Dramatically perched on limestone cliffs above crystal waters
Cliff Town
Polignano a Mare
Dramatically perched on limestone cliffs where old buildings seem to grow from the rock itself, overlooking turquoise Adriatic waters.
Must-See Attractions
Don't miss these highlights
Lama Monachile Beach (Cala Porto)
Iconic pebble beach surrounded by dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear turquoise water - Polignano's postcard image
Note: Access through tunnel under ancient bridge
Centro Storico (Old Town)
Labyrinthine streets perched on cliffs with stunning sea views at every turn
Grotta Palazzese Viewpoint
View the famous restaurant built inside a cave overlooking the sea
Note: Restaurant is very expensive, but viewing from outside is free
Ponte Borbonico (Lama Monachile)
Ancient bridge offering the best panoramic view of Lama Monachile beach and cliffs
Sea Caves Boat Tour
Explore spectacular sea caves and grottos carved by the Adriatic along the coastline
Note: Book in advance in peak season
Multiple Scenic Viewpoints
Various panoramic terraces throughout town offering dramatic coastal vistas
More Places to Visit
Additional attractions worth exploring
Chiesa Madre di Santa Maria Assunta
30 minutesMain church with beautiful architecture and coastal views
Statue of Domenico Modugno
15 minutesTribute to the famous Italian singer from Polignano, creator of 'Volare'
Must-Try Foods
Local specialties you can't miss
Pescaria Sandwich
street foodFamous gourmet seafood sandwiches - fried octopus, raw fish, tuna tartare and more
💡 Expect queues but worth the wait
Fresh Raw Seafood (Crudo)
seafoodPlatters of sea urchins, oysters, scampi, and other raw delicacies
Grilled Octopus
seafoodTender grilled octopus with potatoes - coastal specialty
Orecchiette with Seafood
pasta dishTraditional pasta with fresh clams, mussels, or other seafood
Risotto ai Frutti di Mare
rice dishCreamy risotto with mixed seafood
Gelato Artigianale
dessertArtisan gelato from multiple excellent gelaterias
💡 Perfect while strolling the cliffs
Recommended Experiences
Make the most of your visit
Sea Caves Boat Tour
Explore hidden grottos and caves along the dramatic coastline, with swimming stops
📌 Book early - very popular
Swim at Lama Monachile
Experience the iconic beach with its dramatic cliff setting and turquoise waters
Sunset from Viewpoints
Watch spectacular sunset from cliff-top terraces overlooking the Adriatic
Food Tour - Pescaria & Street Eats
Sample famous seafood sandwiches and local street food specialties
Red Bull Cliff Diving Event
Watch world-class cliff diving competition (annual July event)
📌 If visiting during event
Traditional Puglian Cooking Class
Learn to make orecchiette and other regional dishes
Evening Passeggiata
Join locals for traditional evening stroll through illuminated old town
Practical Information
Plan your visit
Best Time to Visit
May to June, September (July-August very crowded)
Average Stay
1-2 days
Getting There
- ✈️ Bari Airport (40 km away)
- 🚂 Train connections from Bari (about 40 min)
- 🚗 Easy access, but parking difficult in summer
Nearby Destinations
Insider Tips
Local advice for visitors
Arrive early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak crowds
Lama Monachile beach gets extremely crowded in summer - go at sunrise
Book boat tours and restaurants in advance during peak season
Parking is challenging - use paid lots outside old town
The town is very photogenic - bring camera and charge battery
Wear comfortable shoes - cobblestones and stairs throughout
Visit Pescaria early to avoid long queues
Consider staying overnight to experience town after day-trippers leave
Many viewpoints are free - explore beyond main square
Grotta Palazzese restaurant is very expensive - viewing from outside is free
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