Headed to Southern Italy and wanna take a day trip to Polignano a Mare? Follow this one-day Polignano a Mare itinerary to explore dramatic coastal cliffs, dive into crystal-clear waters, and wander through the town’s charming old streets – all while soaking in some of the most breathtaking views you’ll ever lay eyes on. All my favorite things to do in Polignano a Mare, coming right up!
To be completely honest, I planned our entire Puglia road trip after seeing one picture of Polignano a Mare. I mean, the cliffs are just so stunning, and the iconic view of Lama Monachile Beach? Wow! I was sold right then and there – it’s the kind of place that feels like a postcard comes to life. But trust me, it’s even more magical in person.
Polignano a Mare is where stunning coastal beauty meets relaxed, old-world charm. Picture narrow cobblestone streets winding through whitewashed buildings, cozy cafes with sea views, and sun-dappled piazzas. And, of course, there’s an abundance of fresh seafood, handmade pasta, and local Puglian specialties. All around you, you’ll find quirky shops, artisan boutiques, and, let’s not forget, some of the best gelato in Italy.
So what’s so special about Polignano a Mare anyway? Well, it’s one of Italy’s most picturesque coastal towns, famous for its dramatic cliffs and the jaw-dropping Lama Monachile Beach. This seaside gem has been wowing visitors for years (myself included!), with its perfect mix of epic views, rich history, and an undeniably chill vibe that makes it totally unforgettable. Plus, it’s packed with Instagram-worthy spots – you’ll never wanna stop taking photos (my husband had to literally pry my camera away from me, lol).
So let’s get to it — the best things to do in Polignano a Mare coming right up!
Day Trip to Polignano a Mare Logistics
Before we get into all the fun things to do in Polignano a Mare and my recommended one day Polignano a Mare day trip itinerary, there’s a lot of logistics to talk about first. If you’ve read any of my blog posts before, you know I’m super comprehensive! Sorry not sorry!
Where is Polignano A Mare?
First things first – where’s this charming little town anyways? Polignano a Mare sits in the heart of Puglia, the region known as the “heel” of Italy.
If you’re planning to visit from nearby cities, know that Polignano is about 30 km from Bari, the region’s capital, making it a perfect day trip from there. It’s about 230 km from Naples and roughly 530 km from Rome, so it’s a bit of a trek if you’re coming from further up the boot, but totally doable if you’re road-tripping through the south of Italy. Whether you’re driving along the coast or taking a local train, the journey will have you swooning over the coastal views the whole way.
Geographically, Polignano a Mare is perched on the edge of dramatic cliffs overlooking the Adriatic Sea. Its old town, with narrow winding streets and whitewashed buildings, is built right into these cliffs, offering some of the most jaw-dropping coastal views in the region.
The town is surrounded by rocky beaches and crystal-clear waters, meaning it’s a great spot for swimming and sunbathing (the boat tour we did here was our favorite!). The area’s landscape is a mix of rugged coastline, hidden caves, and cliffs that rise up dramatically from the sea, creating an almost surreal, picture-perfect setting. The views from the town – especially from the famous Lama Monachile Beach of course – are seriously out of this world. Just like the postcards!
If you’re coming from a nearby town, here’s how far Polignano a Mare is:
- From Bari: ~40 km (25 miles)
- From Alberobello: ~30 km (19 miles)
- From Locorotondo: ~25 km (15 miles)
- From Cisternino: ~35 km (22 miles)
- From Matera: ~75 km (47 miles)
- From Gallipoli: ~130 km (81 miles)
- From Otranto: ~150 km (93 miles)
- From Lecce: ~160 km (99 miles)
How to get to Polignano A Mare
By Plane
If you’re traveling from outside Italy, keep in mind that you won’t be able to fly directly into Polignano a Mare. The closest major airport is Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport (BRI), which is about 40 km (25 miles) away. While Bari itself doesn’t have direct international flights, you can easily connect through major Italian hubs like Rome, Milan, or Naples.
Once you arrive at Bari Airport, there are several options to get to Polignano a Mare:
- By Car: Renting a car is a great idea if you’re planning on exploring other spots around Puglia too. The drive from Bari to Polignano a Mare takes about 40 minutes, and the scenic coastal views are absolutely stunning. It’s super easy to get around Puglia by car, and having a set of wheels will make your trip even more flexible and fun.
