Bari, Italy

Bari's most captivating area is the labyrinthine Bari Vecchia (Old Town), which is a short walk from the port. Here you can see local women skillfully making orecchiette pasta by hand in the streets.

Within the Old Town, the Basilica di San Nicola is a must-see. This 11th-century basilica is a major pilgrimage destination, holding the relics of Saint Nicholas.

Guarding the entrance to the Old Town is the formidable Castello Normanno-Svevo. This Norman-Swabian castle offers historical exhibits and panoramic views of the city and sea.

Also worth visiting is the Cattedrale di San Sabino, another beautiful example of Apulian Romanesque architecture with an impressive interior and archaeological area beneath.

A popular day trip from Bari is to Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its unique conical-roofed stone huts called trulli. It is located about 55 kilometers south of Bari, which is approximately a one-hour drive.

Another stunning nearby destination is Polignano a Mare, a picturesque town perched on limestone cliffs overlooking the Adriatic Sea. It's just 35 kilometers away and can be reached in about 40 minutes by car or train.

For those on a longer port call, the ancient city of Matera, known for its Sassi cave dwellings, is another incredible UNESCO site. It is approximately 65 kilometers away, requiring a drive of at least one hour and fifteen minutes.

The Bari cruise port, Stazione Marittima, is conveniently located on the northern edge of the city, adjacent to the historic old town (Bari Vecchia). Cruise ships dock directly at the pier, so tendering is not necessary.

The main attractions in the old town are within easy walking distance, approximately a 15 to 20-minute stroll from where the ships dock. Because of this proximity, many passengers choose to explore on foot without needing additional transportation.

While some cruise lines may offer shuttle buses to the modern city center, it is generally not required for those wishing to see the historic sights. The terminal building itself has basic facilities, with a wider array of cafes and shops located just outside the port area in the city.

The official currency in Bari is the Euro (€). While some tourist-focused shops might occasionally accept US dollars, it is not common, and the exchange rate will be unfavorable.

ATMs, known locally as 'Bancomat', are widely available throughout the city for withdrawing Euros. Credit cards, especially Visa and Mastercard, are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger stores.

It is advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases at cafes, markets, or for transportation.

Bari is generally considered a safe city for tourists, especially in the main tourist areas during the day. Independent exploration is common and encouraged.

As in any major European city, visitors should be mindful of their surroundings and watch out for pickpockets, particularly in crowded areas like the Old Town's narrow streets and near the central train station. It is wise to keep valuables secured and avoid displaying expensive items openly.

While the Old Town has become much safer over the years, it is still advisable to stick to well-lit main pathways if walking around after dark. Using common sense and being aware of your environment will contribute to a safe and enjoyable visit.

Bari enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wetter winters. The main cruise season from spring through autumn offers generally pleasant weather for touring.

Spring (April-May) is mild and comfortable, with temperatures ranging from 15-22°C (60-72°F). Summers (June-August) are hot and sunny, with temperatures frequently rising above 30°C (86°F).

Autumn (September-October) remains warm, but the chance of rain increases as the season progresses. Passengers should pack light clothing, comfortable walking shoes, sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen for summer visits. A light jacket or sweater is recommended for cooler evenings or for travel during the shoulder seasons.

Many of Bari's main attractions, especially in the Old Town, are easily accessible on foot from the cruise terminal. For destinations further afield, several transportation options are available.

Taxis are readily available at the cruise port, and fares are metered. The local public bus system, operated by AMTAB, covers the city extensively. Bus tickets must be purchased from a tobacconist ('tabacchi') or newsstand before boarding.

For reaching nearby towns like Polignano a Mare or Alberobello, the main train station, Bari Centrale, is the primary hub. It is located about 2.5 kilometers from the port and is best reached by a short taxi ride. You can find train schedules on the official Trenitalia website.

Bari offers excellent shopping opportunities for cruise visitors. The main shopping district is in the modern Murat quarter, particularly along Via Sparano da Bari, which features high-end Italian brands and designer boutiques.

For more variety, Corso Cavour and Via Manzoni offer a mix of popular international brands and local shops. Within the Old Town (Bari Vecchia), you'll find small artisan shops selling local crafts and souvenirs.

Look for local specialties such as hand-made orecchiette pasta, flavorful Apulian olive oil, Taralli crackers, and regional wines. Traditional handicrafts include ceramic goods and terracotta whistles known as 'fischetto'. Prices in stores are fixed, but you may find some room for haggling at open-air market stalls.