How to get to Bari

When planning a trip to Bari, you are heading to a sunny region in southern Italy, where the charm of an ancient city meets the dynamic energy of a major seaport. This popular destination attracts many travellers, so the question of how to get to Bari is easily solved: you can fly here comfortably by plane, or arrive by train, bus, or car.

The fastest way to reach Bari is to fly into Karol Wojtyla International Airport (also known as Palese), which serves millions of tourists annually. It receives flights from many European capitals and major Italian cities, and thanks to its close proximity to the city limits, the transfer to the centre takes minimal time.

If direct tickets are unavailable, it is worth checking flight options to nearby Brindisi, located approximately one hundred kilometres to the south. Travellers also sometimes choose routes via Foggia or Salerno, combining air travel with a short trip by ground transport through this picturesque region.

Travelling by rail is an excellent choice for those who value comfort and scenic views from the window. The city's main transport hub is the Bari Centrale station, which accommodates both high-speed express trains and regional trains from all over the country, dropping passengers within walking distance of the main attractions.

The region's railway network is well-developed, making it easy to plan even complex routes with transfers. Tourists often arrive here in transit via Brindisi or Foggia, from where there are many direct connections. Another popular option remains the journey from the Tyrrhenian Sea side via Salerno, linking the western and eastern coasts.

Bus services connect the capital of Puglia with many corners of the region, offering picturesque and budget-friendly routes. A trip from coastal Brindisi will take about an hour and a half, covering a distance of 115 kilometres along the Adriatic, while the road from Foggia (approximately 130 km) will require slightly less than two hours of travel.

For those travelling from the Tyrrhenian coast, a convenient option would be a service from Salerno. This route, spanning about 250 kilometres, crosses the peninsula transversely, allowing you to enjoy a change of landscapes from mountain scenery to plains in 3.5–4.5 hours. Modern buses ensure a high level of comfort, making even long journeys less tiring.

A drive along the Adriatic Sea is a wonderful way to explore the region at your own pace. The road from Brindisi will take just over an hour, as the cities are separated by only 115 kilometres of high-quality highway. The route from Foggia will require about an hour and a half to cover 130 kilometres through colourful Puglian landscapes.

Travellers heading from the west coast, for example from Salerno, will have to drive about 250 kilometres, crossing the peninsula. This scenic voyage lasts approximately three hours, revealing views of mountain ranges and endless olive groves. Given the distances, a taxi ride between cities can be quite costly, so renting a car often becomes a more beneficial and flexible solution for tourists.

Preparing for your journey to Bari will help you avoid minor inconveniences and fully enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of southern Italy. We have compiled several useful recommendations that will make your holiday comfortable and safe.

1. Clothing and Essentials. Summers here are hot and sunny, so choose light, modest clothing made from natural fabrics; do not forget headwear and sunscreen. In winter, the climate is mild but humid and windy, so a windproof jacket and comfortable flat shoes for walking on historic cobblestones will be very appropriate.
2. Transport. The historic centre (Bari Vecchia) is best explored on foot, as many streets are too narrow for cars. For trips to outlying districts, it is convenient to use AMTAB city buses. Important: tickets must be purchased in advance at kiosks marked "Tabacchi" and must be validated inside the vehicle.
3. Finances. The official currency is the Euro. Although cards are accepted in most hotels and restaurants, it is always worth having small denomination cash notes with you for visiting markets, paying for small souvenirs, or buying street food.
4. Health and Safety. The city is generally safe, but in crowded places and at the train station, you should keep a close watch on your belongings to avoid pickpockets. Pharmacies are easy to find by the bright green cross; many pharmacists speak English and can assist with selecting medicines.
5. Communication. Locals speak Italian, and while staff in tourist areas speak English, a few phrases in the hosts' native language (for example, "Buongiorno" or "Grazie") will always help establish a connection and ensure a warmer welcome.
6. Local Etiquette. In Puglia, traditions are respected, so when visiting active places of worship, especially the Basilica of Saint Nicholas, shoulders and knees must be covered. Also, remember the siesta: many shops and establishments close for a break approximately from 13:30 to 16:30.
7. What to Avoid. Do not touch vegetables and fruits on market stalls with bare hands—this is considered bad manners (use special gloves or ask the seller). Do not expect to dine early: most good restaurants open their kitchens for evening service only after 19:30 or 20:00.
8. Extra Tip. Be sure to find Arco Basso street in the Old Town. This is the famous "pasta street", where local women hand-shape traditional "orecchiette" (little ears) right at their doorsteps—here you can not only watch the process but also buy fresh pasta to take home.

By following these simple tips, you will feel confident in any situation and can focus on what matters most—vivid impressions from discovering the region's culture and gastronomy.