Bari shopping is a unique experience that combines the best of Italian fashion, local artisanal products, and international brands. Whether you’re looking for luxury items, street-style fashion, or traditional souvenirs, the city has something for everyone. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best places to shop in Bari, including shopping malls, commercial centers, shopping districts, luxury boutiques, street markets, and fairs and exhibitions.
Shopping Malls and Commercial Centers
Bari Karol Wojtyla
This is one of the largest and most modern shopping centers in the city, featuring over 150 stores, a cinema, and a variety of restaurants and cafes. You can find a wide range of international and Italian brands, including Zara, H&M, and Benetton, as well as several high-end designer boutiques. To reach the mall, you can take bus line 16 or the metro (line AM1) to the “Bari Karol Wojtyla” stop. Plan to spend at least half a day here to fully explore all the shops and amenities.
Bari Retail Park
Another popular shopping destination is the Bari Retail Park, a large outdoor commercial center that features several big-name retailers such as Ikea, MediaWorld, and Decathlon. This is a great place to find furniture, home decor, electronics, and sports gear. To reach the retail park, you can take bus line 16 or the metro (line AM1) to the “Bari Centro” stop. Plan to spend a few hours here to browse the various stores and grab a bite to eat at one of the on-site restaurants.
Shopping Districts and Neighborhoods
Old Town (Bari Vecchia)
For a more authentic shopping experience, head to the historic center of Bari, known as Bari Vecchia. This charming neighborhood is home to a variety of artisanal shops, boutiques, and markets selling everything from traditional ceramics and textiles to handmade jewelry and leather goods. You can also find a number of bars, cafes, and restaurants where you can enjoy a coffee or a meal while taking in the sights and sounds of the old town.
Corso Vittorio Emanuele
Another popular shopping area is Corso Vittorio Emanuele, a long pedestrianized street that runs through the heart of the city. Here you can find a mix of high street and luxury brands, as well as several department stores and shopping centers. The street is also lined with cafes and bars, making it a great place to take a break and watch the world go by.
Luxury Shopping
Galleria Umberto I
For high-end shopping, head to the Galleria Umberto I, a historic shopping arcade located in the city center. Inside, you’ll find a range of luxury boutiques and designer brands, including Gucci, Prada, and Louis Vuitton. The arcade also features several cafes and restaurants, as well as a number of art galleries and antique shops.
Street Markets
Mercato del Capo
For a more traditional shopping experience, check out the Mercato del Capo, a large street market that takes place every morning (except Sundays) in the heart of the old town. Here,you can find a wide variety of products, including fresh produce, seafood, meat, cheese, and more. It is also a great place to find local crafts and souvenirs, such as ceramics, textiles, and jewelry. Be sure to haggle for the best prices, and be prepared for a crowded and bustling atmosphere.
Mercato di Poggiofranco
Another popular street market is the Mercato di Poggiofranco, which takes place every Wednesday and Saturday in the Poggiofranco neighborhood. This market is known for its wide selection of clothing, shoes, and accessories, as well as a variety of household goods and small appliances. Like the Mercato del Capo, it’s a great place to find deals and unique products, but be prepared to bargain with vendors.
Fairs and Exhibitions
Fiera del Levante
If you’re in Bari during September, be sure to check out the Fiera del Levante, one of the largest fairs and exhibitions in Southern Italy. This event features a wide variety of products, including food, fashion, home decor, and more. You can also find live music performances, cultural events, and entertainment for all ages.
Fiera del Mediterraneo
Another notable fair and exhibition is the Fiera del Mediterraneo, which takes place in Bari in May. This event is focused on showcasing the best of Mediterranean culture and products, including food, fashion, art, and more. There are also a variety of workshops, demonstrations, and other activities for visitors to enjoy.
Overall, Bari is a great place to shop for a variety of products and experiences. Whether you’re looking for luxury brands, traditional crafts, or street-style fashion, you can find it all in this vibrant and diverse city. With so many options, it is best to plan ahead and prioritize the shopping centers or neighborhoods you want to visit to make the most of your time. Happy shopping!
In addition to the shopping options mentioned above, Bari also offers a variety of other shopping experiences that are worth checking out.
Outlet Shopping
If you’re looking for designer brands at discounted prices, check out the Bari Outlet Village. This outdoor shopping center features a variety of Italian and international brands, including Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger, and Armani, all at discounted prices. It is located just outside of the city and can be reached by car or bus.
Bookshops
Bari is also home to a number of great bookshops, both new and second-hand. Some notable bookshops include Libreria Il Formichiere, which specializes in art and design books, and Libreria delle Donne, which focuses on feminist literature and feminist philosophy.
Food Shopping
Finally, Bari is a great place to shop for food, both for cooking at home and for enjoying on the go. Some of the best places to find authentic Italian ingredients include the Mercato di Poggiofranco, mentioned earlier, and the Mercato di San Benedetto. There you can find a wide variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, cheese, and meats, as well as local specialties like taralli and orecchiette pasta. Additionally, there are many delis and food shops selling gourmet products and cheeses.
Overall, Bari has a lot to offer when it comes to shopping. From luxury brands and designer outlets to traditional crafts and street markets, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant and diverse city. So whether you’re a fashion-lover, a foodie, or a bookworm, be sure to add Bari to your shopping itinerary.
