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Things to Do in Polignano a Mare

Things to Do in Polignano a Mare

Polignano A Mare Puglia, Italy Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

Polignano a Mare’s dramatic coastline and surrounding countryside yield opportunities for outdoor activities.

Hiking & Water Sports

Hiking & Trekking

Coastal Walks: Easy, scenic walks along Lungomare Domenico Modugno, paved paths with stunning views. Informal paths lead to coves. Rural Walks: Explore countryside, ancient olive groves, vineyards, historic Masserie. Easy to moderate, peaceful immersion.

Sea Cave Boat Tours

Most popular activity. Tours from fishing port explore natural grottoes (Palazzese, Ardito). Tours often include swimming stops in clear, blue waters to experience caves from inside.

Kayaking, SUP, Snorkeling/Diving

Rent kayaks or SUPs locally to explore coastline/caves at your own pace. Clear waters good for snorkeling. Local dive centers offer certified diving excursions.

Adventure & Cycling

  • Cliff Diving: Polignano a Mare hosts Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series due to high cliffs. Watching professionals is an incredible spectacle (public diving not permitted).
  • Wildlife Encounters: Not a main activity; marine life observed during snorkeling/diving. No large wildlife safaris.
  • Cycling Routes: Scenic rides possible along coast (share roads). Explore quiet rural roads through olive groves and vineyards.
  • Bike Rentals: Available in town for experiencing tranquil landscape.

Swimming

  • Enjoy the town's famous beaches.
  • Lama Monachile and Cala Paura are popular.
  • Venture to larger Lidos (beach clubs).
  • Organized beach services available.

Beach Clubs

  • Lidos along the coast (Cala Fetente, San Vito).
  • Offer organized facilities.
  • Sunbed and umbrella rentals.
  • Bars and restaurants on site.

Tour Booking

Important Safety Note

Always check weather conditions and local regulations before water activities. Cliff diving by the general public is unsafe and restricted.

Cultural Immersion

Engage with Polignano a Mare’s rich culture through hands-on experiences and local events.

Workshops & Classes

  • Cooking Classes: A recommended way to experience Puglian culture.
  • Learn to make traditional pasta (orecchiette), focaccia, or regional dishes.
  • Often hands-on, including market visits for ingredients.
  • Ceramic Painting Workshops: Some local artisans or craft shops may offer workshops.

Cultural Events & Community

Summer Festivals

Polignano a Mare hosts various music, art, and food festivals during the summer months, bringing lively performances and a festive atmosphere to the town squares.

Religious Processions

Especially during Easter or local saint feast days, traditional religious processions take place, sharing a glimpse into deep-rooted community traditions.

Language Learning

Polignano a Mare has no formal language schools for short-term stays, but informal interaction with locals is good. A phrasebook is useful.

Cultural Festivals

Various cultural festivals and events occur, including elaborate light installations (Luminarie) around Christmas and patron saint feast days, creating a magical atmosphere.

Authentic Support

Purchasing from local artisans and markets contributes directly to the community's well-being.

Relaxation & Wellness

Polignano a Mare provides opportunities for rest and rejuvenation, blending natural beauty with wellness options.

Spa & Wellness

  • Borgobianco Resort & Spa: Luxurious resort outside Polignano, offers comprehensive spa treatments, massages, Hammam.
  • Provides a tranquil escape. Some upscale hotels in the wider area feature smaller spa facilities.
  • No natural hot springs in the immediate vicinity of Polignano a Mare.
  • Yoga and meditation retreats are less common directly within Polignano town.

Other Wellness Options

Traditional Healing

Not a prominent feature for tourists. The focus is more on modern wellness amenities.

Beach and Pool Clubs

Numerous "lidos" (beach clubs) along the coast offer organized facilities: sunbed/umbrella rentals, bars, restaurants.

Relax by the Sea

Some lidos sometimes include swimming pools, providing a comfortable way to relax by the sea.

Evening Tips

Summer Vibrancy

Peak season (summer) offers the most nightlife with lively music and dancing options.

Off-Season Calm

Off-season evenings are much quieter, with fewer live music and dancing options available. Ideal for peaceful dinners.

Stroll & Dine

Restaurants and bars remain open late, especially in summer. Enjoy leisurely dinner, drinks, and illuminated old town strolls.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Polignano a Mare comes alive in the evenings, with options for entertainment and nightlife, especially during warmer months.

Live Music & Performance

  • Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II often hosts live music performances, especially summer evenings.
  • Local bars and pubs in historic center or Lungomare feature live music acts or DJ sets, creating a lively atmosphere.
  • Polignano a Mare has no dedicated large theater. Seasonal open-air performances or cultural shows may occur in public squares.
  • Check local listings for specific schedules during your visit.

Nightclubs & Bars

Nightclubs & Dancing

A few bars transform into lively spots for dancing, notably in high season. For larger nightclubs, travel to Bari.

Bar Districts

The historic center, especially around Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II and the cliffside terraces, transforms into a bustling bar district in the evenings.

Late-Night Options

Restaurants and bars remain open until late, especially during the summer. Enjoy a leisurely dinner, followed by drinks and a stroll through the illuminated old town.

Community Engagement

  • Staying at family-run B&Bs.
  • Engaging with locals for insights.
  • Offers an authentic sense of local life.
  • Direct community support.

Language Interaction

  • No formal language schools for short-term stays.
  • Informal interaction with locals is encouraged.
  • A phrasebook is an useful companion.
  • Locals appreciate attempts at Italian.

Cultural Festivals

  • Polignano a Mare hosts various cultural festivals.
  • Lively performances and festive atmosphere.
  • Often held in town squares during summer.
  • Elaborate light installations (Luminarie) for holidays.

Nightlife Tips

Summer Season
  • Peak season (summer) offers the most nightlife.
  • Many venues are walk-in friendly.
  • Enjoy lively bars and outdoor performances.
Off-Season Calm
  • Off-season evenings are much quieter.
  • Fewer live music and dancing options available.
  • Ideal for peaceful dinners and relaxing strolls.

Additional Nightlife Advice

Polignano a Mare's charm lies in its intimate setting; for larger club experiences, Bari is the destination.

Activity Planning Summary

Must-Do Activities

  • Sea Cave Boat Tour (to see Grotta Palazzese from the sea).
  • Puglian Cooking Class (for cultural immersion and culinary skills).
  • Relax on Lama Monachile Beach (iconic photo op and swim spot).
  • Wander the Historic Center (discover charming alleys and viewpoints).

Things to Consider

  • Book popular tours and accommodations well in advance, especially in high season.
  • A rental car aids exploring nearby Masserie, Trulli, and coastal towns.
  • Learn basic Italian phrases for local interactions.
  • Sun protection and water shoes for beaches are recommended.