Exploring Bari on a self-balancing Segway offers a fresh, engaging way to see this lively southern Italian city. While we haven’t personally zipped through its streets, the experience promises a blend of sightseeing, local flavor, and a bit of adventure—all wrapped into a tidy one-hour tour. Perfect for those seeking a quick but immersive glimpse of Bari’s old town, this tour offers a hands-on approach that’s both easy to learn and environmentally friendly.
What really catches our eye is the expert guide who helps you navigate the narrow streets while sharing stories about Bari’s history and culture. Plus, the focaccia tasting is a nice touch, giving you a taste of local culinary flair. On the flip side, a potential drawback is the limited time—one hour isn’t enough to see everything, so you’ll want to focus on highlights. This tour suits travelers who appreciate a lively, informal way to explore and are comfortable on a Segway.
If you’re curious about combining a bit of fun with sightseeing, this tour is ideal. It works especially well for those who don’t want a long, tedious walk, but still want to get a good feel for Bari’s character and charm. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends in a small group, the experience promises a memorable way to stroll through Bari’s historic streets.
Key Points
- Eco-friendly fun: Ride a self-balancing Segway around Bari’s historic streets.
- Expert guidance: You’ll be in good hands with a multilingual guide sharing local insights.
- Highlights included: Visit key sights like the Basilica of Saint Nicholas, the Swabian Castle, and the seafront.
- Authentic local atmosphere: Ride through narrow streets where locals go about their day.
- Taste of Bari: Enjoy a complimentary focaccia tasting, adding a delicious local flavor.
- Small group: With only up to three participants, expect personalized attention and a relaxed vibe.
Discovering Bari on a Segway: An Authentic and Fun City Tour
Bari, with its lively old town, scenic seafront, and vibrant squares, is a city that invites exploration. This sightseeing Segway tour offers a distinctive way to see Bari—combining ease, fun, and a sprinkle of local flavor. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this tour gives you a chance to experience the city from a new perspective, guided by a friendly and knowledgeable local.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Bari.
What Makes This Tour Stand Out?
One of the best parts of this experience is the learning curve. The tour begins with a brief training session, ensuring everyone feels comfortable on their Segway. Once underway, you’ll glide through the heart of Bari’s historic district, taking in some of its most iconic sights without the fatigue of walking. This makes it an excellent choice for those who want to maximize sightseeing in a short amount of time or for visitors who prefer a more dynamic, interactive way of exploring.
Another highlight, praised repeatedly in reviews, is the expert guiding. Guides are multilingual, offering insights in several languages, which is a real plus for international travelers. They’re friendly, enthusiastic, and eager to share stories, making the experience both educational and entertaining. As one reviewer noted, “The guide was brilliant at explaining the sights at each stop in both English and French,” ensuring everyone stays engaged.
The Itinerary: A Closer Look
The tour kicks off at the Velo Service shop, conveniently located just steps from Piazza Mercantile. After a quick safety briefing—important for peace of mind—you’ll mount your Segway and head out. The main attractions include the Basilica of Saint Nicholas, an awe-inspiring pilgrimage site that’s central to Bari’s identity. As you glide past it, you’ll feel the spiritual importance mixed with its impressive architecture.
Next, the Cathedral of Saint Sabinus offers a glimpse into Bari’s ecclesiastical history, while the Swabian Castle provides a striking medieval backdrop. The guide will share stories about each site, helping you understand why they matter. Then, the ride continues through narrow, bustling streets where children play outside and neighbors stop for a chat—an authentic slice of local life.
The tour also includes a ride along the seafront, giving you wonderful views of the Adriatic and a sense of Bari’s maritime history. The lively squares are full of energy, and the guide might point out local spots for a quick gelato or espresso. To cap it off, you’ll enjoy a focaccia tasting, offering a delicious taste of classic Apulian bread—simple, tasty, and emblematic of the region’s culinary charm.
What Travelers Love and What to Consider
Based on multiple reviews, travelers consistently praise the guides’ friendliness and knowledge. One remarked, “Allesia was amazing making the tour unforgettable. Her friendliness and enthusiasm are contagious.” The small group size—limited to just three participants—also means you get more personalized attention, making it a more relaxed and engaging experience.
Many reviewers mention how much they enjoyed driving the Segway—finding it fun and easy, even for first-timers. As one said, “Segway driving is simply fun,” and another appreciated the opportunity for active sightseeing without the exhaustion of walking.
However, there are some considerations. The one-hour duration means you won’t see everything, and some might find the pace a bit quick—especially if they want to linger at each site. Also, the tour isn’t suitable for those under 45 kg (99 lbs) or with mobility issues, so check your eligibility before booking.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Value for Your Money
At a price that includes Segway and helmet, guidance, luggage storage, and a focaccia tasting, the tour offers good value for a quick and memorable glimpse of Bari. If you’re in town briefly or want a fun introduction to the city, it’s a better option than a long walking tour or bus ride. Plus, the small group setting means you’ll likely feel more comfortable and get more tailored insights than larger tours.
