Is Polignano a Mare Worth Visiting?
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Puglia is our favorite place in Italy for spending a summer at the beaches and soaking in the charm of southern Italy. Among the most endearing and now famous places to visit in Puglia is the coastal town of Polignano a Mare.
Its breathtaking scenery is iconic and often the trigger for many travelers to choose Puglia as their next destination.
Despite what many articles say, Polignano a Mare is not a hidden gem by any means. It receives many visitors, which can sometimes make or break an entire trip.
So, is Polignano a Mare really worth visiting? Does it truly rise to the expectations that the online world has laid upon it?
In this guide, we’ll help you determine if Polignano a Mare is the place for you and if it’s worth visiting during your time in Puglia.
The Essentials for Visiting Polignano a Mare
📸 Lama Monachile Beach and Centro Storico (the historic center) are the two most popular sites in Polignano a Mare. If you’re short on time, you can accomplish seeing both in just one day.
📍Comparatively, Polignano a Mare is a bigger attraction than the neighboring Monopoli. This means Polignano a Mare is worth visiting for the famous view, but Monopoli tends to be better to stay in.
🐟 As beautiful as the sights are in Polignano a Mare, a big reason to visit is for the seafood. In this guide, we’ve included the best places to eat in Puglia’s most famous coastal town!
🚊 Reaching Polignano a Mare is super easy, with or without a car. There is a train station just 10 minutes (on foot) from the city centre, which connects to other major cities including Bari, where the international airport is located.
🚗 Polignano a Mare is the perfect first stop on a Puglia road trip. Rent a car from Bari Airport and arrive in Polignano a Mare in just 30 minutes.
🏖 For travelers planning a beach vacation in Puglia, do not spend too much time in Polignano a Mare. The beaches are subpar compared to other areas of the region, with the best beaches being located in the Salento peninsula.
How Many Days You Should Spend in Polignano a Mare?
Puglia’s coastal gem of Polignano a Mare is a versatile option for travelers. It’s as good a destination for a marvelous day trip as it is a base for spending one or two weeks in Puglia.
To see and experience the “meat” (literally and figuratively) of Polignano a Mare doesn’t take too long, and its highlights can definitely be visited in just a day or two.
In the summer time, Polignano a Mare and Puglia as a whole tend to get flooded with tourists. While crowds are usually a deterring factor for us personally, we still think Polignano a Mare is worth visiting, just not for too long.
Even when it’s packed with tourists, a stop in Polignano a Mare for the day is worth your time because it’s simply one of the most unique spots in southern Italy.
Within one day, you can accomplish seeing the major sites and picturesque features it is known for. Then, move on to the remainder of Puglia.
If you’re not the type of traveler who is keen on moving around a region during a trip, that works too! Visiting and staying in Polignano a Mare is certainly not a bad idea, but you must be OK with the fact that you’ll be around many other people. For travelers interested in experiencing Puglia while making Polignano a Mare their base, plan a visit for at least one week.
How to Spend a Day in Polignano a Mare
Take a Photo with Domenico Modugno
After seeing countless monuments in Italy of religious figures, the statue of Domenico Modugno is a breath of fresh air.
Domenico Modugno was a beloved singer-songwriter who was born in Polignano a Mare in 1928. He went on to create many of Italy’s dearest top hits and became a proud symbol of the city.
The statue of Domenico Modugno is backed by a view of the sea and is particularly marvelous because of the pose in which the singer is sculpted in. This is an easy, free, and definitely must-see attraction while visiting Polignano a Mare.
You can find the statue of Domenico Modugno here. If you’re interested in photos without other people in it, you must arrive early.
Visit the Cliffside Viewpoint of Pietra Piatta
The key to successfully visiting Polignano a Mare is to snap a photo of Lama Monachile from either cliffside. There are a couple of viewpoints of the cove and beach from above on the side of the Old Town, but Pietra Piatta is far less frequented.
