Things To Do
in Polignano a Mare
Polignano a Mare is a cliffside town perched above the turquoise Adriatic on Italy's Puglia coast. Its white limestone walls tumble down to the sea, linked by narrow lanes, arched doorways, and sweeping balconies with dramatic views. The town is famous for its sea caves, the pebbly Lama Monachile beach, and lively cafes that spill onto the cliffs.
It is the birthplace of the singer Domenico Modugno and a beloved gateway for food lovers, photographers, and travelers chasing coastal horizons.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Polignano a Mare and check into your seaside accommodation, where you can soak in the stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring freshly baked pastries and robust Italian coffee. Take a relaxing stroll along the cliffside path to admire the dramatic cliffs and azure waters.
After lunch, explore the charming historical center with its narrow streets and whitewashed houses adorned with colorful flowers. Visit the famous Lama Monachile beach for a refreshing swim in the crystalline waters. Spend your afternoon sampling gelato from a local gelateria while appreciating the coastal scenery.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a traditional seafood restaurant overlooking the sea, indulging in local specialties such as antipasti di mare. After dinner, take a stroll to the balcony that overlooks the turquoise waters, where the ambiance creates a perfect romantic setting. Conclude the day with a nightcap at a quaint bar and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the town.
Begin your day with a visit to the historic 16th-century Church of Saint Vito, known for its beautiful interior and intricate architecture. Next, head to the nearby statues of the city's renowned poet, Domenico Modugno, and explore the tiny art galleries showcasing local talent. Engage with locals as you sip an espresso at a café in the main square, immersing yourself in the lively ambiance.
In the afternoon, partake in a cooking class where you'll learn to prepare traditional Apulian dishes using fresh, local ingredients. After cooking, enjoy the meal you created, paired with a glass of local wine. Spend the rest of your afternoon wandering through the local markets, purchasing handmade crafts and local produce.
Dinner at a rooftop terrace restaurant allows you to feast on delightful Italian cuisine while overlooking the shimmering sea. Post-meal, enjoy a live music performance or a small local festival that might be taking place in the square. Bask in the enchanting nighttime views of Polignano a Mare as you stroll back to your accommodation.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🍽️Lunch for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| ☕Coffee or pastry | $2-4 |
| 🏨One night in a mid-range hotel | $100-180 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride in town | $5-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning coastal scenery and dramatic cliffside architecture
- Excellent seafood and Apulian cuisine
- Easy access to beaches, caves, and nearby towns
- Compact old town walkability with scenic viewpoints
- Summer crowds and higher prices during peak season
- Limited parking and some narrow, steep streets
- Certain attractions require advance reservations
- Some shops and restaurants may close in off-peak months
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Buonasera" - Good evening
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
- "Dov'è il bagno?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Posso avere il conto?" - Can I have the bill?
- "Mi scusi" - Excuse me
- "Non capisco" - I don’t understand
Places to Visit in Polignano a Mare
Visit one of these nice places.
The dramatic cove framed by cliff faces, with a natural rock arch and clear turquoise water—an iconic Polignano shot at dawn or dusk.
A vantage point along the cliff edge where the sea and town meet, perfect for wide-angle sunset photos.
Several terraces and balconies offer sweeping views over the Adriatic and whitewashed rooftops—great for panoramic cityscapes.
Photograph the charming, sunlit lanes and flower-filled balconies typical of Polignano’s architecture.
Boat rides reveal sea caves and coastal arches up close, ideal for dramatic coastal photography.
Food in Polignano a Mare
Polignano a Mare Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Apulian pasta with sautéed broccoli rabe, garlic, olive oil, and chili; a must-try in any trattoria.
Must-Try!
Creamy burrata served with fresh cherry tomatoes and basil, often paired with crusty bread and olive oil.
A shareable basket of lightly fried seafood and vegetables, commonly found in seaside eateries.
Regional breads (Altamura) and local focaccias, perfect as accompaniments to seafood or antipasti.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Morning markets in the historic core offer fresh seafood, fruit, vegetables, and local snacks; great for sampling regional produce and picking up picnic supplies.
Casual spots along the waterfront serve fried seafood and light bites ideal for a quick, flavorful meal or snack.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet people with 'Buongiorno' or 'Buonasera.' In churches and religious sites, dress modestly and speak softly.
Ask permission before photographing individuals, especially in small shops or homes.
In narrow lanes, keep voices low and avoid blocking doorways or resident access; be mindful of residents and local customs.
Safety
Tipping in Polignano a Mare
Ensure a smooth experience
A service charge is sometimes included; if not, a small 5-10% tip for good service is customary in restaurants. Rounding up the bill is common for casual places.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common. Carry a small amount of cash for markets and small vendors who may prefer it.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, sunny, and busy with beachgoers and ferries. Arrive early for views, book restaurants in advance, and stay hydrated; enjoy long evenings along the coast.
Moderate temperatures and blooming landscapes create ideal walking and photographing conditions with fewer crowds.
Milder days and comfortable sea air; great for coastal hikes and enjoying seasonal seafood without peak-season crowds.
Quieter streets and occasional rain; some attractions may have limited hours, but the town retains its charm with candlelit evenings and fewer tourists.
Polignano a Mare at Night
Hiking in Polignano a Mare
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic cliffside walk with sea views and photo opportunities along the Adriatic coast.
A famous cave system offering dramatic subterranean trails and formations a short drive from Polignano.
Coastal dunes and protected nature trails ideal for a longer hike or bike ride nearby.
Airports
How to reach Polignano a Mare by plane.
The closest major airport, about a 40–60 minute drive to Polignano depending on traffic.
Another gateway about 60–90 minutes by car, often used for regional and seasonal flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Fishermen and families form the traditional base of the town’s community.
Seasonal visitors come for scenery, cuisine, and coastal charm, especially in summer.
People who support summer tourism and local crafts in the historic center.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport across Italy, with many local fans and informal matches on the coast.
Water sports are common along the coastline, especially in summer months.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Polignano a Mare.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are abundant: burrata and tomatoes, grilled vegetables, fresh salads, and pasta with olive oil. When dining out, ask for no breadcrumbs (senza pangrattato) and request simple sauces to avoid hidden animal-derived components.