Bari is a convenient starting point for a wide range of short and half-day experiences. Whether you have a couple of hours after the conference sessions or a free morning or afternoon, you can enjoy authentic local activities without committing to a full-day excursion.

Find a Guide for these Activities and More

Food and wine

Wine and Extra Virgin Olive Oil Tasting

A relaxed tasting experience is a great way to discover Puglia through its flavours. Participants can sample local wines, extra virgin olive oils and typical regional products in an informal setting.

This is a good option for the late afternoon or evening, especially for small groups or networking activities.

Expected duration: 1–2 hours Best for: food and wine lovers, informal networking, evening plans

Cooking

Puglia Cooking Class

A hands-on cooking class is an enjoyable way to learn about local food traditions. Typical options include preparing fresh pasta, focaccia barese or other regional specialities.

This type of activity works well for international guests, as it combines cultural discovery with a practical and social experience.

Expected duration: 2–3 hours Best for: small groups, participants interested in local cuisine

Coast

Boat Tour along the Bari Coastline

A short boat tour from Bari offers a different perspective on the city and the Adriatic coast. Some options include a light aperitif on board, making it suitable for an informal post-conference activity.

This is a weather-dependent experience, so it is advisable to keep an indoor alternative in case of wind or rough sea.

Expected duration: 1.5–2 hours Best for: small groups, outdoor activities, informal evening plans

Countryside

E-bike Experience in the Apulian Countryside

An e-bike experience outside Bari can be a pleasant way to explore rural landscapes, olive groves and small local roads without requiring advanced cycling experience. Guided e-bike tours are available in the Bari area and can be suitable for small groups (E-bike Rental Puglia).

This option is ideal for participants who would like a light outdoor activity combined with local scenery and a slower travel experience.

Expected duration: 3–4 hours Best for: active participants, countryside landscapes

Local food

Dairy Farm and Burrata Experience

Puglia is well known for its fresh dairy products. A visit to a local dairy farm or cheese producer can include demonstrations of mozzarella or burrata making, followed by a tasting.

This is often one of the most memorable experiences for international visitors, especially when combined with a short transfer from Bari.

Expected duration: 3–4 hours Best for: food lovers, small groups, authentic local experiences

Olive oil

Olive Oil Mill or Olive Grove Visit

October is a particularly interesting period for olive oil experiences in Puglia, as it is close to the olive harvest season. A visit to an olive grove or oil mill can include an introduction to extra virgin olive oil production and a guided tasting.

This is a good half-day option for those interested in agriculture, food quality and Mediterranean traditions.

Expected duration: 3–4 hours Best for: food and sustainability interests, groups, autumn visitors

Wine

Winery Visit in the Bari Area

A winery visit near Bari offers the opportunity to discover Apulian wines and the rural landscape surrounding the city. Experiences may include a guided tasting, a visit to the cellar and, in some cases, a light lunch.

This can be arranged as a more structured half-day activity with transport from Bari.

Expected duration: 3–5 hours Best for: wine lovers, groups, local experiences

Kayak, SUP or boat experience near Polignano a Mare

Outdoor activity

Kayak, SUP or Boat Experiences

For participants looking for an outdoor activity, the coast near Polignano a Mare offers options such as kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding or boat tours along the cliffs and sea caves.

This is a more active choice and depends on weather and sea conditions, especially in October.

Expected duration: 3–5 hours including transfer Best for: active participants, outdoor lovers

For a short activity after conference sessions, we recommend a wine and olive oil tasting, a cooking class or a boat tour in Bari.

For a half-day experience, the most suitable options are a dairy farm visit, an olive oil experience, a winery visit, an e-bike experience in the countryside or an outdoor coastal activity near Polignano a Mare.

As some outdoor activities depend on weather conditions, especially in October, it is advisable to choose an indoor alternative such as a tasting or cooking class.