- By Train: You can also catch a train from Bari to Polignano a Mare Station, which takes about 30 minutes. It’s a quick and comfortable ride, and once you get off, the town center is just a short walk away, where you can dive straight into the charm of the town.
- By Bus: If you’re not keen on taking the train, buses are also available from Bari and other nearby towns. The journey usually takes about 45 minutes, and buses are operated by companies like MarinoBus or Ferrovie Appulo Lucane (FAL).
Other nearby airports include Brindisi Airport (BDS), which is about 1.5 hours away by car, and Naples Airport (NAP), about 3 hours away. If you fly into either of these, you’ll likely need to transfer to Bari (one of Puglia’s main transport hubs) and then take a train or bus to Polignano a Mare.
By Train
Getting to Polignano a Mare by train is super easy and quick. The journey from Bari to Polignano a Mare Station takes about 30 minutes, making it one of the simplest and most scenic ways to travel. You’ll pass through beautiful Puglia landscapes, so even the journey is an experience. Once you arrive at the station, it’s a short walk to the town center, where you can start exploring Polignano’s stunning cliffs and beaches.
These are the main train companies you’ll come across:
- Trenitalia: Italy’s national train service, offering routes to and from Polignano a Mare. Trenitalia operates trains from major cities like Bari, Lecce, and Matera to Polignano a Mare.
- Ferrovie del Sud Est (FSE): This regional train company operates services in Puglia, including routes to Polignano a Mare from cities like Bari and Lecce.
By Bus
If you’re more of a bus person, there are direct routes to Polignano a Mare from various cities, including Bari, Naples, and Lecce. The bus ride from Bari takes around 45 minutes, and buses are operated by companies like MarinoBus and FAL. It’s a budget-friendly option and pretty convenient if you want to sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride.
Bus Companies:
- FlixBus: A popular bus service that operates routes to Polignano a Mare from various cities in Italy, including Bari, Lecce, and Matera.
- MarinoBus: Another well-known bus company that offers routes to Polignano a Mare from cities like Bari and Lecce.
- Autolinee FAL (Ferrovie Appulo Lucane): A regional bus company operating in Puglia, connecting towns like Bari, Alberobello, and Polignano a Mare.
- Sita Sud: This company offers regional bus routes within Puglia, including to Polignano a Mare.
By Car
If you’re already in the area or prefer the freedom to explore at your own pace, driving to Polignano a Mare is a breeze. Unlike central and northern Italy, where the rail network is well-connected and public transport is easy to navigate, Puglia’s train system is a bit more limited, making a car the most convenient option for getting around.
The main roads, such as the SS16 and SS172, link Polignano a Mare to Bari and other nearby towns, offering a smooth drive with stunning views. Along the way, you’ll be treated to picturesque coastal cliffs and rolling green hills, making the journey just as enjoyable as the destination.
Free parking can be a bit tricky, especially near the town center (because whatever spots you do see are reserved for residents – as it should be), but there are plenty of paid parking lots on the outskirts of Polignano a Mare. Just know there’s no such thing as free parking in Polignano a Mare, unless you have access to private parking like we did from our hotel!
A couple of good parking options include:
- Parcheggio Polignano Stazione (the parking area next to the train station. Despite being very dusty…it’s a train station dirt lot… and unguarded, it gets crowded because it’s the only free parking lot in the area)
- Parcheggio Marco Polo (a bit further away)
- Polignano Central Parking (day rates of 20euro and up)
If you’re having a hard time, plug in “Parcheggio” into your GPS and you’ll get a few more options. Better yet – pin a few of these before heading over so you’ve got a bunch of options in case a lot or two are full already. To be honest, we were beyond thrilled that our hotel had a private lot so we didn’t need to stress about parking at all (a common theme for us in the towns of Puglia, haha).
Since Polignano a Mare is small and easy to explore on foot, once you park your car, you won’t need it again until you’re ready to head out.
