Bari is filled with historic landmarks, yet it has an appealingly youthful and vibrant side. There are grand boulevards, a large university, a sturdy castle, an opera house - and some of the liveliest nightlife in Puglia. This is also where you’ll find the bones of St. Nicholas - better known as Santa Claus - in the striking Basilica di San Nicola. Bari is also an excellent stop on a journey to Greece or Croatia, and there are regular onward ferry connections from the port. Some of the best places to stay in Bari are just outside of the city in converted Masseria or historic farms, but most of our recommendations are intimate B&Bs in the attractive Old Town.

Bari’s ancient Old Town is close to the port and still follows the original medieval street plan. The hub of pre-Roman and Roman Bari, it is dotted with historic buildings and sites, perfect for losing yourself down little side streets, and savouring simple cuisine in bustling local eateries. You’ll want to visit Santa’s bones, of course, but the 11th century Basilica they’re housed in is also well worth admiring. Gaze up to spot the gold ceiling and impressive chandelier, before venturing down into the atmospheric crypt. Other heritage attractions include the city's lovely cathedral, and the 12th-century castle, built by Roger the Norman over the ruins of an earlier Byzantine structure. Although much of the edifice has been rebuilt, the original Norman towers remain. Some of our favourites Bari B&Bs offer spellbinding views of the castle and the city's charming rooftops.

With a lots to entice foodies and history buffs, Puglia is very popular and many of the best places to stay in Bari are quickly snapped up. Book your stay well in advance to avoid missing out!

The best places to stay in Bari

For glorious views

• Mercantile Suites features two self-catering apartments in Bari's Old Town with impressive panoramas of the marina. Pick this place for a sense of independence and beautiful period touches -- including hardwood floors and antique furnishings. Minimalist Italian style and gorgeous sea views. One for the grown-ups!
• Palazzo Calo offers luxurious contemporary studio apartments in a charming historic building. Think exposed stone walls and arches, with white-on-white designer interiors. The deluxe split-level suites are our top choice, and the views across Bari from the roof terrace are wonderfully romantic in the evenings.
• 200 Rooms and Terrace is a bright, fresh-feeling B&B in the Murattiano district. The four rooms are elegant and modern, with desks, plants and lots of storage. Head up to the rooftop terrace to admire the city's skyline from cosy chairs on the astroturf! Cool and contemporary, with fabulously friendly hosts.
• Al Pescatore B&B includes six smart, ultra-modern rooms decorated in soothing creams and greys. The vibe is appealingly laid-back, delicious breakfasts are served at a convivial communal table, and some of the rooms boast views of the historic castle fortifications. A friendly spot, with ample opportunity to chat to fellow guests over breakfast, or whilst gazing out over the port from the rooftop, glass of wine in hand!

For Boutique Chic

• Dilman Luxury Stay is a superb boutique hotel in the Bari's buzzing centre. White-on-white rooms are bright and airy, with little private terraces and big baths, perfect for an indulgent soak. Book a 'Relax' room for the whirlpool bathtub and sauna, or pick the self-catering suite if you're eager to rustle up a round of aperitivos before venturing out for the evening. Smart, modern and luxurious.

For great value

• B&B Murex promises four cosy bedrooms opposite Bari's Norman castle. Expect exposed stone walls, minimalist modern furnishings, flat-screen TVs and smart bathrooms. Simple, comfortable and well-located, this is a great value base for exploring the city or hitting the beach.
• Bozzi 1910 has an elegant Parisian feel, with a cream and light purple palette in three self-catering apartments and one bedroom. With the option to interconnect the one-bedroom apartments, this B&B is ideal for families or groups of friends looking for a reasonably priced stay. Stylish and fun.

For an Apartment or Villa

• If you’d prefer a self-catering option, we recommend you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Want to fly to Bari?

• Alitalia and British Airways fly from the UK to Bari Airport, and it’s connected to a number of other European destinations. You can catch a bus, a taxi, or the metro - which takes about 20 minutes - from the airport to the centre of town.
• If you want to hire a car - which we highly recommend if you’re staying in Bari and want to see Puglia - we recommend you visit our online partner Rentalcars.
• Bari’s Saint is Saint Nicholas, celebrated on both the 6th of December and the 6th - 8th of May -- both exceptional times to be in town. With the average temperature around 24°C in July and August, this is the best time weather-wise to visit Bari and Puglia. June is the driest month, and the amount of rainfall slowly increases throughout the summer. That said, October can still be warm and lovely, with temperatures up to 21°C and far fewer tourists around!

Still not sure where to stay?

• You could expand your search to include the best places to stay in Puglia?
• Or include some of the best places to stay in nearby Ostuni too? or the best places to stay in Savelletri? or Brindisi?
• You might want to refine your search by the kind of accommodation you’re looking for, and consider the the best beach hotels in Puglia? or the most romantic hotels in Puglia? or the best hotels in Puglia with a private beach?
• Or you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Bari