Visiting Polignano a Mare
Polignano a Mare Travel guide
Polignano a Mare is a charming coastal town located in the Apulia region of southern Italy. It is situated on the Adriatic Sea, about 33 kilometers (20 miles) southeast of the city of Bari. Known for its stunning cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and historic center, Polignano a Mare is a popular tourist destination.
The town is perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the sea, providing breathtaking views of the Adriatic coastline. Its picturesque old town, known as the "Centro Storico," is a maze of narrow streets, whitewashed buildings, and charming squares. Walking through its winding alleys, visitors can discover hidden corners, local shops, and traditional restaurants serving delicious Apulian cuisine.
One of the most famous features of Polignano a Mare is its dramatic coastline. The town is renowned for its stunning cliffs, with some reaching heights of 20 meters (66 feet) above the sea. One of the iconic spots is the beach known as Cala Porto, nestled between the cliffs and offering a small sandy cove where visitors can relax and swim in the turquoise waters.
Polignano a Mare is also famous as the birthplace of Domenico Modugno, an Italian singer and songwriter who achieved international fame with his song "Volare." Visitors can explore the Casa Domenico Modugno, a museum dedicated to his life and work, which showcases memorabilia and exhibits related to the artist.
The town hosts several events and festivals throughout the year, attracting both locals and tourists. One of the most notable events is the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series, where world-class divers leap from the cliffs into the sea, showcasing their acrobatic skills against the stunning backdrop of Polignano a Mare.
In addition to its natural and cultural attractions, Polignano a Mare offers a vibrant atmosphere with lively bars, cafes, and gelaterias. Visitors can savor the local cuisine, including fresh seafood dishes, handmade pasta, and regional specialties like orecchiette and burrata cheese.
Overall, Polignano a Mare is a captivating destination that combines natural beauty, rich history, and a relaxed coastal ambiance. It is a place where visitors can immerse themselves in the enchanting atmosphere of a traditional Apulian town while enjoying the breathtaking coastal scenery.
7-day itinerary for visiting Polignano a Mare and its surroundings, along with some local food and wine specialties to try:
Certainly! Here's a suggested 7-day itinerary for visiting Polignano a Mare and exploring its surroundings, while also enjoying some local food and wine specialties:
Day 1: Arrival in Polignano a Mare
- Spend the day exploring the picturesque old town of Polignano a Mare, strolling through its narrow streets, and enjoying the stunning cliffside views.
- For dinner, try local seafood dishes such as "Polpo alla Pignata" (octopus stew) or "Burrata" (creamy cheese) paired with a glass of local white wine, such as Verdeca.
Day 2: Beaches and Grottoes
- Relax and soak up the sun at Cala Porto, the main beach in Polignano a Mare, known for its crystal-clear waters.
- Take a boat tour to explore the nearby sea caves, including the famous Grotta Palazzese, and enjoy the unique experience of dining in a cave restaurant.
- Try "Frisella," a local specialty consisting of twice-baked bread topped with fresh tomatoes, olive oil, and oregano.
Day 3: Alberobello and Locorotondo
- Take a day trip to Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its trulli houses. Explore the Trulli District and visit the Trullo Sovrano.
- In the afternoon, make your way to Locorotondo, a charming hilltop town known for its white-washed buildings and narrow streets.
- Enjoy a wine tasting session featuring the crisp and aromatic local white wine, Locorotondo DOC, and savor some "Orecchiette con le cime di rapa" (pasta with turnip greens) for dinner.
Day 4: Bari and Olive Oil Tasting
- Visit the vibrant city of Bari, the capital of the Apulia region. Explore the historic center, known as Bari Vecchia, and visit the Basilica of San Nicola and the Castello Svevo.
- Take a guided tour of an olive oil mill and learn about the production process. Sample different varieties of extra virgin olive oil, a specialty of the region.
- For dinner, indulge in a hearty plate of "Cavatelli con le braciole" (pasta with meat rolls) paired with a glass of Primitivo, a rich and robust red wine.
Day 5: Matera Excursion
- Embark on a day trip to Matera, a captivating city known for its ancient cave dwellings, known as Sassi. Explore the Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano districts, and visit the Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario.
- Try the local specialty called "Pane di Matera" (Matera bread) and enjoy a leisurely lunch at a traditional trattoria.
- In the evening, sample "Aglianico del Vulture," a full-bodied red wine produced in the nearby Basilicata region.
Day 6: Cooking Class and Ostuni
- Participate in a cooking class where you'll learn to prepare traditional Apulian dishes such as "Focaccia Barese" (Bari-style flatbread) and "Tiella di Cozze e Patate" (mussels and potato pie).
- Enjoy the fruits of your cooking efforts for lunch.
- Visit the "White City" of Ostuni, known for its whitewashed buildings and panoramic views. Explore the historic center and visit the Cathedral of Ostuni.
- For dinner, savor a plate of "Frittura di paranza" (fried mixed seafood) paired with a glass of local white wine, such as Fiano or Falanghina.
Day 7: Relaxation and Farewell
- Spend the day relaxing in Polignano a Mare, perhaps returning to your favorite spots or exploring any attractions you missed earlier in the week.
- Enjoy a gelato or a cup of "Espresso" at a local café while taking in the beautiful coastal views.
- For your final dinner, treat yourself to a seafood feast featuring "Risotto ai frutti di mare" (seafood risotto) or "Spaghetti alle vongole" (spaghetti with clams) paired with a glass of sparkling Apulian wine like "Negroamaro Rosé."
Remember, this itinerary is flexible, and you can adjust it based on your preferences and the available time. Enjoy your trip to Polignano a Mare and its surroundings!
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How to get to Polignano a Mare, and view the map in real-time.
To get to Polignano a Mare, you have a few transportation options depending on your starting point:
By Air: The nearest international airport to Polignano a Mare is Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport (BRI), located approximately 50 kilometers (31 miles) northwest of the town. From the airport, you can take a taxi or rent a car to reach Polignano a Mare.
By Train: Polignano a Mare has a train station called "Polignano a Mare," which is well-connected to major cities in Italy. You can take a train from Bari Centrale station, which is the main railway station in Bari, and reach Polignano a Mare in about 20 minutes. Train schedules and tickets can be checked and purchased through the Trenitalia website or app.
By Car: If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car and reach Polignano a Mare by following the SS16 (Strada Statale 16) coastal road. The town is located approximately 33 kilometers (20 miles) southeast of Bari. It's advisable to have a GPS or use a navigation app for directions.
As for viewing the map in real-time, you can use online mapping services such as Google Maps or Bing Maps. These platforms provide real-time navigation and allow you to view maps, get driving directions, and explore the area around Polignano a Mare. Simply open the chosen mapping service on your smartphone, enter "Polignano a Mare" as your destination, and enable location services for real-time tracking.
Please note that real-time information and maps are subject to the availability of network coverage and the accuracy of the mapping service.
Polignano a Mare: where to stay?
Polignano a Mare offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. Here are some suggestions for where to stay in Polignano a Mare:
1. Historic Center: Staying in the historic center allows you to immerse yourself in the charming atmosphere of Polignano a Mare. You'll be within walking distance of the town's main attractions, restaurants, and shops. Look for boutique hotels, guesthouses, or bed and breakfasts in the old town for an authentic experience.
2. Seafront Hotels: There are several hotels located along the seafront of Polignano a Mare, offering stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. These hotels often have direct access to the beach or balconies overlooking the water. They range from luxurious resorts to mid-range options, providing a comfortable and convenient stay near the coast.
3. Countryside Retreats: If you prefer a quieter and more secluded atmosphere, consider staying in the countryside surrounding Polignano a Mare. There are agriturismo accommodations, which are farm stays that offer a peaceful setting amidst olive groves and vineyards. These properties often provide a rustic and authentic experience, along with delicious local food.
4. Villas and Apartments: Another option is to rent a villa or an apartment in Polignano a Mare. This choice is ideal for families or larger groups who prefer the flexibility and privacy of a self-catering accommodation. Many villas and apartments come with amenities such as kitchens, living areas, and outdoor spaces.
When selecting your accommodation, consider factors such as location, amenities, budget, and personal preferences. It's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure availability and secure the best rates.