Collection: Bari

Savoring Bari's Culinary Delights

Bari, the capital of Puglia, is a treasure trove of gastronomic experiences. Begin your culinary journey at the bustling Mercato di Santa Scolastica, where locals haggle over fresh produce and seafood. Here, sample the region's famous burrata cheese, a creamy delicacy that melts in your mouth.

For a true taste of Bari, head to the narrow streets of Bari Vecchia (Old Town) and watch the skilled "orecchiette ladies" hand-craft the city's signature ear-shaped pasta. Join a pasta-making workshop to learn this centuries-old tradition yourself.

Sipping Through Puglia's Vineyards

Puglia's wine scene is as rich as its history. Take a day trip to the nearby Castel del Monte wine region, famous for its robust reds. Visit family-run vineyards like Torrevento or Rivera to taste the local Nero di Troia and Bombino Nero varieties. Back in Bari, unwind at Enoteca Vinarius, a charming wine bar offering an extensive selection of regional wines paired with local cheeses and cured meats.

Immersing in Bari's Cultural Tapestry

Delve into Bari's rich cultural heritage at the Castello Svevo, a 12th-century Norman-Hohenstaufen Castle. Explore its museum and climb the towers for panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea. For a dose of religious history, visit the Basilica di San Nicola, home to the relics of St. Nicholas (yes, the inspiration for Santa Claus!).

Art enthusiasts shouldn't miss the Pinacoteca Provinciale, housing an impressive collection of Apulian art from the 11th to the 19th centuries. For a more contemporary experience, check out the Teatroteam for live performances ranging from opera to modern dance.

Embracing Bari's Seaside Charm

Bari's coastal location offers ample opportunities for seaside relaxation. Stroll along the Lungomare Nazario Sauro, the city's elegant seafront promenade, and watch fishermen mend their nets. For a refreshing dip, head to Pane e Pomodoro Beach, a popular urban beach just minutes from the city center.

Discovering Bari's Hidden Gems

Venture off the beaten path to the Quartiere Umbertino, Bari's Liberty-style neighborhood. Admire the ornate Art Nouveau buildings and stop by Pasticceria Mercantile for a coffee and pasticciotto, a traditional Puglian pastry filled with custard cream.

For a unique cultural experience, attend a performance of "La Notte della Taranta," a festival celebrating the traditional pizzica dance. If you're lucky enough to visit in May, don't miss the Festa di San Nicola, a three-day celebration honoring the city's patron saint, complete with a colorful boat procession.

Indulging in Bari's Street Food Scene

No visit to Bari is complete without sampling its iconic street food. Try the legendary focaccia barese, a thick, pillowy flatbread topped with tomatoes and olives. For seafood lovers, sgagliozze (fried polenta squares) and popizze (fried dough balls often filled with salt cod) are must-tries. End your culinary adventure with a scoop of gelato from Martinucci Laboratory, known for its innovative flavors like ricotta and pear.

Exploring Bari's Artisanal Crafts

Immerse yourself in Bari's artisanal traditions by visiting local workshops. Watch skilled craftsmen create beautiful ceramics at Ceramiche Fasano or intricate papier-mâché figures at La Bottega dei Figurinai. For a unique souvenir, pick up a hand-carved Puglian whistle, known as a fischietto, a symbol of good luck and a testament to the region's rich folklore.