A Few Tips About Driving in Puglia in General
You’ll need an international driver’s permit: In order to rent a car in Italy as an international tourist, you need to present an International Driver’s Permit. We typically get ours from AAA, and it’s a super easy process (you’ll need passport photos as well so keep that in mind). Once granted and “activated”, it’s valid for a year.
Rent a small car: There’s no need for a huge car here in Alberobello, and Puglia in general. I actually recommend renting the smallest car possible to make parking easier. We drove around in a small Fiat Panda, and were able to park in small spots and navigate the narrow streets with ease.
Psst – Make sure you know how to properly drive a stick if you rent a manual (which is common in Italy and all of Europe).
Beware of local drivers: Italians can be assertive drivers (which we definitely experienced firsthand). Stay alert and be prepared for sudden stops or lane changes. Locals don’t always follow the rules; they don’t stop at stop signs, don’t follow speed limits, and the amount of times we were tailgated was beyond infuriating.
I guess they’re getting annoyed with the increase of tourists… which I totally get. They don’t look, signal, or stop, they just GO. So be extra, extra vigilant and careful. And always let the locals pass you.
Organized Day Trips
For a super stress-free experience, consider an organized day trip. If you’re in nearby cities like Bari, Polignano a Mare is a popular stop on day tours. These trips typically include transportation and sometimes even a guide, so you don’t have to worry about logistics. Plus, you’ll get to visit other nearby gems, like Alberobello or Matera, all in one day!
How to get around Polignano A Mare
Getting around Polignano a Mare is a breeze – the town is compact and best explored on foot. Most of the main attractions, including the famous cliffs and beach, are within walking distance, so you won’t need taxis or public transport unless you’re heading further afield.
As you wander through the charming streets, be ready for some steep inclines and cobblestone paths, especially in the old town. But trust me, the stunning views and beautiful scenery make it totally worth it!
When to visit Polignano A Mare
Like much of Italy, Polignano a Mare has four distinct seasons, each bringing something different to the table. Whether you’re after the lively summer energy or prefer the quieter, cooler months for a more laid-back experience, there’s always a great time to visit this picturesque coastal town.
Summer (High Season): June to August
Summer in Polignano a Mare is hot and dry, with temperatures often reaching 30°C (86°F) and beyond. If you’re chasing the classic Italian summer vibes – think endless sunny days, outdoor festivals, and seafood right by the water – then summer’s your season.
However, it’s also when the crowds are at their peak. The town gets packed, especially in July and August, so be prepared for busy streets, long restaurant waits, and a bit of a hustle and bustle.
Personally, I’d try to avoid the heat and crowds of the high summer months. Why? Well, Polignano a Mare is a popular spot for both locals and tourists, so accommodation can be scarce, and it can get pretty sweltering walking around town. Plus, Ferragosto (August 15th) is when Italians take their summer holidays, and the place gets packed.
For a more relaxed vibe, I’d recommend heading there just before the summer rush – late May or early June is ideal. The weather is warm but not scorching, and you can still enjoy the charm of Polignano a Mare without the huge crowds.
I visited in early June, and it was absolute perfection – lively, but not overcrowded (well, until noon when it started getting busy!).
Spring (Shoulder Season): March to May
Spring in Polignano a Mare is perfect for sightseeing, with mild temperatures between 15°C and 25°C (59°F to 77°F). The weather is comfortable for strolling through the charming streets, soaking in the stunning views, and exploring all the hidden gems of the town without breaking a sweat.
It’s also less crowded, especially in March and early April, making it a great option for anyone looking to avoid the summer crowds. If you’re on a budget or just prefer a quieter atmosphere, this is the time to visit. Just keep in mind that Easter is a big holiday in Italy, so avoid those dates if you want to escape the crowds.
By May, most of the local attractions will be open and you’ll find that the town isn’t as packed as during peak season, so it’s a perfect time for a more relaxed experience.
Fall (Shoulder Season): September to November
Fall in Polignano a Mare is a treat, especially in September when the weather is still warm and summery. By October and November, the temperatures dip to a comfy 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), and the crowds begin to thin.
While September still sees a good number of visitors, by early October, it’s much quieter, making it a great time for those who want to enjoy the town at a slower pace.
