Bari is a city that packs a punch when it comes to food. Its narrow streets, lively markets, and seaside cafes offer a rich tapestry of flavors that are hard to find elsewhere in Italy. What makes Bari particularly appealing for food tours is its authentic local vibe—no overdone tourist traps here. We love how some tours focus on street food like panzerotti and focaccia, while others combine sightseeing with tastings, giving you a full taste of Bari’s unique character. One standout is the Bari’s Ultimate Street Food Tour — a small-group experience that immerses you in Bari’s best bites with a knowledgeable guide.
If you’re after a comprehensive deep dive into Bari’s culinary scene, this list covers a variety of experiences, from bike tours and rickshaw rides to private tastings and themed walks. Whether you’re interested in local delicacies like sgagliozze and focaccia or keen to combine sightseeing with food, there’s a tour suited for your style.
Types of Tours Included
What you’ll find here are walking explorations, bike adventures, private guided experiences, and even rickshaw rides—each offering a different way to see and taste Bari. Some tours focus solely on street food, such as The Original Street Food Walking Tour in Bari, while others pair city sights with wine and food tastings like Bari: Street Food with Wine & Food Taster. There are also private tours for those who want a more personalized experience, plus options that include Polignano a Mare and even Polignano’s seaside views. Read on to find the perfect match for your appetite and schedule.
1. Bari’s Ultimate Street Food Tour – Small Group by Do Eat Better
At number 1, this small-group street food tour offers a 3-hour journey through Bari’s most beloved bites. It’s limited to 12 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and a lively atmosphere. Your local guide will introduce you to secret spots and hidden eateries you wouldn’t find alone, giving you a true taste of Bari’s focaccia, octopus, and gelato. The tour starts from Piazza dell’Odegitria and winds through alleyways filled with history and flavor. Guests consistently praise Alessia’s knowledge and enthusiasm, describing it as a “fun and awesome” experience. What sets this apart is the seamless combination of food tasting and storytelling, making it ideal for those who want an authentic, hassle-free experience. Expect to discover Bari’s best-kept culinary secrets and leave full and happy.
Bottom Line: A perfect choice for food lovers who want a small, intimate group and insider access to Bari’s most delicious street eats.
2. Bari: Street Food Walking Tour with a Local Guide
Coming in at number 2, this 2.5-hour walking tour offers a condensed yet rich experience of Bari’s culinary highlights alongside its historic sites. Led by an expert local guide, you’ll explore Bari Vecchia and taste focaccia, panzerotto, and oreghette pasta, paired with a local glass of wine. The itinerary includes stops at Piazza San Nicola, Piazza Mercantile, and the Bari Cathedral, giving you a snapshot of both food and history. Reviewers are charmed by the guide’s storytelling and the chance to try regional specialties like the deep-fried panzerotto. For those wanting a taste of Bari’s vibrant street life in a shorter time, this tour strikes a fine balance.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a quick yet authentic taste of Bari’s culinary and cultural scene.
3. Bari: Walking Street Food Tour
Number 3 is a 3-hour tour that takes you through Bari’s hidden corners and lively markets. Starting at Velo Service, you’ll explore local bakeries, secret stops, and authentic street eats. This tour emphasizes local products and authentic flavors—perfect if you want to see where locals shop and eat. The itinerary includes stops at secret spots, with tastings of polenta squares and fried dough. Reviewers comment on the fun and engaging guide, Nicholas, who shares interesting cultural facts. The tour’s focus on off-the-beaten-path locations makes it great for travelers who want more than just tourist spots.
Bottom Line: A good fit for curious travelers wanting to blend culinary discovery with local ambiance.
4. Bari Street Food Bike Tour
For around $65, this bike tour offers a unique way to see Bari. It combines cycling through historic streets and tasting at several eateries, from bakeries to brewery and gelateria. The tour begins at Basilica San Nicola and includes a visit to the Norman-Svevo Castle, with stops for focaccia, craft beer, and burrata cheese. Guests love the mix of exercise and food, with many noting the guide’s passion and knowledge. Riding through Bari’s French Quarter adds a lively, energetic dimension to your experience. While some mention the physical aspect, most feel it’s well worth the effort for the variety of flavors and sights.
