Bari by car, and there’s also a bus that runs between the two places (although this does take almost twice as long). An easier option if you don’t have your own car is to take a guided trip from Bari (see below). Learn more about Alberobello in this post.
18. Check Out the Teatro Petruzzelli
The Teatro Petruzzelli is one of the most important cultural institutions in Bari. It’s a large theater and opera house that regularly hosts a range of theater, ballet, opera, and concert performances.
The building itself dates from 1904 and is incredibly ornate and beautiful inside. Even if you’re not planning to catch a performance there, it’s still well worth taking a look inside.
Address: Corso Cavour, 12, 70122, Bari BA, Italy
19. Join a Bike Tour
Another fun way to see the main tourist attractions in Bari, Italy is to take a bike tour. You’ll cover far more ground than you could on foot, so it’s a great way to see more of the city, especially if you only have a limited amount of time.
This tour has excellent reviews and will take you through the Old Town of Bari, as well as a few of the city’s other, less-visited neighborhoods. Your guide will also take you to one of their favorite ice cream shops for you to cool off and enjoy a well-earned treat.
Alternatively, you could always hire a bike and explore by yourself. But for the tour, click here for more information.
20. Go on a Day Trip to Matera
Matera is a city in the neighboring region of Basilicata. Historians believe Matera to be the third-oldest continually inhabited city in the world, and that people have lived here for at least 9,000 years.
Built on top of a rocky hill, it’s really spectacular and definitely worth a visit. The city is best known for its Sassi District, which is home to a complex of prehistoric cave dwellings and a medieval rock church carved into the mountain.
Tip: When deciding what things to do around Bari, if you had to pick only one of Alberobello or Matera to visit, personally I would go with Matera. I found it more atmospheric and less touristy. However, if you’d like to visit both cities in one day, consider joining this guided trip.
21. Bonus!
When traveling to Italy, it’s impossible to have “too much food”! Check out this fun trip which combines eating, drinking wine, and walking — which is great as you’ll want to walk off some calories. You’ll visit popular landmarks, sample traditional food, and drink local wine as well. Click here for details.
Quick Travel Itineraries for Bari
Here are a few suggested itineraries to help you decide what to see and do in Bari.
1 Day in Bari Itinerary
You can see most of the main Bari attractions in one day. Joining a walking tour allows you to see the main sights, and learn about the city and its history.
Start your day by exploring the Old Town. Visit the Basilica di San Nicola, the Castello Normanno-Svevo, and the Cattedrale di San Sabino. Then head to the Murat district for some shopping.
Later on, head to the beach for a swim, and end your day with a meal at one of Bari’s excellent restaurants.
2-3 Days in Bari Itinerary
If you have two or three days, you can explore Bari’s surroundings as well as the city itself.
Spend the first day exploring the city, as per the above itinerary. On day two, take a day trip to either Matera or Alberobello (or, if you’d like to see both places in one day, consider joining this tour).
If you have a third day, take the train to the nearby town of Polignano a Mare, which is perfectly picturesque and home to some of southern Italy’s best beaches, including Lama Monachile and Cala Paura. You can get there by boat, including an aperitif and exploration of caves and coves with this trip. End your last day with this amazing sunset sailing trip.
1 Week in Bari Itinerary
With a week, you can comfortably do all of the activities in Bari I’ve described in this post, and still have some spare time to spend however you wish.
I recommend spending at least two days in the city itself, essentially following the above itinerary, but giving yourself more time to enjoy each activity and spend longer in each place. On one of your Bari days, hiring a bike will enable you to see even more of the city.
With the additional days, I’d recommend taking day trips to Monopoli and Matera/Alberobello. Another option is this day trip which actually takes in Polignano a Mare, Monopoli, and Alberobello! And if you want to spend a whole day on the beach, go right ahead.
Where to Stay in Bari
These are a few of the best neighborhoods in Bari for tourists.
Bari Vecchia – Best for First-time Visitors and Sightseeing
Bari Vecchia (Old Bari) is the historic center of Bari and is where you’ll find most of the city’s most famous sights and attractions.
It’s super atmospheric, with a maze of cobbled backstreets, and many quaint restaurants and cafes spilling out into the attractive little plazas. Check out this great accommodation in Bari Vecchia.
Murat – Best for Shopping and Nightlife
Located just south of Bari Vecchia, Murat is the modern heart of Bari. Here you’ll find many of the city’s best shops, restaurants, and bars. This is a great place to stay in Murat.
Madonnella – Best for Beach Lovers
If you want to be close to the beach, I recommend staying in Madonella. Here you’ll be near Pane e Pomodoro beach (the best beach in the city), as well as the Lungomare Nazario Sauro seafront promenade where there are also loads of cafes and bars that are particularly popular with locals. Have a look at this excellent apartment in the area.
Best Restaurants in Bari
There’s amazing food throughout Bari. If you’re looking for some specific recommendations, check out these places.
Al Pescatore
Located right next to the Castello Svevo, Al Pescatore serves some of the best fresh fish and seafood in the city. The quality is excellent and the prices are reasonable. Try the traditional local raw fish and the fritto misto (mixed fried seafood).
Assaporando le Delizie Pugliesi
This traditional little restaurant is in a small square next to the Metropolitan Cathedral, in the heart of Bari’s Old Town. They serve delicious pasta and a range of other local specialties, all of which are cheap and fantastic.
Their menu changes frequently, but I had the orecchiette pasta with broccoli rabe and it was incredible. This is also a lovely place to sit with a spritz and watch the world go by.
Per Bacco
In the new part of town, close to the Lungomare seafront promenade, Per Bacco is a midrange, intimate restaurant with a very cozy atmosphere and wonderful owners.
The menu is small and features traditional Puglian specialties – try the ravioli stuffed with turnip tops and anchovies. Prices are midrange and very fair.
Magda
Magda is a bakery and a cafe located on the bustling Via Prospero Petroni. It’s a solid favorite with the locals and serves a range of focaccias, flatbreads, sweet and savory pastries, and other traditional snacks.
This is the perfect place to come if you’re looking for a cheap and delicious place to eat in the center of Bari. I had the best focaccia of my life here, and their arancini balls are also insanely good.
Getting to Bari
Bari has an international airport with flights from all over Europe, including budget carriers Ryanair, EasyJet, and Wizz Air. If you’re flying from outside of Europe, you’ll probably have to connect via Rome, Milan, or another major European city.
You can also reach Bari by train. The city is a major stop on the Frecciargento high-speed railway network, which connects it to various other major Italian destinations such as Rome, Venice, and Naples.
Alternatively, you can reach Bari by ferry from Albania, Greece, Montenegro, and Croatia. These ferries also transport cars.
Once you get to Bari, the city center is walkable, and you can get to most other major destinations via public transport. However, if you’d like to explore more of the surrounding region, including more out-of-the-way places, you can also hire a car (often the cheapest from the airport).
Things to Do in Bari: FAQs
Still wondering what to do in Bari? Here are some answers to commonly asked questions about visiting Bari and what stuff to do in Bari.
What is Bari known for?
Bari is known for its beautiful architecture, atmospheric Old Town, great food, and lovely beaches. It’s also one of southern Italy’s major ports and is a major transport hub for the region.
When is the best time to visit Bari?
The best time to visit Bari is in the spring (April-May) or autumn (September-October), when the weather is warm but not too hot and there are fewer tourists. However, Bari is a great destination year-round, so visit whenever you can.
Is Bari worth visiting?
Absolutely! Bari is a charming city with plenty to see and do. Whether you’re interested in history, art, food, or just relaxing on the beach, Bari has something for you.
How many days should I spend in Bari?
You can see most of Bari’s main sights in one day. However, I recommend spending two or three days here if you can, to really get a feel for the atmosphere of the city and surrounding region.
Is Bari safe?
Yes, Bari is as safe as any other major Italian city. Of course, petty crime can happen anywhere, but as long as you take the usual sensible precautions, you shouldn’t have any issues during your time there.
What is the most popular thing to do in Bari?
The most popular thing to do in Bari is to stroll around the atmospheric Old Town, which is full of beautiful medieval buildings and winding alleyways. Here you can watch women making pasta by hand on the street – one of the most iconic things to see in Bari, Italy.
What is the best beach in Bari?
The best beach in Bari itself is Pane e Pomodoro beach. However, the most famous beach in the area is Lama Monachile, in the nearby town of Polignano a Mare.
What foods should I try in Bari?
Orechiette pasta is probably Bari’s most iconic dish and is typically served with broccoli rabe (or rapini). Other must-try dishes include tiella (a rice dish with potatoes and mussels), focaccia barese, and polpette (cheesy fried dumplings).
Now You Know What to Do in Bari
These are just a few of the top things to do in Bari, Italy. It’s a great city and one that I would love to return to.
The vibe is friendly and chill, it’s sunny for most of the year, and you’ll be surrounded by far fewer tourists than in many other popular Italian cities. If you get the chance to visit Bari, I highly recommend it.
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The capital of the southeastern Puglia region of Italy, Bari, is a vibrant port city on the Adriatic Sea. Known for its atmospheric Old Town, medieval churches, stunning beaches, and delicious food and wine, there are so many incredible things to do in Bari.
I spent time in Bari last month and really loved the city. It receives far fewer tourists than other Italian cities like Rome, Florence, and Naples, it’s much cheaper and has a really authentic and laidback vibe.
In this post, I’ll describe some of the top things to see and places to visit in Bari. Some of these are free, others you have to pay for, but all are great and definitely worthwhile.
Best Things to Do in Bari
However long you have to spend sightseeing in Bari, I recommend checking out at least some of the following.
1. Explore the Citta Vecchia
Many of the top places to visit in Bari are located in its Old Town – a maze of narrow, winding streets and back alleys that lies just south of the modern port area. It’s a fascinating place, with more than 2,000 years of history.
The majority of the historic buildings in Citta Vecchia are intact, and the whole district has a wonderfully unique feel. It’s easy to get lost wandering through the backstreets, but this is part of the fun.
Every corner you turn you’ll see something new. Women sit at wooden tables in the street making handmade orecchiette pasta, picturesque little squares are decorated with flowers, and locals sit together chatting over a coffee or glasses of wine.
The whole place feels like a time warp, and you get the sense that life hasn’t changed much here in hundreds of years. It’s an amazing place to while away a few hours and exploring it is one of the best activities in Bari. Click here for a highly-rated guided tour of the old town.
2. Visit the Basilica Di San Nicola
Dating back to the 12th century, the Basilica of Saint Nicholas was built on the site of a church that was destroyed by an earthquake in 1089.
The exterior of the basilica is incredibly ornate, with two large towers and a stunning façade. The interior is just as impressive, with beautiful mosaics and paintings adorning the walls and ceilings.
It’s dedicated to Saint Nicholas (AKA Saint Nick, or Santa Claus, of Christmas Eve fame), who was born in Patara, in modern-day Turkey, and later became the Bishop of Myra.
The remains of Saint Nicholas are actually buried in the crypt of the basilica, and it’s a place of pilgrimage for Orthodox Christians from all over the world. This rickshaw tour of the old town actually takes in the Basilica of Saint Nicholas.
Address: Largo Abate Elia, 13, 70122, Bari BA, Italy
The cathedral is located in the heart of Citta Vecchia and is a beautiful example of Romanesque architecture. Inside, the cathedral’s treasury (Tesoro) contains a series of precious relics and other historical artifacts, as well as a museum.
Underneath the cathedral lies a series of archaeological excavations, showing the remains of an ancient Roman road from the 2nd century and a Byzantine church from the 9th century. There are also the remains of a beautifully ornate mosaic.
Address: Piazza dell’Odegitria, 70122, Bari BA, Italy
4. Take a Historical Walking Tour of Bari
One of the best ways to learn about the rich and fascinating history of this amazing city is to take part in a historical walking tour of Bari.
There are several different tours to choose from, but I recommend this one. Your passionate local guide will show you around the city’s most important and iconic sights, and teach you about the history, culture, and lifestyle of the people of Bari.
I thought I knew a lot about what to do in Bari, but after taking this walking tour, I realized there’s so much more to the city. If it’s really hot outside, or if you have mobility issues…or, if you’re just feeling lazy…this rickshaw tour is a great way to get around the old town!
5. Chill Out at the Beach
Puglia is home to some of the best beaches in Italy. Many of these are located a short distance from Bari and make a perfect day trip (or half-day trip) away from the city.
Perhaps the most famous beach near Bari is Lama Monachile (also known as Cala Porto), in the pretty little town of Polignano a Mare. This small white pebble beach is at the end of a steep-sided rocky canyon framed by vertical cliffs and has gorgeous turquoise water.
Other great beaches near Bari include Cala Paura (also in Polignano a Mare) and Cala Porta Vecchia (in romantic Monopoli). These are all easy to reach with public transport (train or bus) from Bari.
However, if you don’t have time to leave the city, you can still enjoy some beach time. Check out Pane e Pomodoro Beach, a sandy beach 3 kilometers southeast of the city center. The name translates as “Bread and Tomato” (don’t ask me why).
6. Go on a Street Food Tour
Bari is famous for its delicious street food, so be sure to try as much of it as possible while you’re in town. One of the best ways to sample some of Bari’s best street food is to go on a street food tour.
This is an excellent option and will introduce you to some of the city’s most famous dishes. You’ll visit popular local places, and immerse yourself in Bari’s rich culinary culture.
Orecchiette pasta with sautéed broccoli rabe (also known as rapini).
Tiella – a hearty traditional dish made with rice, potatoes, and mussels (think of it as a Puglian paella).
Focaccia Barese – probably the best focaccia you will ever eat, topped with ripe tomatoes, olives, olive oil, and oregano.
Polpette – cheesy fried dumplings made using stale bread (and sometimes fish, meat, or vegetables), either served crispy by themselves, or in a rich sauce.
7. Explore Castello Svevo (One of My Favorite Places to Visit in Bari)
Castello Svevo di Bari is a Norman castle that was built, destroyed, and then rebuilt in the 12th and 13th centuries. It’s an imposing structure right next to the sea, and with its thick walls and moat, it’s easy to imagine how this castle served as one of the old city’s main points of defense throughout the centuries.
The castle has been through a lot historically and has been damaged by earthquakes on several occasions. Despite this, the whole structure is amazingly well intact.