Accommodation prices drop after the high summer season, so it’s a perfect opportunity to book a stay at one of the charming spots overlooking the sea. And the scenery? It’s absolutely breathtaking. The fall light casts a warm, golden glow over the cliffs and beaches – the views are just unreal, making it the perfect time for photos.
Winter (Low Season): November to February
Winter in Polignano a Mare is cool, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). While the town is much quieter with fewer tourists around, the weather can be a bit unpredictable, with occasional rainy and chilly days.
If you’re more into peaceful vibes and exploring the historic town without the usual tourist crowds, winter can be a great time to go.
But if you’re hoping to enjoy the beach and outdoor activities, it might not be the best time, as the cooler weather isn’t ideal for sunbathing or swimming. Spring and fall would be better for that. But if you want to see Polignano a Mare at its calmest, winter could be a hidden gem.
How long to spend in Polignano A Mare (Day Trip vs. Overnight)
Should you visit Polignano a Mare as a day trip or stay overnight? If you’re short on time, a day trip is more than enough to experience the town’s stunning views, charming streets, and breathtaking cliffs. But let’s be real – Polignano a Mare at sunset?! It’s an absolute must!
While Polignano a Mare is definitely beautiful during the day, the town felt extra special once all the day-trippers left. And way more peaceful!
We stayed overnight for two nights, and it was perfect for taking in the full experience. With more time, we were able to enjoy Polignano a Mare at a more relaxed pace, wandering the charming streets, watching the sunset over the cliffs, and having dinner with a view. Staying overnight also gave us a chance to explore the quieter spots outside of peak hours and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere once the day tourists had left.
To be clear, we didn’t spend a full 3 days in the town of Polignano a Mare itself. We used Polignano as a base for exploring other towns as well – and it worked out quite well!
That being said, if you’re short on time or have a packed itinerary (like we normally do!), day trips are totally doable! Polignano a Mare is easy to reach from nearby towns like Bari, Monopoli, or Alberobello, and you can explore the highlights in just a few hours – think cliffside views, the old town, and iconic spots like the beach and even the famous cave restaurant.
Just keep in mind that the town can get quite crowded during peak times, especially in summer, so plan to arrive early to make the most of your visit. I recommend getting to Polignano a Mare no later than 9 AM, wandering the streets, and having a delicious coffee at one of the cliffside cafes before the buses start arriving.
Where to Stay in Polignano A Mare
If you do decide to spend a few nights here (HIGHLY recommend!), I suggest staying at San Michele Suites in Polignano a Mare. It offers a luxurious, modern escape in the heart of the town, with spacious, stylish suites combining comfort and contemporary design.
We absolutely adored this hotel, and had the famous viewpoint right next to us! Breakfast was served in a cozy dining room every morning, staff were beyond helpful with anything and everything, and we loved the private parking (especially once they showed up the secret back way to the hotel) – so convenient.
If San Michele Suites is sold out or you’re looking for a hotel a bit more lively, check out Aquamarea (we couldn’t decide between the two and kinda just flipped a coin, haha). Other popular spots to stay are POSEA (with laid-back yet luxurious vibes), Musae al Mare (combines the charm of traditional Apulian architecture with modern touches), and La Perla (a charming, budget-friendly option). Can’t go wrong here!
Where to Eat in Polignano A Mare
Since we only had two nights in Polignano a Mare and spent one night at a masseria, we didn’t have a lot of time to explore the full dining scene. However, even with the limited time, we made sure to savor a few delicious meals and snacks during our stay, and let me tell you – Polignano a Mare does not disappoint when it comes to food.
The town is known for its fresh seafood, stunning coastal views, and traditional Apulian cuisine, making it an absolute foodie destination. Here’s a few that were recommended to me and I had saved on my map.
Grotta Palazzese: This is that world-renowned restaurant set inside a stunning sea cave you’ve probably heard about. And yes, it offers dramatic views over the Adriatic and is an absolutely iconic spot for a romantic dinner, offering refined Mediterranean dishes with a focus on seafood.
The setting itself makes it a once-in-a-lifetime dining experience. But it’s PRICEY AF (with an obscene minimum spend per person), so read reviews ahead of time before making a reservation.