To reach Pietra Piatta, you must walk down a few sets of stairs until you reach the observation deck, which also gives you an unobstructed view of the buildings on the edge of the cliffside.
The Pietra Piatta observation deck is not monitored with no guardrail so be cautious if you’re visiting with young children. You may even witness a few adventurous divers who jump off this side of the cliff and into the water below.
Experience the Iconic Lama Monachile
For those who have their hearts set on experiencing the famous Lama Monachile firsthand, a visit to the beach is non-negotiable.
To get down to the beach, you can enter the multiple sets of stairs from either side of the bridge (Ponte Borbonico). Lama Monachile is a pebble beach that’s completely free to visit.
Although the beach area seems large enough, you may be surprised how packed to the brim it gets during the peak season.
If you are planning to enjoy the beach and even go swimming, arrive as early as 9 am to claim your spot for the morning and afternoon. Otherwise, you will sit near the back of the beach and far from the lovely water.
One of the most distinct features of Lama Monachile is Grotta Piana. It’s not a traditional grotta (cave) that you may see along the shoreline near Polignano a Mare, but instead a passageway underneath the cliffside.
It can get quite exciting to pass through, especially when the tide is high and waves are rough.
Not interested in going down all the steps to Lama Monachile? Just stop at the top of Ponte Borbonico and take your photos there.
Wander Through the Old Town
Italy is home to its fair share of towns perched on hilltops and cliffs. However, there aren’t many that balance on the edge of a stone wall, directly above the sea. Therefore, the centro storico (historic centre) of Polignano a Mare is truly one of the most unique sceneries in Italy.
The historic centre of Polignano a Mare is as charming as one can imagine, with cobblestone passageways, balconies overflowing with flowers, and ancient buildings in every direction you look. Polignano a Mare’s centro storico beams with that quintessential Italian feel that we all adore.
Throughout the historic centre, you’ll effortlessly stumble upon many well-preserved homes, churches, town squares, restaurants, and balcony observation decks.
If you’re afraid of heights, we suggest you keep your eyes closed when you approach these.
Eat Raw Seafood at Pescheria Da Pasqualino
Tourism in Polignano a Mare is booming. It is slowly turning into a place that attracts a specific type of audience looking to indulge in luxury hotels and high-end restaurants. As a result, finding an upscale seafood restaurant is not difficult and perhaps even the rule.
Personally, we’re not the type to usually choose a 5-star meal over a humble one, and if you’re like us, visiting Polignano a Mare can pose a problem with going out to eat.
Luckily, we found a solution for those interested in eating seafood without all the fuss of waiters and linens. Instead of traditional restaurants (even casual ones), you can find raw seafood at many fish markets. Yes, this is obvious because fish markets are where you go to buy fresh fish and cook it.
However, there are many in Polignano a Mare that serve crudo di mare, which is seafood that’s meant to be eaten raw.
Pescheria Da Pasqualino is a small and unassuming shop near the waterfront and sells pre-packaged servings of raw seafood items like mussels or small pickled sardines.
You simply choose your seafood and enjoy it on one of their outdoor tables with plastic silverware. YUM!
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Catch the Sunset Over the Natural Pool
While Lama Monachile receives all the attention, there’s another stunning natural feature that many tourists miss during their visit to Polignano a Mare. The natural pool near Trattoria Il Grottone is as incredible to look at as it is to swim in.
The rectangular body of water is carved into the existing rugged coastline, which makes it look like an intentional swimming pool.
After visiting Polignano a Mare numerous times, even during peak season, we have rarely seen more than a handful of people at this gorgeous location. From the street above the grotta, you can enjoy a romantic sunset to end your day in the beautiful town of Polignano a Mare.
Are Beaches in Polignano a Mare Worth Visiting?
The Lama Monachile is the most famous scene in Polignano a Mare and perhaps all of Puglia. It is a scenic beach squeezed at the base of two cliff sides, right in the center of town. Lama Monachile is dramatic, intriguing, and effortlessly photogenic.
