POLIGNANO A MARE

Probably the only image you might have seen famous of Puglia is the rocky coastline image with pebble beach and white house around. This is an image of Cala Porto in Polignano a Mare. This is certainly the iconic scenery we have encountered in Puglia.

Polignano a Mare is a town on the Adriatic coast, known for beautiful limestone rocks, white pebble beaches, and whitewash houses. The small historic center is vibrant and the pebble beaches even more during summer days. We visited Polignano a Mare on the very last day on our way to Bari airport during our Puglia road trip, and I wished I knew that this stunning town is beyond beautiful of the famous Roman bridge and limestone cliffs views. Definitely stay here for longer when you can.

So what to do here?

1. People watch at Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II

The main square in Polignano a Mare is the place where small streets intersect and where life is buzzing. Every Italian city has its own main square packed with pedestrians, shops, and dining scenes. Grab a drink or a coffee and watch the life and people passing by

2. Visit the Museum of Contemporary Art Pino Pascali

Small contemporary art museum overlooking the beautiful blue sea. It is worth visiting for the view, and in fact, it is the only art museum in Polignano a Mare. Additionally, the entrance fee is only 2 Euros!

3. Hang out at Cala Porto beach

The famous Polignano a Mare beach with white pebble beach and limestone cliffs, also known as lama Monachile. If you dare, try jumping from the cliffs into the warm water during the summer. Get the view of this beach and its cliffs from up as well, just off the historical center you will see a viewpoint where many tourists will hang out and take pictures.

4. Visit lesser touristy Cala Paura beach

If you are looking for another scenery and a less touristy beach, check Cala Paura lido. Another beautiful pebble beach place for your recreation. You can rent paddle boats, sun beds, and umbrellas even here.

5. Piazza Dell’Orologio

After passing the Arco Marchesale, the obvious entrance of the old town you will find yourself at the Piazza Dell’orologio, a popular sightseeing spot in Polignano a Mare. Another very spacious piazza in the heart of Polignano a Mare.

6. Drive to the beach San Vito

If you have hired a car, then why not drive to the beach San Vito located a few km away up north from Polignano a Mare center. Another pebble beach area for locals and tourists to enjoy the sunshine.

7. Photograph the Ponte di Polignano bridge

The roman bridge of Ponte di Polignano is another spot to get a view of Cala Paura beach. It is both a pedestrian and traffic bridge. A great spot to get a view of the coastline as well as of the city.

8. Don’t leave the city without an Italian gelato

What would it be an Italian trip without some Italian wine, food, or gelato, right? Try out the Caruso Note d’Eccellenza ice cream shot for some yummy flavors.