Pizza e Fichi: A casual yet stylish spot where you can enjoy a creative spin on traditional Italian pizza. Known for its delicious combination of fresh, high-quality ingredients and its warm, welcoming atmosphere.
La Focacceria delle Noci Marco: Known for its mouthwatering focaccia, this spot offers freshly baked bread topped with a variety of delicious ingredients. The focaccia here is a local favorite, perfect for a quick, satisfying snack or meal. We picked some up one afternoon and ate it by the sea – my favorite!
L’Osteria di Chichibio: This cozy, rustic restaurant offers a delightful selection of local seafood dishes with a modern twist. The menu highlights fresh ingredients, and the atmosphere is relaxed and intimate.
Malidea: An intimate seafood and fine dining restaurant known for its seasonal menus and creative interpretations of classic Italian dishes. The service is attentive, and the atmosphere is sophisticated yet comfortable.
Morea Gelateria: Known for its high-quality gelato made with fresh, local ingredients, Morea Gelateria is a favorite for those with a sweet tooth. The creamy flavors and creative combinations make it a must-try. One of our favorite gelatos on our entire Puglia road trip (and we had our fair share!).
Covo dei Saraceni: With its cliffside location overlooking the sea, Covo dei Saraceni offers an exceptional dining experience, especially during sunset. The restaurant serves fresh seafood and traditional Apulian cuisine with modern twists. The rooftop terrace is the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely meal.
Pescaria: A trendy seafood spot known for its unique and fresh seafood sandwiches (panini). With its casual vibe, Pescaria offers a modern twist on Apulian cuisine, and it’s a great spot to grab a quick yet tasty bite while enjoying the view of the sea.
Pasticceria Martinucci: Known for its delicious pastries and coffee, this historic café serves up a great selection of local sweets and a perfect espresso. Whether you’re starting your day or taking a midday break, this is the place for coffee and treats.
Aquamarea: Located right on the water, this restaurant offers a stunning view and a menu centered around fresh seafood. Perfect for a romantic meal with great food and a beautiful setting. Great for a pre-dinner drink at sunset!
Il Super Mago del Gelo Mario: This quirky spot is famous for its unique take on coffee. Known for serving “special coffee” il caffè speciale, with lemon peel and a splash of amaretto, it’s a refreshing treat, especially in the summer heat. Perfect for coffee lovers looking for something a little different! They’ve also got amazing granitas and ice cream.
Other FAQs about Polignano A Mare
Currency: Like the rest of Italy, the currency in Polignano a Mare is the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, especially in larger shops, restaurants, and hotels.
However, for those little family-owned trattorias or quirky cafes tucked away in quieter corners, it’s always a good idea to carry a bit of cash. Plus, cash is the easiest option for souvenirs.
Language: The main language spoken in Polignano a Mare is Italian, of course. While it’s always great to brush up on some basic Italian phrases (and believe me, locals really appreciate it when you try), you’ll find that many people in the more touristy areas speak at least a little English.
Still, don’t expect everyone to be fluent, especially in smaller cafes or shops. A few phrases to remember:
- Ciao! – Hello!
- Per favore – Please
- Grazie – Thank you
- Quanto costa? – How much does it cost?
- Parla inglese? – Do you speak English?
Do I need a car in Polignano a Mare: Nope! Once you get to Polignano a Mare you most definitely do not need a car! Although plenty of people decide to drive there (us included!) since the seaside town is typically on Puglia road trips. Because of that, I highly recommend you rent a car.
How to properly pronounce Polignano a Mare?! I used to always butcher the language (especially names of destinations – just ask my husband, it’s pretty embarrassing), so now I try and practice before visiting a new spot, haha!
In Polignano a Mare, the G is silent, which makes it sound like “poh·lee·nyah·noh ah MAH-reh” – I think, haha. Best to ask a native Italian speaker of course.
Things to do in Polignano A Mare
One of the best things about this stunning coastal town is that there isn’t a tonnnnn to do here. Which really helps with my FOMO, lol. You can honestly just wander around (the whole area is stunning right on the Adriatic Sea), but here’s a few things not to miss:
Stroll through the Old Town (Centro Storico)
Like many other towns we visited on our week-long Puglia itinerary, Polignano has its very own Old Town (aka the historic district). It’s pretty tiny, but there’s whitewashed cobblestone streets, impressive churches, flower-filled balconies, little trattorias, old charming buildings, and gorgeous views of the sea! To get here, pass through the Porta Vecchia, the old gate and impressive arch, and you’re there.
