Bari offers a surprising variety of tours and experiences that go beyond just sightseeing. Whether you’re a foodie eager to taste authentic Apulian dishes, someone keen on uncovering UNESCO heritage sites, or a traveler who loves active adventures like biking or scuba diving, Bari has something for you. We especially love the Bari: Street Food Walking Tour with a Local Guide for its delicious tastings and cultural insights, and the Sea Baptism Scuba Experience for those craving a splash of marine adventure. These tours give a real taste of local life, flavors, and landscapes, making your visit truly memorable.
Quick Overview
Our list of the best tours and experiences in Bari includes a wide range of options: culinary walking tours, local rickshaw rides, UNESCO site visits to Matera and Alberobello, scenic boat excursions, and even active bike and Segway tours. Each experience showcases a different aspect of Bari and its surroundings, offering something for every interest and energy level. Now, let’s explore each one in detail.
1. Bari: Street Food Walking Tour with a Local Guide
At number 1, this street food walking tour captures the essence of Bari’s rich culinary culture. For just around $51 per person, you’ll spend 2.5 hours wandering the historic Old Town, sampling regional specialties like focaccia, panzerotto, and orecchiette—the signature “little ear” pasta of Puglia. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, you’ll explore landmarks such as Piazza Mercantile, Castello Svevo, and Bari Cathedral, all while indulging in authentic flavors paired with a glass of local wine.
This tour is perfect for food lovers who want a taste of Bari’s daily life, flavors, and history. Reviewers highlight its balanced pace and authentic food stops, with one calling it a “great introduction to Bari’s gastronomic tradition.” The walk ends with gelato at Gelateria Gentile, sealing the experience with a sweet finish.
Bottom Line: Excellent value for those wanting a tasty, cultural walk that’s both fun and filling, with a local guide who shares stories behind each dish.
2. Bari Rickshaw Tour
Number 2 on our list is a Rickshaw Tour, priced at about $60.25 per person for roughly 1.5 hours of exploring Bari’s highlights. Driven by a local guide, this eco-friendly ride takes you past Basilica of Saint Nicholas, Bari Cathedral, and Swabian Castle, weaving through the narrow, lively streets of the old town.
What makes this tour stand out is its fun, relaxed pace and the chance to see Bari’s most important sites without the hassle of walking or driving. Reviewers love the personalized experience—one describes the guide as “very knowledgeable,” and many appreciate the gelato tasting at the end. The tour provides insights into not just the sights but also local customs and traditions.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want to cover a lot of ground easily and enjoy a little local flavor with a quick, engaging ride.
3. From BARI: Tour of Matera and Alberobello by private bus, visit 2 UNESCO sites
For around $119, this day trip takes you to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Alberobello, famous for its conical trulli houses, and Matera, with its ancient cave dwellings called Sassi. The tour lasts about 9 hours, making it a full day of sightseeing.
The guide shares fascinating stories about the history and architecture of these extraordinary places. Guests note how well-organized the trip is, with enough time to explore each site at your own pace. In Alberobello, you’ll wander through narrow streets lined with trulli, while in Matera, you’ll enjoy panoramic views and photo opportunities of the Sassi.
Bottom Line: A great choice for history and architecture fans who want a comprehensive day outside Bari, with expert guiding and excellent value.
4. Tour of Alberobello and guided tour of Matera, from Bari
This 10-hour tour offers a balanced mix: self-guided exploration of Alberobello’s trulli, plus a guided walk through Matera’s Sassi. The trip is ideal for travelers who prefer some independence alongside expert insights.
Highlights include the Siamese Trulli, Basilica Sanctuary of Saints Cosmas and Damian, and the rock church of Sant’Antonio Abate. Reviewers rave about the well-paced schedule and the friendly guides, especially mentioning how guides like Lorenzo and Giuseppe made the experience memorable with their humor and knowledge. The tour includes enough free time in each town for personal discovery.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a flexible yet guided day with plenty of personalized attention and culture.
5. Bari: Sightseeing Segway Tour
Number 5 on our list is a Segway tour lasting about an hour. It’s an enjoyable way to see Bari’s Old Town without tiring your legs. Guided by an expert, you’ll glide past Piazza San Nicola, Norman-Swabian Castle, and other key sights, experiencing the city in a fun, eco-friendly manner.
Reviewers consistently praise the tour for its “great guide” and the fun of riding a Segway. Alessia and Silvia are frequently mentioned as enthusiastic guides who make the city come alive through storytelling and local tips. The tour ends with a quick visit to a gelato shop for a sweet treat.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers or those wanting a quick, engaging overview of Bari’s core sights in a novel way.
6. Alberobello, Monopoli Polignano Small-Group Guided Tour from Bari
Number 6 is a small-group day tour that covers three stunning towns: Monopoli, Alberobello, and Polignano a Mare. For about $104, you’ll travel in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle with a guide who shares insights about each place.
Highlights include wandering Monopoli’s castle, exploring the fairy-tale trulli of Alberobello, and enjoying the breathtaking cliffs and seaside views in Polignano a Mare. Reviewers love the intimate group size (max 15), allowing for personalized attention and ample time in each spot. The trip offers stunning landscapes, local tips, and convenient transportation.
Bottom Line: Excellent for travelers seeking a well-rounded, relaxed day with local guidance and fewer crowds.
