Finding where to stay in Bari as a first-time visitor can be a headache. That’s why, in today’s article, I will help you to find the safe places to stay in Bari for first-time visitors.
I will share with you what I believe are the best and safest areas to stay in Bari for first-timers and tourists, along with a helpful map and areas to avoid. I’ll also share where I stayed in Bari and recommend some of the best hotels in Bari for various budgets.
Before get into the detail of the main topic, let’s look at some facts about Bari:
Bari is an interesting destination and the capital of the Apulia (Puglia) region, in the southern part of Italy. It is the second-largest city in southern Italy after Naples.
Bari has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. The old town is home to many narrow streets, historic buildings, and landmarks such as the Basilica di San Nicola. The cathedral and the Swabian Castle are also notable historical sites.
Port of Bari is a major transportation hub, connecting Italy with various destinations in the Adriatic, including Greece and Croatia. It plays a crucial role in both passenger and cargo transportation.
Like many Italian cities, Bari has a vibrant culinary scene. The region of Apulia is known for its olive oil, wine, and fresh seafood. Local dishes include orecchiette pasta, focaccia, and various seafood specialties.
Bari has a well-developed transportation infrastructure. Apart from the port, the city has an international airport (Karol Wojtyła Airport) and is connected to the Italian railway network.
Is Bari safe to visit?
Yes, Bari is generally considered safe for tourists. But, like any urban area, you should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas and around bus/train stations. It’s recommended to stay in well-traveled areas, and avoid walking alone in narrow/dark alleys at night.
Where to stay in Bari for the first time?
The best and safe areas to stay in Bari for first-timers and tourists are Murat, Old Town, Central Station, Bari Seafront/Pane e Pomodoro Beach, and Bari Palese/Airport. It is always important to be aware of your surroundings and use your common sense wherever you go.
Murat is a great base for those who want a central location for easy access to historical landmarks, shopping streets, and public transportation. It is the modern city center, located between the old town and the central station, offering a vibrant atmosphere with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.
Old Town (Bari Vecchia) is the great location for those who want to stay in the historic heart of the city. This area is known for its narrow winding streets, historic architecture, and the Basilica di San Nicola. It offers a charming atmosphere and a chance to experience traditional local life.
Bari Centrale is a convenient choice for those who want to stay near the train station to explore other parts of the Apulia region. It is not the safest, but it is not dangerous either. As in any Italian station, there is a risk of pickpocketing, so exercise extra caution in this area and avoid walking alone at night.
You can also consider booking accommodation close to the waterfront area and Pane e Pomodoro Beach. It provides a relaxing environment with sea views and is a bit away from the bustling city center.
All of the tourist areas are generally safe to book accommodation, but it’s recommended to avoid walking alone in the area around the train station and the Libertà area at night.
During my trip to Bari, I stayed in central Bari at the mid-range Hotel Boston. It was a great base to explore the city, within walking distance from the shopping streets, the historical attractions, the seafront promenade, and the train station. Easily reachable from Bari airport by taking Tempesta shuttles plus bus #16. My room was clean and comfortable, and breakfast was excellent.
Below is a map of the popular areas in Bari for first-time travelers. You can scroll down to view the live map.
Let’s get into the details of the recommended areas to stay in Bari, especially for first-time visitors. I’ll provide you with some suggestions for the best places to stay in each area, catering to every budget.
All hotels in Bari have been carefully selected by me from well-known and secure booking sites such as booking.com, with guest review scores of at least 8.0 or higher at the time I chose them.
If you don’t like my suggestions (perhaps they don’t suit your budget or preferences), you can click the “MORE HOTEL DEALS” button where you can choose your own hotel.
5 Safe areas to stay in Bari for first-timers and tourists
1. Murat
Murat is an excellent choice for first-time visitors who want to be in the heart of the city. Murat’s central location offers easy access to major attractions, shops, and restaurants. It’s a convenient base for exploring the city on foot.
You’ll have easy access to the city’s main shopping streets and squares such as Corso Vittorio Emanuele I, Via Sparano, Piazza Umberto I, and Piazza del Ferrarese. Many historical landmarks in the old town such as the cathedral and the castle are also easily accessible.
The area is known for its lively atmosphere, with plenty of shops, boutiques, and restaurants. You’ll find a variety of dining options, ranging from traditional Italian cuisine to international dishes.
If you enjoy a vibrant nightlife, Murat has numerous bars, cafes, and clubs where you can experience Bari’s social scene.
The central location makes it easy to access public transportation, including buses and trains, allowing you to explore other parts of Bari and nearby destinations.
Best places to stay in Bari in Murat for first-timers:
Mid-range ($$): Hotel Boston, great 4-star hotel located in the heart of Bari City center, close to everything, 15 mins walk from the historical attractions in the old town and the train station. Airport bus is also nearby. Short bus/ e-scooters ride from the beach. They offer clean spacious rooms, parking, family rooms, and 24-hour front desk.
Mid-range ($$): BARI 102, great value for money bed and breakfast in a prime location in central bari, easy access to public transportation and the attractions such as Basilica San Nicola, Petruzzelli Theatre and Ferrarese Square. It has Family rooms, airport shuttle services, and Exceptional breakfast.
Budget ($): Hotel Costa, 2-star accommodation located in a central location, in front of Università degli Studi, close to Bari Vecchia and to the train station. Within walking distance from supermarkets and many eateries. It has a 24-hour front desk, comfortable rooms with a nice bathroom.
MORE HOTEL DEALS IN MURAT2. Old Town (Bari Vecchia)
Staying in Old Town is an excellent choice for those who appreciate history, local culture, and a unique atmosphere. It is the historic heart of the city, characterized by narrow winding streets, traditional architecture, and a rich history.