Today, the castle is used as an exhibition center and a museum dedicated to the history of the castle, as well as the city of Bari more widely. Exploring the giant rooms and extensive grounds is extremely evocative and is definitely one of the best places to see in Bari.
8. Stroll Along the Seafront Promenade
Bari has a beautiful long promenade (called Lungomare Nazario Sauro) that runs along the seafront. It’s a great place to take a stroll, relax, and take in the views. There are also several cafes and restaurants along the promenade, so you can stop for a coffee or a bite to eat if you like.
You can also extend the walk all the way to the Molo Sant’Antonio lighthouse, which is located at the end of the sea wall marking the entrance to the sailing and pleasure boat harbor. This used to be the city’s main harbor, until the construction of the larger commercial Port of Bari in 1850.
Here you’re likely to see people fishing and hanging out with friends, painting boats, or taking sailing lessons in the sheltered marina. I love to sit and watch all this go on while enjoying the fresh sea air.
In the evening, the promenade comes alive with locals and tourists alike, and people come to watch the spectacular sunset. This is one of my favorite things to do in Bari at night – there’s just a really lovely atmosphere here.
9. Take a Traditional Puglian Cooking Class
Puglian food tends to be fairly simple and showcases the freshness and high quality of local and seasonal ingredients, including tomatoes, beans, artichokes, peppers, and seafood.
For an unforgettable experience where you can learn how to make some classic and delicious, local dishes, take a traditional Puglian cooking class. There are several different classes to choose from, but I recommend this one, which takes place at the host’s home.
During the class, you’ll learn how to make 2 fresh pastas, including orecchiette (Puglia’s famous pasta that looks like little ears), tiramisu, and of course, prosecco, snacks and wine are included. This is one of the most fun things to do in Bari – I highly recommend it! Click here to learn more and book your spot.
10. People-Watch in the Piazza Mercantile
Piazza Mercantile is one of the main squares on the edge of the Old Town of Bari. It’s a great place to sit with a spritz or gelato and people-watch.
This historical medieval square has been a meeting place for centuries. People have come here to trade their goods ever since the 14th century, and even today it’s a popular spot for locals to meet and hang out together.
The buildings around the square are incredibly picturesque, including the Palazzo della Dogana, the 16th-century clock tower, and the baroque Fontana della Pigna fountain. Taking a seat and enjoying this pretty little corner of the city is one of the best free things to do in Bari, Puglia.
11. See Bari on a Segway Tour
Segways can be very divisive: some people love them, and some people really don’t. If you’re in the first camp, consider joining this tour.
After a quick briefing, you’ll set off exploring some of the city’s better-known sights, as well as some hidden gems and secret spots. You’ll visit places in both the Old Town and the modern city, including the Petruzzelli Theater and Bari’s main fish market.
And at the end, you can enjoy some delicious traditional homemade ice cream. I had a great time on the segway, but maybe the ice cream was my favorite part.
12. Chill Out in Parco 2 Giugno
Parco 2 Giugno is a public park just south of the center of Bari. It’s a popular spot with locals and is the perfect place to relax and take a break during a busy day of sightseeing.
The park has a variety of different plants and trees, as well as a lake that’s home to turtles, ducks, and other birds. If you’re looking for things to do in Bari for families, I recommend checking this place out.
There’s also a playground for children, and a little cafe kiosk selling coffee, water, beer, and other refreshments.
13. Go on a Sailing Trip
Bari is located on the Adriatic Sea, and sailing is a popular pastime here. There are several operators that offer sailing trips from Bari, and you’ll get to relax on deck and enjoy the stunning coastline as you sail past.
Being on the water gives you a unique perspective of Bari itself, and many sailing trips allow you the chance to swim in the clear blue waters of the Mediterranean. It’s fairly common to see dolphins and a range of other aquatic life while you’re on the boat too.
This is an excellent sunset trip that has fantastic reviews and is one of the best things to do in Bari for couples, or groups of friends. What could be more romantic than sitting on the deck of a vintage gozzo boat, watching the sunset over the sea, with an aperitivo in hand? Click here for details.
(To be honest, even if you’re traveling by yourself, this is still a pretty awesome experience!)
14. Snag a Bargain at Poggiofranco Market
Mercato di Poggiofranco is one of the largest open-air markets in Bari and is the perfect place to pick up some souvenirs. The main market takes place on Saturday mornings, from 8 am until around 1.30 pm.
To find the market, head to Viale Madre Teresa di Calcutta, which is located 2.5 kilometers south of the Central Station, in the Poggiofranco district. You can either walk or take a bus, or a taxi.
Here you’ll find a huge range of items from clothes, shoes, and accessories to food and drink, homeware, and kitchen utensils. You name it, you’ll probably get it here.
You’ll also find stalls selling locally made products, which make great gifts to take home. If you’re in town on a Saturday and are looking for a bargain, and an insight into the lives of the people who live in Bari, I recommend swinging by Mercato di Poggiofranco.
15. Take a Trip to Monopoli
Monopoli is a beautiful coastal city and one of the best places to visit near Bari. It takes about 40 minutes to drive there, or you can catch the regional train from Bari Central Station, which takes about 35 minutes.
At the heart of Monopoli is the centro storico, or historical center – a labyrinth of beautiful old whitewashed buildings, with green window shutters, colorful flowerboxes, and cobbled streets polished smooth by hundreds of years of passing feet.
There’s also an ancient fishing harbor that’s still used today, where you can see local fishermen bringing in their catch, ready to be taken straight to the city’s restaurants.
If you’re looking to spend some time on the beach, check out Cala Porta Vecchia, which is located just south of the main Old Town.
I also recommend taking a stroll along the paved pedestrianized walkway that runs along the edge of the Old Town, next to the seafront. It’s beautiful here at any time of day but it’s especially magical and atmospheric at sunset.
16. Learn About the City’s History at Museo Civico
The Museo Civico is a small museum dedicated to the history of Bari. It’s located in an old palazzo in the Old Town and is definitely worth a visit if you’re interested in learning about the city’s past.
The museum houses a collection of historical artifacts, as well as a library and an archive. There’s also a section dedicated to the city’s traditional culture, which is really interesting.
The museum hosts a range of events and exhibitions throughout the year. See here for more information on what’s on during your visit.
Address: Str. Sagges, 13, 70122, Bari BA, Italy
17. Make A Day Trip To Alberobello
Alberobello is a small Puglian town famous for its unique “trulli” houses – traditional conical-roofed dwellings that are made entirely from stone.
If you have the time, there are many other things to do near Bari, and Alberobello is one of the most interesting.
It’s about an hour away from Bari by car, and there’s also a bus that runs between the two places (although this does take almost twice as long). An easier option if you don’t have your own car is to take a guided trip from Bari (see below). Learn more about Alberobello in this post.
18. Check Out the Teatro Petruzzelli
The Teatro Petruzzelli is one of the most important cultural institutions in Bari. It’s a large theater and opera house that regularly hosts a range of theater, ballet, opera, and concert performances.
The building itself dates from 1904 and is incredibly ornate and beautiful inside. Even if you’re not planning to catch a performance there, it’s still well worth taking a look inside.
Address: Corso Cavour, 12, 70122, Bari BA, Italy
19. Join a Bike Tour
Another fun way to see the main tourist attractions in Bari, Italy is to take a bike tour. You’ll cover far more ground than you could on foot, so it’s a great way to see more of the city, especially if you only have a limited amount of time.
This tour has excellent reviews and will take you through the Old Town of Bari, as well as a few of the city’s other, less-visited neighborhoods. Your guide will also take you to one of their favorite ice cream shops for you to cool off and enjoy a well-earned treat.
Alternatively, you could always hire a bike and explore by yourself. But for the tour, click here for more information.
20. Go on a Day Trip to Matera
Matera is a city in the neighboring region of Basilicata. Historians believe Matera to be the third-oldest continually inhabited city in the world, and that people have lived here for at least 9,000 years.
Built on top of a rocky hill, it’s really spectacular and definitely worth a visit. The city is best known for its Sassi District, which is home to a complex of prehistoric cave dwellings and a medieval rock church carved into the mountain.
Tip: When deciding what things to do around Bari, if you had to pick only one of Alberobello or Matera to visit, personally I would go with Matera. I found it more atmospheric and less touristy. However, if you’d like to visit both cities in one day, consider joining this guided trip.
21. Bonus!
When traveling to Italy, it’s impossible to have “too much food”! Check out this fun trip which combines eating, drinking wine, and walking — which is great as you’ll want to walk off some calories. You’ll visit popular landmarks, sample traditional food, and drink local wine as well. Click here for details.
Quick Travel Itineraries for Bari
Here are a few suggested itineraries to help you decide what to see and do in Bari.
1 Day in Bari Itinerary
You can see most of the main Bari attractions in one day. Joining a walking tour allows you to see the main sights, and learn about the city and its history.
Start your day by exploring the Old Town. Visit the Basilica di San Nicola, the Castello Normanno-Svevo, and the Cattedrale di San Sabino. Then head to the Murat district for some shopping.
Later on, head to the beach for a swim, and end your day with a meal at one of Bari’s excellent restaurants.
2-3 Days in Bari Itinerary
If you have two or three days, you can explore Bari’s surroundings as well as the city itself.
Spend the first day exploring the city, as per the above itinerary. On day two, take a day trip to either Matera or Alberobello (or, if you’d like to see both places in one day, consider joining this tour).
If you have a third day, take the train to the nearby town of Polignano a Mare, which is perfectly picturesque and home to some of southern Italy’s best beaches, including Lama Monachile and Cala Paura. You can get there by boat, including an aperitif and exploration of caves and coves with this trip. End your last day with this amazing sunset sailing trip.
1 Week in Bari Itinerary
With a week, you can comfortably do all of the activities in Bari I’ve described in this post, and still have some spare time to spend however you wish.
I recommend spending at least two days in the city itself, essentially following the above itinerary, but giving yourself more time to enjoy each activity and spend longer in each place. On one of your Bari days, hiring a bike will enable you to see even more of the city.
With the additional days, I’d recommend taking day trips to Monopoli and Matera/Alberobello. Another option is this day trip which actually takes in Polignano a Mare, Monopoli, and Alberobello! And if you want to spend a whole day on the beach, go right ahead.
Where to Stay in Bari
These are a few of the best neighborhoods in Bari for tourists.
Bari Vecchia – Best for First-time Visitors and Sightseeing
Bari Vecchia (Old Bari) is the historic center of Bari and is where you’ll find most of the city’s most famous sights and attractions.
It’s super atmospheric, with a maze of cobbled backstreets, and many quaint restaurants and cafes spilling out into the attractive little plazas. Check out this great accommodation in Bari Vecchia.
Murat – Best for Shopping and Nightlife
Located just south of Bari Vecchia, Murat is the modern heart of Bari. Here you’ll find many of the city’s best shops, restaurants, and bars. This is a great place to stay in Murat.
Madonnella – Best for Beach Lovers
If you want to be close to the beach, I recommend staying in Madonella. Here you’ll be near Pane e Pomodoro beach (the best beach in the city), as well as the Lungomare Nazario Sauro seafront promenade where there are also loads of cafes and bars that are particularly popular with locals. Have a look at this excellent apartment in the area.
Best Restaurants in Bari
There’s amazing food throughout Bari. If you’re looking for some specific recommendations, check out these places.
Al Pescatore
Located right next to the Castello Svevo, Al Pescatore serves some of the best fresh fish and seafood in the city. The quality is excellent and the prices are reasonable. Try the traditional local raw fish and the fritto misto (mixed fried seafood).
Assaporando le Delizie Pugliesi
This traditional little restaurant is in a small square next to the Metropolitan Cathedral, in the heart of Bari’s Old Town. They serve delicious pasta and a range of other local specialties, all of which are cheap and fantastic.
Their menu changes frequently, but I had the orecchiette pasta with broccoli rabe and it was incredible. This is also a lovely place to sit with a spritz and watch the world go by.
Per Bacco
In the new part of town, close to the Lungomare seafront promenade, Per Bacco is a midrange, intimate restaurant with a very cozy atmosphere and wonderful owners.
The menu is small and features traditional Puglian specialties – try the ravioli stuffed with turnip tops and anchovies. Prices are midrange and very fair.
Magda
Magda is a bakery and a cafe located on the bustling Via Prospero Petroni. It’s a solid favorite with the locals and serves a range of focaccias, flatbreads, sweet and savory pastries, and other traditional snacks.
This is the perfect place to come if you’re looking for a cheap and delicious place to eat in the center of Bari. I had the best focaccia of my life here, and their arancini balls are also insanely good.
Getting to Bari
Bari has an international airport with flights from all over Europe, including budget carriers Ryanair, EasyJet, and Wizz Air. If you’re flying from outside of Europe, you’ll probably have to connect via Rome, Milan, or another major European city.
You can also reach Bari by train. The city is a major stop on the Frecciargento high-speed railway network, which connects it to various other major Italian destinations such as Rome, Venice, and Naples.
Alternatively, you can reach Bari by ferry from Albania, Greece, Montenegro, and Croatia. These ferries also transport cars.
Once you get to Bari, the city center is walkable, and you can get to most other major destinations via public transport. However, if you’d like to explore more of the surrounding region, including more out-of-the-way places, you can also hire a car (often the cheapest from the airport).
Things to Do in Bari: FAQs
Still wondering what to do in Bari? Here are some answers to commonly asked questions about visiting Bari and what stuff to do in Bari.
What is Bari known for?
Bari is known for its beautiful architecture, atmospheric Old Town, great food, and lovely beaches. It’s also one of southern Italy’s major ports and is a major transport hub for the region.
When is the best time to visit Bari?
The best time to visit Bari is in the spring (April-May) or autumn (September-October), when the weather is warm but not too hot and there are fewer tourists. However, Bari is a great destination year-round, so visit whenever you can.
Is Bari worth visiting?
Absolutely! Bari is a charming city with plenty to see and do. Whether you’re interested in history, art, food, or just relaxing on the beach, Bari has something for you.
How many days should I spend in Bari?
You can see most of Bari’s main sights in one day. However, I recommend spending two or three days here if you can, to really get a feel for the atmosphere of the city and surrounding region.
Is Bari safe?
Yes, Bari is as safe as any other major Italian city. Of course, petty crime can happen anywhere, but as long as you take the usual sensible precautions, you shouldn’t have any issues during your time there.
What is the most popular thing to do in Bari?