7. Bari: The Ultimate Street Food Tour with a Local
Number 7 offers a longer, more comprehensive street food experience. Lasting 3.5 hours, it dives deep into Bari’s culinary secrets, with tastings of panzerotti, sgagliozze, and focaccia barese. Guided by a local food expert, you’ll learn stories behind each dish while exploring the atmospheric streets.
Guests find this tour both informative and delicious, with many praising the guide’s passion and knowledge. It’s perfect if you want a deep dive into the local gastronomy while discovering Bari’s most authentic neighborhoods. The tour ends with a taste of regional desserts, completing your culinary journey.
Bottom Line: Best suited for serious foodies and those wanting a thorough, flavorful introduction to Bari’s street food scene.
8. Bari Bike Tour with Pasta Experience
Number 8 combines physical activity and local culture in a bike tour with a pasta-making class. Over 2.5 hours, you pedal past landmarks like Bari Cathedral and Norman-Swabian Castle, then visit a local home to craft your own orecchiette pasta, paired with a glass of red wine.
Guides are praised for balancing sightseeing with hands-on experiences. Guests love the opportunity to see Bari from a different perspective and learn a traditional recipe firsthand. The tour is best for active travelers who enjoy mixing movement with culture.
Bottom Line: Ideal for adventurous travelers wanting a fun, interactive way to learn about local cuisine and architecture.
9. Sea Baptism Scuba Experience in Polignano a Mare
Number 9 is a scuba experience suited for beginners. In 2.5 hours, instructors guide you through the basics, then lead you into the crystalline waters off Polignano a Mare. No certification needed, just a desire to explore underwater.
Participants rave about the professionalism and patience of the instructors, as well as the stunning marine environment. It’s perfect for travelers curious about diving but unsure about certification. You’ll receive a souvenir photo and a certificate of your first dive.
Bottom Line: Great for first-timers and marine lovers who want a safe, guided introduction to scuba diving.
10. Boat excursion to Polignano a Mare between caves and coves
Number 10 is a boat tour that takes you along the coast, exploring sea caves and coves in Polignano a Mare. Lasting about 1.5 hours, it includes an aperitif of Prosecco and taralli, with stops to admire the Statua di Domenico Modugno and Ponte Borbonico di Lama Monachile.
Reviewers describe the experience as “beautiful” and “entertaining,” praising Francesco’s engaging commentary and the relaxed pace. It’s an excellent way to see the coastline from the water and enjoy a drink in the sun.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a quick, scenic, and refreshing sea adventure with local snacks.
11. Street food tour of Polignano a Mare
This food tour in Polignano a Mare is ideal for those eager to taste the town’s local delicacies. Over 2.5 hours, guided by a passionate local, you’ll explore Lama Monachile, see the Statua di Domenico Modugno, and sample regional treats like wine at Malidea.
Many reviews emphasize the quality of the food and the passion of the guide, Alessandra, who shares stories that bring the place to life. It’s a relaxed way to see the town while satisfying your appetite for authentic flavors.
Bottom Line: Great for food-focused travelers who want a flavorful, scenic walk through one of Italy’s most picturesque seaside towns.
12. The Original Street Food Walking Tour in Bari
Number 12 offers an authentic street food experience lasting about 3 hours. You’ll explore Bari’s historic Old Town, trying focaccia, salumi, panzerotti, and homemade gelato, all while learning about the city’s culinary roots.
Reviewers mention the tour’s knowledgeable guide and the variety of food, with one noting, “It’s a nice overview of the town with a knowledgeable guide.” The tour visits landmarks like Basilica San Nicola and Castello Normanno-Svevo, blending history and flavor seamlessly.
Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers wanting a well-rounded taste of Bari’s food and sights, with plenty of local stories.
13. People of Bari unusual guided tour
Last but not least, this unusual tour offers a personal look into local life. For around $209, you’ll discover how locals really live, including pasta-making, visiting markets, and touring hidden spots in the Old Town.
Reviewers praise its personalized approach and the chance to see Bari from a different angle. Giorgio, the guide, is described as “fantastic,” and the tour provides intimate insights into daily life, making it ideal for curious travelers seeking authenticity.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want an immersive, off-the-beaten-path experience and personal interaction.
How to Choose Your Perfect Bari Tour
When selecting your ideal experience, consider your interests and fitness level. If you love food and culture, the Street Food Walking Tour or Ultimate Street Food Tour will satisfy your appetite for authentic flavors. For active explorers, the Bike Tour with Pasta or Segway Tour offers fun ways to discover the city’s sights. History buffs might prefer the small-group UNESCO trip, while adventure-seekers should consider the scuba experience.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred time and avoid missing out on popular tours. Think about how much time you have—full-day options like the maternal UNESCO trip suit those with plenty of time, while shorter adventures like the Rickshaw Tour fit into a tight schedule.
Final Thoughts
Bari offers a remarkable range of tours that appeal to different styles and interests. Food lovers should not miss the Street Food Walking Tour for its authentic flavors and cultural insights. Heritage fans will appreciate the UNESCO site trips, which reveal stunning architecture and history.
For those wanting a more immersive or active experience, options like the bike tour with pasta or boat excursions will deliver unforgettable memories. Whatever your style, Bari’s diverse tours ensure that your visit will be as enriching as it is enjoyable—just be sure to book early and pick what excites you most.