Things To Do
in Mola di Bari

Mola di Bari is a picturesque coastal town located in the Apulia region of Italy, known for its charming old town characterized by narrow streets and quaint whitewashed buildings. The town boasts beautiful beaches along the Adriatic Sea, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. Rich in history and culture, Mola di Bari features several historical landmarks, including the impressive Church of San Nicola and ancient watchtowers.

With its vibrant atmosphere, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality, Mola di Bari offers an authentic Italian experience.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Old Town
morning
:

Start your day with a traditional Italian breakfast at a local café, enjoying a cappuccino and a cornetto. Then, take a leisurely stroll through the narrow streets of the old town, visiting the Church of San Nicola.

afternoon
:

Visit the local market to sample fresh produce and regional specialties, followed by a visit to the nearby beaches for some relaxation and sunbathing.

evening
:

Dinner at a waterfront restaurant, enjoying seafood dishes while watching the sunset over the Adriatic Sea.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Adventure
morning
:

Visit the Castello Angioino, an ancient castle that offers insights into the town's history and panoramic views. Afterwards, explore the local artisan shops.

afternoon
:

Take a guided bike tour along the coast, discovering hidden coves and beautiful landscapes.

evening
:

Experience the local nightlife with a visit to a lively bar or pub, where you can enjoy live music and mingle with locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍕Pizza$8
Coffee$2
🍷Glass of Wine$5
🍽️Dinner for Two$50
🚌Bus Ticket$1.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful coastal scenery with stunning beaches.
  • Rich cultural heritage and historical sites.
  • Delicious local cuisine and friendly locals.
  • Can be crowded during peak summer months.
  • Limited public transportation options.
  • Some areas may not be as accessible for those with mobility issues.
  • "Buongiorno" - Good morning
  • "Per favore" - Please
  • "Grazie" - Thank you
  • "Dove si trova...?" - Where is...?
  • "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Mola di Bari

Visit one of these nice places.

Piazza XX Settembre

A lively square surrounded by historic buildings, perfect for capturing the essence of local life.

Lungomare

The picturesque waterfront promenade offers stunning views of the sea, ideal for sunset photography.

Castello Angioino

The castle provides a dramatic backdrop for photos, especially from its elevated position.

Culinary Guide

Food in Mola di Bari

Mola di Bari offers a delightful culinary experience, showcasing the flavors of Apulia with fresh seafood, homemade pasta, and local wines.

Mola di Bari Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Orecchiette con Cime di Rapa

A traditional Apulian pasta dish made with ear-shaped orecchiette pasta, sautéed turnip tops, garlic, and chili.

Must-Try!

Frittura di Pesce

A mixed seafood fry featuring local catches, lightly battered and served with lemon.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercato di Mola

A vibrant local market where you can sample fresh fruits, vegetables, cheeses, and cured meats.

Street Food Stalls

Look for stalls offering panzerotti (fried dough filled with cheese and tomato) and olive ascolane (stuffed olives).

Climate Guide

Weather

Mola di Bari has a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Average summer temperatures range from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). Rainfall occurs primarily in the fall and winter months, while summers remain predominantly sunny and dry.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake or a warm greeting is customary; addressing people with their titles is appreciated.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating before you begin, and it’s polite to finish everything on your plate.

Dress Code

Dress well, especially when dining out; casual attire is acceptable, but avoid beachwear in restaurants.

Safety Guide

Safety

Mola di Bari is generally a safe destination for tourists, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as keeping an eye on personal belongings and avoiding poorly lit areas at night. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Mola di Bari

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving a small gratuity is common.

Payment Methods

Most places accept credit cards, but carrying cash is advisable for small shops and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it an ideal time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer

Warm weather attracts beachgoers; expect larger crowds and vibrant nightlife.

Autumn

A quieter time with pleasant temperatures and harvest festivals celebrating local produce.

Winter

Cooler temperatures; enjoy fewer tourists and festive events leading up to Christmas.

Nightlife Guide

Mola di Bari at Night

Mola di Bari offers a relaxed yet vibrant nightlife, with a variety of bars and clubs that cater to different tastes. The waterfront area comes alive in the evenings, with outdoor seating and live music. You can find everything from cozy wine bars to lively dance clubs, making it easy to enjoy a night out with locals and fellow travelers.

Hiking in Mola di Bari

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Parco Nazionale dell'Alta Murgia

Located about 30 minutes away, this national park offers various trails through stunning landscapes, perfect for hiking enthusiasts.

Grotte di Castellana

A short drive from Mola, this site features fascinating caves with trails for exploration and beautiful geological formations.

Airports

How to reach Mola di Bari by plane.

Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport (BRI)

Located about 25 km from Mola di Bari, this international airport offers flights to various destinations across Europe and beyond.

Getting Around

Walkability

Mola di Bari is quite walkable, especially in the old town where many attractions, shops, and cafes are within easy walking distance. The streets are narrow and pedestrian-friendly, allowing for a leisurely exploration of the area. However, some hillier areas may require more effort, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The town is home to a mix of families, retirees, and young professionals, contributing to a vibrant community feel.

Tourists

During the summer months, Mola di Bari attracts a diverse group of tourists from Italy and abroad, seeking sun and culture.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football (soccer) is immensely popular in Mola di Bari, with local teams enjoying passionate support from the community.

Cycling

With its scenic landscapes and coastal routes, cycling is a favored pastime among locals and tourists alike.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Mola di Bari is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation options include buses that connect the town to nearby areas, but schedules may be limited. It's advisable to plan ahead if relying on public transport.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Mola di Bari.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, including pasta and vegetable-based antipasti.

Gluten-Free Options

While traditional pasta contains gluten, some places offer gluten-free pasta and other alternatives.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Mola di Bari is accessible through local clinics and hospitals. Emergency services are reliable, and many healthcare professionals speak English. It's advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Italy

Read more in our Italy 2025 Travel Guide.

Italy Travel Guide