A bustling coastal town set with a charming historic center, Monopoli in Puglia is one to remember. One of my favorite towns from our trip, this is a complete guide to visiting Monopoli.
I did a lot of research for our 2.5 weeks in Puglia, mostly because this was my second time planning this trip. The first trip was canceled in 2020, what was to be a romantic getaway, but this time it was us as a family with our toddler. Monopoli had been at the top of my list five years ago, so I revisited the idea as a base.
Monopoli is a bit of an unsung hero in Puglia on the Adriatic Coast. Many visitors come in for a stroll and trade their time for other coastal spots like Polignano a Mare. But after spending four days there, I can say what a breath of fresh air it is to stay in Monopoli. It might be one of the more convenient bases to do the coastal adventures coupled with Val d’Itria day trips.
It’s a rather “larger” town in Puglia, with a proper grid that leads up to the “centro storico” or historic center. The lungomare wraps itself around the old town, where inside awaits a chance to see daily life in Puglia. Home to a working fishing harbor, you feel submersed in what the locals are doing. It’s a kind of beautiful thing.
And while the architecture may feel more humble to the rest of the region, it certainly doesn’t lack charm. Monopoli is a jewel box and invites a slower Puglian getaway that I think will be appreciated. Read on to find my tips for exploring Monopoli, where to stay, memorable bites, and beaches.
Short on Time? Here Are My Top Picks for the Best Hotels and Things to Do in Monopoli:
Hotels
- Villa Susca, for the best vacation rental (where we stayed)
- Orazio 33 B&B, for the best bed & breakfast stay
- Hotel Don Ferrante, for the best Old Town luxury hotel
- Dimora Pietrabianca, for the best boutique hotel
- Santa Maria 24, for the best Old Town apartment stay
- Masseria Torrepietra, for the best family-friendly hotel (just outside of town)
Things to Do
If you’re planning a trip to Puglia, don’t miss my 7 to 10 day Puglia itinerary, guide to the best towns to base yourself, and guides to Ostuni, Alberobello, Martina Franca, Locorotondo, Matera, and Polignano a Mare!
Travel Tip: The best way to explore Puglia is by driving yourself. We use Discover Cars for our rental cars in Europe, choose full coverage insurance, and opt for trusted companies like Alamo, Hertz, or Sixt. Renting a car in Italy is quite easy, and while driving in Puglia can feel hectic, road-tripping there still felt manageable with a little extra caution (For more, read my guide to renting a car in Puglia). Book your car with Discover Cars here.
The Monopoli, Italy Travel Guide
What to Know Before You Visit Monopoli
Is Monopoli Worth Visiting?
In short, yes. I think Monopoli gets frequently overlooked for “shinier” coastal spots like Polignano a Mare, but it is quite the gem. It has beautiful churches and piazzas, a thriving local restaurant scene, and beaches nearby.
Travel Tip: The easiest regional airport to fly into from other European cities is Bari. From the airport, it is a 40-minute drive and makes for a great first stop on a Puglia trip.
How Much Time to Visit Monopoli?
While you could see Monopoli in a full day, I think it’s deserving of 2-3 nights. There is a lot to unpack between the beaches in and out of the coastal towns, food, and nearby experiences. I would recommend 3 nights to enjoy the town itself and factor a day trip in.
Getting Around Monopoli (Rental Car Insight)
While the Old Town of Monopoli is easily walkable, I’d recommend having a car for your time in Puglia. Having your own car will make it much easier to explore all the nearby towns and beaches (more no these below).
Rental Car Tip: We use Discover Cars for our rental cars in Europe, choose full coverage insurance, and opt for trusted companies like Alamo, Hertz, or Sixt.
Getting to Monopoli from Bari with the Train
Now if you skip a car altogether, you do have the option to train from Bari Centrale (or from Bari Airport) at around €3.30 per person. You’ll want to book with Trenitalia for your tickets in advance. Some trains are faster than others, but most will get you to Monopoli train station in 30-50 minutes. From there it is still a 20-minute walk or a short taxi ride to the old town.
Does Monopoli Make a Good Base for Exploring?
For as far as the coast goes, I think this is one of the best Southern Italy towns. It’s not nearly as busy as Polignano, you’re close to the Val d’Itria to do day trips as well. Plus you have all of the amenities of one of the larger towns in Puglia, something I think you will come to appreciate at some point during your trip.
Timing and Weather in Monopoli
Summer is severe crowds in Puglia. We did our trip in early June and you could feel the chaos begin to ensue in general. I think Puglia’s best timing would be September to October when the sea is still warm enough to swim and fewer visitors. That said, Puglia would be lovely from April to June as well.
Travel Tip: Like most of Italy, siesta is taken quite seriously. Don’t expect things to be open in the mid-afternoon where everything shuts down for a few hours.
