Polignano a Mare: A Coastal Gem in Puglia

Polignano a Mare is a coastal gem with a history as old as time. People have called this place home for thousands of years, from the Neolithic era to Roman times. The Romans even built a bridge over a deep gorge to connect the town, a testament to their engineering skills.

During the Middle Ages, Polignano a Mare continued to thrive under the rule of noble families. Today, it’s a popular tourist spot, but it still feels authentic and charming. The narrow, winding streets and ancient buildings offer a glimpse into the town’s rich past.

A day in Polignano a Mare

We spent a chill day in Polignano a Mare, soaking up the stunning views of Lama Monachile beach. We wandered the winding streets of the old town, and feasted on a delicious pulpo sandwich and some crispy fried seafood.

Lama Monachile (or Cala Porto) beach is seriously breathtaking. It’s tucked between towering cliffs, creating a dramatic backdrop for the crystal-clear turquoise water. It’s the perfect spot to dive right in and cool off. See Lama Monachile on Google Map.

We loved strolling through the old town. It’s full of charming houses, cute shops, and cozy little restaurants. We even spotted a couple of newlyweds taking their wedding photos – it’s that romantic!

For lunch, we hit up a super cute sandwich shop called Good Time. Yeah, I know, it’s not the most Italian name, and it sounds a bit touristy. But trust me, it’s legit! They make an amazing grilled octopus sandwich. You can choose between a classic Italian bun or a fluffy focaccia. See Good Time on Google Map.

Getting to Polignano a Mare

• From Bari:
  • Train: Take the regional train from Bari Centrale Station to Polignano a Mare. The journey takes about 45 minutes.
  • Bus: Several bus companies operate routes between Bari and Polignano a Mare. The journey takes around 1 hour.
  • Car: Rent a car in Bari and drive along the scenic coastal road to Polignano a Mare. The journey takes about 40 minutes.
• From Monopoli:
  • Train: Take the regional train from Monopoli Station to Polignano a Mare. The journey takes about 15 minutes.
  • Bus: Several bus companies operate routes between Monopoli and Polignano a Mare. The journey takes around 30 minutes.
  • Car: Rent a car in Monopoli and drive along the coastal road to Polignano a Mare. The journey takes about 20 minutes.
• From Brindisi:
  • Train: Take the regional train from Brindisi Centrale Station to Polignano a Mare. The journey takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
  • Bus: Several bus companies operate routes between Brindisi and Polignano a Mare. The journey takes around 2 hours.
  • Car: Rent a car in Brindisi and drive along the coastal road to Polignano a Mare. The journey takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes.

Tips for Visiting Polignano a Mare

• Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Polignano a Mare is during the shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) when the crowds are smaller and the weather is pleasant.
• Where to Stay: There are many charming accommodations in Polignano a Mare, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious hotels. Consider staying in the historic center for easy access to the main attractions.
• What to See and Do:
  • Explore the Old Town: Wander through the narrow, winding streets of the old town, admiring the beautiful architecture and stunning views of the sea.
  • Visit Lama Monachile Beach: This iconic beach is accessible by stairs or boat. The crystal-clear waters and dramatic coastline make it a must-see.
  • Take a Boat Tour: Embark on a boat tour to explore the coastline, swim in hidden coves, and admire the sea caves.
  • Dine at a Seaside Restaurant: Enjoy fresh seafood and local delicacies at one of the many restaurants with stunning sea views.
  • Shop for Souvenirs: Browse the local shops for unique souvenirs, such as ceramics, olive oil, and handmade jewelry.

Photo Opportunities

Click on the links to see the spot on the Google Map.

• The Roman Bridge / Ponte Borbonico su Lama Monachile: This iconic bridge offers breathtaking views of the coastline and is a popular spot for photos.
• Lama Monachile Beach from Pendma Chiatt: The crystal-clear waters and dramatic coastline make this beach a perfect backdrop for photos.
• The Old Town: The narrow, winding streets and colorful buildings offer many photo opportunities.

Additional Tips

• Wear comfortable shoes, as the town is hilly and the streets are often narrow.
• Be prepared for crowds, especially during peak season.
• Learn a few basic Italian phrases to help you communicate with locals.
• Savor the local cuisine, including fresh seafood, pasta, and wine.
• Relax and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of this charming coastal town.

Polignano a Mare is a truly magical place that will leave you wanting more. With its stunning beauty, rich history, and warm hospitality, it’s the perfect destination for a memorable Italian getaway.