Bari is considered the second most important city in Southern Italy, and on your day away from the luxury MSC cruise ship, you’ll find plenty of opportunity to discover why!

Situated in the ‘heel’ of the boot-shaped country that is Italy, Bari is famous for its beaches, old town and fabulous food.

An increasingly popular holiday destination, Bari is the commercial and administrative capital of Puglia as well as being a bustling university town. Bari offers much for the visitor to do and a fun day away from the ship with something for everyone, from families to couples looking for a magical romantic setting.

We recommend you start by browsing our selection of great day-trip package ideas from the itinerary below as we can help you get the best deals on excursions in and around the city. You’ll enjoy a true taste of Italy as you partake in the Bari city tour and witness the glorious architecture of this wonderful town.

Of particular note is the remarkable 12th-century Basilica dedicated to the city's patron, Saint Nicholas. You could even venture out of town to the city of Sassi which boasts Neolithic caves that, incredibly, were inhabited until 1952. (Movie buffs will be interested to learn that Sassi’s surreal surroundings provided the location for many films, too.)

Whether you choose to stay in town or go further afield, we believe that Bari is one of Italy’s secret gems and a not-to-be missed stopover during your Mediterranean cruise vacation.