The last leg of our Puglia road trip brought us to the coastal towns of Monopoli and Polignano a Mare. Polignano is only 15 minutes by car (and train) from Monopoli, making it an ideal day trip destination.
If you’re planning a Puglia road trip, check out my guides to Locorotundo, Alberobello and Ostuni.
Monopoli
Life in Monopoli has the slow, charming pace of la dolce vita. This medieval port town has fewer tourists where you can sit in the Piazza and watch the world go by – preferably with an Aperol in hand. Take a stroll along the promenade to see the traditional blue fishing boats bobbing in the Porto Vecchio harbour.
Rooftop Drinks at Don Ferrante
Grab a drink or two on the rooftop terrace of Don Ferrante, a boutique hotel set inside the old fortified city walls with views over the ocean.
Stay at Masseria Torrepietra
We decided to stay at a masseria (farmhouse/country house) just outside of Monopoli to have a different experience. Masseria Torrepietra dates back to the nineteenth century with an outdoor pool, terrace and free private parking on-site. It was a convenient place for us to base ourselves and to have some downtime by the pool.
Polignano a Mare
Along limestone cliffs on the Valle d’Itria coast, Polignano a Mare is known for its stunning cliffside location, charming winding streets and the famously photographed pebbly beach of Lama Monachile.
Lunch at Antiche Mura
If fresh seafood pasta is your thing, then head to Antiche Mura for lunch before strolling through the Piazza Vittorio Emanuele.