Old Town is home to the Basilica di San Nicola, an important pilgrimage site and a beautiful example of Romanesque architecture. Other must-visit attractions include Archeological Museum of Bari, Castello Svevo di Bari, Il Fortino di Sant’Antonio, Piazza Mercantile, and Teatro Margherita.
Old Town is located along the waterfront, offering a picturesque seaside promenade where you can enjoy scenic views of the Adriatic Sea.
Best places to stay in Bari Old Town for first-timers:
Mid-range ($$): Palazzo Calò, great accommodation located in a quiet area in the old town, easy walking access to the downtown area, waterfront and train station. Close to Via Sparano/Corso Vittorio Emanuele shopping streets, and major landmarks such as the Bari Cathedral and the Basilica of San Nicola. It has a rooftop terrace, airport transfer, and family rooms.
Mid-range ($$): Cattedralflats, great value for money modern apartment-style accommodation located in the old town, featuring family rooms, a terrace, and a garden. Easy walk to many little squares with cafes and shops. A short scooter or bus ride to the local beach.
Budget ($): B&B La Maison Del Borgo Antico, nice B&B in the old city, close to everything, yet quiet at night. Easy access to all many bars and restaurants. Within walking distance of the ferry port for services to Croatia and Greece. Close to Castello Svevo Castle.
MORE HOTEL DEALS IN OLD TOWN3. Bari Central Station (Bari Centrale)
Bari Central Station is a good option for travelers who prioritize easy transportation access and planning to explore multiple destinations in the region. It is a fine area to stay in as long as you take common sense, be aware of pickpocketing, and avoid walking alone late at night.
Bari Central Station is a major transportation hub, providing convenient access to trains, buses. This makes it easy to explore not only Bari but also other cities in the region such as Polignano a Mare, Monopoli, Alberobello, and Ostuni.
Best places to stay in Bari Central Station for first-timers:
Budget ($): Hotel Adria, 3-star accommodation located very close to very close to the train station and the city center. Easily accessible from the airport. Good base to explore other parts of Puglia. Breakfast has plenty of choices.
Mid-range ($$): Hotel Excelsior Bari, 4-star accommodation only one minute from the train station. Rooms are clean and comfortable. Good to stay if you’ll be getting a train or bus to surrounding areas. It is a 15-20 mins walk to the downtown and old town area. It has a top-floor terrace with sun loungers, 24-hour front desk, and a private parking for those who drive.
Budget ($): Metropolitan b&b, this 3-star accommodation located near Petruzzelli Theatre and University of Bari. Close to Centrale station, shops and restaurants. Easily accessible from the airport.
MORE HOTEL DEALS IN BARI4. Bari Seafront and Pane e Pomodoro Beach
If you enjoy spending time at the beach, staying in the seafront area gives you proximity to Pane e Pomodoro Beach. It’s a great option for those looking to combine a city break with some beach time.
You can take a stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the beautiful views of the Adriatic Sea. You’ll find seafood restaurants and cafes along the seafront, offering fresh seafood dishes. Or you can just spend time on the beach.
This area is a bit removed from the central districts, so if you want to visit the city center, you need to take a longer walk, use taxi/public transportation, and hire a car.
Best places to stay in Bari Seafront and Pane e Pomodoro Beach:
Luxury ($$$): JR Hotels Bari Grande Albergo delle Nazioni, 5-star hotel located in the waterfront area of Bari, on Lungomare Nazario Sauro, short distance from the old town, shopping districts, and the beach. It has an outdoor pool, a terrace with ocean views, modern rooms, and very good breakfast.
Budget ($): B&B La Terrazza Near The Beach, 3-star accommodation located close to the sandy Pane e Pomodoro Beach. It has free parking which is a bonus for those who drive. There are family rooms, 24-hour front desk, and exceptional breakfast. Bari downtown is around 3 km away, you can take a nice walk along the seaside promenade.
Budget ($): RosAmar, 3-star accommodation located near the sandy beach and the waterfront area of Bari. It has full-day security, luggage storage, and parking. Easy travel to Bari center by bus. Close to Bari Parco Sud train station.
MORE HOTEL DEALS IN BARI5. Bari Palese (the Airport area)
Bari Palese is a great location if you want to stay close to the Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport. This area is also close to the beach, so it is a good base for a short stopover.
Best places to stay in Bari Palese for tourists:
Mid-range ($$): Vittoria Parc Hotel, 4-star hotel in Bari Palese, close to Bari airport, and offering free airport shuttle. It is a 10 mins walk from the sea and the train station. They have a good buffet breakfast, Outdoor swimming pool, Free parking, and 24-hour front desk.
Budget ($): B&B Villa Grace, 3-star beachfront bed and breakfast, close to the airport but no noise. It is also close to a rocky beach, 10 mins walk from the train station, and 10 mins taxi ride from the airport ( €15-18). It has free parking!
Budget ($): Annavi, good accommodation, very close to airport, easily access from the airport public bus no #33. It has free parking, family rooms, and a nice garden.
MORE HOTEL DEALS IN BARI PALESEIn conclusion, Murat, Old Town, Bari Central Station, Pane e Pomodoro Beach, and Bari Palese are the safe and best places to stay in Bari for first-timers and tourists. It’s always essential to always stay alert and take care of your belongings no matter where you choose to stay.
You can continue reading other popular tourist destinations in Italy in these articles:
- Best places to stay in Puglia without a car
- Best places to stay in Rome first time
- Best places to Stay in Naples first time
There you have it, my recommendations for the most popular and safest neighborhoods that you can stay during your first trip to Bari. I hope you enjoyed my article and find it both informative and helpful.
If you have any questions or would like to share your thoughts, please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me continue to create more quality content.