Bari Old Town: Walking Tour & Pasta Cooking in Local Home

Summary

Wander Bari’s alleys then learn pasta from a local nonna

You’ll walk through Bari’s oldest streets with a local guide, step inside the Basilica San Nicola, then roll up your sleeves to make orecchiette in a real home kitchen. Taste your handiwork over lunch with wine and laughter around the table — and leave with more than just recipes.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the sound — shoes on old stone as we slipped into Bari’s old town, sunlight bouncing off pale walls. Our guide, Marco, waved us down an alley so narrow my shoulders brushed cool plaster. He pointed out the Basilica San Nicola, its white facade almost glowing against the morning haze. There was incense in the air — or maybe it was just someone baking bread nearby; hard to tell sometimes. We ducked inside for a moment of hush, the kind you only get in these ancient churches where even your own footsteps feel too loud.

I’d never thought much about pasta shapes before this day trip in Bari. But after wandering past Castello Svevo (kids playing soccer right up against those thick Norman walls), we ended up at Lucia’s house. She greeted us with flour-dusted hands and that kind of smile you can’t fake. Making orecchiette isn’t as easy as it looks — mine were more like little hats than ears. Lucia tried not to laugh but failed; she showed me again, slower this time. The kitchen smelled like tomatoes and basil and something I still can’t name.

Lunch was simple: our own pasta, red sauce that tasted like summer, and a glass of rough red wine poured by Lucia’s husband who didn’t say much but winked every time I reached for seconds. I kept thinking how different it felt from restaurants — less polished but warmer somehow. Afterward we wandered back through Piazza del Ferrarese where locals leaned on railings talking with their hands (I understood none of it but loved watching). I still think about that meal when I see dried pasta at home — nothing tastes quite like what you make with strangers who become friends for an afternoon.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Bari walking tour and pasta experience

• Visit Basilica of Saint Nicholas
• Explore Bari Cathedral and underground walls
• Tour Norman Swabian Castle
• Walk through Piazza Ferrarese
• See Piazza Mercantile and city hall area
• Learn pasta making with local lady
• Taste homemade pasta with red wine

Top questions

How long does the Bari walking tour & pasta class last?

The experience lasts about 2 hours including the walking tour and cooking session.

Is food included during the Bari pasta experience?

Yes, you’ll taste your homemade pasta along with wine as part of lunch.

Are there any famous sites visited on this Bari tour?

You’ll visit Basilica San Nicola, Castello Svevo, and Piazza del Ferrarese during the walk.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?

Yes, children are welcome when accompanied by adults; strollers are fine too.

Is the Bari walking tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the route is wheelchair accessible throughout.

Does this include a local guide?

Yes, you’ll be led by an expert local guide throughout the experience.

What language is the tour conducted in?

The tour may be operated by a multilingual guide depending on group needs.

Do I need to book for at least two people?

A minimum of two people per booking is required for this experience.

What’s included

Your day includes a two-hour guided walking tour through Bari’s historic center with entry to key sites like Basilica San Nicola and Castello Svevo, followed by a hands-on pasta-making class in a local home where you’ll enjoy your own fresh pasta with wine before heading out again.