Bottom Line: Best for active travelers who want a physical adventure paired with a culinary highlight tour.
5. Bari: The Ultimate Street Food Tour with a Local
Number 5 offers a 3.5-hour walking experience exploring Bari’s street food secrets, with a local guide revealing hidden gems. You’ll sample panzerotti, sgagliozze, and focaccia barese, all while wandering through the city’s bustling squares. The tour emphasizes authentic dishes and avoids tourist traps. Reviewers mention how guides like Nicholas make the experience lively and informative, often ending full and with new restaurant tips. This tour is suited for those who want to cover a lot of ground in a relatively short time, combining eating and sightseeing smoothly.
Bottom Line: Excellent for travelers seeking a rundown of Bari’s street food scene with a local flair.
6. Street food tour of Polignano a Mare
Number 6 takes you just outside Bari to Polignano a Mare, a seaside town famous for Domenico Modugno and stunning cliffs. This 2.5-hour tour includes stops at Lama Monachile, the statue of Modugno, and a sea-view bar. The guide shares stories of the town’s history and its famous residents. Tastings feature local wine, focaccia, and panzerotto, all enjoyed with spectacular sea views. With perfect ratings, travelers love the mix of culture, cuisine, and scenic beauty. It’s a great way to combine culinary delights with coastal sightseeing.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a seaside escape with authentic Pugliese flavors.
7. The Original Street Food Walking Tour in Bari
Number 7 is a classic 3-hour walk through Bari’s Old Town, focusing on local street snacks like focaccia, salumi, and homemade gelato. Starting at Basilica San Nicola, the tour takes you through cobbled lanes and historic sites like the Castle. The guide introduces you to local food artisans and shares fascinating stories along the way. The reviews highlight how informative and tasty the experience is, with many appreciating the chance to see authentic Bari away from touristy areas. It’s a well-rounded intro for first-timers wanting a taste of Bari’s culinary style.
Bottom Line: An all-around good choice for first-time visitors eager to combine history and street food.
8. Bari Street Food by Rickshaw
Number 8 offers a private, eco-friendly way to see Bari with a rickshaw tour. Covering landmarks like San Nicola, San Sabino, and the Norman Castle, it’s a quick 2-hour ride. The guide personalizes the experience, sharing local stories and food tastings at each stop. The reviews praise the fun, relaxed pace and the delicious treats. The tour is ideal for travelers wanting a customized and entertaining approach, especially if walking might be tiring or if mobility is a concern.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those who want a luxury, personalized way to explore Bari’s culinary and historic sights.
9. Bari Street food with Wine & Food Taster
Number 9 is a personalized tour led by a certified sommelier, focusing on pairing local wines with Bari’s signature dishes. Over 2-3 hours, you’ll walk through old alleys, tasting orecchiette, sgagliozze, and gelato, with expert commentary from a food critic and sommelier. Reviews mention how the guide’s expertise makes the experience special. This tour suits culinary connoisseurs eager to learn about food and wine pairings and savor authentic flavors in a relaxed setting. The personalized touch makes it a highly memorable experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for food and wine enthusiasts seeking an educational and delicious experience.
10. Bari Street Food Tour by Bike
This 3-hour guided bike tour offers another dynamic way to explore Bari’s hidden streets. Starting at Velo Service, it includes visits to St. Nicholas Basilica, Castello Normanno Svevo, and Piazza Mercantile. You’ll taste local street foods like focaccia and burrata, while cycling through historic neighborhoods. Riders appreciate the freedom to cover more ground and the opportunity to see Bari’s diverse districts. The tour is perfect for active travelers who want a mix of sightseeing and eating.
Bottom Line: Great for adventurous food lovers who want to combine cycling with culinary discovery.
