Polignano a Mare: 15 Best Things to Do and See

Do you know what’s located at the very heel of Italy’s “boot” on the map? There, you’ll discover another gem of the Apulian region: Polignano a Mare, a stunning fishing town perched on cliffs high above the crashing waves of the Adriatic coast.

Polignano a Mare is a picturesque and cosy town in the south of Italy, a short drive from Bari which will captivate you at first sight with its white houses built on steep cliffs, beautiful beaches, clear water and breathtaking views of the sea.

Best Time to Visit Polignano a Mare

You can visit Polignano a Mare year-round, but keep in mind that it gets extremely crowded with tourists during the high summer season. In contrast, the winter months can be quite windy due to the open sea, and some businesses may close during this low season. However, the upside is that you can enjoy the city with far fewer tourists.

The ideal times to visit Polignano a Mare are during the spring or autumn months, offering a balance of pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Regardless of the season, Polignano a Mare is always beautiful.

Ultimately, the choice depends on what you’re looking for—whether it’s a summer holiday filled with swimming or a quieter time for hiking and exploring the city.

TIP: If you are already in Puglia, visit also Alberobello or Matera

Where to stay in Polignano a Mare: Best hotels

Polignano a Mare is a small town that can be explored in just one day, so staying there isn’t necessary. Instead, you might consider lodging in nearby Bari. TIP: Find all the information you need about Bari in our article.

However, if you wish to stay longer in Polignano a Mare, consider the Tra le Mura Hotel, conveniently located near the center and offering airport transfer. For a unique experience, I recommend the Dimora Valmar Luxury Charm hotel. If you prefer a luxurious stay, check out the Dimora Talenti.

Polignano a Mare: A Brief History

Polignano a Mare boasts a rich history dating back to Roman times. Strategically built on a limestone cliff, the town was an important maritime and commercial hub.

Archaeological finds from this period, such as the remains of the Roman road Via Traiana and old Roman villas, have been preserved in Polignano a Mare.

In the 19th century, Polignano a Mare became part of the Italian Kingdom.

Best 15 to See and Do in Polignano a Mare

Polignano a Mare offers a diverse range of attractions and activities. From its rich history and picturesque streets to stunning beaches, breathtaking views, exquisite gastronomy, and thrilling sports, there’s something for everyone. Discover the top 15 things to do and see in Polignano a Mare.

Picturesque Streets of the City

Wander through the picturesque streets of Polignano a Mare’s historic town. As you explore, you’ll come across poetry by both renowned and lesser-known authors adorning various spots. These quotes and poems are part of a project designed to inspire creativity and foster a love of literature.

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Santo Stefano Terrace

One of the most beautiful sights in Polignano a Mare is the Santo Stefano Terrace. From here, you can watch the sea waves or enjoy a stunning sunset.

TIP: In the summer, there’s a charming café on this terrace. In the winter, you can enjoy the serene beauty of the terrace without the crowds.

The Famous Lama Monachile Beach

Lama Monachile Beach, located right in the center of Polignano a Mare, is a must-see attraction often featured on sightseeing lists. This stunning beach is a magnet for visitors, making it incredibly crowded during the summer months. 🫣

Historic Roman Bridge Borbonico

Just behind Lama Monachile Beach stands an old Roman bridge, built in the 19th century, connecting the old and new parts of the city. From this bridge, you can enjoy a fantastic view of the beach and the caves below.

Grotta Palazzese Cave Restaurant

For a truly special experience, I recommend dining at Grotta Palazzese restaurant. Located in a cliff above the sea, this restaurant is open from May to October. Be sure to reserve a table in advance.

Grotta Palazzese offers delicious seafood dishes and other delicacies, though it comes with somewhat higher prices.

Church of Chiesa Madre di S. Maria Assunta

The Baroque Church of Chiesa Madre di S. Maria Assunta dominates the square. Inside, you can admire works attributed to the sculptor Stefano da Putignano.

Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II

In the heart of Polignano a Mare, you’ll find Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II, where you can soak up the quintessential Italian atmosphere and admire Baroque architecture. Enjoy a sweet coffee with amaretto at a local café or savor a panini from a nearby bakery.

Statue of Domenico Modugno

Polignano a Mare is the birthplace of the famous Italian singer and composer Domenico Modugno. You can find his statue here, commemorating his most famous song, “Volare,” which won the Eurovision Song Contest in 1958.

Behind the statue, you’ll find the “Volare” stairs leading to a promenade along the town’s stunning cliffs.

Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series

A popular activity for both locals and tourists in Polignano a Mare is cliff diving. The town even hosts an annual cliff diving competition organized by Red Bull.

During the competition, held typically in July, a structure is erected on one side of the cliff at Cala Porto for competitors to jump from. On the other side of the bay, visitors can watch and enjoy this thrilling sport. For specific dates, please check the event’s official website.

Sea Caves

Polignano a Mare is home to over 70 sea caves, carved into the rocks by the relentless action of the sea. You can explore these fascinating caves by renting a boat.

Grotte di Castellana

Discover the Grotte di Castellana, one of Italy’s largest and most beautiful cave systems. Formed millions of years ago by an underground river, these caves are filled with stunning stalactites and stalagmites.

Guided tours of the caves take place every hour and last about two hours, offering an unforgettable experience.

Torre a Mare

Near Polignano a Mare lies the charming fishing village of Torre a Mare. Here, you’ll find the namesake 16th-century watchtower perched on a rocky outcrop above two large caves. This historic tower was originally used to defend the coast from pirates and robbers.

You can easily combine a visit to Torre a Mare with a trip to nearby Bari. A variety of excursions and experiences are available on GetYourGuide.

Excursions Around Apulia

Italy’s Puglia region is full of beautiful places to explore. Embark on city tours to other charming towns, with a variety of trips available on GetYourGuide.

Bari

Bari, the capital of Puglia, is located on the Adriatic coast. It is the second-largest city after Naples and offers a rich blend of history, monuments, and a vibrant modern atmosphere.

Monopoli

Monopoli is a quaint harbor town just a short distance from Polignano a Mare. It is less frequented by tourists, allowing you to enjoy a quiet, authentic Italian experience.

Lecce

Known as the “Florence of the South,” Lecce boasts a wealth of stunning Baroque architecture, making it a must-visit destination in Puglia.

Best Food to try in Polignano a Mare

The Apulia region is renowned for its culinary delights. When visiting Polignano a Mare, be sure to try:

• Tartufo: A famous dessert that’s a must-try.
• Panini: Enjoy a variety of delicious Italian sandwiches.
• Orecchiette: This ear-shaped pasta is often served with broccoli, tomatoes, and cheese.
• Focaccia: A savory Italian flatbread that’s perfect for any meal.
• Mussels with Potatoes and Rice: A local specialty that’s both hearty and flavorful.
• Sweet Coffee: Indulge in a unique coffee blend with lemon zest, cream, and amaretto.