Within the Old Town you’ll undoubtedly happen upon the main square (Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II) with the late 13th century Chiesa Matrice Santa Maria Assunta and its 22 metre bell tower and the clock palace!
Our hotel was in Old Town, so we wandered around many times, and always found a new tiny alleyway to check out. This is where you’ll find the poems and quotes I talk about below. You can of course walk around the area yourself, but consider taking a walking tour if you wanna learn about Polignano’s past and hear some local stories!
Find the best viewpoints
One of the best things to do in Polignano a Mare is to simply take in the views. The town is situated right on the Adriatic Sea, so you know there’s gonna be impressive viewpoints. And that’s always one of my favorite things to do!
Here’s a few spots where you’ll find the most spectacular views:
Belvedere su Lama Monachile: This is *the* iconic viewpoint in Polignano a Mare, and the one you see on all the postcards. With the turquoise waters crashing against the rocks and the quaint whitewashed buildings perched above the sea – I mean, makes sense doesn’t it?! Just look at the photos – the water is so clear you can see the rocks below!
Do note it does get wildly busy over here in the afternoon, so make sure to come first thing in the AM. Unfortunately, since the beach is nestled at the base of a cliff, the views can get shaded as the day progresses – but it’s still gorgeous regardless (the sea just won’t appear as vibrant without the sun shining down on it). Meaning views at sunset will be pretty, but unfortunately golden hour isn’t the best time for photos here.
If you only have time for one viewpoint in Polignano a Mare, make it this one, 1000%. Our hotel (San Michele Suites) was literally a 2 minute walk from here so we ended up at this viewpoint quite a few times, and it was almost always crowded, lol.
Belvedere Terrazza Santo Stefano: Another perfect spot for some killer views of the Adriatic Sea and the dramatic coastline of Polignano a Mare. It’s just a 5-minute walk from Belvedere su Lama Monachile, so no excuse not to check it out!
From here, you can see the other side of the coast, and sometimes there’ll be street musicians adding to the vibe. There’s also a cozy little café right at the viewpoint, so you can sip on coffee in the morning or grab a glass of wine later with one of the best views in town.
Pendma Chiatt (Pietra Piatta): Another stunning viewpoint, and one not as many people know about! From here, you can gaze at the rocky coastline with the town perched on top, the shimmering sea below, and the occasional boat cruising by.
This one’s essentially looking at the opposite side from Belvedere su Lama Monachile (you can actually see it from here), and you get wildly different views! You can’t see Lama Monachile, but you get a great overview of the town and cliffs.
To get here, go down the grand staircase (near the monument of Domenico Modugno), and walk out onto the flat rocky outcrop (you’ll definitely need sneakers or sturdy sandals for this). We brought our focaccia here and had a quick picnic lunch while watching the waves.
When we visited in early June, we had the place almost to ourselves, but I have a feeling in July and August this spot is just as crowded as the others. If you can, come during sunset – the colors of the sky reflecting on the water is pure bliss!
Walk over the Ponte Borbonico su Lama Monachile
This is one of the quickest things to do in Polignano a Mare, and you’ll probably come across the bridge without even realizing it! The Ponte Borbonico is a charming 18th-century bridge that spans over the deep ravine leading down to Lama Monachile beach.
And it’s not just a functional piece of architecture – it’s also a great spot to take in the view (yes, so many viewpoints here in Polignano!). From the bridge, you can look down at the rocky gorge below and the beautiful crystal-clear waters that lead out into the Adriatic. It’s an easy, yet stunning, way to experience the natural beauty of Polignano a Mare without having to go too far out of your way. Which I always appreciate in the hot summer sun, lol.
Take a boat ride through the cliffs and caves
This was easily one of our favorite things we did in Polignano a Mare (bonus points for swimming in that sparkling sea and sunbathing on the deck). The speedboat takes you along the stunning cliffs and through breathtaking hidden caves – most which are only accessible by water! The crystal-clear waters are unreal, and the caves are totally Instagram-worthy with their cool rock formations and vibrant blue glow.
