Bari is a city that packs a punch when it comes to culinary delights. Its lively Old Town buzzes with the aroma of freshly baked focaccia, sizzling panzerotti, and handmade orecchiette—some of the best you’ll find in Italy’s heel. What makes Bari particularly appealing for food tours? It’s the mix of history, local pride, and authentic flavors that aren’t overly polished for travelers. We’re especially fans of tours that combine gastronomy with cultural storytelling, like the Street Food Walking Tour with a Local Guide, which immerses you into the heart of Bari Vecchia and lets you taste regional specialties while exploring iconic landmarks.
If you’re after a comprehensive experience, the variety of tours below offers everything from short samplings to full-day culinary adventures. Whether you prefer walking, Segway rides, or intimate tastings at local homes, the list below aims to help you find a food tour that matches your interests, schedule, and budget.
1. Bari: Street Food Walking Tour with a Local Guide
At number 1, this 2.5-hour tour takes you through Bari’s Old Town, where you’ll taste focaccia, panzerotto, and orecchiette—Puglia’s signature pasta—paired with a glass of local wine. Led by an expert local guide, you’ll visit landmarks like Bari Vecchia, Castello Svevo, Piazza Mercantile, and the Cathedral, all while learning about history and culture.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on authentic street food in a walkable, vibrant setting. You’ll stop at several local spots, including Panificio Fiore and Cala Tin, which serve some of the best regional flavors. The experience is designed for those who enjoy small-group, intimate settings where you can ask questions and really get a sense of Bari’s culinary traditions. Guests consistently praise the guide’s knowledge and friendly attitude, with many noting that tasting the deep-fried panzerotto and handmade orecchiette was a highlight.
The itinerary balances food tasting with sightseeing, making it ideal for travelers who want a taste of Bari’s culinary soul without spending a full day on tour. It’s good value at $51 per person, especially given the quality of food and local insights.
Bottom Line: A perfect introduction for first-timers eager to combine culture and cuisine in a brief, lively walk.
2. Bari: The Ultimate Street Food Tour with a Local
For around 3.5 hours, the Ultimate Street Food Tour takes you deeper into Bari’s gastronomic scene, with generous tastings of panzerotti, sgagliozze, and focaccia barese. Led by a local expert, this tour emphasizes avoiding tourist traps and discovering hidden culinary gems.
Starting at Piazza dell’Odegitria, you’ll explore both Old Town and the basilica of San Nicola, with tastings at notable spots. The guide shares secrets behind traditional recipes and introduces you to local producers, making it more than just a snack run. The tour includes a lunch break, giving you a chance to sit down and dig into regional dishes, which many find highly satisfying.
Guests love how the guide balances historical insights with food stories, making the experience both educational and delicious. With a rating of 4.9/5, it’s clear that visitors leave feeling full and well-informed. The tour’s flexibility and focus on authentic flavors make it suitable for foodies who want to understand Bari’s culinary identity.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those who want a comprehensive taste of Bari’s street food and culture in a relaxed, engaging format.
3. Street food tour of Polignano a Mare
Number 3 on our list is the Street Food Tour of Polignano a Mare, a 2.5-hour walk in this seaside town famous for its spectacular cliffs and the song “Volare.” Led by a local guide, you’ll explore the picturesque alleys and majestic terraces overlooking the sea, with stops at landmarks like the Mother Church and the Piazza of the Clock.
This tour combines sea views with culinary delights, including a visit to Malidea, a bar with sea-facing cocktails. The highlight is the walk to Lama Monachile, one of the most photographed spots in Puglia, combined with tasting local delicacies and learning about Domenico Modugno, the town’s famous son. The small size (56 reviews with a perfect 5.0 rating) and focus on cultural storytelling make the experience special.
Guests rave about the informative guide, Alessandra, and the chance to sample regional food in a less touristy setting. It’s perfect for travelers who want a visual feast along with tasty bites—think of it as a Mediterranean postcard with a culinary twist.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers looking to combine coastal scenery with authentic local food and history.
4. The Original Street Food Walking Tour in Bari
At number 4, the Original Street Food Walking Tour offers a 3-hour exploration of Bari’s Old Town, combining historic sights with tasting sessions. You’ll visit the Basilica of St. Nicholas, Cattedrale di San Sabino, and the Norman-Swabian Castle, tasting focaccia, salumi, panzerotti, and gelato along the way.
This tour is suited for those who want to see the sights and taste the local cuisine without rushing. The guide shares stories about Bari’s sacred sites and markets, making the experience rich in both history and flavor. Guests say the food stops are well-chosen, including a killer pasta at a local spot, and the small group size encourages conversation.
While the $69.51 price is slightly higher, it includes a variety of local snacks and a comprehensive look at Bari’s culinary culture. Reviewers highlight the knowledgeable guide and the delicious food as major pluses.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers who want a balanced mix of sightseeing and regional tastings at a relaxed pace.
