Things to Do in Polignano a Mare: Famous Beach & Coastal Charms

Perched high on limestone cliffs above the Adriatic, Polignano a Mare is one of Puglia’s most dazzling seaside towns. Famous for its dramatic coastline, hidden sea caves, cliff diving, and postcard-perfect Lama Monachile beach, it’s a place where natural beauty meets authentic southern Italian life. Add in its proximity to some of the best Puglia wineries, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for a trip that blends food, wine, and jaw-dropping views. If you’re wondering about the best things to do in Polignano a Mare, this guide will walk you through the highlights, from cliff-top strolls to seafood feasts.

Top things to do in Polignano a Mare

Swim at Lama Monachile beach

Also called Cala Porto, Lama Monachile is the postcard beach of Polignano a Mare. Tucked between towering limestone cliffs and sitting right under the 18th-century Ponte Borbonico bridge, this pebble bay is as dramatic as it is beautiful. The Adriatic waters here are clear, cool, and perfect for a dip on a hot day. In summer, it pays to arrive early, by midday, every inch of this little cove is packed with towels and umbrellas.

Walk across Ponte Borbonico

The Ponte Borbonico, a 19th-century stone bridge, stretches across a natural ravine and frames some of the best views in Polignano a Mare. From here, you can look straight down onto Lama Monachile beach and out to the sparkling Adriatic beyond. It’s both a historic link between the old town and the sea and one of the top spots to snap that postcard-perfect shot of the cliffs and coastline, camera very much required.

Explore the old town

Wander into Polignano a Mare’s old town and you’ll find yourself in a maze of cobbled alleys lined with whitewashed houses and balconies bursting with flowers. Verses of poetry painted on the walls add charm to the walk, making every turn feel like a discovery. Stop at the Chiesa Matrice di Santa Maria or linger over a coffee in Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II, simple pleasures like these are among the most authentic things to do in Polignano a Mare.

Visit the statue of Domenico Modugno

Polignano a Mare’s most famous son, Domenico Modugno, was born here in 1928 and gave the world the timeless song “Nel blu dipinto di blu”, better known as Volare. Today, a bronze statue of the singer stands with arms outstretched toward the sea, just a short stroll from Lama Monachile. It’s one of the town’s most iconic photo spots, and chances are you’ll catch yourself humming Volare as you take in the view.

Dine at the Grotta Palazzese Cave Restaurant

For one of the most unforgettable dining experiences in Italy, head to Grotta Palazzese, the world-famous restaurant set inside a limestone cave above the Adriatic. Candlelit tables overlook the sea while waves crash dramatically below, creating a setting that’s as romantic as it is unique.

Spend time admiring the cliffside views

Polignano a Mare is packed with panoramic viewpoints, each offering a fresh angle on the cliffs and the Adriatic below. Stroll along Viale Domenico Modugno or Via Narciso and you’ll find terraces that open up to sweeping sea views framed by whitewashed houses. Time your walk for sunset, when the sky turns gold and pink, it’s one of the most romantic moments in town and easily among the must-see things to do in Polignano a Mare.

Top things to do around Polignano a Mare

Explore the whitewashed alleys of Monopoli

15 minutes south of Polignano a Mare, Monopoli is a coastal town that blends laid-back beach vibes with centuries of history. Its old town is a maze of cobbled streets, hidden courtyards, and lively cafés where the pace slows and every corner feels inviting. Walk through Porta Vecchia to reach the waterfront, then step inside the Cathedral of Maria Santissima della Madia, famous for its stunning baroque interior. When you’re done exploring, grab a table by the sea for a plate of fresh seafood and a glass of local wine.

For more inspiration, don’t miss our full guide to the best things to do in Monopoli Italy.

Visit Alberobello’s trulli houses

About 35 minutes inland from Polignano a Mare, Alberobello awaits with its iconic UNESCO-listed trulli, the white, cone-roofed houses that have become symbols of Puglia. A day here feels like walking through a fairytale, with narrow lanes lined by stone dwellings, artisan boutiques, and trattorias serving homemade pasta and local wine. For an authentic taste of the region, try a family-style table d’hôte meal and sample traditional dishes straight from the source.

Check out our guide to the best things to do in Alberobello, don’t miss our latest tips!

Discover wine carved in stone

Just a short stroll from Alberobello’s trulli-filled center lies Cantina Museo Albea, a winery and museum built entirely from stone, including wine vats carved right into the rock. Founded in the early 1900s, this place combines winemaking tradition with modern sustainability, working exclusively with native grapes like Primitivo, Nero di Troia, Verdeca, and Bianco d’Alessano. On your visit, you’ll tour the working cellar, explore the upstairs wine museum full of antique tools and photos, and then taste their wines, often poured straight from the barrel.

Wander the historic heart of Bari

Roughly 22 miles north of Polignano a Mare, Bari is an easy and rewarding trip. As the capital of Puglia, it’s a lively city packed with history and flavor. Start in Bari Vecchia, the old town, where narrow alleys wind past laundry-draped balconies and the smell of fresh focaccia draws you in. Step inside the Basilica di San Nicola, a stunning Romanesque landmark, then follow the stone walls along the Adriatic for sweeping sea views. With its buzzing streets and urban energy, Bari is the perfect counterpoint to Polignano’s coastal charm.

Check out our guide to the best things to do in Bari Italy and discover all the activities in Puglia.

Walk to the vineyards of Valle d’Itria

Set aside a day in Polignano a Mare to visit Itria Valley, a wine lover’s paradise less than an hour’s drive away. This rolling landscape is home to crisp whites like Locorotondo DOC and Martina Franca DOC, best enjoyed right where they’re made. Think scenic vineyard tours, cozy cellar tastings, and long lunches filled with authentic Apulian dishes. It’s the perfect escape for anyone wanting to mix wine, food, and countryside views into their trip through Puglia.

Good to know before visiting Polignano a Mare