The most popular thing to do in Bari is to stroll around the atmospheric Old Town, which is full of beautiful medieval buildings and winding alleyways. Here you can watch women making pasta by hand on the street – one of the most iconic things to see in Bari, Italy.
What is the best beach in Bari?
The best beach in Bari itself is Pane e Pomodoro beach. However, the most famous beach in the area is Lama Monachile, in the nearby town of Polignano a Mare.
What foods should I try in Bari?
Orechiette pasta is probably Bari’s most iconic dish and is typically served with broccoli rabe (or rapini). Other must-try dishes include tiella (a rice dish with potatoes and mussels), focaccia barese, and polpette (cheesy fried dumplings).
Now You Know What to Do in Bari
These are just a few of the top things to do in Bari, Italy. It’s a great city and one that I would love to return to.
The vibe is friendly and chill, it’s sunny for most of the year, and you’ll be surrounded by far fewer tourists than in many other popular Italian cities. If you get the chance to visit Bari, I highly recommend it.
The capital of the southeastern Puglia region of Italy, Bari, is a vibrant port city on the Adriatic Sea. Known for its atmospheric Old Town, medieval churches, stunning beaches, and delicious food and wine, there are so many incredible things to do in Bari. I spent time in Bari last month and really loved the … Read more
The capital of the southeastern Puglia region of Italy, Bari, is a vibrant port city on the Adriatic Sea. Known for its atmospheric Old Town, medieval churches, stunning beaches, and delicious food and wine, there are so many incredible things to do in Bari.
I spent time in Bari last month and really loved the city. It receives far fewer tourists than other Italian cities like Rome, Florence, and Naples, it’s much cheaper and has a really authentic and laidback vibe.
In this post, I’ll describe some of the top things to see and places to visit in Bari. Some of these are free, others you have to pay for, but all are great and definitely worthwhile.
Best Things to Do in Bari
However long you have to spend sightseeing in Bari, I recommend checking out at least some of the following.
1. Explore the Citta Vecchia
Many of the top places to visit in Bari are located in its Old Town – a maze of narrow, winding streets and back alleys that lies just south of the modern port area. It’s a fascinating place, with more than 2,000 years of history.
The majority of the historic buildings in Citta Vecchia are intact, and the whole district has a wonderfully unique feel. It’s easy to get lost wandering through the backstreets, but this is part of the fun.
Every corner you turn you’ll see something new. Women sit at wooden tables in the street making handmade orecchiette pasta, picturesque little squares are decorated with flowers, and locals sit together chatting over a coffee or glasses of wine.
The whole place feels like a time warp, and you get the sense that life hasn’t changed much here in hundreds of years. It’s an amazing place to while away a few hours and exploring it is one of the best activities in Bari. Click here for a highly-rated guided tour of the old town.
2. Visit the Basilica Di San Nicola
Dating back to the 12th century, the Basilica of Saint Nicholas was built on the site of a church that was destroyed by an earthquake in 1089.
The exterior of the basilica is incredibly ornate, with two large towers and a stunning façade. The interior is just as impressive, with beautiful mosaics and paintings adorning the walls and ceilings.
It’s dedicated to Saint Nicholas (AKA Saint Nick, or Santa Claus, of Christmas Eve fame), who was born in Patara, in modern-day Turkey, and later became the Bishop of Myra.
The remains of Saint Nicholas are actually buried in the crypt of the basilica, and it’s a place of pilgrimage for Orthodox Christians from all over the world. This rickshaw tour of the old town actually takes in the Basilica of Saint Nicholas.
Address: Largo Abate Elia, 13, 70122, Bari BA, Italy
The cathedral is located in the heart of Citta Vecchia and is a beautiful example of Romanesque architecture. Inside, the cathedral’s treasury (Tesoro) contains a series of precious relics and other historical artifacts, as well as a museum.
Underneath the cathedral lies a series of archaeological excavations, showing the remains of an ancient Roman road from the 2nd century and a Byzantine church from the 9th century. There are also the remains of a beautifully ornate mosaic.
Address: Piazza dell’Odegitria, 70122, Bari BA, Italy
4. Take a Historical Walking Tour of Bari
One of the best ways to learn about the rich and fascinating history of this amazing city is to take part in a historical walking tour of Bari.
There are several different tours to choose from, but I recommend this one. Your passionate local guide will show you around the city’s most important and iconic sights, and teach you about the history, culture, and lifestyle of the people of Bari.
I thought I knew a lot about what to do in Bari, but after taking this walking tour, I realized there’s so much more to the city. If it’s really hot outside, or if you have mobility issues…or, if you’re just feeling lazy…this rickshaw tour is a great way to get around the old town!
5. Chill Out at the Beach
Puglia is home to some of the best beaches in Italy. Many of these are located a short distance from Bari and make a perfect day trip (or half-day trip) away from the city.
Perhaps the most famous beach near Bari is Lama Monachile (also known as Cala Porto), in the pretty little town of Polignano a Mare. This small white pebble beach is at the end of a steep-sided rocky canyon framed by vertical cliffs and has gorgeous turquoise water.
Other great beaches near Bari include Cala Paura (also in Polignano a Mare) and Cala Porta Vecchia (in romantic Monopoli). These are all easy to reach with public transport (train or bus) from Bari.
However, if you don’t have time to leave the city, you can still enjoy some beach time. Check out Pane e Pomodoro Beach, a sandy beach 3 kilometers southeast of the city center. The name translates as “Bread and Tomato” (don’t ask me why).
6. Go on a Street Food Tour
Bari is famous for its delicious street food, so be sure to try as much of it as possible while you’re in town. One of the best ways to sample some of Bari’s best street food is to go on a street food tour.
This is an excellent option and will introduce you to some of the city’s most famous dishes. You’ll visit popular local places, and immerse yourself in Bari’s rich culinary culture.
Orecchiette pasta with sautéed broccoli rabe (also known as rapini).
Tiella – a hearty traditional dish made with rice, potatoes, and mussels (think of it as a Puglian paella).
Focaccia Barese – probably the best focaccia you will ever eat, topped with ripe tomatoes, olives, olive oil, and oregano.
Polpette – cheesy fried dumplings made using stale bread (and sometimes fish, meat, or vegetables), either served crispy by themselves, or in a rich sauce.
7. Explore Castello Svevo (One of My Favorite Places to Visit in Bari)
Castello Svevo di Bari is a Norman castle that was built, destroyed, and then rebuilt in the 12th and 13th centuries. It’s an imposing structure right next to the sea, and with its thick walls and moat, it’s easy to imagine how this castle served as one of the old city’s main points of defense throughout the centuries.
The castle has been through a lot historically and has been damaged by earthquakes on several occasions. Despite this, the whole structure is amazingly well intact.
Today, the castle is used as an exhibition center and a museum dedicated to the history of the castle, as well as the city of Bari more widely. Exploring the giant rooms and extensive grounds is extremely evocative and is definitely one of the best places to see in Bari.
8. Stroll Along the Seafront Promenade
Bari has a beautiful long promenade (called Lungomare Nazario Sauro) that runs along the seafront. It’s a great place to take a stroll, relax, and take in the views. There are also several cafes and restaurants along the promenade, so you can stop for a coffee or a bite to eat if you like.
You can also extend the walk all the way to the Molo Sant’Antonio lighthouse, which is located at the end of the sea wall marking the entrance to the sailing and pleasure boat harbor. This used to be the city’s main harbor, until the construction of the larger commercial Port of Bari in 1850.
Here you’re likely to see people fishing and hanging out with friends, painting boats, or taking sailing lessons in the sheltered marina. I love to sit and watch all this go on while enjoying the fresh sea air.
In the evening, the promenade comes alive with locals and tourists alike, and people come to watch the spectacular sunset. This is one of my favorite things to do in Bari at night – there’s just a really lovely atmosphere here.
9. Take a Traditional Puglian Cooking Class
Puglian food tends to be fairly simple and showcases the freshness and high quality of local and seasonal ingredients, including tomatoes, beans, artichokes, peppers, and seafood.
For an unforgettable experience where you can learn how to make some classic and delicious, local dishes, take a traditional Puglian cooking class. There are several different classes to choose from, but I recommend this one, which takes place at the host’s home.
During the class, you’ll learn how to make 2 fresh pastas, including orecchiette (Puglia’s famous pasta that looks like little ears), tiramisu, and of course, prosecco, snacks and wine are included. This is one of the most fun things to do in Bari – I highly recommend it! Click here to learn more and book your spot.
10. People-Watch in the Piazza Mercantile
Piazza Mercantile is one of the main squares on the edge of the Old Town of Bari. It’s a great place to sit with a spritz or gelato and people-watch.
This historical medieval square has been a meeting place for centuries. People have come here to trade their goods ever since the 14th century, and even today it’s a popular spot for locals to meet and hang out together.
The buildings around the square are incredibly picturesque, including the Palazzo della Dogana, the 16th-century clock tower, and the baroque Fontana della Pigna fountain. Taking a seat and enjoying this pretty little corner of the city is one of the best free things to do in Bari, Puglia.
11. See Bari on a Segway Tour
Segways can be very divisive: some people love them, and some people really don’t. If you’re in the first camp, consider joining this tour.
After a quick briefing, you’ll set off exploring some of the city’s better-known sights, as well as some hidden gems and secret spots. You’ll visit places in both the Old Town and the modern city, including the Petruzzelli Theater and Bari’s main fish market.
And at the end, you can enjoy some delicious traditional homemade ice cream. I had a great time on the segway, but maybe the ice cream was my favorite part.
12. Chill Out in Parco 2 Giugno
Parco 2 Giugno is a public park just south of the center of Bari. It’s a popular spot with locals and is the perfect place to relax and take a break during a busy day of sightseeing.
The park has a variety of different plants and trees, as well as a lake that’s home to turtles, ducks, and other birds. If you’re looking for things to do in Bari for families, I recommend checking this place out.
There’s also a playground for children, and a little cafe kiosk selling coffee, water, beer, and other refreshments.
13. Go on a Sailing Trip
Bari is located on the Adriatic Sea, and sailing is a popular pastime here. There are several operators that offer sailing trips from Bari, and you’ll get to relax on deck and enjoy the stunning coastline as you sail past.
Being on the water gives you a unique perspective of Bari itself, and many sailing trips allow you the chance to swim in the clear blue waters of the Mediterranean. It’s fairly common to see dolphins and a range of other aquatic life while you’re on the boat too.
This is an excellent sunset trip that has fantastic reviews and is one of the best things to do in Bari for couples, or groups of friends. What could be more romantic than sitting on the deck of a vintage gozzo boat, watching the sunset over the sea, with an aperitivo in hand? Click here for details.
(To be honest, even if you’re traveling by yourself, this is still a pretty awesome experience!)
14. Snag a Bargain at Poggiofranco Market
Mercato di Poggiofranco is one of the largest open-air markets in Bari and is the perfect place to pick up some souvenirs. The main market takes place on Saturday mornings, from 8 am until around 1.30 pm.
To find the market, head to Viale Madre Teresa di Calcutta, which is located 2.5 kilometers south of the Central Station, in the Poggiofranco district. You can either walk or take a bus, or a taxi.
Here you’ll find a huge range of items from clothes, shoes, and accessories to food and drink, homeware, and kitchen utensils. You name it, you’ll probably get it here.
You’ll also find stalls selling locally made products, which make great gifts to take home. If you’re in town on a Saturday and are looking for a bargain, and an insight into the lives of the people who live in Bari, I recommend swinging by Mercato di Poggiofranco.
15. Take a Trip to Monopoli
Monopoli is a beautiful coastal city and one of the best places to visit near Bari. It takes about 40 minutes to drive there, or you can catch the regional train from Bari Central Station, which takes about 35 minutes.
At the heart of Monopoli is the centro storico, or historical center – a labyrinth of beautiful old whitewashed buildings, with green window shutters, colorful flowerboxes, and cobbled streets polished smooth by hundreds of years of passing feet.
There’s also an ancient fishing harbor that’s still used today, where you can see local fishermen bringing in their catch, ready to be taken straight to the city’s restaurants.
If you’re looking to spend some time on the beach, check out Cala Porta Vecchia, which is located just south of the main Old Town.
I also recommend taking a stroll along the paved pedestrianized walkway that runs along the edge of the Old Town, next to the seafront. It’s beautiful here at any time of day but it’s especially magical and atmospheric at sunset.
16. Learn About the City’s History at Museo Civico
The Museo Civico is a small museum dedicated to the history of Bari. It’s located in an old palazzo in the Old Town and is definitely worth a visit if you’re interested in learning about the city’s past.
The museum houses a collection of historical artifacts, as well as a library and an archive. There’s also a section dedicated to the city’s traditional culture, which is really interesting.
The museum hosts a range of events and exhibitions throughout the year. See here for more information on what’s on during your visit.
Address: Str. Sagges, 13, 70122, Bari BA, Italy
17. Make A Day Trip To Alberobello
Alberobello is a small Puglian town famous for its unique “trulli” houses – traditional conical-roofed dwellings that are made entirely from stone.
If you have the time, there are many other things to do near Bari, and Alberobello is one of the most interesting.
It’s about an hour away from Bari by car, and there’s also a bus that runs between the two places (although this does take almost twice as long). An easier option if you don’t have your own car is to take a guided trip from Bari (see below). Learn more about Alberobello in this post.
18. Check Out the Teatro Petruzzelli
The Teatro Petruzzelli is one of the most important cultural institutions in Bari. It’s a large theater and opera house that regularly hosts a range of theater, ballet, opera, and concert performances.
The building itself dates from 1904 and is incredibly ornate and beautiful inside. Even if you’re not planning to catch a performance there, it’s still well worth taking a look inside.
Address: Corso Cavour, 12, 70122, Bari BA, Italy
19. Join a Bike Tour
Another fun way to see the main tourist attractions in Bari, Italy is to take a bike tour. You’ll cover far more ground than you could on foot, so it’s a great way to see more of the city, especially if you only have a limited amount of time.
This tour has excellent reviews and will take you through the Old Town of Bari, as well as a few of the city’s other, less-visited neighborhoods. Your guide will also take you to one of their favorite ice cream shops for you to cool off and enjoy a well-earned treat.
Alternatively, you could always hire a bike and explore by yourself. But for the tour, click here for more information.
20. Go on a Day Trip to Matera
Matera is a city in the neighboring region of Basilicata. Historians believe Matera to be the third-oldest continually inhabited city in the world, and that people have lived here for at least 9,000 years.
