Polignano a Mare: What to See (7 Must-Visit Places)

Polignano a Mare: What to See (7 Must-Visit Places)

Are you looking for information on what to see in Polignano a Mare? In this article, you will find everything you need!

Polignano a Mare, in Puglia, is one of those places that makes you want to book a flight just by looking at the photos. These 7 places will make you book your next holiday immediately.

What to see in Polignano a Mare?

In this article, we'll take you on a journey to discover Polignano a Mare, its surroundings, what to see, and things to do if you're in the area.

Here are the 7 places you absolutely cannot miss:

1 – Abbey of San Vito

A few kilometres from Polignano, you'll find the Abbey of San Vito, located by the sea, and an absolute must-see if you're in the area. The abbey was originally annexed to a convent that is now a private residence. In addition to visiting the abbey's interiors, it's worth taking the time to admire the surrounding landscape, which also serves as the backdrop for the annual sea procession of the relics of San Vito, held every year on June 14th.

2 – Clock Tower

In Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II, you will find the famous Palazzo dell’Orologio or Clock Tower, once home to the university.

This Tower, in ancient times, was equipped with a sundial replaced in the 19th century by a rope system that is still manually wound today by the palace owner, just as it was in the past. Above the clock is a niche containing the statue of San Vito, the patron saint of the village of Polignano a Mare.

3 – Lama Monachile or Cala Porto

Lama Monachile is the first image of Polignano that one sees when looking at photos or videos online, and is therefore an absolute must-see. It consists of two rock walls that drop sheer into the sea and embrace a sandy cove with clear water. The beach is located right in the city centre and was used in Roman times as a landing place for ships arriving from the East. Today it is one of Polignano's most beloved spots!

4 – Itria Valley

At the gates of Polignano a Mare begins one of the most unspoiled areas of Puglia, the Itria Valley with its farms, its endless green expanses, and its postcard-perfect landscapes. Don't miss a visit to Locorotondo and Cisternino, small towns characterized by narrow streets lined with historic buildings and artisan shops. While in the area, you can't miss a taste of Locorotondo, the indigenous D.O.C. wine.

5 – Castellana Caves

Approximately 15 kilometres from Polignano are the Castellana Caves, which extend for 3348 metres to a maximum depth of 122 metres from the surface. The karst caves are open all year round and can only be visited with a guide, choosing between a full tour or a partial tour; prices start from 10 euros. Night visits are periodically organised, at a price of 25 euros per person. 

6 – Historic Centre of Polignano a Mare

The various cultures that have passed through Polignano over the centuries – Arab, Byzantine, Spanish, Roman, and Norman – are still visible in the historic centre of this Apulian town. Here, white houses and flowered balconies coexist with streets that seem to resist the passage of time, offering a unique and poetic touch.

Indeed, Polignano's historic centre is enriched by poems written by "Guido, il Flaneur". These poems, scattered in unexpected corners – on the ground, walls, and doors – not only give the place uniqueness but also invite visitors to discover the area with a different perspective.

Thus, every corner of the historic centre helps to create an immersive experience, making Polignano's atmosphere even more magical.

7 – Sea Caves

Along the coast of Polignano a Mare, there are now more than 70 sea caves that have formed due to erosive phenomena linked to the action of the sea and wind; one of the unmissable attractions in Polignano for sea lovers. To visit them, take part in one of the many boat tours that run all year round and, when it's warm, also include stops for a swim in the clear waters adjacent to the caves. It's absolutely worth doing: Polignano is also, and above all, its nature and its sea, to be seen and discovered.

Polignano a Mare: what to see (Come aboard Pugliamare)

At Pugliamare, we can guide you in discovering the wonders of Polignano a Mare and help you experience unforgettable moments.

Discover our experiences and come aboard Pugliamare to explore Polignano a Mare!