But, visiting Polignano a Mare is worth it to see Lama Monachile, but not to necessarily swim there.
Unfortunately, many people make the mistake of thinking that the Lama Monachile is actually a nice beach to visit and relax at. Don’t get us wrong – it’s an incredible sight, but compared to the many alternatives, it’s not fantastic to actually go to and swim in.
The Lama Monachile is unquestionably best enjoyed from one of the viewpoints above. If you’re looking to book a beach vacation to Puglia, do not make Polignano a Mare a focal point of your trip.
Truthfully, there are not many beaches in or near Polignano a Mare that won us over. There are also not that many of them nearby before you hit the territory of Monopoli, which is south of Polignano a Mare. You will not find sandy beaches, but instead beaches that are filled with pebbles or flat rocks.
Spiaggia di Ponte dei Lapilli is a bit north of the city centre and offers a more genuine beach experience than the famous Lama Monachile. South of Polignano a Mare, Cala Sala is the best beach before you enter Monopoli.
⛱ Read More: 18 Must-Visit Beaches in Puglia
Where to Eat in Polignano a Mare
Being a coastal town, you should prioritize eating seafood in Polignano a Mare. Yes, you may walk by a really good-looking pizza restaurant, but you can find pizza on every corner in Italy.
Seafood is king in Polignano a Mare. It’s easy to find on any budget, always fresh, and ensures you’re eating as authentically as possible during your visit.
Top rated seafood restaurants in Polignano a Mare:
Restaurant Antiche Mura – Best spot for date night
Cru Fish Bar – Best modern spin on classic seafood dishes
Pescheria Da Pasqualino – Best crudo di mare (raw seafood)
Pescaria – Best casual seafood restaurant
Bontà sotto l’arco – Best puccia con polpo (octopus sandwich)
Friggitoria: Largo Ardito – Best fritto misto (fried mixed seafood)
Da Tuccino – Best high-end seafood tasting menu
The Best Accommodation for All Budgets in Polignano a Mare
💰 Dimora Dioniso – Best Value for a Bed & Breakfast
💰 Dimora Anderì – Best Central Location
💰💰Aquatica Home – Best Vacation Home for Families or Large Groups
💰💰💰Bianca Relax & SPA – Best Luxury Apartment
💰💰💰 Tre Archi Suite & Relais – Best Architecture and Design
💰💰💰💰Covo dei Saraceni – Best Scenic Location and View
FAQs for Visiting Polignano a Mare
1. How to Get to Polignano a Mare
By Plane
Polignano a Mare is among the best and most popular destinations near Bari, which happens to be the region’s biggest airport. If you’re flying to Puglia, you’ll likely arrive at the Bari International Airport which is just 40 minutes north of Polignano a Mare.
Alternatively, you can fly into Brindisi, which is home to the Salento Airport. Unfortunately, the flight paths to the Salento Airport tend to be more limited, but it’s always worth checking when browsing for flights.
Getting From Bari to Polignano a Mare by Train
The Bari Airport is slightly north of the city, so the train ride from Bari to Polignano a Mare takes a bit longer (around 1.5 hours altogether). From the Bari Airport, you must catch the bus to Bari Centrale train station. From Bari Centrale, you can hop on a brief train journey to Polignano a Mare and arrive in under 40 minutes.
The distance from the Polignano a Mare train station to the city centre is also not that far and just a short 10-minute walk.
Taking a Ferry to Polignano a Mare
Bari and Brindisi are also major ports on the eastern coast of Italy. If you are looking to visit Polignano a Mare from the Balkan peninsula or even Greece, you can do so by crossing the Adriatic Sea with a ferry. Ferry travel is more expensive than just hopping on a plane, but taking the ferry is undoubtedly the best option if you’re traveling with a car.
Driving to Polignano a Mare
Whether you’re flying to reach Polignano a Mare or already traveling with your own car, the city is extremely convenient to reach. A major motorway (SS16) runs through Puglia and alongside the shoreline, which means that Polignano a Mare is just one easy exit away.
