An Italian coastal city described as 'underrated' and 'intriguing' by travel experts is set to become more accessible for British holidaymakers with the launch of new direct flights from the UK. EasyJet has announced it will add 16 summer routes from eight UK airports, including a service to the historic port city of Bari from both Manchester and Bristol.
New Flight Connections to Southern Italy
The budget airline will operate twice-weekly flights from Bristol on Tuesdays and Saturdays starting from April 18, 2026, while Manchester flights will depart on Fridays and Mondays beginning July 3, 2026. This development makes Bari, the capital of Italy's Puglia region, significantly more reachable for UK travellers seeking alternatives to more crowded northern Italian destinations like Venice and Milan.
Why Bari Deserves Your Attention
Bari has recently been highlighted by Lonely Planet as one of the top off-the-beaten-track destinations to visit in 2026. This millennia-old city occupies a strategic position on the Adriatic coast, serving as a gateway to both the Balkans and Greece through its regional airport and established ferry connections.
The city offers visitors a compelling blend of medieval architecture, exceptional regional cuisine, and one of Europe's longest promenades stretching 15 kilometres along the waterfront. Often overshadowed by its more famous Italian counterparts, Bari presents an authentic Italian experience with fewer tourist crowds.
Exploring Bari's Rich Heritage
Bari's history spans thousands of years, with influences from Romans, Byzantines, Spanish Habsburgs, and German Swabians evident throughout the city. The narrow streets of Bari Vecchia (the Old Town) provide a fascinating journey through this layered past, having transformed from an area once associated with organised crime families to a vibrant neighbourhood filled with colourful cafes and traditional shops.
Visitors should not miss the Arco Basso, a stone archway where local women serve bowls of orecchiette, the region's signature pasta whose name translates to 'little ears'. Other culinary highlights include panzerotti (deep-fried calzone with tomato and mozzarella) and focaccia barese, a unique flat bread made from semolina dough, type '00' pizza flour and mashed potatoes.
Cultural and Leisure Attractions
The city boasts several significant landmarks including the 11th-century Basilica di San Nicola, which houses the remains of Saint Nicholas (the inspiration for Santa Claus), and the elegant Bari Cathedral (San Sabino), both free to enter. The extensive lungomare (promenade) provides spectacular sea views and opportunities for leisurely walks or cycling, with bike hire available through the Vaimoo app.
For beach enthusiasts, Pane e Pomodoro represents Bari's most famous public beach, while the fish market offers an authentic local experience perfect for enjoying a casual drink. The city also makes an excellent base for exploring nearby destinations, including the historically rich Brindisi, creating opportunities for twin-city breaks within Puglia.
Travel Costs and Practical Information
EasyJet's inaugural flights from Manchester in July 2026 will start from £62.99 per person for one-way fares, with prices dropping to £38.99 by October 2026. The new routes provide British travellers with more affordable access to southern Italy's Mediterranean climate, ancient architecture, and renowned culinary traditions.
As tourism to southern Italy continues to grow, drawn by its lush landscapes and authentic experiences, these new flight connections position Bari as an increasingly attractive destination for UK travellers seeking cultural richness beyond Italy's more established tourist circuits.
