Puglia, Italy
Arrive, check-in. Immerse in the historic center (Centro Storico). Wander whitewashed alleys, discover squares, and viewpoints. Visit the Mother Church.
Immediately immerse yourself in the historic center (Centro Storico). Wander its maze of whitewashed alleys, discover charming squares, and find viewpoints overlooking the sea. Visit the Mother Church (Chiesa Matrice).
Maximize your time with structured plans from a short break to a comprehensive exploration.
Day 1: Explore Polignano a Mare's historic center, Lama Monachile, and Lungomare. Enjoy traditional dinner. Day 3: Choose a half-day or full-day excursion. Take a short train ride to Monopoli to explore its charming fishing harbor and castle, or arrange a car/tour to Alberobello to see the unique trulli. Depart from Polignano a Mare in the afternoon.
Days 1-2: Arrive, settle in Polignano a Mare. Spend these days exploring the town in depth – all major sights, beaches, hidden alleys, and dining experiences. Enjoy leisurely meals and an aperitivo with a view.
Combine the one-week itinerary with an additional week focusing on other parts of Puglia and Basilicata. This allows for slower travel and immersion.
This approach truly experiences local life, shop at markets, cook with fresh ingredients, and take leisurely day trips throughout the region without feeling rushed. Consider taking language classes to further immerse yourself.
Tailor your Polignano a Mare itinerary to specific passions and pursuits.
Polignano a Mare (historic center, Mother Church, Roman bridge) serves as a starting point. Continue your journey through Puglia's rich historical landscape.
Polignano a Mare (seafood focus, cooking class, street food tour) offers a culinary scene. Dive into Puglian flavors.
Sea cave boat tours, kayaking/SUP, swimming at various beaches, coastal hiking trails near Monopoli or in regional parks, cycling through olive groves in the Itria Valley, diving or snorkeling excursions.
Polignano a Mare (beaches, boat tours of caves), Alberobello (the trulli are fun and unique for kids), Fasano (home to Zoosafari Fasanolandia, a large safari park and amusement park), Beaches with lidos offering facilities for families.
Pino Pascali Museum, Polignano a Mare (historic center architecture), Lecce (Baroque architecture, local artisan workshops), Martina Franca (Baroque grandeur), Trani (St. Nicholas Pilgrim’s Cathedral on the sea).
Adjust your travel style to fit your budget, from backpacking to luxury experiences.
Stay at hostels or very budget-friendly B&Bs outside the historic center. Prioritize street food (Focaccia, Panzerotti), cook some meals from supermarket groceries, and seek out inexpensive local Trattorias.
Stay in comfortable B&Bs or mid-range hotels, often including breakfast. Enjoy a mix of casual eateries and nicer mid-range restaurants. Include an Aperitivo experience.
Stay at top-tier hotels like Grotta Palazzese or Borgobianco Resort & Spa. Indulge in fine dining at Michelin-starred restaurants. Arrange exclusive culinary experiences like private cooking demonstrations or wine tours.
Travel during the shoulder season (April-May, September-October) for a good balance of weather and lower prices.
Each season offers an unique way to experience Polignano a Mare. Embrace the tranquility and lower prices in off-season.
Focus on cultural sites and museums. Enjoy the warmth of local cuisine without crowds.
Be prepared for some seasonal closures of beach-related businesses and some tour operators.