Built on top of a rocky hill, it’s really spectacular and definitely worth a visit. The city is best known for its Sassi District, which is home to a complex of prehistoric cave dwellings and a medieval rock church carved into the mountain.
Tip: When deciding what things to do around Bari, if you had to pick only one of Alberobello or Matera to visit, personally I would go with Matera. I found it more atmospheric and less touristy. However, if you’d like to visit both cities in one day, consider joining this guided trip.
21. Bonus!
When traveling to Italy, it’s impossible to have “too much food”! Check out this fun trip which combines eating, drinking wine, and walking — which is great as you’ll want to walk off some calories. You’ll visit popular landmarks, sample traditional food, and drink local wine as well. Click here for details.
Quick Travel Itineraries for Bari
Here are a few suggested itineraries to help you decide what to see and do in Bari.
1 Day in Bari Itinerary
You can see most of the main Bari attractions in one day. Joining a walking tour allows you to see the main sights, and learn about the city and its history.
Start your day by exploring the Old Town. Visit the Basilica di San Nicola, the Castello Normanno-Svevo, and the Cattedrale di San Sabino. Then head to the Murat district for some shopping.
Later on, head to the beach for a swim, and end your day with a meal at one of Bari’s excellent restaurants.
2-3 Days in Bari Itinerary
If you have two or three days, you can explore Bari’s surroundings as well as the city itself.
Spend the first day exploring the city, as per the above itinerary. On day two, take a day trip to either Matera or Alberobello (or, if you’d like to see both places in one day, consider joining this tour).
If you have a third day, take the train to the nearby town of Polignano a Mare, which is perfectly picturesque and home to some of southern Italy’s best beaches, including Lama Monachile and Cala Paura. You can get there by boat, including an aperitif and exploration of caves and coves with this trip. End your last day with this amazing sunset sailing trip.
1 Week in Bari Itinerary
With a week, you can comfortably do all of the activities in Bari I’ve described in this post, and still have some spare time to spend however you wish.
I recommend spending at least two days in the city itself, essentially following the above itinerary, but giving yourself more time to enjoy each activity and spend longer in each place. On one of your Bari days, hiring a bike will enable you to see even more of the city.
With the additional days, I’d recommend taking day trips to Monopoli and Matera/Alberobello. Another option is this day trip which actually takes in Polignano a Mare, Monopoli, and Alberobello! And if you want to spend a whole day on the beach, go right ahead.
Where to Stay in Bari
These are a few of the best neighborhoods in Bari for tourists.
Bari Vecchia – Best for First-time Visitors and Sightseeing
Bari Vecchia (Old Bari) is the historic center of Bari and is where you’ll find most of the city’s most famous sights and attractions.
It’s super atmospheric, with a maze of cobbled backstreets, and many quaint restaurants and cafes spilling out into the attractive little plazas. Check out this great accommodation in Bari Vecchia.
Murat – Best for Shopping and Nightlife
Located just south of Bari Vecchia, Murat is the modern heart of Bari. Here you’ll find many of the city’s best shops, restaurants, and bars. This is a great place to stay in Murat.
Madonnella – Best for Beach Lovers
If you want to be close to the beach, I recommend staying in Madonella. Here you’ll be near Pane e Pomodoro beach (the best beach in the city), as well as the Lungomare Nazario Sauro seafront promenade where there are also loads of cafes and bars that are particularly popular with locals. Have a look at this excellent apartment in the area.
Best Restaurants in Bari
There’s amazing food throughout Bari. If you’re looking for some specific recommendations, check out these places.
Al Pescatore
Located right next to the Castello Svevo, Al Pescatore serves some of the best fresh fish and seafood in the city. The quality is excellent and the prices are reasonable. Try the traditional local raw fish and the fritto misto (mixed fried seafood).
Assaporando le Delizie Pugliesi
This traditional little restaurant is in a small square next to the Metropolitan Cathedral, in the heart of Bari’s Old Town. They serve delicious pasta and a range of other local specialties, all of which are cheap and fantastic.
Their menu changes frequently, but I had the orecchiette pasta with broccoli rabe and it was incredible. This is also a lovely place to sit with a spritz and watch the world go by.
Per Bacco
In the new part of town, close to the Lungomare seafront promenade, Per Bacco is a midrange, intimate restaurant with a very cozy atmosphere and wonderful owners.
The menu is small and features traditional Puglian specialties – try the ravioli stuffed with turnip tops and anchovies. Prices are midrange and very fair.
Magda
Magda is a bakery and a cafe located on the bustling Via Prospero Petroni. It’s a solid favorite with the locals and serves a range of focaccias, flatbreads, sweet and savory pastries, and other traditional snacks.
This is the perfect place to come if you’re looking for a cheap and delicious place to eat in the center of Bari. I had the best focaccia of my life here, and their arancini balls are also insanely good.
Getting to Bari
Bari has an international airport with flights from all over Europe, including budget carriers Ryanair, EasyJet, and Wizz Air. If you’re flying from outside of Europe, you’ll probably have to connect via Rome, Milan, or another major European city.
You can also reach Bari by train. The city is a major stop on the Frecciargento high-speed railway network, which connects it to various other major Italian destinations such as Rome, Venice, and Naples.
Alternatively, you can reach Bari by ferry from Albania, Greece, Montenegro, and Croatia. These ferries also transport cars.
Once you get to Bari, the city center is walkable, and you can get to most other major destinations via public transport. However, if you’d like to explore more of the surrounding region, including more out-of-the-way places, you can also hire a car (often the cheapest from the airport).
Things to Do in Bari: FAQs
Still wondering what to do in Bari? Here are some answers to commonly asked questions about visiting Bari and what stuff to do in Bari.
What is Bari known for?
Bari is known for its beautiful architecture, atmospheric Old Town, great food, and lovely beaches. It’s also one of southern Italy’s major ports and is a major transport hub for the region.
When is the best time to visit Bari?
The best time to visit Bari is in the spring (April-May) or autumn (September-October), when the weather is warm but not too hot and there are fewer tourists. However, Bari is a great destination year-round, so visit whenever you can.
Is Bari worth visiting?
Absolutely! Bari is a charming city with plenty to see and do. Whether you’re interested in history, art, food, or just relaxing on the beach, Bari has something for you.
How many days should I spend in Bari?
You can see most of Bari’s main sights in one day. However, I recommend spending two or three days here if you can, to really get a feel for the atmosphere of the city and surrounding region.
Is Bari safe?
Yes, Bari is as safe as any other major Italian city. Of course, petty crime can happen anywhere, but as long as you take the usual sensible precautions, you shouldn’t have any issues during your time there.
What is the most popular thing to do in Bari?
The most popular thing to do in Bari is to stroll around the atmospheric Old Town, which is full of beautiful medieval buildings and winding alleyways. Here you can watch women making pasta by hand on the street – one of the most iconic things to see in Bari, Italy.
What is the best beach in Bari?
The best beach in Bari itself is Pane e Pomodoro beach. However, the most famous beach in the area is Lama Monachile, in the nearby town of Polignano a Mare.
What foods should I try in Bari?
Orechiette pasta is probably Bari’s most iconic dish and is typically served with broccoli rabe (or rapini). Other must-try dishes include tiella (a rice dish with potatoes and mussels), focaccia barese, and polpette (cheesy fried dumplings).
Now You Know What to Do in Bari
These are just a few of the top things to do in Bari, Italy. It’s a great city and one that I would love to return to.
The vibe is friendly and chill, it’s sunny for most of the year, and you’ll be surrounded by far fewer tourists than in many other popular Italian cities. If you get the chance to visit Bari, I highly recommend it.
There are many day trips from Istanbul you can take to break up your visit and give you the best overview of this stunning part of Turkey. Istanbul is loud, busy, packed with history, and full of great bars and many incredible things to see and do, but sometimes you just need a break from … Read more
Known as the Emerald City, Seattle just might be the most scenic metropolitan area in the United States. The largest city in the Pacific Northwest offers visitors endless things to see and do. This is one of my favourite places to visit in the USA.
Seattle is surrounded by evergreen forests, mountains, and water. Even if you’re just in Seattle for a weekend trip, it’s enough time to enjoy many of the attractions in nature or in the city. There’s no shortage of great places to visit in Seattle.
In this guide, I’ll introduce some of the top things to do in Seattle along with lots of practical info to help you plan a great trip.
About Seattle, Washington
Seattle is located between Puget Sound and Lake Washington and has the Olympic Mountains to the west and Cascades to the east, making for some postcard-worthy scenery around every corner.
Unfortunately, it’s true that it rains quite often here. Don’t let it rain on your parade, though — there are tons of great museums and other indoor activities to keep you busy when it gets a bit wet. There are plenty of things to do in Seattle when it rains.
Seattle is also well-known for its music and sports. The grunge era started here with bands like Pearl Jam and Nirvana, and it’s now a hub for indie music and underground hip-hop.
Seattle sports fans are some of the loudest in the country as they show their unwavering support for teams like the Seahawks and Sounders. It really is amazing how you can enjoy all the amenities of a big city and yet so easily get out in nature.
15 Best Things To Do in Seattle
Here’s my list of the top 15 things to do and places to visit in Seattle. After living in the city for over 2 months and visiting there many times over the years, I’ve narrowed down my top picks for the best Seattle attractions.
1. See the Space Needle
Without a doubt, the most iconic landmark in Seattle is the Space Needle. Built for the 1962 edition of the World’s Fair, it has been a fixture in the city’s skyline ever since.
The observation deck is 520 feet (158 meters) tall, so you get to enjoy 360-degree panoramic views. On a clear day, you can see the entire city along with natural wonders such as Lake Union and Mt. Rainier. Checking out this view is a must do in Seattle, and I can’t tell you how many times I visited during my time living there.
While the Space Needle has always been one of the top places to visit in Seattle, it’s even cooler now thanks to some serious renovations.
A recent multimillion dollar upgrade added the classy lounge The Loupe, the first rotating glass floor in the world. They also added wall-to-ceiling glass and the new Skyrisers, which are tilting glass benches that provide for some unreal views of the city.
The Space Needle is open daily from 8 AM-midnight, with the last entry at 11:15. Tickets range from $37-$70 for adults, tickets depend on which package you book. This is one of the best places to visit in Seattle and is included in the Seattle CityPass. See the Space Needle and the Chihuly Garden together with this ticket.
The Space Needle is just one part of the massive Seattle Center. This hub of education, art, and entertainment has so much going on that you could easily spend an entire day here and still not do it all.
One of the top Seattle attractions you’ll find here is the International Fountain. At different points throughout the day, the fountain is synchronized to music, making for a great show that’s fun for all ages.
The Seattle Center is also home to Artists at Play — a funky playground designed by artists. There’s a climbing tower, labyrinth, carousel, and much more here. This is one of the best free things to do in Seattle and one of the first places I’d bring visitors while showing them around.
There’s much more to see and do here, including several different museums. Don’t miss the excellent Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Discovery Center. They run free group tours from Tuesday-Saturday at 2:00 PM and it’s always free to visit.
In addition to all the different attractions here, the Seattle Center also hosts thousands of events and programs throughout the year. Concerts, fitness classes, movies, festivals, and more are on tap here. Be sure to check their event calendar to see what’s going on.
Address: 305 Harrison St, Seattle, WA 98109, United States
3. See Chihuly Garden
The Chihuly Garden & Glass Museum is one of the most popular places to visit in Seattle. It’s dedicated to the stunning glasswork of Dale Chihuly, whose work can be seen in over 200 museums around the world.
Located at the Seattle Center, the museum is split into three different areas: the Garden, Interior Exhibits, and the incredible Glasshouse. My personal favorite is the Glasshouse, but be sure to see them all.
There’s also a theater that’s constantly showing short videos of Chihuly and his work. You’ll definitely want to carve out a couple of hours to take it all in.
The museum is open from 8:30 AM-8:30 PM Monday to Thursday and stays open an hour later on the weekend.
Tickets cost $35-$42.50 for adults and $30-$37.50 for kids. Entrance to the Chihuly Garden & Glass Museum is included in the Seattle CityPass, on this 3-hour “highlights tour” of Seattle, or this ticket which includes the Space Needle as well.
Finally, if you prefer to simply purchase your entrance ticket direct from the company, make sure to utilize the free audio tour on offer.
Address: 305 Harrison St, Seattle, WA 98109, United States
4. Join a Food Tour
One of the most fun things to do in Seattle is to eat your way across the city on a food tour. My personal recommendation is the Pike Place Market Chef Guided Food Tour, which lasts two hours and includes numerous bites.
Along the way, you’ll learn all about the history and culture of the market, find some small businesses and enjoy sampling all of the amazing foods on offer.
Another solid option that I’ve gone on several times is the Pike Place Market Walking Food tour which includes a guide, samples at seven artisanal food stalls, and more. Joining a food tour is one of the fun activities in Seattle for adults that should be on your list.
5. Visit the Museum of Pop Culture
Formerly known as the EMP (Experience Music Project), the Museum of Pop Culture is one of the best Seattle attractions around. Before you head inside, you’ll want to take some time to admire the stunning building from world-famous architect Frank Gehry.
Once you step inside the museum, which also goes by MoPOP, you’ll notice the impressive guitar sculpture called “If VI Was IX.” There are over 500 instruments making up this tornado-like sculpture!
Speaking of music, the museum has several permanent exhibits dedicated to Seattle’s most famous rockers: Jimi Hendrix, Nirvana, and Pearl Jam.
You can even channel your inner rockstar in their Sound Lab or take your picture in front of a packed audience in their On Stage area.
That’s not all, though. MoPop also has exhibits on fantasy, science fiction, horror, video games, comedy, and much, much more.
I’ve been to a lot of museums in my travels, and this one is definitely my favorite. Be sure to add it to your list of cool things to do in Seattle.
MoPOP is open Monday-Friday from 10 AM-6 PM and Saturday and Sunday from 9 AM-6 PM. Tickets cost around $35 for adults and $21 for children.
Address: 325 5th Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109, United States
6. Pike Place Market: One of the most famous Seattle attractions!
The Pike Place Market is one of the best places to visit in Seattle. Dating all the way back to 1907, this is one of the oldest public farmers’ markets in the United States.
By shopping at Pike Place Market, you’re doing much more than just checking off one of the best Seattle attractions. You’re supporting local farmers, artisans, and small businesses as well!
