Article Surfing Archive

Italy has long been one of Europe's most popular touring destinations and it's easy to see why. Between the delicious local cuisine and the stunning countryside, Italy is difficult to beat when it comes to scenic drives. From charming country villages to bustling cities and culture-laden museums and galleries, you'll find unlimited opportunities for fun and adventures. Wherever you travel in Italy, you'll always be met with charming locals and friendly welcomes. The following is a guide to how best to spend your time in the greatly undiscovered city of Bari.

Bari Airport Mini Guide:

Bari Airport is situated 11km from the Italian city of Bari. The airport is served by a number of international airlines, including: budget airline Ryanair, Lufthansa, British Airways and Alitalia. The airport offers a range of services and facilities for passengers including: duty-free shopping, gift shops, caf's, bars and restaurants.

Things To See/Do in Bari:

The city of Bari is situated in the Puglia region of southern Italy. It's easy to see why Bari is becoming one of Italy's most popular short break destinations. Bari offers a range of fine cultural and historical attractions as well as excellent sandy beaches within a few minutes walk or drive.

The city of Bari comprises an Old Town, which is bordered by the turquoise Adriatic, and an impressive New Town, which boasts trendy restaurants shops and bars. One way to see what the city has to offer in terms of history and culture is to go on a walking tour. The Bascilica of St Nicholas, located in the centre of the old Town is definitely worth a look. The church was established in 1087 to house the stolen remains of St Nicholas.

Visitors to Bari will find the old town especially attractive. Here historic sites such as the Bascilica St Nicholas and Pinacoteca Provinciale Museum will definitely appeal to those looking to learn something about Bari's fascinating heritage. A passegiata (evening stroll) along the city's picturesque Corso Vittorio Emanuele II is the perfect way to wind down after a busy day of shopping and sightseeing in Bari.

There are plenty of other attractive towns in the surrounding area worthy of a journey by hire car. The pretty town of Altamura is definitely worth a visit, if only to taste its famous thick and crispy 'citt' del pane' award-winning bread.

Driving north of Bari by hire car, the beautiful gardens and elegant palazzo of Museo Jatta di Ruvo are also worth exploring.

Eating Out/Nightlife/Accommodation in Bari:

Bari is the birthplace of many traditional pasta dishes including orecchiette con le rape, a pasta dish served with an assortment of vegetables and anchovies. Given Bari's coastal location, seafood is another popular feature on menus. Patate e cozze (potatoes and mussels) and zuppe di pesce (fish soup) are other local menu staples. Hosteria al Gambero on via de Tullia offer excellent value in terms of high quality low cost seafood fare.

Dining out in Bari is a delight, whatever your budget or preference. In fact, many people visit Bari for the food alone. If you feel spoilt for choice, note that seafood and fish dishes are especially recommended. There's a great selection on offer in Bari, guaranteed to be 'net fresh' too. Local favourites worth sampling include oysters, clams, lobster and prawns. If fish isn't for you, you'll find plenty of other low cost options including the old reliable pizza and pasta and Puglia's signature dish, Orecchiete con le rape, (ear-shaped pasta stuffed with vegetables and anchovies).

In general, Bari has a relaxed, laid-back nightlife, centring on the piazzas and caf' bar culture. Lively after-dark entertainment can be found at vibrant clubs like Garg' on via Pallazzo di Citt'. In the summer months the Old Town hosts a number of free open-air music and theatre events and festivals. On May 8th Bari holds an annual day of festivity and parades in honour of its patron, Saint Nicholas.

Bari offers a range of good quality accommodation, with something to suit every budget and taste. Those seeking first class luxury are sure to find it at The Mercure Hotel Villa Romanazzi Carducci, situated on Via Giuseppe Capruzzi. Meanwhile simple budget lodgings are to be found at low cost hostels and hotels like Bed & Breakfast Bari Marat, which is located close to the train station.