Practical Details
Tours run with flexible start times—so you can probably find a slot that fits your schedule. The activity is available in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, French, German, and Italian, making it accessible for many travelers. You should plan to arrive at least a few minutes early at Velo Service, and wear comfortable clothing suitable for a short ride.
Who Is This Tour For?
This Segway tour of Bari is ideal for travelers who want a quick, engaging way to explore the city’s highlights without overexerting. It’s perfect if you’re curious about Bari’s main sights but also want to enjoy some local atmosphere and taste. Family groups with teenagers often find it a hit, especially those who enjoy a bit of adventure.
If you’re someone who appreciates guided storytelling and local insights, this tour delivers in spades. But if you prefer a more contemplative, museum-style experience or need accessible transportation, it might not be the best fit. Considering the emphasis on fun, the tour suits those with an adventurous spirit and a willingness to learn about Bari’s history and culture in a lively, informal setting.
The Sum Up
This sightseeing Segway tour in Bari offers a lively, memorable way to experience the city’s historic heart and vibrant streets. With knowledgeable guides, a friendly atmosphere, and a focus on authentic local sights, it’s a neat little package for those wanting a combination of ease, fun, and insight. The inclusion of a tasty focaccia makes it even more appealing, blending sightseeing with regional flavors.
While the short duration might leave some wanting more, it’s perfect for a quick overview or a fun activity in a busy travel schedule. The small group size helps ensure personalized attention, and the guided insights bring Bari’s history and culture to life.
This tour is best suited for curious, adventure-loving travelers who want to see the highlights without the fatigue. If you enjoy trying new ways to explore and value local stories and flavors, you’ll find this a worthwhile addition to your Bari itinerary.
FAQs
Is the tour suitable for children or teenagers?
Yes, teenagers often enjoy it, especially if they’re comfortable on a Segway. The fun of riding and exploring the city appeals to many young travelers.
What’s included in the price?
The tour price covers the Segway, helmet, a multilingual guide, luggage storage, and the focaccia tasting. Entrance fees to monuments are not included.
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about one hour, including safety briefing and riding time. You’ll spend around 50 minutes riding and a short safety briefing.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Velo Service, near Piazza Mercantile, and ends back at the same location, making it easy to plan your day.
What if I don’t speak the tour language?
Guides are multilingual, offering explanations in English, Spanish, French, German, and Italian, so language shouldn’t be a barrier.
Do I need to be experienced to ride a Segway?
Not at all. The tour starts with a quick training session to help everyone get comfortable, even first-time Segway riders. Just be sure you meet the weight requirements.
In summary, whether you’re after a fun break from more traditional sightseeing or want an engaging way to see Bari’s highlights, this Segway tour delivers a lively, authentic experience that many travelers find rewarding. It combines the thrill of riding with insightful commentary and tasty local bites—a winning combo for a short city exploration.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Tours in Bari
- From Bari: Full-day Tour to Polignano with Street food 9hrs
- From BARI: Tour of Matera and Alberobello by private bus, visit 2 UNESCO sites
- Puglia: Locorotondo, Cisternino, and Ostuni Private Tour
- From Bari: Matera Guided Day Tour
- Tour of Alberobello and guided tour of Matera, from Bari
- From Bari: Street Food tour in Polignano & Cooking class
More Tour Reviews in Bari
- From Bari: Full-day Tour to Polignano with Street food 9hrs
- From BARI: Tour of Matera and Alberobello by private bus, visit 2 UNESCO sites
- Polignano a Mare/Bari: Alberobello and Matera On Your Own
- Puglia: Locorotondo, Cisternino, and Ostuni Private Tour
- From Bari: Matera Guided Day Tour
- Tour of Alberobello and guided tour of Matera, from Bari
Not for you? Here's more nearby things to do in Bari we have reviewed
- From Bari: Full-day Tour to Polignano with Street food 9hrs
- From BARI: Tour of Matera and Alberobello by private bus, visit 2 UNESCO sites
- Polignano a Mare/Bari: Alberobello and Matera On Your Own
- Puglia: Locorotondo, Cisternino, and Ostuni Private Tour
- From Bari: Matera Guided Day Tour
- Tour of Alberobello and guided tour of Matera, from Bari
- From Bari: Street Food tour in Polignano & Cooking class
- Matera: E-bike Ride in Hills + Local Flatbread Tasting
- From Bari: 2 UNESCO sites in 1 day trip
- Gioia: E-Bike Ride and Cooking Class in Countryside
- Bari: Tasting and Sunset in the Rooftop Apiary
- Bari: Fishing experience aboard an authentic fishing boat