Where to Stay in Monopoli, Italy
Finding the right base in Monopoli depends on your needs and style of trip. There are nearly dozens of vacation rentals in and just outside of the historic center. Incredible hotels and luxury B&Bs are another wonderful choice too. I’ll make one case — consider carefully whether you stay in or out of the historic center if you have a rental car. Remember your car cannot come into the old center (many accommodations do have an allocated parking spot) so it’s important to know if you can park.
Best Vacation Rentals in Monopoli
- Villa Susca — We stayed all 3 nights at Villa Susca with sea views just outside of the town. It has a private gated entrance, a small children’s park, and lots of space — I loved we could easily park and be a short 5-minute drive to town. For our family, it was great, just consider the accommodation is a large studio with a dividing wall. The owner was fantastic and so helpful for our time.
- Santa Maria 24 — a design-forward studio or 1-bedroom option in Old Town.
- HolidayMonopoli — a charming collection of apartments/studios in Old Town.
- Pausa Mare Suite — a stunning 1-bedroom design apartment with a terrace in Old Town.
Best Hotels & B&Bs in Monopoli
- Orazio 33 B&B — We had originally booked this in-demand property for our first Puglia trip that got canceled in 2020. Unfortunately, it was already sold out when we planned our trip, but I adored the design and had friends who stayed here and loved it.
- Hotel Don Ferrante —This is your most luxurious option in the Old Town itself. A stunning boutique hotel sits at the corner with utter privacy and footsteps to everything. A great splurge option
- Dimora Pietrabianca — A quaint boutique hotel, prices are rather fair and the terrace rooms are lovely.
- Masseria Torrepietra — While just outside of Monopoli’s old town, I had to share this property as I had flagged it during my research for an incredible family-friendly option and great design. It’s a very classic Puglian design, dating back to the 19th century, and gives a countryside experience.
Things to Do in Monopoli, Italy
Catch a Sunset Stroll on the Lungomare
The lungomare is the part of the town that faces the sea, often with a path or flat road — this is the outer edge of Monopoli. Life bustles along the lungomare in Monopoli, particularly right before sunset and after. It’s a charming walk, and imagining you may arrive late into town, makes for a memorable introduction to the seaside town.
It’s home to Bastione Santa Maria, an ancient defense tower that had two large cannons. And just beyond that on the promenade, Castello Carlo V, a historic restored castle dating back to Monopoli’s medieval era. It’s small inside but houses a museum available to visit from 10 am to 1 pm and 5 to 9 pm. Occasionally, you can also walk to the rooftop for a good view.
Spend Time in the “Centro Storico,” The Old Town
Like any charming town in Italy, the experience always begins with a proper walk getting lost in the streets. I’d advise to do so with a camera in hand, and just follow the winding alleys and archways. You can’t get too far until you need to turn the next way. It’s compact and I’d recommend early or later to bypass the heat of the day.
Along the way, there are a few sights worth seeking out and popping into, you’ll likely cross paths anyway. Remember Monopoli doesn’t necessarily have grand museums by any stretch, but there are culturally important sights to explore.
Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi
The main old square of Monopoli is full of life. Lined with restaurants and bars, it has a sort of energy that begins come the evening. Come here for the heart of the city, people watching, and get a taste of coastal city life.
Palmieri Palace (Palazzo Palmieri)
An incredible Lecce-inspired Baroque palace that dates back to the 18th century sits adjacent to the Piazza Palmieri. It’s quite stunning, and you can walk into the main opening to get a look. When we were visiting it was actually the home of an ongoing music festival that feature nightly shows. It’s one of the most important historic buildings in town, so worth taking a look.
Cattedrale Maria Santissima della Madia
Built between the 12th and 18th centuries, the cathedral features a blend of Romanesque and Baroque styles. The Cattedrale Maria Santissima della Madia (Basilica of the Madonna della Madia) has one of the most impressive exteriors, and as you pass through the courtyard it greets you with a “wow” factor.
The history of the Cattedrale Maria Santissima della Madia dates back to the 12th century when it was originally built as a smaller church. Its foundation is linked to a miraculous event involving the arrival of the icon of the Madonna della Madia, which is said to have been brought by sea. According to tradition, the icon appeared on a raft made of wood and was found by local fishermen, leading to its veneration.
Hours vary but typically are from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Beneath the cathedral, there is the Museo e Sito Archeologico Cripta Romanica which features a Romanesque crypt, dating back to the 12th century, which is renowned for its beautiful frescoes and intricate stonework. Entrance fees are €5 per person.
Chiesa di Santa Maria del Suffragio
Just past the cathedral, one more sight worth popping into is the Chiesa di Santa Maria del Suffragio. The church features a stunning façade adorned with decorative elements typical of Baroque architecture, including intricate carvings and a striking bell tower. Inside, beautiful frescoes, altars, and religious artworks reflect the artistry of the period.
One of the unique aspects of Santa Maria del Suffragio is its connection to the concept of purgatory, as it was originally established to pray for the souls of the deceased.
