Old Bari
Bari has been a strategic port since the Ancient Greeks ruled this part of Italy. A walk through the Old Town, Vecchia Bari, is essential for sightseers and those looking for a slice of the past. The labyrinthine streets are hard to navigate, so make sure you pick up a map from one of the many tourist information centres in the middle of town. Once in Vecchia Bari, embrace the sights and the sounds as old women gossip in doorways and the smell of fresh pasta wafts down alleyways.
The main attraction in the Old Town is Bari's most beautiful church. Situated near the sea, the 11th-century Basilica di San Nicola is an architectural gem and a place of great religious significance. San Nicola, to whom the church is dedicated, is better known as Saint Nicholas or Santa Claus, and his remains lie in the church's crypt. His body is said to exude a holy oil and small vials of this miracle liquid can be bought in the church shop next door.
After visiting the basilica, stroll down to the seafront for some restorative air. Once you're feeling refreshed, Bari's other famous church, and the city's cathedral, Cattedrale di San Sabino, is a short walk away. It too is an impressive Romanesque-style structure and well worth a visit. Round the corner is the Castello Svevo, Bari's imposing fortress built by the Normans to ward off potential naval invaders.
It is important to remember when staying in Bari hotels that most of the city's monuments and buildings close during the early afternoon, when the sun is at its hottest. This is a perfect time to retreat back to your hotel for a siesta or take a refreshing dip in the sea. Bari's beaches aren't stunningly beautiful but the public beach at Lungomare Perrotti is clean and safe. A midday dip here is an invigorating endeavour.
Replenish
After a day spent meandering through Bari's narrow streets, you'll need some good restorative food. Next to the Old Town are two lovely squares, Piazza Mercantile and Piazza del Ferrarese, both of which are lined with bars, pizzerias and trattorias.
Gianna's on Piazza Ferrarese has the best focaccia in southern Italy, while La Parilla de Juan serves up mouth-watering Mexican cuisine on Piazza Mercantile. After a spicy supper, grab a pistachio ice cream from Martinucci's.
Day trips
If the heat of the city gets too much, there are a number of lovely day trips you can take in the beautiful Puglian countryside. Just a short train ride away is the famous cave city at Matera. Once a squalid town it has been cleaned up and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Hop on another train to reach Trani, a picturesque seaside town just along the coast from Bari. The town has a cathedral on a cliff just above the sea and from here you can watch the fishermen bring in their daily catch.
Bari is not your typical Italian holiday destination but that is why it is so special. It's noisy, brash and at times a little chaotic, but for the adventurous traveller, the city has plenty to offer.