There’s so much to see (and taste) here that you’ll want to make sure you come hungry and stay awhile. Each time I visited, I not only filled my stomach, but also several shopping bags to take home with me.
In addition to the farmers’ market and crafts market, there are 80 restaurants and over 200 unique shops. With so many options, it can be a bit intimidating, but for sure it’s a must do in Seattle. Don’t miss a food tour (listed above at #4) of this market.
It’s much more than just a market, actually. It’s a community with lots of excellent initiatives, such as a senior center, food bank, and pre-school.
If you want to show some extra love, pay a visit to Rachel the Piggybank. Rub her snout and make a donation, and legend has it you’ll have good luck.
The market is only closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas. It officially gets going at 9 AM and closes at 6 PM, but you can come here as early as 6 AM for breakfast if you’re an early riser.
Head over to their website to plan your visit and browse all the various options. You can find Pike Place Market on the map here.
Address: 85 Pike Street, Seattle, WA 98101, United States
7. Enjoy Waterfront Park
After exploring Pike Place, you’re just a short walk from Waterfront Park, the next spot on my list of Seattle attractions. There are several benches and picnic tables here, so it’s the perfect place to sit down and enjoy whatever delicious food you picked up at the market.
The park is home to two different platforms where you can enjoy some fantastic views.
On a clear day, you can even see the Olympic Mountains in the distance. There are coin-operated telescopes here to help you get an even better look at the surroundings. Be sure to check out the Waterfront Fountain as well.
One of the most fun things to do in Seattle is taking a ride on the Seattle Great Wheel. This giant Ferris wheel is open from Monday to Thursday from 11 AM-10 PM, Friday and Saturday from 10 AM-11 PM and Sunday from 10 AM-10 PM.
Tickets cost $16 for adults and $11 for kids. You also have the option of splurging for a VIP ticket ($50) for their luxury gondola and a souvenir t-shirt.
Waterfront Park is a great spot to unwind after a big day of sightseeing in Seattle. It’s located between Pier 57 and 59. Click here to get directions.
Address: 1401 Alaskan Wy, Seattle, WA 98101, United States
8. Day Trip to Mount Rainier
If you have some extra time in Seattle, consider doing a day trip out to Mount Rainier, which is an active stratovolcano in the Mount Rainier National Park. This is my personal favorite spot for hiking in the area.
This towering volcano is 14,400 ft (4,390m), and in the national park, you’ll find numerous activities on offer, including hiking, camping and rock climbing.
For travelers on a day trip, hiking along one of the many trails is a top choice. During the winter months, you can trade your hiking boots for show shoes and still enjoy the trails.
Included in the trip are transportation, a knowledgeable naturalist, lunch, snacks, and entrance fees. To learn more about this top trip from Seattle, click here.
If you’d prefer a tour to Mount Rainier with the hiking optional, check out this popular tour on a minibus.
9. Take a Cruise
While Seattle looks great on land, it looks even better from the water! Taking a cruise around Elliot Bay and the Puget Sound is easily one of the most fun things to do in Seattle.
Your options for cruising range from a simple 1-hour harbor trip to overnight getaways. On these trips, I’ve spotted numerous sea birds, seals, and even dolphins.
On the budget end, you can simply take one of the local ferries to enjoy the views. The ferry to Bainbridge Island only costs $8.50 for adults and $4.25 for children, and the return trip is free. It’s a nice way to spend an afternoon without spending a ton of cash.
Argosy Cruises has been in business for 70 years and their tours are a great opportunity for Seattle sightseeing.
They have seven different options, including their one-hour cruise of Elliot Bay and the Seattle Harbor where you’ll enjoy a fully narrated trip, amazing views of the Seattle skyline, and on clear days, of Mount Rainier. A cruise with Argosy is actually included in the Seattle CityPass if you choose to go that route.
10. Walk Through Washington Park Arboretum
The Washington Park Arboretum is definitely one of the most beautiful Seattle attractions to visit. It’s my go-to choice for a quiet afternoon.
This scenic park has miles upon miles of trails and is a living collection of plants. It’s a prime example of why Seattle is known as the Emerald City and a lovely place to spend a few hours.
Spring is a very popular time to visit the park thanks to the azaleas that are in bloom. Come here in the fall and you’ll see Japanese maples and strawberry trees, creating a vibrant tapestry of colors.
The arboretum is open daily from dawn to dusk and is one of the best free places to visit in Seattle. They also have several different tours and classes as well as options for birding and boating. Check their website for all the details.
While you’re here, it’s well worth it to pay the entrance fee for the Japanese Garden ($8 for adults and $4 for children). They have free guided tours from April to October at 12:30, and you can also enjoy a traditional Japanese tea ceremony here for an extra $10.
It’s a little slice of Japan right here in Seattle!
Click here to get directions to the arboretum. The Japanese Garden is in the southwest corner of the park. Be sure to add a stop here to your list of places to visit in Seattle.
Address: 2300 Arboretum Dr E, Seattle, WA 98112, United States
11. Visit the Seattle Art Museum
Art lovers will want to experience the Seattle Art Museum, which actually consists of three different facilities: the main museum, the Asian Art Museum, and the Olympic Sculpture Park.
At the main museum, you’ll find an impressive collection of art from all corners of the globe. It’s known for its extensive collections of Native American and Northwest Coast art. There are over 25,000 different works of art on display here, so take your time.
In addition to the main museum, you can also pay a visit to the Olympic Sculpture Park. It’s located just a mile away (click here for directions), so it’s easy to visit both. Once an industrial site, it’s now a free public park full of unique sculptures.
The art museum is open from 10 AM-5 PM on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday-Sunday. It’s closed on Tuesday but stays open until 9 PM on Thursday.
Tickets are $29.99 for adults, $19.99 for students and teens ages 15-18, and free for kids 14 and under. If you happen to be in town on the first Thursday of the month, it’s free for everyone! Click here for directions.
Address: 1300 1st Ave, Seattle, WA 98101, United States
12. Visit the Museum of Flight
If you’re interested in air and space, you’ll want to include the Museum of Flight in your Seattle itinerary. There are over 150 aircraft on display here along with thousands of artifacts and photos.
There’s enough to see and do to spend several hours here, so this is a great thing to do in Seattle when it rains (which happens quite frequently!).
A major highlight is the Aviation Pavilion, which features an impressive collection of rare airplanes. There are WWII bombers, the first Boeing 747, and even the first jet Air Force One. You can even board some of them!
In addition to all the aircraft, they have plenty of interesting exhibits to check out, which change frequently. Click here to view a list of current exhibits and see what’s coming up.
The Museum of Flight is open daily from 10 AM-5 PM. Tickets cost $25 for adults and $16 for children. On the first Thursday of every month, the museum remains open from 5-9 PM and it’s totally free to enter. Click here to buy your tickets online for one of the best Seattle attractions. You can find the Museum of Flight on the map here.
Visit the Boeing Factory
For those airplane fanatics, you can also visit the Boeing Future of Flight at the Boeing Factory, which is about 30 miles (50 km) from the city and one of the best points of interest near Seattle, Washington. I had a great and informative time the day I went, far exceeding my expectations.
On the tour, you’ll check out the Boeing factory with a local guide and see planes at various stages of assembly. Plus, you’ll wander around the 28,000-square-foot Aviation Gallery and check out the exhibits and displays. Click here to book your tickets to the Boeing Factory and Future of Flight.
13. Watch Some Professional Sports
People in Seattle are crazy about their sports, and they express their love for their teams very loudly.
In fact, Seahawks fans have twice set the Guinness World Record for loudest crowd noise at a sporting event. The team refers to their passionate fans as the “12s,” as they basically act as the 12th player. My ears rang from days after a particular playoff game.
The Seahawks (NFL) play their home games at Lumen Field. The stadium is also home to the Seattle Sounders FC, which have been selling out home games since their debut in MLS ten years ago. If you can manage to score a ticket, you’re in for a good time.
During the summer months, you can catch the Mariners (MLS) at T-Mobile Park. With around 80 home games per season, there’s a good chance they’ll be in town if you’re visiting between May and September.
Since the 2021-2022 season, Seattle finally has an NHL team, the Seattle Kraken, which plays at the newly renovated Climate Pledge Arena in the Seattle Center.
Fun fact: Way back in 1917, the Seattle Metropolitans were the first American team to win the Stanley Cup. The NHL wasn’t even a thing at that time, as it got started later that year.
14. Experience Discovery Park
While there are plenty of excellent green spaces in the Emerald City, Discovery Park really takes the cake. This is the largest park in Seattle and is home to around 12 miles of excellent trails. It also has beaches, sand dunes, cliffs, meadows, and much more.
If it’s your first time at the park, your best bet is to start out with the Loop Trail. This 2.8-mile-long trail goes through the center of the park and branches out to other trails if you feel like exploring further.
Try to make it all the way out to the West Point Lighthouse, where you can enjoy some incredible views of the mountains and water.
Discovery Park is located on Magnolia Bluff overlooking the Puget Sound. Click here for directions. It’s definitely one of the most picturesque of all the Seattle attractions and is well worth the effort to reach.
Address: 3801 Discovery Park Blvd, Seattle, WA 98199, United States
15. Join an Underground Tour
Rounding out my list of cool things to do in Seattle is taking an interesting underground tour.
Beneath The Streets is one of the most popular Seattle attractions. On this fun and educational tour, you’ll explore subterranean sidewalks and storefronts that were built on top after the Great Fire of 1889.
This one-hour tour takes you beneath Seattle’s streets to explore three underground passageways, dating back to the 1890s. I can still remember the feeling of being transported to another world while venturing into these dark spaces.
This highly-rated tour is fun for everyone and affordable at $29. This is one of the more unique things to do in Seattle when it rains that you won’t want to miss. Click here to learn more about the tour.
Nature Trips in Seattle
Sure, there are tons of fun things to do in Seattle city itself, but since the location is right on the water and there’s so much stunning nature nearby, you must leave the city to explore a bit further. Here are a few of the top trips:
Snoqualmie Falls and Twin Falls: These stunning waterfalls are located just around an hour from Seattle, making it a great half-day trip. Of course, the falls are surrounded by stunning natural beauty as well – making it a great trip from the city. Click here to learn more and book your spot.
Go Sailing: What better way to get out on the water than on a 70foot sailboat?! On this incredible trip, you’ll have epic views of downtown Seattle & Mount Rainier. Click here to learn more and enjoy Seattle the way the locals do.
Enjoy Whale Watching: Orcas, humpback, grey and minke whales all frequent the waters here. This trip leaves from Anacortes…and 95% of the time, whales are spotted! Not only that, but you’ll see other wildlife during the trip. Click here for details.
FAQs About Visiting Seattle
Answers to some of your frequently asked questions about visiting Seattle.
What fun things are there to do in Seattle?
There are so many fun things to do in Seattle! Whether you’re into nature, museums, food, or sports, there’s something for you. The top fun activities are day-tripping to Mt. Rainer for some hiking and epic views, checking out the bustling Pike Place Market, and listening to live music at the Tractor Tavern, The Crocodile, or Dimitrou’s Jazz Alley.
What is the number one tourist attraction in Seattle?
By far, the top attraction in Seattle for tourists is the Space Needle. This ticket includes the Space Needle and the Chihuly Garden and Glass.
How many days do you need in Seattle?
I think that 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Seattle sightseeing. That way, you can spend a full day out at Mt. Rainer, and another day enjoying a lazy day on the waterfront and at Pike Place Market. Other days could be spent checking out the main attractions (Space Needle, Chihuly Garden, museums, etc.), and finally, your last full day could be spent on the water taking a cruise, or joining a food tour.
What food is Seattle known for?
There are so many foods you should try in Seattle, many of which are seafood due to the city’s location on the ocean. Don’t miss oysters, salmon, geoduck, and sushi. Plus, you have to try a Seattle Dog (hotdog, Seattle style!), coffee, and pho (Vietnamese soup).
Is Seattle a walkable city?
Absolutely Seattle is a walkable city, although to reach certain destinations, like beaches or neighborhoods outside of downtown, driving or taking public transportation is necessary.
Now You Know What to Do in Seattle
These are just some of the many interesting things to do in Seattle. There’s a lot more going on in the Emerald City, including plenty of other parks, beaches, museums, tours, and a whole lot more.
With some more time in Seattle, you can also take advantage of the many amazing day-trip opportunities. Within a few hours, you can find yourself exploring Mt. Rainier or Olympic National Park. Or perhaps you’d rather go visit a waterfall and taste some wine. The options for adventure really are endless!
After two months living in Seattle and many subsequent visits, I believe I’ve experienced the best the Emerald City has to offer.
*Images in this post are courtesy of Shutterstock.
Known as the Emerald City, Seattle just might be the most scenic metropolitan area in the United States. The largest city in the Pacific Northwest offers visitors endless things to see and do. This is one of my favourite places to visit in the USA. Seattle is surrounded by evergreen forests, mountains, and water. Even if … Read more
Known as the Emerald City, Seattle just might be the most scenic metropolitan area in the United States. The largest city in the Pacific Northwest offers visitors endless things to see and do. This is one of my favourite places to visit in the USA.
Seattle is surrounded by evergreen forests, mountains, and water. Even if you’re just in Seattle for a weekend trip, it’s enough time to enjoy many of the attractions in nature or in the city. There’s no shortage of great places to visit in Seattle.
In this guide, I’ll introduce some of the top things to do in Seattle along with lots of practical info to help you plan a great trip.
About Seattle, Washington
Seattle is located between Puget Sound and Lake Washington and has the Olympic Mountains to the west and Cascades to the east, making for some postcard-worthy scenery around every corner.
Unfortunately, it’s true that it rains quite often here. Don’t let it rain on your parade, though — there are tons of great museums and other indoor activities to keep you busy when it gets a bit wet. There are plenty of things to do in Seattle when it rains.
Seattle is also well-known for its music and sports. The grunge era started here with bands like Pearl Jam and Nirvana, and it’s now a hub for indie music and underground hip-hop.
Seattle sports fans are some of the loudest in the country as they show their unwavering support for teams like the Seahawks and Sounders. It really is amazing how you can enjoy all the amenities of a big city and yet so easily get out in nature.
15 Best Things To Do in Seattle
Here’s my list of the top 15 things to do and places to visit in Seattle. After living in the city for over 2 months and visiting there many times over the years, I’ve narrowed down my top picks for the best Seattle attractions.
