Polignano  a  Mare

Latest page update: 10 December 2024
By: Dion Protani
The picturesque coastal town of Polignano a Mare is located in the Metropolitan City of Bari province.

With a population of around 17,000, it is known for its stunning cliffside views, crystal-clear waters, and charming historic centre.

​Polignano a Mare is most famous for its dramatic limestone cliffs overlooking the Adriatic Sea, particularly the famous beach at Lama Monachile. The town also boasts a lively atmosphere, delicious seafood cuisine, and traditional whitewashed buildings.
Related links
Polignano a Mare: the jewel of Puglia's Adriatic Coast
​Polignano a Mare, lying in the province of Bari, is a picturesque coastal town renowned for its stunning cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and rich history. Its main attraction is the dramatic cliffside old town, with its narrow alleys, whitewashed buildings, and breathtaking panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea.

Visitors can explore the charming historic centre, dotted with cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops, or relax on the small rocky beaches nestled between the cliffs. The town's iconic feature is the enchanting Grotta Palazzese, a seaside cave restaurant offering unforgettable dining experiences. Polignano a Mare promises a magical coastal getaway immersed in natural beauty and Mediterranean charm in Puglia.
Comune di Polignano a Mare
Province: Metropolitan City of Bari

Region: Puglia

Population: 17,464​ (in 2024 - source)

​​Size: 67 km²

Highlights: beach, old town, Grotta Palazzese, Ponte di Polignano

​​​​​​​​​Water quality: Blue Flag Beach 2024 - 2025

Close by: Bari, Ostuni, Brindisi, Alberobello, Matera, Taranto

Recommended accommodation: San Tommaso Hotel
What are the most popular activities in Polignano a Mare and the local area?
Polignano a Mare:

  • Old Town: Explore the charming old town of Polignano a Mare, with its narrow streets, whitewashed buildings, and picturesque squares overlooking the sea.
  • Grotta Palazzese: Visit the famous Grotta Palazzese, a scenic restaurant built inside a natural cave overlooking the Adriatic Sea, offering stunning views and exquisite dining experiences.
  • Beaches: Relax on the beautiful beaches of Polignano a Mare, such as Lama Monachile Beach and Cala Porto Beach, known for their crystal-clear waters and dramatic cliffs.
  • Ponte Lama Monachile: Walk along Ponte Lama Monachile, a scenic bridge offering panoramic views of the coastline and the picturesque beach below.
  • San Vito Martire Church: Admire the historic San Vito Martire Church, with its elegant Baroque architecture and ornate interior decorations.

Nearby Attractions:

  • Caves of Castellana: Explore the fascinating underground world of the Caves of Castellana, with their intricate limestone formations and vast caverns.
  • Alberobello: Take a day trip to Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its unique trulli houses, traditional Apulian dwellings with conical roofs.
  • Monopoli: Visit the coastal town of Monopoli, with its historic old town, scenic harbour, and beautiful beaches, perfect for a leisurely day out.
  • Ostuni: Discover the "White City" of Ostuni, perched atop a hilltop overlooking the Adriatic Sea, known for its whitewashed buildings, narrow alleys, and stunning panoramic views.
  • Polignano Caves Boat Tour: Embark on a boat tour to explore the sea caves and grottoes along the coastline of Polignano a Mare, including the famous Grotta Palazzese and Grotta Ardito.
What are the best restaurants in Polignano a Mare?
  • Grotta Palazzese: This renowned restaurant is situated within a cave overlooking the Adriatic Sea. Guests can enjoy an unforgettable dining experience in a unique setting, savoring gourmet seafood dishes and local specialties while admiring the stunning sea views.
  • Ristorante Grotta Ardito: Located in the historic center of Polignano a Mare, this restaurant offers traditional Apulian cuisine with a modern twist. Diners can enjoy dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients in a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.
  • Antiche Mura: Situated near the old town walls, Antiche Mura is known for its excellent seafood and pasta dishes. Visitors can dine al fresco on the terrace and enjoy panoramic views of the sea while sampling delicious regional cuisine.
  • Pescaria: This seafood restaurant is located in the heart of Polignano a Mare and offers a casual dining experience with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Guests can choose from a variety of seafood dishes, including grilled fish, seafood pasta, and seafood risotto.
  • Il Bastione: Overlooking the sea, Il Bastione is housed in a historic building near the old town walls. The restaurant serves traditional Apulian cuisine with a creative twist, offering a diverse menu that highlights the flavors of the region.

