Polignano a Mare is a small medieval village located in Puglia, in the province of Bari, which overlooks the Adriatic coast.
It is located less than 3 hours by car from Vieste and is often one of the stops on the tour to discover the Puglia that visitors coming perform.
Its historic center, built on a cliff that plunges into the sea, is a place of extraordinary beauty and attracts many tourists every year. Polignano, like Vieste, is also home to the Festival "The Possible Book".
The natural caves dug by water erosion along the coast are one of the major points of interest in Polignano a Mare and have made this village famous all over the world.
In addition to its perched position and natural caves, Polignano a Mare is also known for being the birthplace of Domenico Modugno, the singer who achieved success with the song "Volare". The historic center of Polignano is also characterized by rhymes and verses painted on the walls, which make it even more fascinating and poetic.
The typical cuisine is also much appreciated, which combines the raw seafood with the typical dishes of Apulian cuisine such as the barese tiella (rice, potatoes and mussels).
What to see in Polignano a Mare
Polignano a Mare is an ideal destination for those seeking an escape from the routine and want to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature and the culture of Puglia. A half-day walking itinerary can include the Monument to Domenico Modugno, the Bourbon Bridge over Lama Monachile, Piazza Garibaldi, the Marchesale Arch and Piazza Vittorio Emanuele. Other attractions not to be missed are the Vicolo della Poesia, the Pino Pascali Museum of Apulian Contemporary Art and the Church of San Benedetto, as well as of course the 21 Marine Caves, accessible with a tour by boat or Kayak.
To fully enjoy the beauty of Polignano a Mare, it is advisable to also visit the beaches of Cala Porto and Cala Incina.
The famous Lama Monachile in Polignano a Mare has become an unmissable stop for the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series, one of the most exciting extreme sports events.
This diving competition from great heights every year attracts professional athletes from all over the world who challenge each other in the beautiful setting of the city perched on the Adriatic coast. The choice of Polignano as the venue for this event is not accidental: the houses of the village seem to be one with the cliffs that emerge directly from the clear waters of the Adriatic, thus giving all the spectators and each of the athletes an unforgettable scenario.
Polignano won the Booking Traveler Review Award 2023 as the friendliest city in the world.
During an excursion to Polignano a Mare you may decide to stop off at other places of interest in this area of Puglia, such as Alberobello with its trulli and the seaside cities of Bari and Monopoli, on the Adriatic, perhaps having a delicious lunch on the road based on turnovers!