The new trendy destination for Belgian tourists: a Caribbean climate in the heart of the Mediterranean.

Tourists from Belgium tend to have two favorite destinations besides Wallonia itself: France and Spain, as demonstrated by data from Statbel (the same name as the INE) collected by the Ministry of Industry and Tourism. More than three million Belgians visited Spain in 2024, and although the major national tourist centers continue to attract residents of Brussels and Bruges, they have now found paradise elsewhere: southern Italy.

Although it's not one of the most visited cities in the transalpine country, like Rome, Milan, or Florence, the reality is that the city of Bari is undoubtedly a treasure waiting to be discovered. The capital of the Puglia region, "the heel of the boot," is an underrated destination where, in addition to its architectural heritage, you can also enjoy nearby sites that are on par with the Amalfi Coast; therefore, it's no surprise that Belgian tourists are increasingly traveling there.

Bari, the most underrated destination in southern Italy

Italy's ninth most populous city combines everything you'd look for on a trip: invaluable architectural treasures, such as its impressive Norman castle, cathedral, and Basilica of St. Nicholas, as well as a fascinating historic center and vibrant atmosphere. Bari also has one of Italy's best climates, as its southern location means the sun shines almost year-round and temperatures are quite pleasant even outside of the summer season.

Bari's city center is undoubtedly a fascinating place, but nearby you can also find picturesque towns that seem straight out of a fairy tale. One example is Polignano a Mare, a dream location where the Caribbean climate combines with the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean to create a unique setting that attracts thousands of Belgian visitors throughout the year.

Another of the Puglia capital's great attractions is its prices. Bari is considerably cheaper than other major transalpine cities, so you don't need to spend a lot of money to enjoy everything this wonderful city has to offer, especially its exquisite cuisine. It's no wonder it's become an increasingly popular option when traveling to Italy.

Some airlines operate direct flights from Madrid to this underrated Italian city, unknown to some but increasingly visited. Therefore, if you want to enjoy a place that has everything you need to make your trip unforgettable, Bari is one of the destinations to consider.