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Highlights of Bari’s old town (Bari Vecchia) include the Romanesque Basilica di San Nicola, dedicated to the Saint Nicholas the rest of the world knows as Santa Claus; Via Sparano, the city’s elegant boulevard lined with designer shops; and Castello Svevo, a castle now used for art exhibitions. The city also has a lively market, bustling restaurants and cafés, and vibrant nightlife.
Bari’s old town is surrounded by a vast urban sprawl of apartment blocks and office buildings, so the best way to explore is by joining a private or small-group tour that includes a transfer from the port to the center of the historical district.
Bari Cruise Port's modern terminal offers transportation services, seating, vending machines, restrooms, and souvenir shops.
Bari Cruise Port is a 20-minute walk from the historical center; book a private transfer or take a taxi.
Most churches, including the Basilica di San Nicola, require clothing that covers shoulders and knees to enter.
Many of Bari’s highlights are outdoors; bring a hat and sunscreen in summer.
Tours of Bari require a fair amount of walking; comfortable footwear and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.
Shore excursions and private tours generally include port pickup and drop-off; however, there's also a local bus that stops right outside the port terminal, as well as taxis and a shuttle bus. It’s possible to walk to Bari’s historical core from the port, but it’s not a particularly pleasant stroll.
The official language at the Bari Cruise Port is Italian, although the local dialect is a historic hybrid of Italian and Greek. English is not widely spoken in Bari, but is more common in popular nearby towns. The official currency is the euro.