For travelers flying to Bari, highly consider renting a car in Bari and driving to Polignano a Mare as your first stop before completing a road trip throughout Puglia.
Where to Find Free Parking in Polignano a Mare
A majority of the parking within the centre of Polignano a Mare is either paid or reserved for residents. If you are visiting during the summer, it’s incredibly challenging to find available spots.
Instead, head to one of the free parking lots in Polignano a Mare, which can be found outside of the city centre. This does require you to walk an estimated 15-20 minutes into town, but it’s worth it if you do not want to pay for parking.
The free parking lots in Polignano a Mare are dirt lots and will not be marked with any signs. Free parking can be found here near Cala Paura or on the opposite end of town here.
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2. Is Polignano a Mare a Good Base in Puglia?
Choosing to stay in Polignano a Mare during your time in Puglia is a practical option. Particularly, it’s a solid choice for a base in Puglia for those who are not driving or planning to rent a car.
You can easily get to Polignano a Mare from Bari by train and it’s connected to other destinations in Puglia by railway.
Popular attractions like the towns (Alberobello and Locorotondo) of the Itria Valley are accessible by train and are just 30 minutes away by car. Travelers who don’t want to drive or rely on public transportation still have alternative options.
Since Polignano a Mare is a big tourist destination, it’s really easy to book a tour of surrounding sites that depart from Polignano a Mare. This way, you don’t worry about the logistics of getting around and transportation is resolved for you.
📍Read More: Choosing Where to Stay in Puglia
3. Should You Visit Polignano a Mare or Monopoli?
Compared to Monopoli, Polignano a Mare is often perceived as more of an attraction than an actual town. Based on the feel and the overall package, Monopoli is the better-rounded place to stay than Polignano a Mare.
In terms of visiting, you should make time to see both since they’re within earshot of each other and have different features to offer.
Polignano a Mare is worth visiting for the “wow” factor. It is mesmerizing for a number of reasons and is undoubtedly a show pony for the entire region of Puglia. Monopoli is more laid back (but still not calm) and feels slightly more authentic.
Additionally, if you’re keen on visiting many beautiful beaches, Monopoli is definitely the better choice because it has no shortage of them within close distance of the city.
4. Is Polignano a Mare Expensive?
We’ve been fortunate enough to tour the Puglia region extensively, which has exposed us to its inconsistency in pricing. Compared to the majority of the region, Polignano a Mare is expensive when it comes to the cost of accommodation and restaurant prices.
Despite this, we believe Polignano a Mare is still worth visiting if you don’t plan on spending a long time (and therefore, money) there.
✍🏼 Read More: How to Plan a Budget Trip to Italy
On average, the cost is about 10-20% more than what you’d spend elsewhere, particularly in lesser-known corners of Puglia. The prices in Polignano a Mare are on par with what you’ll pay in other touristy destinations like Alberobello.
Still, it helps if you know how to weed out and avoid tourist traps. As long as you’re not spending all of your money at overpriced restaurants or shops, you can still visit Polignano a Mare with a reasonable budget.
When choosing a place to eat, stay away from restaurants that post their menus outside in English. Shopping for gifts? Be aware of any mass-produced items that may not even be made in Italy.
Find a boutique-style store like a pottery or ceramics studio instead where you can actually see the products being crafted.
Polignano a Mare Travel Resources
☔️ TRAVEL INSURANCE: EKTA or VisitorsCoverage
✈️ FLIGHTS: Skyscanner, CheapOair or Kiwi.com
🚙 CAR RENTALS: Discover Cars or Rentalcars.com
🚊 TRAINS & BUSES: Busbud, Trainline or Omio
🛳 FERRIES: Direct Ferries
🛌 ACCOMMODATION: Booking.com, Agoda or Trivago
☎️ ESIM / CELL PHONE DATA: Airalo
📸 TOURS & ACTIVITIES: GetYourGuide or Viator
