If Bari were on Tinder, the profile description would be as follows: winding streets, narrow alleys and historic buildings. We bet you would swipe to the right or hand out a superlike. The Italian port city on the Adriatic Coast was founded around 1500 BC and that makes it one of the oldest cities in Italy . If you ever want to develop a talent for getting lost, then Bari is the right place. In fact, you will not escape losing your way in this maze of old streets. But in this Italian city that is a blessing rather than a burden.

Bari is the second largest city in southern Italy and has 300,000 inhabitants. It is both the capital of the province of Puglia and of the region of the same name. The city consists of two parts: a new part and a historical part, called Bari Vecchia. The new part is a paradise for shoppers. Especially with the Via Sparano you can really loose your wallet.

Basilica di San Nicola
In the old part you can visit the Basilica di San Nicola, where the relics of St. Nicholas are stored. And that is - indeed - the source of inspiration for Sinterklaas. The main entrance with Arabic and Byzantine engravings is in itself a picture to look at. And once entered, you will be amazed by gigantic, marble pillars and detailed decorations.

Teatro Petruzzelli
For your recommended dose of culture you can venture to the Teatro Petruzzelli. Concerts and operas are held here all year round. Attend a show? Then don't forget to put on nice clothes.

Boulevard
You cannot leave Bari without having roamed the boulevard or the lungomare . Chances are that you will not forget this, since the place is ideal for a fresh walk. You can make quite a few kilometers along this coast: whether you go hiking, cycling or running. And you also get a view of the Basilica di San Nicola as a gift.

Castel del Monte
Doesn't the historic cargo of Bari cover you enough? Then go to Castel del Monte. This medieval country house is located on the top of a hill in the Alta Murgia National Park. It is one of the best preserved castles in southern Italy and has been on the UNESCO list since 1996.

Trani
A short train ride from Bari takes you to the picturesque fishing town of Trani. This destination northwest of the port city is ideal for a day trip. Enjoy the beautiful harbor here, walk along the beach or visit the Romanesque cathedral. You will also find plenty of cafés and eateries in this charming city to enjoy.

Alberobello
An hour further towards the southwestern side of Bari is the village of Alberobello. This place is best known for its trullos: typical white houses with a conical roof. Alberobello stands out with these unique houses. Simply strolling through the winding trullo streets will leave you feeling good.

Matera
It would be strange if we did not name a day trip from Bari to Matera. Matera is one of the oldest cities in the world where people still live and is mainly characterized by its cave dwellings or sassi . The city makes you believe that you are entering a film set. And somewhere that thought is true, because Matera has been a favorite place for film producers for years. The city thus served as the backdrop for The Passion of the Christ.

Orecchiette
In between, the stomachs must of course be filled. We recommend that you do that in Bari with orecchiette , the region's most popular pasta. In Bari Vecchia there is even a whole street dedicated to this pasta: the Via delle Oriecchiette or 'the street of the ears'. These 'ears' are made by hand and are dried in large containers in the sun.