Monopoli, a small seaside town in Italian Apulia (a short distance from Bari), is a gem definitely worth visiting. Coincidentally, it has nothing to do with the popular game Monopoly, even though some Italians might try to convince you otherwise.😄
History, culture, the sea, and breathtaking views – all this makes Monopoli unforgettable. Are you wondering what to do and see in Monopoli? In this guide I will share with you Monopoli, Italy: 11 Best Things to Do and See.
When to Visit Monopoli
Ideally, visit Monopoli in spring or autumn, when temperatures are pleasant and there aren’t as many tourists. In the summer months, expect more hustle and bustle and higher temperatures, but Monopoli is not usually overcrowded with tourists even during peak season. In winter, the city is quieter, but some tourist attractions may be closed.
You might also like: 26 tips on what to do in Bari.
Monopoli: where to Stay
I recommend staying in the center, close to the historic old town, where everything will be within reach:
- B&B Portorosso,
- HolidayMonopoli,
- Bellariva Monopoli B&B e Relax.
Monopoli, Italy: 11 Best Things to Do and See
In this article, I have compiled 12 tips on what to see and do in Monopoli.
TIP: What to see in Cinque Terre
Stroll through the Streets of the Old Town
Monopoli’s historic center is a labyrinth of narrow streets, stone buildings, and charming squares. As you walk through these streets, you’ll feel the atmosphere of old Italy, as if time has stood still. Don’t forget to notice the picturesque balconies with flowers and historic houses with typical white facades.
Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II.
Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II. is Monopoli’s main square. The square is surrounded by cafes, shops, and ancient buildings.
Cathedral of Madonna Della Madia
The impressive Baroque Cathedral of Madonna della Madia in the heart of Monopoli is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Inside, you’ll find a beautifully decorated interior with frescoes and statues. According to legend, the icon of Madonna della Madia was found at sea on a wooden board, which was then used to complete the roof of this cathedral.
Castello Carlo V.
This castle, built in the 16th century by Charles V, served to defend the coast from pirates. Today, it is open to the public, and you can enjoy views of both the sea and the city from it.
Castello Di Santo Stefano
Outside the city center, you’ll find this smaller castle, which was originally a Benedictine abbey. Castello di Santo Stefano is located right by the sea and is surrounded by beautiful nature.
Lido Di San Stefano and Lido Porto Ghiacciolo Beaches
If you’re looking for relaxation on a beautiful beach, these two are among the most popular with locals. Lido di San Stefano is a quiet, sandy beach where you can enjoy the day. Lido Porto Ghiacciolo is smaller but offers crystal-clear water and pleasant surroundings with views of Santo Stefano Castle.
Port with Small Boats
Monopoli has a small but picturesque port where typical fishing boats called “gozzi” are moored. So head here for a stroll.
Excursions in the Surroundings
The Italian region of Apulia is beautiful and offers a lot to see. If you’re traveling to Monopoli, then also visit:
- Bari: The capital of Apulia is just a short train ride from Monopoli. Bari has a beautiful old town, the impressive Basilica of Saint Nicholas, and a port with views of the Adriatic Sea.
- Polignano a Mare: The town is primarily known for its magnificent cliffs and crystal-clear water. Diving competitions are held here.
- Alberobello: The unique and fascinating town of Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is famous for its typical white houses with conical roofs, called “trulli”.
- Matera: This ancient city has been the backdrop for many films (e.g., James Bond), and its “sassi” (cave dwellings) are famous.
And if you want to be inspired by even more trips, check out the offerings of the travel portal GetYourGuide.
FAQ
How do I get to Monopoli?
Monopoli is easily accessible by train from Bari or by car via the highway. If you’re flying into Bari Airport, the journey to Monopoli takes approximately an hour.
When is the best time to visit Monopoli?
The best time to visit is spring, autumn, or summer.
Is Monopoli suitable for families with children?
Yes, Monopoli is a great place for families. The beaches are safe, and the town offers plenty of activities for all age groups.
What are the best beaches in Monopoli?
Lido di San Stefano and Lido Porto Ghiacciolo are among the best beaches in the area.
How long to stay in Monopoli?
The ideal length of stay is at least 3 days to explore both the town and its surroundings.
Tips and Tricks for Your Vacation
Don’t Overpay for Flights
Search for flights on Kayak. It’s our favorite search engine because it scans the websites of all airlines and always finds the cheapest connection.
Book Your Accommodation Smartly
The best experiences we’ve had when looking for accommodation (from Alaska to Morocco) are with Booking.com, where hotels, apartments, and entire houses are usually the cheapest and most widely available.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Good travel insurance will protect you against illness, accidents, theft, or flight cancellations. We’ve had a few hospital visits abroad, so we know how important it is to have proper insurance arranged.
Where we insure ourselves: SafetyWing (best for everyone) and TrueTraveller (for extra-long trips).
Why don’t we recommend any Czech insurance company? Because they have too many restrictions. They set limits on the number of days abroad, travel insurance via a credit card often requires you to pay medical expenses only with that card, and they frequently limit the number of returns to the Czech Republic.
Find the Best Experiences
Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can book guided walks, trips, skip-the-line tickets, tours, and much more. We always find some extra fun there!
