Polignano al Mare is the epitome of the Apuglian coast located in the Bari province. Crystal clear waters, white washed homes and a culture and cuisine to boot are just some of the draw cards of Polignano al Mare.
Whilst we can fill your days with activities there when you travel with us, if you do get any spare days, here are are our recommended top 10 things to do and see:
1. Visit the historical centre of Polignano
Spend some time wandering through the quaint streets taking breaks to enjoy an espresso, the very special local coffee specialty made and people-watch in one of the grand piazzas such as Piazza Dell’Orologio.
2. Visit Lama Monachile Beach
• Visit the Lama Monachile Beach, also called Cala Porto, the main public beach of Polignano, is the most famous beach in Polignano and the most crowded one. Despite often being packed with visitors, it does have its charm and it’s a must do when in Polignano
3. Check out the Terrazzo Santo Stefano viewpoint
For photography lovers, you can’t go past the Terrazza Santo Stefano, a beautiful viewpoint where you can look out over the beach and view the houses on top of the cliffs; probably the most famous viewpoint in the town.
4. Visit the Museum of Contemporary Art Pino Pascali
Founded in 1998, the Pino Pascali Museum sits in the southern part of town overlooking the sea. It is the only permanent museum of Contemporary Art in Puglia and hosts temporary exhibitions and permanent collections
5. Marvel at the Statue of Domenico Madugno
The Statue of Domenico Madugno – a famous Italian singer who was born in Polignano and became famous for his song Volare (Nel blu, dipinto di blu) – is worth a look. It is a bronze statue standing at about 3 meters (9.8 feet) tall.
6. Bathe in Spiaggia di Ponte Lapilli
Unlike many other calas nearby, Spiaggia di Ponte Lapilli is actually quite large, a rock-strewn beach with limestone cliffs on either side and beautiful turqouise blue water
7. Visit Lama Monachile beach in Calaporto
Lama Monachile beach is the most famous beach in Polignano for good reason. Because it is often crowded with visitors, it is best to find a quieter time to go and secure a spot on the beach to properly experience its charm, It is a must do when in Polignano – the characteristic inlet you see in all the photos and brochures of Polignano al Mare, surrounded by rock formations and the iconic white washed buildings.
8. Visit Cala Paura
Just a short walk down the main road in Polignano you’ll reach Cala Paguro, a wonderful little fisherman’s bay perfect for relaxing on.
9. Tour of the Caves
Grotta delle Rondinelle, Grotta Azzurra, Grotta Ardito, and Grotta Palazzese are just some of the most beautiful natural attractions that characterize the entire area, accessible only by sea. Take a guided tour to learn about the geological formations with swimming breaks and lunch on board your boat with us.
10. Dinner in a Cave
It’s not every day you enjoy a candlelit dinner overlooking the sea in a natural rock cave. This experience is unique to Polignano al Mare. Ristorante Grotte Palazzese offers this unique experience and makes for an unforgettable meal.
Classic Puglia can design you a tour around your tastes and preferences. Get in touch with our Puglia travel experts to start planning. Visit our tours page to view our predesigned Puglia itineraries.