1. See the Space Needle
Without a doubt, the most iconic landmark in Seattle is the Space Needle. Built for the 1962 edition of the World’s Fair, it has been a fixture in the city’s skyline ever since.
The observation deck is 520 feet (158 meters) tall, so you get to enjoy 360-degree panoramic views. On a clear day, you can see the entire city along with natural wonders such as Lake Union and Mt. Rainier. Checking out this view is a must do in Seattle, and I can’t tell you how many times I visited during my time living there.
While the Space Needle has always been one of the top places to visit in Seattle, it’s even cooler now thanks to some serious renovations.
A recent multimillion dollar upgrade added the classy lounge The Loupe, the first rotating glass floor in the world. They also added wall-to-ceiling glass and the new Skyrisers, which are tilting glass benches that provide for some unreal views of the city.
The Space Needle is open daily from 8 AM-midnight, with the last entry at 11:15. Tickets range from $37-$70 for adults, tickets depend on which package you book. This is one of the best places to visit in Seattle and is included in the Seattle CityPass. See the Space Needle and the Chihuly Garden together with this ticket.
The Space Needle is just one part of the massive Seattle Center. This hub of education, art, and entertainment has so much going on that you could easily spend an entire day here and still not do it all.
One of the top Seattle attractions you’ll find here is the International Fountain. At different points throughout the day, the fountain is synchronized to music, making for a great show that’s fun for all ages.
The Seattle Center is also home to Artists at Play — a funky playground designed by artists. There’s a climbing tower, labyrinth, carousel, and much more here. This is one of the best free things to do in Seattle and one of the first places I’d bring visitors while showing them around.
There’s much more to see and do here, including several different museums. Don’t miss the excellent Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Discovery Center. They run free group tours from Tuesday-Saturday at 2:00 PM and it’s always free to visit.
In addition to all the different attractions here, the Seattle Center also hosts thousands of events and programs throughout the year. Concerts, fitness classes, movies, festivals, and more are on tap here. Be sure to check their event calendar to see what’s going on.
Address: 305 Harrison St, Seattle, WA 98109, United States
3. See Chihuly Garden
The Chihuly Garden & Glass Museum is one of the most popular places to visit in Seattle. It’s dedicated to the stunning glasswork of Dale Chihuly, whose work can be seen in over 200 museums around the world.
Located at the Seattle Center, the museum is split into three different areas: the Garden, Interior Exhibits, and the incredible Glasshouse. My personal favorite is the Glasshouse, but be sure to see them all.
There’s also a theater that’s constantly showing short videos of Chihuly and his work. You’ll definitely want to carve out a couple of hours to take it all in.
The museum is open from 8:30 AM-8:30 PM Monday to Thursday and stays open an hour later on the weekend.
Tickets cost $35-$42.50 for adults and $30-$37.50 for kids. Entrance to the Chihuly Garden & Glass Museum is included in the Seattle CityPass, on this 3-hour “highlights tour” of Seattle, or this ticket which includes the Space Needle as well.
Finally, if you prefer to simply purchase your entrance ticket direct from the company, make sure to utilize the free audio tour on offer.
Address: 305 Harrison St, Seattle, WA 98109, United States
4. Join a Food Tour
One of the most fun things to do in Seattle is to eat your way across the city on a food tour. My personal recommendation is the Pike Place Market Chef Guided Food Tour, which lasts two hours and includes numerous bites.
Along the way, you’ll learn all about the history and culture of the market, find some small businesses and enjoy sampling all of the amazing foods on offer.
Another solid option that I’ve gone on several times is the Pike Place Market Walking Food tour which includes a guide, samples at seven artisanal food stalls, and more. Joining a food tour is one of the fun activities in Seattle for adults that should be on your list.
5. Visit the Museum of Pop Culture
Formerly known as the EMP (Experience Music Project), the Museum of Pop Culture is one of the best Seattle attractions around. Before you head inside, you’ll want to take some time to admire the stunning building from world-famous architect Frank Gehry.
Once you step inside the museum, which also goes by MoPOP, you’ll notice the impressive guitar sculpture called “If VI Was IX.” There are over 500 instruments making up this tornado-like sculpture!
Speaking of music, the museum has several permanent exhibits dedicated to Seattle’s most famous rockers: Jimi Hendrix, Nirvana, and Pearl Jam.
You can even channel your inner rockstar in their Sound Lab or take your picture in front of a packed audience in their On Stage area.
That’s not all, though. MoPop also has exhibits on fantasy, science fiction, horror, video games, comedy, and much, much more.
I’ve been to a lot of museums in my travels, and this one is definitely my favorite. Be sure to add it to your list of cool things to do in Seattle.
MoPOP is open Monday-Friday from 10 AM-6 PM and Saturday and Sunday from 9 AM-6 PM. Tickets cost around $35 for adults and $21 for children.
Address: 325 5th Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109, United States
6. Pike Place Market: One of the most famous Seattle attractions!
The Pike Place Market is one of the best places to visit in Seattle. Dating all the way back to 1907, this is one of the oldest public farmers’ markets in the United States.
By shopping at Pike Place Market, you’re doing much more than just checking off one of the best Seattle attractions. You’re supporting local farmers, artisans, and small businesses as well!
There’s so much to see (and taste) here that you’ll want to make sure you come hungry and stay awhile. Each time I visited, I not only filled my stomach, but also several shopping bags to take home with me.
In addition to the farmers’ market and crafts market, there are 80 restaurants and over 200 unique shops. With so many options, it can be a bit intimidating, but for sure it’s a must do in Seattle. Don’t miss a food tour (listed above at #4) of this market.
It’s much more than just a market, actually. It’s a community with lots of excellent initiatives, such as a senior center, food bank, and pre-school.
If you want to show some extra love, pay a visit to Rachel the Piggybank. Rub her snout and make a donation, and legend has it you’ll have good luck.
The market is only closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas. It officially gets going at 9 AM and closes at 6 PM, but you can come here as early as 6 AM for breakfast if you’re an early riser.
Head over to their website to plan your visit and browse all the various options. You can find Pike Place Market on the map here.
Address: 85 Pike Street, Seattle, WA 98101, United States
7. Enjoy Waterfront Park
After exploring Pike Place, you’re just a short walk from Waterfront Park, the next spot on my list of Seattle attractions. There are several benches and picnic tables here, so it’s the perfect place to sit down and enjoy whatever delicious food you picked up at the market.
The park is home to two different platforms where you can enjoy some fantastic views.
On a clear day, you can even see the Olympic Mountains in the distance. There are coin-operated telescopes here to help you get an even better look at the surroundings. Be sure to check out the Waterfront Fountain as well.
One of the most fun things to do in Seattle is taking a ride on the Seattle Great Wheel. This giant Ferris wheel is open from Monday to Thursday from 11 AM-10 PM, Friday and Saturday from 10 AM-11 PM and Sunday from 10 AM-10 PM.
Tickets cost $16 for adults and $11 for kids. You also have the option of splurging for a VIP ticket ($50) for their luxury gondola and a souvenir t-shirt.
Waterfront Park is a great spot to unwind after a big day of sightseeing in Seattle. It’s located between Pier 57 and 59. Click here to get directions.
Address: 1401 Alaskan Wy, Seattle, WA 98101, United States
8. Day Trip to Mount Rainier
If you have some extra time in Seattle, consider doing a day trip out to Mount Rainier, which is an active stratovolcano in the Mount Rainier National Park. This is my personal favorite spot for hiking in the area.
This towering volcano is 14,400 ft (4,390m), and in the national park, you’ll find numerous activities on offer, including hiking, camping and rock climbing.
For travelers on a day trip, hiking along one of the many trails is a top choice. During the winter months, you can trade your hiking boots for show shoes and still enjoy the trails.
Included in the trip are transportation, a knowledgeable naturalist, lunch, snacks, and entrance fees. To learn more about this top trip from Seattle, click here.
If you’d prefer a tour to Mount Rainier with the hiking optional, check out this popular tour on a minibus.
9. Take a Cruise
While Seattle looks great on land, it looks even better from the water! Taking a cruise around Elliot Bay and the Puget Sound is easily one of the most fun things to do in Seattle.
Your options for cruising range from a simple 1-hour harbor trip to overnight getaways. On these trips, I’ve spotted numerous sea birds, seals, and even dolphins.
On the budget end, you can simply take one of the local ferries to enjoy the views. The ferry to Bainbridge Island only costs $8.50 for adults and $4.25 for children, and the return trip is free. It’s a nice way to spend an afternoon without spending a ton of cash.
Argosy Cruises has been in business for 70 years and their tours are a great opportunity for Seattle sightseeing.
They have seven different options, including their one-hour cruise of Elliot Bay and the Seattle Harbor where you’ll enjoy a fully narrated trip, amazing views of the Seattle skyline, and on clear days, of Mount Rainier. A cruise with Argosy is actually included in the Seattle CityPass if you choose to go that route.
10. Walk Through Washington Park Arboretum
The Washington Park Arboretum is definitely one of the most beautiful Seattle attractions to visit. It’s my go-to choice for a quiet afternoon.
This scenic park has miles upon miles of trails and is a living collection of plants. It’s a prime example of why Seattle is known as the Emerald City and a lovely place to spend a few hours.
Spring is a very popular time to visit the park thanks to the azaleas that are in bloom. Come here in the fall and you’ll see Japanese maples and strawberry trees, creating a vibrant tapestry of colors.
The arboretum is open daily from dawn to dusk and is one of the best free places to visit in Seattle. They also have several different tours and classes as well as options for birding and boating. Check their website for all the details.
While you’re here, it’s well worth it to pay the entrance fee for the Japanese Garden ($8 for adults and $4 for children). They have free guided tours from April to October at 12:30, and you can also enjoy a traditional Japanese tea ceremony here for an extra $10.
It’s a little slice of Japan right here in Seattle!
Click here to get directions to the arboretum. The Japanese Garden is in the southwest corner of the park. Be sure to add a stop here to your list of places to visit in Seattle.
Address: 2300 Arboretum Dr E, Seattle, WA 98112, United States
11. Visit the Seattle Art Museum
Art lovers will want to experience the Seattle Art Museum, which actually consists of three different facilities: the main museum, the Asian Art Museum, and the Olympic Sculpture Park.
At the main museum, you’ll find an impressive collection of art from all corners of the globe. It’s known for its extensive collections of Native American and Northwest Coast art. There are over 25,000 different works of art on display here, so take your time.
In addition to the main museum, you can also pay a visit to the Olympic Sculpture Park. It’s located just a mile away (click here for directions), so it’s easy to visit both. Once an industrial site, it’s now a free public park full of unique sculptures.
The art museum is open from 10 AM-5 PM on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday-Sunday. It’s closed on Tuesday but stays open until 9 PM on Thursday.
Tickets are $29.99 for adults, $19.99 for students and teens ages 15-18, and free for kids 14 and under. If you happen to be in town on the first Thursday of the month, it’s free for everyone! Click here for directions.
Address: 1300 1st Ave, Seattle, WA 98101, United States
12. Visit the Museum of Flight
If you’re interested in air and space, you’ll want to include the Museum of Flight in your Seattle itinerary. There are over 150 aircraft on display here along with thousands of artifacts and photos.
There’s enough to see and do to spend several hours here, so this is a great thing to do in Seattle when it rains (which happens quite frequently!).
A major highlight is the Aviation Pavilion, which features an impressive collection of rare airplanes. There are WWII bombers, the first Boeing 747, and even the first jet Air Force One. You can even board some of them!
In addition to all the aircraft, they have plenty of interesting exhibits to check out, which change frequently. Click here to view a list of current exhibits and see what’s coming up.
The Museum of Flight is open daily from 10 AM-5 PM. Tickets cost $25 for adults and $16 for children. On the first Thursday of every month, the museum remains open from 5-9 PM and it’s totally free to enter. Click here to buy your tickets online for one of the best Seattle attractions. You can find the Museum of Flight on the map here.
Visit the Boeing Factory
For those airplane fanatics, you can also visit the Boeing Future of Flight at the Boeing Factory, which is about 30 miles (50 km) from the city and one of the best points of interest near Seattle, Washington. I had a great and informative time the day I went, far exceeding my expectations.
On the tour, you’ll check out the Boeing factory with a local guide and see planes at various stages of assembly. Plus, you’ll wander around the 28,000-square-foot Aviation Gallery and check out the exhibits and displays. Click here to book your tickets to the Boeing Factory and Future of Flight.
13. Watch Some Professional Sports
People in Seattle are crazy about their sports, and they express their love for their teams very loudly.
In fact, Seahawks fans have twice set the Guinness World Record for loudest crowd noise at a sporting event. The team refers to their passionate fans as the “12s,” as they basically act as the 12th player. My ears rang from days after a particular playoff game.
The Seahawks (NFL) play their home games at Lumen Field. The stadium is also home to the Seattle Sounders FC, which have been selling out home games since their debut in MLS ten years ago. If you can manage to score a ticket, you’re in for a good time.
During the summer months, you can catch the Mariners (MLS) at T-Mobile Park. With around 80 home games per season, there’s a good chance they’ll be in town if you’re visiting between May and September.
Since the 2021-2022 season, Seattle finally has an NHL team, the Seattle Kraken, which plays at the newly renovated Climate Pledge Arena in the Seattle Center.
Fun fact: Way back in 1917, the Seattle Metropolitans were the first American team to win the Stanley Cup. The NHL wasn’t even a thing at that time, as it got started later that year.
14. Experience Discovery Park
While there are plenty of excellent green spaces in the Emerald City, Discovery Park really takes the cake. This is the largest park in Seattle and is home to around 12 miles of excellent trails. It also has beaches, sand dunes, cliffs, meadows, and much more.
If it’s your first time at the park, your best bet is to start out with the Loop Trail. This 2.8-mile-long trail goes through the center of the park and branches out to other trails if you feel like exploring further.
Try to make it all the way out to the West Point Lighthouse, where you can enjoy some incredible views of the mountains and water.
Discovery Park is located on Magnolia Bluff overlooking the Puget Sound. Click here for directions. It’s definitely one of the most picturesque of all the Seattle attractions and is well worth the effort to reach.
Address: 3801 Discovery Park Blvd, Seattle, WA 98199, United States
15. Join an Underground Tour
Rounding out my list of cool things to do in Seattle is taking an interesting underground tour.