Polignano  a  Mare  Gallery

What are the best places to stay in Polignano a Mare?
  • Grotta Palazzese Hotel (Polignano a Mare): Situated in a stunning location overlooking the Adriatic Sea, Grotta Palazzese Hotel offers guests a unique stay in a cave hotel. This boutique hotel provides luxurious rooms with modern amenities and breathtaking sea views. Guests can dine in the hotel's renowned cliffside restaurant, carved into the limestone cliffs, and enjoy easy access to Polignano a Mare's historic centre and beaches.
  • Borgobianco Resort & Spa (Polignano a Mare): Located just outside Polignano a Mare, Borgobianco Resort & Spa offers guests a tranquil retreat surrounded by olive groves and Mediterranean gardens. This resort provides elegant rooms and suites with traditional furnishings and modern amenities, as well as facilities such as a swimming pool, spa, and restaurant serving regional cuisine. Guests can enjoy a relaxing stay in nature while still being within easy reach of Polignano a Mare's attractions.
  • Calaponte Resort & Spa (Polignano a Mare): Positioned near the seafront of Polignano a Mare, Calaponte Resort & Spa offers guests a convenient seaside stay with easy access to the town's beaches and historic centre. This resort provides comfortable rooms with modern amenities, some offering sea views. Guests can relax by the outdoor swimming pool, indulge in spa treatments, and explore the nearby attractions, including the famous Lama Monachile Beach.
  • Covo dei Saraceni (Polignano a Mare): Located in the heart of Polignano a Mare's historic centre, Covo dei Saraceni offers guests a central stay close to the town's main attractions, including the beach and the charming old town. This hotel provides comfortable rooms with modern amenities and stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. Guests can explore the town's narrow streets, enjoy local cuisine at the hotel's restaurant, and relax on the rooftop terrace overlooking the sea.
  • Dimora del Casale (Polignano a Mare): Nestled amidst olive groves just outside Polignano a Mare, Dimora del Casale offers guests a peaceful rural escape. This guesthouse provides comfortable rooms and suites with traditional furnishings and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Guests can relax in the garden or terrace area, take a dip in the outdoor swimming pool, and explore the surrounding countryside and nearby beaches.
What are the closest airports to Polignano a Mare?
Bari Karol Wojtyla Airport (BRI): 

38 minutes by car (52 km)

Brindisi Salento Airport (BDS): 

52 minutes by car (78 km)
What's the closest train station to Polignano a Mare?
Stazione di Polignano a Mare

  • Located in Polignano a Mare town centre
  • Regional trains connect to Bari with journey times of around 30 minutes
What private transfer options are there for Polignano a Mare?
A private transfer from Bari Airport to Polignano a Mare takes around 40 minutes. 

If you'd like a price for this service just email us using the [email protected] mailbox, providing the following details:
​
  • Arrival location (airport, train station or other)
  • Arrival date
  • Arrival time
  • Number of passengers
  • Destination (either town or specific hotel)

Once we have those details we'll get back to you with a price, a travel schedule and how the transfer will work.
Alternatively, you can use the private transfer booking engine below:
Where can I rent a car to visit Polignano a Mare?
SITE SEARCH
If you want to find a page quickly and you're not sure where to look you can use the Site Search box below and it'll point you in the right direction. ​
Puglia Review is part of the Italy Review network of websites. Each site is written exclusively in English and provides travel tips and inspiration to visitors.
For advice on other locations in Italy please visit our websites below: