Province of Bari

Puglia
Polignano a Mare featuring rocky coastline and a beach as well as a large group of people
Travel around a southern Italian province that offers fabulous beaches, centuries-old churches, traditional limestone homes, scenic villages and geological marvels.

With long stretches of coast, a green countryside, karst cave systems and historical churches and cathedrals, Bari charms with its history and natural beauty. Appreciate 13th-century religious architecture, explore subterranean worlds and relax on beautiful beaches.

The province is situated in the center of the region of Puglia and is the home of its capital city, also called Bari. This large port city on the Adriatic Sea is rich with sightseeing opportunities. Visit the Basilica San Nicola, which is dedicated to the patron saint of the city and contains his remains. Bari's other main church is Bari Cathedral, which was completed in the 13th century.

Enjoy a stroll through the narrow lanes and alleys of the old quarter, stopping at the bars, cafés and souvenir shops. More shopping opportunities await along the pedestrianized Via Sparano in the modern part of the city. This is where you will find many big name high street brands.

Drive west from the city for about 40 minutes until you reach Ruvo di Puglia. The town is known for its vineyards and olive groves and for its late Romanesque 13th-century cathedral.

Venture down to the south of the province, known as the Land of the Trulli after the traditional cone-roofed limestone houses. You will see them scattered throughout the countryside, but the biggest concentration is to be found in the town of Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Bari is also a beach destination and a place where you can explore natural marvels. Stretch out on the gorgeous sandy expanses of Lido di Monopoli and Polignano a Mare. Tour the Grotto del Trullo, an underground world of stalactites and stalagmites. It is situated beneath a trullo near the town of Putignano.

Reach Bari by flying into the capital city's airport. You can also arrive by boat if coming across the Adriatic from Greece, Croatia, Albania and Montenegro. Get around to the province's captivating natural and historical attractions by car or public transportation.