Car Rental Bari Airport

Few experiences can beat driving along the Adriatic coastline, taking in the stunning scenery and stopping off at the various attractions.

In Bari itself, you should be aware that there is a ZTL (Zone a Traffico Limitato) operating in the inner city, and only those with special permits are allowed to drive into this area. If you’re staying within the zone call ahead to your hotel to have your registration added to the approved list.

Outside of this zone you’ll find plenty of paid on-street parking and garages, so you can park up and venture in on foot. There are many car parks by the port, with a more central parking option available at Bari Central Station.

When exploring outside Bari, the SS16 highway runs along the coast, taking you out to smaller, rustic towns and villages, such as San Vito and Polignano a Mare. Stop off to sample some fresh locally-caught seafood dishes, such as succulent crab and tasty pink shellfish.

When driving on major highways in Italy, the maximum speed is 130km/h unless stated, and on non-major highways and local rural roads like those around Bari, expect speed limits of around 110km/h and 90km/h respectively. In towns and cities, the speed limit is typically 50km/h, but always check signs for the route that you are on.

The SS96 takes you further inland, heading towards Altamura – a city famous for its delicious durum bread, kneaded and shaped by hand and cooked in a wood-fired oven. Stop by a bakery in the city centre to pick some up – Panificio Digesu is a firm favourite.

Bari is a proud traditional city with plenty to see and do, from historic buildings to delightful art galleries.

You’ll also find some fantastic destinations a short drive away that can be easily reached in your rental car.

Step back into the past

Bari is home to a plethora of stunning buildings that boast hundreds of years of history, with some sites dating as far back as the Roman and Norman eras.

From Bari Castle, originally constructed in the 1100s and still standing with its formidable towers and walls, to the Basilica of San Nicola, a gorgeous church created in a Romanesque style and featuring a spectacular gold ceiling inside, there are many wonders to explore.

Thanks to its endearing charm and authentic Mediterranean feel, you’ll love walking around Bari’s old town. Drop by Piazza Mercantile, a bustling town square with a fountain and benches, perfect for when you want to take time out of your busy travel schedule.

Take in the shuttered windows, the sun-bleached stone of the buildings and the pretty balconies, featuring potted plants and washing hanging out to dry. It’s the perfect spot to spend an afternoon people-watching with a strong Italian coffee, from the shade of a cafe.

While in the area, pay a visit to the Cathedral of San Sabino in the old town, which is a fantastic spectacle when lit up at night. Its Romanesque architecture featuring white stone and luxurious marble inside makes this gorgeous structure a must-see.

Take a walk along the sea 

Bari’s popular seafront promenade, the Lungomare Nazario Sauro, is where you’ll find lovers strolling in the evening, and families stopping to enjoy the sunset over the water.

The walk stretches from the harbour to Parco per Cani – a pretty dog park where you’ll find the locals stretching their pets’ legs, along with benches to sit on and watch the world go by.

While on the Lungomare promenade, consider paying Bari’s art gallery a visit, featuring stunning works spanning 800 years. Here you’ll discover ornate sculptures and paintings from a range of eras, including Neapolitan creations and contemporary art too.

Bronze Age wonders

The ancient ruins of Scavi d’Egnazia sit just off the SS16 highway, around an hour’s drive from Bari, and are open for the public to visit. Wander around the archaeological park and visit the supporting museum to learn more about its excavation and what was discovered.

The area played host to various civilizations over the centuries, and became a vital trading centre under the Romans. Look into the stone Tomb of the Pomegranates, the most well-known feature of the site, to see where those who lived here were buried thousands of years ago.

With car rental at Bari Airport, a whole host of authentic Italian sights and fantastic attractions are within your reach.