Bari, a bustling port city in southern Italy, is the perfect base for exploring some of the region’s most charming destinations.
When you’re done soaking up the city vibes in Bari, hop on a train and you're ready to explore — it’s like the cherry on top of your Apulian spumone (a delightful ice cream dessert).
Whether you’re craving Roman history, architectural wonders, dinner in a cave, or a laid-back seaside town, these day trips from Bari make it easy to dive into the best of Italy’s Puglia region.
Image Credit: Getty Images, Salvator Barki. Image Location: Lecce, Italy
Lecce
Best for architecture aficionados
Lecce is a baroque beauty that’s less crowded but might be just as grand as major Italian cities. Did you know the locals call it “The Florence of the South”? Wander around and you’ll stumble upon Roman amphitheaters alongside coffee shops. Don’t miss the pasticciotto — it’s a sweet little secret of Lecce.
- Travel time from Bari by train: ~1.30 min
- Train ticket price: from $11.28
- Find your tickets for a train from Bari to Lecce
Image Credit: Getty Images, SimonSkafar. Image Location: Alberobello, Apulia, Italy
Alberobello
Best for fairy tale believers
Looking for a quicker route to take in your surroundings? In this case, we'd recommend taking the bus from Bari to Alberobello for a shorter journey and a chance to soak in local sceneries.
Alberobello is like stepping into a kids’ storybook, except it’s real. These trulli houses aren’t just cute and quirky; they might’ve been a clever tax-avoidance scheme from back in the day. Who knew dodging taxes could create a UNESCO World Heritage Site? Perfect for a whimsical walk down history lane.
- Travel time from Bari by bus: ~1 hour 5 minutes
- Single bus ticket price: from $3.40
Read more: how to visit the Alberobello trulli houses in Puglia by train
Image Credit: Getty Images, Westend61. Image Location: Polignano a Mare, Italy
Polignano a Mare
Best for beach lovers and foodies
Polignano a Mare is a stunning town where spectacular cliffs meet the deep blue sea. Ever wanted to dine in a cave? Here’s your chance at Grotta Palazzese. And let’s not forget the Instagram-worthy beach, famous for its dramatic cliff dives.
- Travel time from Bari by train: 16-37 minutes
- Train ticket price: from $3.40
- Find your tickets for a train from Bari to Polignano a Mare
Header Image Credit: Getty Images, Fani Kurti. Image Location: Ostuni, Italy
Ostuni
Best for romantic explorers
Ostuni is a white-washed dream on a hill, offering views for days. It’s like someone spilled a giant bucket of white paint over an ancient town. Perfect for those who love to get lost in narrow, winding streets with a gelato in hand. For a romantic evening, Ostuni also boasts some of the best restaurants in Puglia.
- Travel time from Bari by train: 34-39 minutes
- Train ticket price: from $7.60
- Find your tickets for a train from Bari to Ostuni
Trani
Best for serene seekers
Trani is the chill seaside town you’ve always dreamed of. Its cathedral by the sea is so close to the water, you might want to check you’re not on a boat. Ideal for a laid-back day, capped off with some of the best seafood pasta you’ll ever taste.
- Travel time from Bari by train: 22-30 minutes
- Train ticket price: from $4.29
- Find your tickets for a train from Bari to Trani
Looking for more of a beach vibe? Here are our picks of the best beaches in Puglia, including Pescoluse, known as the Maldives of Italy. Download the Trainline app today and start your adventure.
Header Image Credit: Getty Images, Stefan Cristian Cioata. Image Location: Alberobello, Apulia, Italy