5. Bari: Street Food Tour on Segway
Number 5 is the Street Food Tour on Segway, an energetic 2.5-hour adventure that combines scenic riding with food tasting. Starting at Velo Service, you’ll cruise through Bari’s hidden corners and maritime neighborhoods, stopping to sample regional treats.
What sets this apart is the Segway, which allows you to cover more ground comfortably. During the ride, you’ll visit local producers, enjoy focaccia, octopus sandwiches, and gelato, with plenty of time for stops. Guests love the fun, active nature of this tour and the chance to see less touristy parts of Bari.
The reviews praise the guide’s friendliness and the variety of food—especially the octopus sandwich and gelato. The $113.29 cost reflects the unique experience and extended riding time. It’s best suited for active travelers who want a more dynamic way to explore and taste Bari.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a fun, fast-paced tour combining sightseeing and food without sacrificing energy.
6. Bari Street food with Wine & Food Taster
Number 6 offers a personalized experience with Bari Street Food with Wine & Food Taster. A certified guide and sommelier, this customized tour focuses on pairing local food with wines. Starting with orecchiette in the alleys of the old city, it ends with homemade gelato or granita, providing a true culinary journey.
What makes this tour stand out is the personalized approach—your guide adapts the experience based on your preferences, sharing stories about local traditions and food-wine pairings. Many reviewers mention how knowledgeable and passionate the guide is, making it a delight for food and wine lovers. At $118.68 per person, it offers excellent value if you’re seeking a tailored tasting experience.
Guests appreciate the intimate setting, and its focus on pairings gives a more refined angle to your Bari visit. It’s excellent for travelers wanting to learn about local wines and dishes from a true expert.
Bottom line: Best suited for food connoisseurs and those eager to deepen their understanding of regional flavors and pairings.
7. Puglia Plates – Bari Food Tour
Number 7, Puglia Plates – Bari Food Tour, is a 3-hour journey through Bari’s Quartiere Umbertino neighborhood. Guided by Georgina, you’ll explore local shops and markets, sampling gourmet specialties like raw fish, focaccia, and enjoying a home-cooked four-course meal prepared by a local cook.
This tour emphasizes authenticity, with the guide’s personal relationships helping you access hidden culinary corners. The small group of up to 10 makes it intimate, and many reviews highlight how Georgina’s knowledgeable and warm approach made the experience memorable. The price ($64) reflects the comprehensive nature, including market visits, tastings, and a homemade meal.
It’s a fantastic choice for foodies who want an inside look into Bari’s local dining, especially those interested in cooking-style experiences and market culture.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers seeking immersive, authentic food with a friendly, personal touch.
8. Bari Sunset and Tapas: Street Food Tour with Local Guide
Finally, number 8 offers a sunset walk along Bari’s Lungomare, with stops for octopus sandwiches, focaccia, and a spritz. Led by a passionate local, this 2.5-hour tour combines maritime views with tasty street bites and the relaxing atmosphere of sunset.
Guests enjoy the peaceful ending to their day, with many noting the unforgettable views and authentic street food experience. The tour fits well for travelers who appreciate scenic walks paired with a casual, local vibe. Since the price isn’t listed, check availability, but it’s a wonderful option for an evening activity that showcases Bari’s maritime roots.
Bottom line: Perfect for those who want to combine dinner with beautiful seaside scenery and local flavors.
How to Choose the Right Food Tour in Bari
When selecting a Bari food tour, consider your budget, interests, and schedule. For a quick intro with local history, the Street Food Walking Tour with a Local Guide offers excellent value. If you’re a culinary enthusiast wanting a deeper dive into regional wines and pairings, the Bari Street Food with Wine & Food Taster is a personalized adventure. For those who prefer active exploration, the Segway tour combines fun with food.
Budget travelers should look at the Street food tour of Polignano a Mare or the Puglia Plates, which offer rich experiences at reasonable prices. For a romantic sunset or evening activity, the Sunset and Tapas walk provides a memorable finale to your day.
Booking early, especially during peak season, ensures you get your preferred tour and time slot. Many tours fill up quickly, particularly those with high ratings like 4.9 and 5 stars.
Final Thoughts
Bari’s food scene is as lively and diverse as its history. Whether you want a quick introduction to street food, a deep dive into regional wines, or an active segway ride, the options above cover a wide range of tastes and schedules. For first-time visitors, the Street Food Walking Tour offers a friendly, flavorful start, while seasoned gourmets may prefer the personalized Bari Street Food with Wine & Food Taster. If seaside views are a must, the Sunset and Tapas rounds out the list beautifully.
No matter your choice, booking ahead guarantees a spot in these popular tours. Embrace the opportunity to taste genuine Bari and Puglia flavors—your palate will thank you.