Polignano
a Mare.

Begin at Lama Monachile, also known as Cala Porto: the small white-pebble beach that has become the symbol of Polignano a Mare.

The cove lies between two high rock faces below the old town. Look down from the Ponte Borbonico bridge. The beach is easy to reach on foot, but gets very busy in summer. Arrive early in the morning if you want to spend a few hours by the water.

Even without going down to the beach, stop on the bridge to admire the coast and photograph one of Puglia’s best-known views. At sunset and in the early evening, lights on the town’s terraces make the scene even more atmospheric.

Pass through the Arco Marchesale into the ancient heart of Polignano.

The old town is a tangle of lanes, steps, courtyards, arches and little squares surrounded by stone buildings and whitewashed houses. Wander without a fixed route to discover sea views, flower-filled balconies and unexpected terraces overlooking the Adriatic.

Polignano is often called the city of poetry. Verses and thoughts appear on doors, steps and walls, turning a simple walk into a little hunt for words.

Places to see include Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II, the main church dedicated to Santa Maria Assunta, Piazza San Benedetto and the panoramic terraces around the edge of the old town.

According to a local story, a couple destined to marry must kiss on every panoramic terrace in the town. There is one curious condition: one partner should not know the legend beforehand.

We cannot say whether the story really leads couples to the altar, but it is a fun excuse to discover the loveliest terraces and take a few romantic photographs.

A few kilometres from central Polignano, San Vito is a small seaside village with a little harbour, colourful boats and a large abbey overlooking the coast.

Local tradition says that in 801 a ship led by Princess Florenza landed here with the relics of Saint Vitus and his tutors, Modestus and Crescentia.

San Vito still has a peaceful, authentic atmosphere. Enjoy a walk, watch the fishermen at work and photograph the abbey reflected in the water.

The area also grows the distinctive Polignano carrot, known for its yellow, purple and orange colours and recognised as a Slow Food Presidium.

Heading towards Monopoli, you reach Cala Incina, a small rocky inlet overlooked by an old coastal watchtower.

This stretch is wilder than the beaches nearer the centre. Its rocky coast, clear water and fishing boats form a particularly striking landscape.

It is a good stop for photography, snorkelling and less urban surroundings. Access to the sea is mainly over rocks: suitable shoes are useful, especially with children or visitors with reduced mobility.

Cala Paura is another of Polignano a Mare’s best-known inlets.

Not far from the statue of Domenico Modugno, it features small landing places, rocks and traditional boats. Summer can be busy; spring and autumn reveal a quieter, more relaxing side.

Some coastal excursions depart here. Before booking, check the exact boarding point, the length of the trip and the expected sea conditions for the day.

Seen from the sea, Polignano’s coast reveals caves, cliffs and openings sculpted over time by water and wind.

The most convenient and safest way to explore is an organised boat trip with a local operator. Routes may include Lama Monachile, Grotta Palazzese, Grotta Ardito, Grotta delle Monache and Scoglio dell’Eremita. Routes and access always depend on sea conditions.

One of the most famous is Grotta Palazzese, a large natural opening directly overlooking the Adriatic. Above the cave stands one of the town’s best-known hotels and dining establishments.

Avoid entering caves independently in pedal boats or small craft unless you know the coast and sea conditions well.

Taking a break is an important part of a visit to Polignano.

A historic address is Il Super Mago del Gelo in Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi. Its best-known speciality is caffè speciale, made with coffee, cream, lemon zest and an almond amaretto. Mario Campanella created the recipe, which has become one of the town’s culinary curiosities.

Besides the special coffee, the centre has several artisan gelato shops. An evening walk with a gelato is one of the simplest and nicest ways to enjoy the town’s atmosphere.

Along the southern coast lies Scoglio dell’Eremita, also called Isolotto di San Paolo.

The rock rises from the sea a short distance offshore, with a cross on top. Its name is linked to the legend of a man who chose this tiny island to live apart from the world, in solitude and contemplation.

You can see it from the waterfront, especially around Largo Grotta Ardito, or during a boat trip.

After exploring the old town, choose from the many places to stop for an aperitivo or an evening drink.

For views of Lama Monachile, look for a table on the terraces near the old town. Fly is known for its panoramic location, while La Casa del Mojito on Via Annunziata serves cocktails in the heart of the ancient town.

La Casa del Mojito also has a second location for aperitivo and dinner. Before going, check seasonal opening hours and whether you need to book.

The town’s food scene ranges from restaurants with views to focaccia bakeries, traditional inns, seafood sandwiches and small casual venues.

Donna Gina overlooks Lama Monachile and focuses mainly on seafood. It suits visitors looking for a carefully presented setting and a panoramic location.

L’Osteria di Chichibio, near the Domenico Modugno statue, is another well-known address for seafood and a more refined dining experience.

For an exclusive experience, Grotta Palazzese’s restaurant occupies the large natural cavern above the sea. It is a high-end option: check the menu, prices and availability in advance.

Pescaria, on Piazza Aldo Moro, made the seafood sandwich famous in many versions. Its menu also offers tartare, fried seafood, salads and other fish dishes.

It is a practical choice for seafood served in a contemporary, informal style.

For a simple break, try Focacceria Delle Noci on Via San Vito, near the Lama Monachile bridge. Open since 1997, it makes artisan focaccia in various flavours to eat there or take to the sea.

Another local experience is an octopus sandwich near Cala Paura: simple food to enjoy by the water, without expecting an elegant setting.

You can visit Polignano in a few hours, but a full day lets you combine the old town, terraces, sea and a food stop without rushing.

In summer, arrive in the morning to avoid the busiest hours. Spring and early autumn are ideal for walking in gentler temperatures and enjoying the town’s atmosphere.

From Oceanomare Beach Home in Bari, Polignano a Mare can be a highlight of your journey along the Puglian coast.

Follow the lanes, step onto the terraces and take time to watch the sea: Polignano’s most authentic side often appears in these small moments.

Note: venues, prices, opening hours, excursions and services may vary with the season. Check each business’s official website before visiting and book ahead during busy periods.