Beneath The Streets is one of the most popular Seattle attractions. On this fun and educational tour, you’ll explore subterranean sidewalks and storefronts that were built on top after the Great Fire of 1889.
This one-hour tour takes you beneath Seattle’s streets to explore three underground passageways, dating back to the 1890s. I can still remember the feeling of being transported to another world while venturing into these dark spaces.
This highly-rated tour is fun for everyone and affordable at $29. This is one of the more unique things to do in Seattle when it rains that you won’t want to miss. Click here to learn more about the tour.
Nature Trips in Seattle
Sure, there are tons of fun things to do in Seattle city itself, but since the location is right on the water and there’s so much stunning nature nearby, you must leave the city to explore a bit further. Here are a few of the top trips:
Snoqualmie Falls and Twin Falls: These stunning waterfalls are located just around an hour from Seattle, making it a great half-day trip. Of course, the falls are surrounded by stunning natural beauty as well – making it a great trip from the city. Click here to learn more and book your spot.
Go Sailing: What better way to get out on the water than on a 70foot sailboat?! On this incredible trip, you’ll have epic views of downtown Seattle & Mount Rainier. Click here to learn more and enjoy Seattle the way the locals do.
Enjoy Whale Watching: Orcas, humpback, grey and minke whales all frequent the waters here. This trip leaves from Anacortes…and 95% of the time, whales are spotted! Not only that, but you’ll see other wildlife during the trip. Click here for details.
FAQs About Visiting Seattle
Answers to some of your frequently asked questions about visiting Seattle.
What fun things are there to do in Seattle?
There are so many fun things to do in Seattle! Whether you’re into nature, museums, food, or sports, there’s something for you. The top fun activities are day-tripping to Mt. Rainer for some hiking and epic views, checking out the bustling Pike Place Market, and listening to live music at the Tractor Tavern, The Crocodile, or Dimitrou’s Jazz Alley.
What is the number one tourist attraction in Seattle?
By far, the top attraction in Seattle for tourists is the Space Needle. This ticket includes the Space Needle and the Chihuly Garden and Glass.
How many days do you need in Seattle?
I think that 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Seattle sightseeing. That way, you can spend a full day out at Mt. Rainer, and another day enjoying a lazy day on the waterfront and at Pike Place Market. Other days could be spent checking out the main attractions (Space Needle, Chihuly Garden, museums, etc.), and finally, your last full day could be spent on the water taking a cruise, or joining a food tour.
What food is Seattle known for?
There are so many foods you should try in Seattle, many of which are seafood due to the city’s location on the ocean. Don’t miss oysters, salmon, geoduck, and sushi. Plus, you have to try a Seattle Dog (hotdog, Seattle style!), coffee, and pho (Vietnamese soup).
Is Seattle a walkable city?
Absolutely Seattle is a walkable city, although to reach certain destinations, like beaches or neighborhoods outside of downtown, driving or taking public transportation is necessary.
Now You Know What to Do in Seattle
These are just some of the many interesting things to do in Seattle. There’s a lot more going on in the Emerald City, including plenty of other parks, beaches, museums, tours, and a whole lot more.
With some more time in Seattle, you can also take advantage of the many amazing day-trip opportunities. Within a few hours, you can find yourself exploring Mt. Rainier or Olympic National Park. Or perhaps you’d rather go visit a waterfall and taste some wine. The options for adventure really are endless!
After two months living in Seattle and many subsequent visits, I believe I’ve experienced the best the Emerald City has to offer.
*Images in this post are courtesy of Shutterstock.
taly’s colourful discourse of history, art and natural beauty brings a sense of an open-air art museum to the landscape. Tourists can visit the long-lasting ruins of Rome, lush canals to walk around in Venice, elegant Milanese shopping malls, and the permissive coasts of the Amalfi. Each city, town or village has its story of … Read more
The world is shifting the 9-5 as we know it. AI is threatening job positions, there are layoffs, recessions are looming, and meanwhile, the price of everything is going up.
We’ve been saying this for years, but your life experience, your passion, and your skills might be your biggest safety net, and your best opportunity for income going forward.
If you’re not profiting from what you love doing and what you already know, then you could be leaving a lot of potential on the table!
We’ve been huge proponents of starting something of your own — something that’s yours and can’t be taken away from you.
This is what we’ve believed since the start of Goats On The Road — wayyyy back in 2012 (yeah we’ve been around for awhile!)
But, it’s especially relevant these days.
The truth is, a lot of what we used to rely on — stable jobs, steady income, predictable growth — feels pretty shaky right now.
But, don’t worry, it’s not all doom and gloom! There’s a way for you to overcome these challenges, which is what I’ll get into in this article.
Most people think they need more credentials to start an online brand. And actually, this is where most people get stuck —spending time on certifications, waiting until they have a bigger following, and taking more courses to learn more about the topic that they already know!
We’ve come a long way since the first online brand we build back in 2012!
But the truth is:
You’re already sitting on something people would pay to learn — you just don’t realize how valuable it is (yet)!
We’ve helped more than a thousand people start online brands around their passions, skills and experiences, based on what they already know.
Meaning, they didn’t have to spend tons of time adding more to their plate…we simply helped them unpack the gold that was already there.
Your niche. Your amazing idea. Your next move…it’s found inside your skills, your experiences, and your passions.
If you’re thinking about creating something of your own (as a side hustle, or as a full-time gig), and are looking to turn your expertise into profit, this is where to start.
Create a brand that allows you to work from anywhere…like, Greece!
The 3 Buckets: Start With What You Already Have
If you’re unsure about what niche to pick or what kind of business to start, here’s the framework we’ve personally used to come up with our profitable ideas over the years, and it’s what we teach our clients as well.
It’s built on 3 ‘buckets’ that we all have access to — no matter your background, job title, or level of experience.
Note: we go deeper into this and really help you narrow down your idea in our Niche Clarity Program.
Bucket #1: Skills & Knowledge
This is the knowledge you’ve accumulated over the years. Skills you’ve learned through your career, school, certifications, training, self-education…or even just trial and error.
You might not think of it as special, because it comes naturally to you now. But to someone else, it’s exactly what they need help with.
Here are a few examples:
Maybe you’ve…
Mastered Excel spreadsheets, and you’ve built custom templates that save hours every week.
Become an expert in designing logos, editing resumes, or organizing digital files.
Figured out how to run a profitable Airbnb
Cracked the code on how to grow a YouTube channel.
Figured out a productive workflow and how to repurpose one video into a week’s worth of content.
Been (or currently are) a project manager, realtor, professional chef.
Been certified for teaching, coaching, being a personal trainer, or a yoga instructor.
Mastered data entry, bookkeeping, or using accounting software like QuickBooks.
Trained new team members and loved breaking down complex tasks into simple steps.
Ran internal events, team-building activities, or even organized office potlucks — and people saw you as the “glue.”
Take your yoga certifications and turn it into your own brand
All of these skills, all of this knowledge that you have, can all be turned into your own business. It’s just taking what you already do and already know, and deciding that you want to create something of your own.
Here are a few real-life examples from our clients:
Self-Made Millionaire and Finance Mentor turned personal coach to help beginners invest in the stock market and build wealth
Certified Yoga and Breathwork Instructor and Personal Trainer coaching women in midlife to find physical, emotional and spiritual harmony in the next chapter of their lives.
Real Estate Investor and Landlord of 15 years coaching new landlords on getting started and manage their properties with confidence
Other Examples:
Morgan Overholt was a burned-out graphic designer and quit her 9-5 to freelance full time and turn her design skills into a $100,000 per year business.
Ali Abdaal was a doctor who had to use productivity hacks just to survive his demanding work. When he realized other people could use his tools in all areas of life, he quit his job to teach it online and now earns over $4 million per year.
Greg Langstaff was a career advisor and recruiter who quit his job to teach othe people what not to do when going to job interviews. Now he makes relateable and funny videos on tiktok and now runs a multi-6-figure business offering resume reviews, and selling courses and coaching.
Here’s the thing:
What you know how to do — whether it’s from your job, your side hustle, or your own curiosity over the years — can become the foundation of your niche.
What feels obvious, easy, or boring to you, could be life-changing to someone else who’s stuck, confused, or overwhelmed. And they just don’t know where to start.
We see this all the time. People turning everyday skills into businesses — teaching what they already know. You don’t need to learn something new to get started. You just need to learn how to package what you already know in a way that helps others.
Bucket #2: Life Experiences & Your Personal Story
More often than not, the most powerful business ideas don’t come from a job or a degree — they come from what you’ve lived through…your story.
We turned our story and life experience into profit and impact
For us personally, there are a few key life experiences that we’ve already turned into profit — and could easily do again.
The biggest one was taking the leap to become entrepreneurs. To be our own boss. We knew we were meant for more and believed there had to be a way to do meaningful work we actually enjoyed.
And that belief is what draws people to our story — because they feel the same way.
We took our lived experience of building up 4 online brands, and turned it into an impactful, profitable coaching business that helps others do the same.
That’s exactly what we teach inside our Creator Kickstarter Coaching Program. Your lived experience can become the business you profit from—just like ours did.
We built Goats On The Road in 2012 and have been running multiple online brands since
We all have chapters of our story that shaped us (whether good or bad), moments that forced us to grow, adapt, or rebuild. Use those to your advantage and help others who have been in your situation.
Trust me, there are people searching for exactly that kind of guidance.
Here are a few examples:
Maybe you’ve…
Moved across the world and had to navigate a new culture, language, or legal system from scratch.
Changed careers multiple times and learned how to reinvent yourself — even when it was scary.
Gone through burnout and overwhelm (in life or in your business).
Survived a divorce.
Been through a trauma and have found hope and healing.
Had a major identity shift and found your way through.
Lost a bunch of weight and are happier, healthier and more confident than ever.
Learned how to manage money after debt.
Figured out how to co-parent peacefully.
Learned how to live a fulfilling life with chronic illness.
Navigated menopause and all the physical, emotional, and identity shifts that came with it — and came out more grounded, confident, and connected to yourself.
Left a high-demand career to prioritize your mental health, and learned how to rebuild a life with more time for family, peace, purpose, and presence.
Took a leap into solo travel after a major life change and discovered a deeper sense of confidence, joy, and self-trust.
Supported a loved one through addiction, illness, or grief and became a steady source of strength in their unstable times.
Decided to stop people-pleasing, set boundaries, and rewire the way you show up in relationships, work, and your own life
Here are a few real-life examples from our clients:
Downsizing her home and life for a retirement full of opportunities and coaching women how to do the same.
Having the trait of an HSP (Highly Sensitive Person) and coaching women on how to navigate that.
Being a child-free couple by choice and building a community for others like them.
Being an immigrant in the USA and coaching others to build credit and choose the right credit cards.
A devout Christian since the age of 7 helping families experience a deeper relationship with the Lord through coaching, reading and memorizing Scripture
We now teach others what we’ve learned about growing online brands
Other Examples:
Lisa Johnson was a single mom in the UK, with £35,000 of debt. She got through it and now sells courses and programs teaching other people how to earn income. She’s now earned over £16 million and has assisted more than 50,000 entrepreneurs.
Nadine Muller transitioned from a nursing career to becoming a personal fitness trainer, eventually moving into online coaching. By leveraging her experiences and challenges, she built a multimillion-dollar coaching business.
Kiki Ayers faced homelessness in Los Angeles but utilized her background in entertainment reporting to establish a public relations firm. By sharing her story and experiences, she built a business that generated about $3 million in 2024.
Here’s the thing:
These life experiences aren’t just personal things that happened to you…what if they happened for you?
These times in your life are packed with lessons, frameworks, and real-life tools that other people desperately need. It can become a shortcut, a roadmap, or a spark of hope for someone else.
You don’t need to be perfect or polished, you just need to be honest. Not pretending you have it all figured out, but being a few steps ahead and turning your journey into something that helps someone else.
Having an impact and helping others find solutions to their problems is what building a brand is really about.
3. Passions & Interests
Sometimes, your best idea isn’t the thing people would find on your résumé. It’s not your skills and all the knowledge you’ve accumulated…it’s actually the thing you could talk about for hours without getting bored!
Have a passion for wine? Making it? Drinking it? Learning about it?
It’s the topic that lights you up when someone asks the right question. It’s something you’re always learning more about — not because you have to, but because you actually want to.
Take Nick for example, and his passion is fly-fishing. It’s something he’s been doing since he was a kid and would spend weekends out on the lake with his Dad and Brother.
Fly fishing is something that he’s always learning more about and perfecting. You’ll find him holed up in his “mancave” tying flies, chatting with other fly-fishermen in his Viber group chat, or down by the river casting his rod!
It’s the interest that he could talk about for hours.
Nick turned his passion for fly-fishing into a business. Earning money while on the river doing what he loves? amazing!
So, he started a fly-fishing brand around his passion in 2020 and grew it to a six-figure business. Now, he makes money creating content while he’s fishing at the river! Definitely living his dream.
Here are some examples:
Maybe you…
Geek out over matcha rituals and can’t get enough of it.
Love travel hacking and finding budget travel hacks.
Are obsessed with meal prepping.
Love all things to do with makeup and beauty, or styling outfits.
Are totally interested in biohacking, astrology, or productivity tools — and your friends come to you because you explain it in a way that makes sense.
Are the go-to person in your group for planning the perfect girls’ trip.
Are the best at organizing small spaces.
Are interested in all things craft beer and have learned how to brew and make it yourself.
Love deep diving into human design and helping friends understand their charts in real life.
Are obsessed with cozy home vibes — from candle making to perfecting your Sunday reset routine.
These interests and passions are all things that you could turn into something that helps others and makes you money.
Here are a few real-life examples from our clients:
A couple living in NYC with a love for travel and their city, running a travel planning business and creating curated itineraries and trips to NYC for busy professionals
A travel-hacking expert helping others plan trips and experience the world while spending less
A couple obsessed with quick getaways and not wasting any time off, they share the best itineraries for 48 hour quick turn adventures
A cat lover helping other pet parents with their cat’s health and weight loss
A lover of holistic strategies and overall wellness helping remote workers escape digital overwhelm and simplify their life
Other Examples:
Nick (of Goats On The Road) turned his passion for fly fishing into an online brand that helps beginners pick the right gear without breaking the bank. That business earned $8,440 on its 12th month after launching!
Joshua Weissman was a burned out chef who turned his love of cooking (particularly fermentation) into a multi-million dollar YouTube empire.