We even cruised through the iconic Grotta Palazzese – it was so cool to see the setup without having to spend €200+ each, haha.
Our captain was super chill and even treated us to some local wine and taralli to snack on while we cruised. We stopped for a swim in the calm, inviting sea – such a perfect way to cool off. But my husband unfortunately lost his sunglasses while jumping in, so definitely make sure your stuff is secure before you dive in!
We booked a few weeks in advance (this is the exact boat ride we chose), and I highly recommend you do the same, especially if you’re visiting in the height of summer. And even if you have a car, do NOT drive over here – parking is an absolute nightmare (trust me… we made that mistake). Pay the €20 or so to get to the marina via tuk tuk from town!
If that boat’s booked up (very possible with how popular Polignano a Mare is), also check out this one, this one, and this one! Lots of options thankfully, but definitely secure your spot before arriving!
Search for the poetry lining the streets
One of the most unique things to do in Polignano a Mare is to hunt down the poetry of Guido Il Flâneur (one of the town’s most famous residents).
Yes, poetry! Scattered all over the walls, doors, and steps of the old town! His poems pop up in the most random spots, making a stroll through the cobblestone streets feel like a mini treasure hunt. The poems, all about love, nature, and the sea, just vibe perfectly with the town’s charm.
Guido Il Flâneur placed his work here to give the town a more intimate, artsy feel – all inspired by the beauty of Polignano and its epic surroundings.
I spotted the poems on colorful doors, winding staircases, and even tucked into the sides of old buildings – each one adding a little magic to the streets. It’s such a fun way to experience the town, and I never knew when we would come across another one of his quotes. There’s a whole slew around town, but the most famous one is down Vicolo della Poesia, a tiny alleyway with his famous poetry steps!
If you’re into art or just want to dive deeper into the local culture, definitely make time to check out these poetic treasures! At first I didn’t understand why there was Italian wording placed in random spots, but when I learned about Guido Il Flâneur’s vision behind it, I absolutely loved the concept!
Sunbathe on Lama Monachile Beach
Lama Monachile Beach (also known as Cala Porto) is a small pebble beach surrounded by dramatic cliffs and vibrant aquamarine waters. It’s not totally overrun by lidos (Italian beach clubs) like many beaches are, so you’ll mostly see people laying out their towels. That said, it does get super crowded though, and we were honestly fine just admiring it from above, haha. If you do head down, make sure to rock flip-flops — those pebbles are no joke!
You can rent a chair and umbrella toward the back near Ristorante Il Covo dei Saraceni, but it’s ridiculously overpriced and definitely not worth it in my opinion. We were totally good just chilling and soaking in the view from the top! If you’re planning to soak up the sun, get there early because the beach starts to get shaded in the early afternoon when the sun hides behind the cliffs.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even jump off the limestone cliffs into the water below. And if you’re visiting in September, don’t miss the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series – it’s right here at Lama Monachile!
Indulge in all the Puglian cuisine
Hey – you’re in Italy! May as well make the most of it by eating your way through Puglia! And Polignano a Mare is no exception. As I mentioned before, there’s a whole slew of incredible eats here, and you need to try them all.
From fresh seafood to delicious local pastries, your taste buds are in for a treat. Just make sure to wear your stretchy pants (or an oversized dress like me!) because you’ll definitely be indulging.
A few of my fave spots:
- La Focacceria – Get ready to have some of the best focaccia of your life. The flavors are out of this world (I LOVED the potato rosemary), and the crust is absolute perfection.
- MOREA Gelatieri – If you’re a gelato fan (who isn’t?), this place has the best in town. We were obsessed with the pistachio and stracciatella flavors.
- The Super Mago del Gelo Mario Campanella – Try their special coffee made with coffee, amaretto, cream, and lemon zest. It’s the perfect pick-me-up!
- Aquamare – Sip sunset cocktails with a killer view. Or, honestly, find a nearby spot with a terrace for some seriously scenic sipping.
