
Guided Tours in Bari
Discovering the Treasures of Saint Nicholas’ City
Private or Organized Group Tours
Tour Description
Discover the authentic heart of Bari with a guided tour of the old town, a labyrinth of winding alleys and stunning white Romanesque churches.
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The tour begins at Corso Vittorio Emanuele, the street that separates the modern city, including the elegant Murattiano district, from the ancient old town. Along the way, you’ll pass the lively fish market and the Teatro Margherita, beautifully suspended over the sea.
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Piazza Ferrarese, historically the main gateway to Bari’s historic center, marks the start of our panoramic walk along Via Venezia, also called the ‘Muraglia.’ This 400-meter stretch of fortification, including the Fortino di Sant’Antonio, is all that remains of the original city walls that once towered over the sea and enclosed the town up to the castle.
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On the horizon, you’ll see the Fortino di Santa Scolastica and the iconic profile of the Basilica of San Nicola, a remarkable example of Romanesque architecture. Dedicated to the city’s patron saint, Saint Nicholas, bishop of Myra in Turkey, this church is revered by both Catholics and Orthodox Christians. The saint’s relics were brought to Bari by sailors in 1087, the same year that construction of the crypt began to house them.
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A narrow street leads to the Cathedral of San Sabino, which suddenly appears in the heart of the old town. It stands out for its tall bell tower, Oriental-style dome, and ancient circular baptistery known as the ‘Trulla.’
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Just a few steps away, the towers of the Norman-Swabian Castle (Castello Normanno-Svevo) rise above the old town, completing this historic panorama.
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A stroll through Bari Vecchia also offers a sensory journey: the aroma of freshly baked Bari focaccia from local bakeries, the colorful laundry hanging from balconies, and the charm of houses packed closely together. Don’t miss Via delle Orecchiette, a lively street famous for the city’s traditional pasta.
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HIGHLIGHTS
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Piazza Ferrarese
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Piazza Mercantile
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Basilica of San Nicola
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Cathedral of San Sabino
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Norman-Swabian Castle
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Via Arco Basso
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MEETING POINT
Piazza del Ferrarese, 70122 Bari, BA
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DURATION
2 hours
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INFORMATION & RESERVATIONS
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Phone: +39 320 7610467
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Email: info@bestguidedtours.com
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