Guide to Polignano a Mare: What to See, Eat, and Do

One of the most beautiful towns in Southern Italy, nestled among the rocks, overlooking the sea, and with a historic center just waiting to be discovered. Polignano a Mare will leave you speechless with its breathtaking scenery and the deep blue of its stunning sea. But also with the many events that welcome and surprise visitors every week, along with shops and venues scattered throughout the town.

How to get to Polignano

From Bari Airport, you can reach Polignano a Mare directly with the Italian State Railways. From the station, it’s just a short walk to the town center, and in 15 minutes you'll find yourself in the heart of the city. But if you need a transfer, just ask us.

If you arrive by car, you can easily reach the city from the State Road or the internal provincial roads. You can safely leave your car in our parking lot at Pugliamare in Via San Vito, 94.

One of the best ways to explore the town is aboard an Ape Calessino—the classic Italian tuk-tuk. This colorful little vehicle will comfortably take you through the narrow streets of the center, allowing you to visit the main sights in a fun and original way. Riding in an Ape Calessino is not just a practical way to get around, it's an authentic experience that adds a cheerful twist to your city tour.

What to see in Polignano

Polignano is one of the most famous towns in Puglia. Overlooking the sea, it’s the homeland of our beloved Domenico Modugno. To start, we suggest visiting:

• The historic center: a maze of charming alleyways, flower-filled balconies, and stunning glimpses of crystal-clear sea. Here you can stroll at your own pace, listen to the sound of the waves, and be enchanted by iconic places like Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II. Along the way, the bright blue of the sea will surprise you as you reach the famous terraces that overlook the coastline. Stop for a moment, breathe in the fresh air, sea breeze and wind, then continue exploring the town with its historic churches, monuments, and quaint little shops. For a break, you’ll find cafés, ice cream parlors, and plenty of restaurants and bars;
  
• Via Roma is one of the prettiest streets in the center, filled with typical restaurants, bars, and shops—don’t miss it!
  
• If you're in Polignano, you absolutely must stop by the Monument to Domenico Modugno, the composer of the world-famous song "Nel blu dipinto di blu." Every day, hundreds of people gather around the statue on the seafront to take a photo with Mr. Volare. From here, you’ll also enjoy one of the best sea views in town, and you can look down over Lama Monachile beach;
  
• If you’re looking for a city beach, Lama Monachile—as mentioned—is one of the most beautiful in Italy. The beating heart of Polignano, the sea here shimmers from emerald green to bright blue. You can dive into the blue or admire the cliffside houses perched above. Lama Monachile has also been awarded the Blue Flag as one of the best beaches in Italy;
  
• And if you want to venture a little outside the center, we recommend the beaches of San Vito, a small district of Polignano with its iconic little harbor and a variety of rocky or sandy beaches. Crystal-clear water, breathtaking views, and lush greenery for your perfect day of relaxation!
  

• Polignano from the sea: on an exclusive boat tour along the cliffs, we’ll show you hidden and fascinating places. You’ll be welcomed by crystal waters, sea caves, breathtaking scenery, and untouched nature. During the tour, a local expert will share captivating legends, while you relax and enjoy the view in complete peace.

• Every day from Polignano, our thrilling Vespa tour sets off, taking you along the panoramic roads of the Apulian countryside and offering spectacular views of the Adriatic Sea. On a vintage Vespa, you can choose from different routes that include stops in charming towns like Monopoli, Alberobello, Locorotondo, and Conversano. It’s a unique, fun, and authentic way to immerse yourself in the region’s beauty, feeling the wind in your hair and living an unforgettable two-wheeled adventure.

What to eat in Polignano

For a sweet and refreshing break, don’t miss the artisan gelato available in all the gelaterias of Polignano, and make sure to try the famous Caffè Speciale. A truly unique coffee with cream, amaretto liqueur, and lemon zest. This specialty was invented by Mario Campanella, the owner of the historic Super Mago del Gelo café. 

As you walk through town, you'll find all the best Puglian street food: panzerotti, focaccia, pizza by the slice, seafood sandwiches, and much more. That’s why we’ve created a full street food tour. Want to know more?

And if you’d like to learn how to make our fresh pasta or some of the region’s most popular dishes, all you need to do is join one of our cooking classes.

A truly unique experience in the heart of Polignano a Mare is taking part in a real mozzarella-making class with our local cheesemaker. You’ll discover the secrets of traditional mozzarella-making, learning step by step how this fresh and genuine cheese is born. This activity is not only educational, but also an authentic way to connect with the traditions and culture of Puglia—an unforgettable moment filled with flavor and history.

Where to eat in Polignano

After all that exploring, you’ll definitely be hungry—and as you probably know, food in Puglia is not just a side note, it’s at the heart of daily life, family, and celebrations.
So, if you’re not sure where to go, we recommend:

• Malidea: for a fantastic pinsa, as well as boards of cured meats and cheeses, beers, and excellent cocktails just a few meters from the sea. For info and reservations, call 080 809 6779.
• Morus: an elegant and refined restaurant for lunches and dinners based on fish and traditional Apulian cuisine. For info and reservations, call 080 411 6404.
• Ruz: typical and revisited dishes, top-quality ingredients for explosive and original flavors. For info and reservations, call 345 515 4872.
• La bella mbriana: in the heart of the historic center, one of the best pizzerias in the city to end your evenings in the best way. For info and reservations, call 080 424 8840.