Take a tuk tuk tour (or go for a walk) along the lungomare
A tuk tuk tour is such a fun way to explore Polignano a Mare without even breaking a sweat – which, trust me, you’ll be doing plenty of if you’re here in the height of summer, haha. The ride usually winds you through the old town’s narrow streets, past little piazzas, and then out to the lungomare.
Wait! What’s a lungomare anyways? A lungomare is a scenic seaside promenade, kinda like the malecón in Mexico (another country I absolutely adore). It’s a breezy walkway lined with gorgeous sea views and the perfect spot to soak up coastal vibes – my favorite way to spend an afternoon.
From here you’ll get sweeping views of the Adriatic’s turquoise water, dramatic cliffs, and even glimpses of the famous Lama Monachile beach from above. Don’t miss the statue of Domenico Modugno, a famous resident/singer of Polignano a Mare!
Master the art of making orecchiette pasta in a cooking class
Orecchiette is the iconic pasta of Puglia, and you’ll see it everywhere around the region (trust me, it’s delicious and you should eat it every chance you get). I mean, it’s what put this region on the global culinary map afterall. But why not learn how to make your own orecchiette pasta?!
I love taking cooking classes when I travel (I’ve made macarons in Paris, egg tarts in Lisbon, pizza in Rome, tamales in Mexico, and tiramisu in Florence), and they’re always such great ways to really immerse yourself in the culture. Plus, you get to eat what you cook afterwards, and there’s lots of local wine, soo…. If you have the time, I’d definitely say yes to a cooking class.
Learn how to ‘fold’ the orecchiette (it’s kinda tricky at first), and then feast on the perfectly cooked pasta and some focaccia!
Here’s another option in case that first one gets booked up – which it does especially in the high season of summer.
Have dinner at the iconic Grotta Palazzese
Yes, this is the famous cave restaurant, and possibly the most iconic restaurant in all of Puglia. Reviews say the food is nothing to write home about and it’s nothing special, BUT it’s the experience of literally dining inside a natural sea cave overlooking the sea that’s the real draw. I mean, it’s a restaurant literally INSIDE a cave – super unique and beautiful.
We opted to skip it, as there’s a minimum spend of €220 per person (wild!) and we’d rather spend that money on other things (cough cough gelato and boat rides and an epic cave hotel in Matera). But you decide for yourself of course – it’s always busy for a reason (just know you need to make reservations months in advance).
The restaurant is closed in the winter months, and opens again in early-mid March. Check out their website to learn more and make a reservation.
Take a day trip to Monopoli and/or Towns in the Itria Valley
Yes, this is a post primarily about all the fun things to do in Polignano a Mare, but I’d be a horrible travel blogger if I didn’t try and convince you to venture on out to other areas of Puglia! The entire region is an absolute stunner, and each town has its own unique character that makes it worth a stop. Here’s a few of my favorite towns nearby:
- Monopoli: A lively coastal town just 15 minutes from Polignano, Monopoli is all about its pretty harbor, sandy beaches, and relaxed old town vibes. Grab a spritz by the port, check out the castle walls, and wander its tangle of whitewashed streets.
- Alberobello: Probably Puglia’s most famous town, Alberobello is where you’ll find the fairytale-like trulli houses – round stone huts with conical roofs that are totally unique to the region. It can get touristy, but it’s worth it for the chance to wander through these whimsical little lanes.
- Locorotondo and Cisternino: I’m grouping these together because if you’re short on time I’d personally just pick one (with my vote going to Locorotondo). Locorotondo is known for its perfect circular old town, crisp white houses, and balconies dripping with flowers — it’s postcard Puglia at its best. Cisternino has a more rustic, authentic vibe and is especially loved for its butchers-turned-grill-houses where you can pick your own meat and have it cooked right there.
If you want to see more than one town in a day (maybe you’re ambitious like me!), a good route is to start in Monopoli since it’s the closest to Polignano and easy to reach by train.
From there, head inland to Alberobello to wander the famous trulli houses, then make your way to Locorotondo, just ten minutes away, for flower-filled balconies and whitewashed lanes. If you’ve still got time (and energy), finish in Cisternino, only fifteen minutes further, for a more rustic vibe and its famous butcher-grill restaurants.
Hope that helps you plan out a fun trip to Polignano a Mare! Are you headed to Italy soon?!
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