Sandra James was laid off from her £50,000/year job in financial services so she decided to turn her love for cats into a business. She founded The Cat Butler, an exclusive cat-sitting service in the UK. She launched it in 2015 and now it earns about £200,000 annually.
Here’s the thing:
When it comes to passions and interests, you don’t need to be an “expert”, you don’t need to have a degree or a huge following.
You just need to be a few steps ahead of the person you’re helping — and know and care enough about the topic to guide them.
If you love the topic and you’re SO passionate about it, and you’re willing to show up and share what you’ve learned, someone out there will be so glad you did. People are looking for someone real, someone who gets it, and someone who makes it feel possible.
Stop Overthinking and Chose One Thing to Start
You don’t need to be an influencer, good at tech, or into marketing. Most of our clients aren’t. And actually, most of them started without having any idea of what they could share with the world!
Your age and tech abilities don’t matter
Our clients are regular people just like you — aged 24 to 70. They’re travelers, moms, immigrants, couples, retirees, creatives, side-hustlers, and 9-5ers who finally said:
“I’m done wasting time building up someone else’s business. I want to create something that actually has an impact. Something I love doing.”
If you want to go deeper with everything you’ve learned in this article, we’re here to help. The first step is coming up with your perfect niche and idea…one that’s aligned with you. One that gets you excited!
That’s what we help you figure out inside our Niche Clarity Program. You’ll learn how your skills, life experiences and passions matter, and how they can be packaged up and turned into an impactful brand and product that you can sell.
It’s your first step toward building something real — from the life you’ve already lived.
If you’re the type of person who’s ready to take the leap, bet on yourself, and finally build something that reflects who you really are…you’re exactly who our full coaching program was made for. Click here to email us for information on our Creator Kickstarter program.
The world is shifting the 9-5 as we know it. AI is threatening job positions, there are layoffs, recessions are looming, and meanwhile, the price of everything is going up. We’ve been saying this for years, but your life experience, your passion, and your skills might be your biggest safety net, and your best opportunity … Read more
The world is shifting the 9-5 as we know it. AI is threatening job positions, there are layoffs, recessions are looming, and meanwhile, the price of everything is going up.
We’ve been saying this for years, but your life experience, your passion, and your skills might be your biggest safety net, and your best opportunity for income going forward.
If you’re not profiting from what you love doing and what you already know, then you could be leaving a lot of potential on the table!
We’ve been huge proponents of starting something of your own — something that’s yours and can’t be taken away from you.
This is what we’ve believed since the start of Goats On The Road — wayyyy back in 2012 (yeah we’ve been around for awhile!)
But, it’s especially relevant these days.
The truth is, a lot of what we used to rely on — stable jobs, steady income, predictable growth — feels pretty shaky right now.
But, don’t worry, it’s not all doom and gloom! There’s a way for you to overcome these challenges, which is what I’ll get into in this article.
Most people think they need more credentials to start an online brand. And actually, this is where most people get stuck —spending time on certifications, waiting until they have a bigger following, and taking more courses to learn more about the topic that they already know!
We’ve come a long way since the first online brand we build back in 2012!
But the truth is:
You’re already sitting on something people would pay to learn — you just don’t realize how valuable it is (yet)!
We’ve helped more than a thousand people start online brands around their passions, skills and experiences, based on what they already know.
Meaning, they didn’t have to spend tons of time adding more to their plate…we simply helped them unpack the gold that was already there.
Your niche. Your amazing idea. Your next move…it’s found inside your skills, your experiences, and your passions.
If you’re thinking about creating something of your own (as a side hustle, or as a full-time gig), and are looking to turn your expertise into profit, this is where to start.
Create a brand that allows you to work from anywhere…like, Greece!
The 3 Buckets: Start With What You Already Have
If you’re unsure about what niche to pick or what kind of business to start, here’s the framework we’ve personally used to come up with our profitable ideas over the years, and it’s what we teach our clients as well.
It’s built on 3 ‘buckets’ that we all have access to — no matter your background, job title, or level of experience.
Note: we go deeper into this and really help you narrow down your idea in our Niche Clarity Program.
Bucket #1: Skills & Knowledge
This is the knowledge you’ve accumulated over the years. Skills you’ve learned through your career, school, certifications, training, self-education…or even just trial and error.
You might not think of it as special, because it comes naturally to you now. But to someone else, it’s exactly what they need help with.
Here are a few examples:
Maybe you’ve…
Mastered Excel spreadsheets, and you’ve built custom templates that save hours every week.
Become an expert in designing logos, editing resumes, or organizing digital files.
Figured out how to run a profitable Airbnb
Cracked the code on how to grow a YouTube channel.
Figured out a productive workflow and how to repurpose one video into a week’s worth of content.
Been (or currently are) a project manager, realtor, professional chef.
Been certified for teaching, coaching, being a personal trainer, or a yoga instructor.
Mastered data entry, bookkeeping, or using accounting software like QuickBooks.
Trained new team members and loved breaking down complex tasks into simple steps.
Ran internal events, team-building activities, or even organized office potlucks — and people saw you as the “glue.”
Take your yoga certifications and turn it into your own brand
All of these skills, all of this knowledge that you have, can all be turned into your own business. It’s just taking what you already do and already know, and deciding that you want to create something of your own.
Here are a few real-life examples from our clients:
Self-Made Millionaire and Finance Mentor turned personal coach to help beginners invest in the stock market and build wealth
Certified Yoga and Breathwork Instructor and Personal Trainer coaching women in midlife to find physical, emotional and spiritual harmony in the next chapter of their lives.
Real Estate Investor and Landlord of 15 years coaching new landlords on getting started and manage their properties with confidence
Other Examples:
Morgan Overholt was a burned-out graphic designer and quit her 9-5 to freelance full time and turn her design skills into a $100,000 per year business.
Ali Abdaal was a doctor who had to use productivity hacks just to survive his demanding work. When he realized other people could use his tools in all areas of life, he quit his job to teach it online and now earns over $4 million per year.
Greg Langstaff was a career advisor and recruiter who quit his job to teach othe people what not to do when going to job interviews. Now he makes relateable and funny videos on tiktok and now runs a multi-6-figure business offering resume reviews, and selling courses and coaching.
Here’s the thing:
What you know how to do — whether it’s from your job, your side hustle, or your own curiosity over the years — can become the foundation of your niche.
What feels obvious, easy, or boring to you, could be life-changing to someone else who’s stuck, confused, or overwhelmed. And they just don’t know where to start.
We see this all the time. People turning everyday skills into businesses — teaching what they already know. You don’t need to learn something new to get started. You just need to learn how to package what you already know in a way that helps others.
Bucket #2: Life Experiences & Your Personal Story
More often than not, the most powerful business ideas don’t come from a job or a degree — they come from what you’ve lived through…your story.
We turned our story and life experience into profit and impact
For us personally, there are a few key life experiences that we’ve already turned into profit — and could easily do again.
The biggest one was taking the leap to become entrepreneurs. To be our own boss. We knew we were meant for more and believed there had to be a way to do meaningful work we actually enjoyed.
And that belief is what draws people to our story — because they feel the same way.
We took our lived experience of building up 4 online brands, and turned it into an impactful, profitable coaching business that helps others do the same.
That’s exactly what we teach inside our Creator Kickstarter Coaching Program. Your lived experience can become the business you profit from—just like ours did.
We built Goats On The Road in 2012 and have been running multiple online brands since
We all have chapters of our story that shaped us (whether good or bad), moments that forced us to grow, adapt, or rebuild. Use those to your advantage and help others who have been in your situation.
Trust me, there are people searching for exactly that kind of guidance.
Here are a few examples:
Maybe you’ve…
Moved across the world and had to navigate a new culture, language, or legal system from scratch.
Changed careers multiple times and learned how to reinvent yourself — even when it was scary.
Gone through burnout and overwhelm (in life or in your business).
Survived a divorce.
Been through a trauma and have found hope and healing.
Had a major identity shift and found your way through.
Lost a bunch of weight and are happier, healthier and more confident than ever.
Learned how to manage money after debt.
Figured out how to co-parent peacefully.
Learned how to live a fulfilling life with chronic illness.
Navigated menopause and all the physical, emotional, and identity shifts that came with it — and came out more grounded, confident, and connected to yourself.
Left a high-demand career to prioritize your mental health, and learned how to rebuild a life with more time for family, peace, purpose, and presence.
Took a leap into solo travel after a major life change and discovered a deeper sense of confidence, joy, and self-trust.
Supported a loved one through addiction, illness, or grief and became a steady source of strength in their unstable times.
Decided to stop people-pleasing, set boundaries, and rewire the way you show up in relationships, work, and your own life
Here are a few real-life examples from our clients:
Downsizing her home and life for a retirement full of opportunities and coaching women how to do the same.
Having the trait of an HSP (Highly Sensitive Person) and coaching women on how to navigate that.
Being a child-free couple by choice and building a community for others like them.
Being an immigrant in the USA and coaching others to build credit and choose the right credit cards.
A devout Christian since the age of 7 helping families experience a deeper relationship with the Lord through coaching, reading and memorizing Scripture
We now teach others what we’ve learned about growing online brands
Other Examples:
Lisa Johnson was a single mom in the UK, with £35,000 of debt. She got through it and now sells courses and programs teaching other people how to earn income. She’s now earned over £16 million and has assisted more than 50,000 entrepreneurs.
Nadine Muller transitioned from a nursing career to becoming a personal fitness trainer, eventually moving into online coaching. By leveraging her experiences and challenges, she built a multimillion-dollar coaching business.
Kiki Ayers faced homelessness in Los Angeles but utilized her background in entertainment reporting to establish a public relations firm. By sharing her story and experiences, she built a business that generated about $3 million in 2024.
Here’s the thing:
These life experiences aren’t just personal things that happened to you…what if they happened for you?
These times in your life are packed with lessons, frameworks, and real-life tools that other people desperately need. It can become a shortcut, a roadmap, or a spark of hope for someone else.
You don’t need to be perfect or polished, you just need to be honest. Not pretending you have it all figured out, but being a few steps ahead and turning your journey into something that helps someone else.
Having an impact and helping others find solutions to their problems is what building a brand is really about.
3. Passions & Interests
Sometimes, your best idea isn’t the thing people would find on your résumé. It’s not your skills and all the knowledge you’ve accumulated…it’s actually the thing you could talk about for hours without getting bored!
Have a passion for wine? Making it? Drinking it? Learning about it?
It’s the topic that lights you up when someone asks the right question. It’s something you’re always learning more about — not because you have to, but because you actually want to.
Take Nick for example, and his passion is fly-fishing. It’s something he’s been doing since he was a kid and would spend weekends out on the lake with his Dad and Brother.
Fly fishing is something that he’s always learning more about and perfecting. You’ll find him holed up in his “mancave” tying flies, chatting with other fly-fishermen in his Viber group chat, or down by the river casting his rod!
It’s the interest that he could talk about for hours.
Nick turned his passion for fly-fishing into a business. Earning money while on the river doing what he loves? amazing!
So, he started a fly-fishing brand around his passion in 2020 and grew it to a six-figure business. Now, he makes money creating content while he’s fishing at the river! Definitely living his dream.
Here are some examples:
Maybe you…
Geek out over matcha rituals and can’t get enough of it.
Love travel hacking and finding budget travel hacks.
Are obsessed with meal prepping.
Love all things to do with makeup and beauty, or styling outfits.
Are totally interested in biohacking, astrology, or productivity tools — and your friends come to you because you explain it in a way that makes sense.
Are the go-to person in your group for planning the perfect girls’ trip.
Are the best at organizing small spaces.
Are interested in all things craft beer and have learned how to brew and make it yourself.
Love deep diving into human design and helping friends understand their charts in real life.
Are obsessed with cozy home vibes — from candle making to perfecting your Sunday reset routine.
These interests and passions are all things that you could turn into something that helps others and makes you money.
Here are a few real-life examples from our clients:
A couple living in NYC with a love for travel and their city, running a travel planning business and creating curated itineraries and trips to NYC for busy professionals
A travel-hacking expert helping others plan trips and experience the world while spending less
A couple obsessed with quick getaways and not wasting any time off, they share the best itineraries for 48 hour quick turn adventures
A cat lover helping other pet parents with their cat’s health and weight loss
A lover of holistic strategies and overall wellness helping remote workers escape digital overwhelm and simplify their life
Other Examples:
Nick (of Goats On The Road) turned his passion for fly fishing into an online brand that helps beginners pick the right gear without breaking the bank. That business earned $8,440 on its 12th month after launching!
Joshua Weissman was a burned out chef who turned his love of cooking (particularly fermentation) into a multi-million dollar YouTube empire.
Sandra James was laid off from her £50,000/year job in financial services so she decided to turn her love for cats into a business. She founded The Cat Butler, an exclusive cat-sitting service in the UK. She launched it in 2015 and now it earns about £200,000 annually.
Here’s the thing:
When it comes to passions and interests, you don’t need to be an “expert”, you don’t need to have a degree or a huge following.
You just need to be a few steps ahead of the person you’re helping — and know and care enough about the topic to guide them.
If you love the topic and you’re SO passionate about it, and you’re willing to show up and share what you’ve learned, someone out there will be so glad you did. People are looking for someone real, someone who gets it, and someone who makes it feel possible.
Stop Overthinking and Chose One Thing to Start
You don’t need to be an influencer, good at tech, or into marketing. Most of our clients aren’t. And actually, most of them started without having any idea of what they could share with the world!
Your age and tech abilities don’t matter
Our clients are regular people just like you — aged 24 to 70. They’re travelers, moms, immigrants, couples, retirees, creatives, side-hustlers, and 9-5ers who finally said:
“I’m done wasting time building up someone else’s business. I want to create something that actually has an impact. Something I love doing.”
If you want to go deeper with everything you’ve learned in this article, we’re here to help. The first step is coming up with your perfect niche and idea…one that’s aligned with you. One that gets you excited!
That’s what we help you figure out inside our Niche Clarity Program. You’ll learn how your skills, life experiences and passions matter, and how they can be packaged up and turned into an impactful brand and product that you can sell.
It’s your first step toward building something real — from the life you’ve already lived.
If you’re the type of person who’s ready to take the leap, bet on yourself, and finally build something that reflects who you really are…you’re exactly who our full coaching program was made for. Click here to email us for information on our Creator Kickstarter program.