11. Bari – Semi Private Street Food & City Sightseeing Tour with Local Guide
Number 11 is a semi-private 2.5-hour tour designed for small groups, providing a personalized experience. It combines city highlights like Piazza Mercantile and the Basilica of San Nicola with street food tastings of focaccia and local wines. The guide’s intimate knowledge ensures a more in-depth experience. Reviewers mention how friendly and knowledgeable the guide was, making the tour both educational and flavorful. It’s ideal if you want a more exclusive and comprehensive overview.
Bottom Line: Perfect for small groups wanting a personalized and full-spectrum Bari experience.
12. From Bari: Visit Polignano a Mare with street food tour
Number 12 is a 9-hour day trip that combines cultural sightseeing with culinary tastings in Polignano a Mare. Starting early from Bari, this tour highlights famous sights and local delicacies like special coffee, focaccia, and panzerotto. The guide shares stories about Domenico Modugno and the town’s seaside charm. Travelers appreciate the comprehensive nature of the tour and the chance to see a picturesque coastal town while enjoying authentic food. It’s suited for those wanting an all-in-one day trip with a mix of culture and culinary delights.
Bottom Line: Best if you want to combine a scenic coastal visit with tastings and sightseeing.
13. Bari: Private Food and Walking Tour
Number 13 offers a personalized private experience focusing on Bari’s street food. It includes visits to focaccia bakers, local markets, and historic streets. This tour is ideal if you prefer flexibility and want to customize your experience. The guide introduces you to off-the-beaten-path locations and local artisans, ensuring an authentic encounter. Guests who prefer privacy and tailored content will find this tour highly satisfying.
Bottom Line: Best for private groups or couples seeking a customized, in-depth Bari food adventure.
14. Bari: Guided Tour of the Old Town with Street Food
Number 14 is a 2-hour walk that combines cultural sights with street food. Starting at Strada Vallisa, you’ll visit hidden alleys, historic buildings, and local eateries specializing in focaccia and pasta. The tour’s intimate setting helps you see Bari’s authentic side beyond the usual tourist spots. Reviewers appreciate the personalized approach and the chance to discover local secrets. It’s a good introductory tour for those new to Bari or traveling on a tight schedule.
Bottom Line: Suitable for those who want a shorter yet engaging combination of culture and cuisine.
15. Bari Street Food Private Tour With A Local Guide
The final pick, this private street food tour, offers a 3-hour culinary journey tailored to your preferences. Led by a local guide, you’ll indulge in focaccia, sgagliozze, panzerotto, and even octopus sandwiches. This experience gives you undivided attention and the flexibility to explore your specific interests. Many reviewers praise the guide’s expertise and the delicious variety of authentic dishes. The private format makes it perfect for romantic getaways or small groups seeking a bespoke experience.
Bottom Line: A top choice for those wanting a personalized, luxury food adventure.
How to Choose the Best Food Tour in Bari
When selecting the right tour, consider your budget, time available, and specific interests. If you want an intimate experience with insider access, the Bari’s Ultimate Street Food Tour is hard to beat for its small-group format. For a more active day, the Bari Street Food Bike Tour combines sightseeing and tastings on two wheels. If you prefer a private, customized experience, the Private Food and Walking Tour offers flexibility and tailored attention.
Timing also matters—join a tour early in your trip to get the lay of the land and restaurant recommendations, or pick an evening experience like the Ultimate Street Food Tour with a Local, which pairs flavors with the city’s evening ambiance.
Final Thoughts
Bari offers a range of delicious and authentic food tours, from quick bites to full days exploring seaside towns. The diversity means there’s something for every traveler—whether you want a small-group experience, a bike adventure, or a private journey into Bari’s culinary soul. For those with limited time, the walking tours and street food tours are excellent introductions. If you’re looking for a luxury or personalized experience, the private options will suit you best.
As Bari’s food scene is continually evolving, booking early is advised—especially in peak season—so you don’t miss out on these flavorful experiences. Whether you’re a foodie, a history lover, or just curious about Pugliese flavors, these tours will leave you full and with a new appreciation for Bari’s culinary treasures.