Get Out On a Boat
One of my biggest regrets from the trip was not getting out on a boat at sea to experience the Puglian coastline. In large to the style of our trip (toddler life), I saved a few different experiences that I feel would be worth carving time out for.
- I found this Monopoli Shared tour by Gozzo boat that takes you to Polignano to see the caves (2.5 hour tour departing Monopoli).
- This private boat tour (up to 8 pax) would be a great option if you had a group, that takes you up and down the coast.
Shop Local Designers
Monopoli has a handful of notable shops worth carving time out for. One of those that I fell in love with was Dida & Camillo. The curated selection of goods in this store could have filled my entire suitcase, I walked out with a pair of incredible woven pink shoes. Some other stores loved were Bright Ceramics at GiúInLab and Designer Shopping at Insight Concept Store.
Beach Hop on a Hot Day
Take your pick of crystal clear water and beaches near Monopoli. There are many to choose from, some in town and others a short walk or drive. One helpful travel tip in Italy, the coast is sprinkled with “lidos,” beach clubs that offer sunbeds, changing rooms, and services. These you have to pay for, rent chairs, etc, but there is almost always a public section to the beach. Some favorites:
Cala Porta Vecchia
This is the main beach right at the footstep of town, a narrow sandy strip. You’ll find its views are quite something, set up against the fortress walls. I found it to be a bit of a mixed bag — locals taking their afternoon dip, and visitors setting up for the day. It’s one of the more family-friendly options, but I do think there are better spots.
Porto Bianco
The next spot down the coast is Porto Bianco, a favorite beach in Monopoli. In large because the water here is unbeatable in colors, and it has a wonderful pizzeria right above it. The beach is quite small, so prepare for a bit of a crowded feel on a hotter day.
Spiaggia di Cala Porto Rosso
The next cala down, Porto Rosso is one of the larger calas just south of town. It’s quite the vibe, more of a local feel with people spread out across the rocks on the inlet beach. Lovely spot to hang, out and set up for the afternoon.
Cala Paradiso
One of the best-looking beaches albeit most crowded was Cala Paradiso. There is a Lido here as well, so if you’re looking for amenities it’s a good one. The water is incredible, and it’s very kid-friendly. One pro tip down over the headland is two hidden beaches. Spiaggia La Scaletta and Tre Buchi — they’re kind of funny to find but once you do it’s obvious. We spent a lovely afternoon at both.
Sip Local Natural Wine at L’ultima Goccia
Quite possibly one of my favorite evenings was making my way to L’ultima Goccia. There was an ongoing event that night, so it was quiet, and I had some time to speak with the owner. A French woman who called Puglia home for many years opened this gem box wine bar. Her menu is an ode to natural, local wines from the Puglian region with small bites. Her relationships with local wine purveyors were intriguing. She even set me up with a wine tasting with a small producer for later on my trip (more on that below!).
Discover Porto Antico
It almost feels like stepping into a living postcard at Porto Antico. The working fishing harbor has the traditional “gozzo” boats bobbing up and down in the water. These red and blue boats are a symbol of Puglia, made traditionally from local and used for fishing. Porto Antico is a good spot to take a stroll, sit down on a bench, and soak in the coastal life.
The Best Monopoli Restaurants
Porto Rosso – Bar Ristorante Pizzeria
If you asked me where to eat, I’d say head straight here. Set out over the water, this open-air pizzeria was probably our best meal on the coast. Pizza is classic, with some fun different styles, and great beer. If you want something more formal, there is an adjacent “formal” ristorante that serves more food like fish, and local plates.
CarloQuinto
There wasn’t a night where there wasn’t a crowd at CarloQuinto spilling onto the lungomare. Quite the lineup for their Italian food and cocktail bar that overlooks the sea, worth considering for a bite.
La Portavecchia
Our go-to baked goods and patisserie in town. Find freshly made breads and more Apulian treats.
Caffè Letterario
A very sweet espresso bar to get a coffee, and they have an adjacent restaurant known for brunch.
Trattoria La Locanda dei Mercanti
Recommended to me for its spaghetti alle vongole, this was one of the spots I couldn’t get a reservation at. I’d seek this one out in particular for my next trip.
Titti La Pizzicheria
Come in here to stock up on all Apulian fine foods from cheese to salamis. It’s like a delicatessen that also does small bites on their terrace.
Tuttoapposto Winebar
The spot to grab a drink at night, ask for a table inside with a view of the port!
Bella Blu Gelateria Monopoli
The best spot for gelato in town, grab it to go and head out for a stroll at night.
Day Trips to Do from Monopoli
Polignano a Mare (20 minutes)
The best day trip is to head to Polignano a Mare on the Adriatic Sea. You’re right there, embark early in the morning (try to arrive by 9 am) to beat the crowds. Spend time walking the Centro Storico where crisscrossing streets are just picture-perfect. I’ll suggest making your way at some point to Punta Panoramico, there’s a bar called Lime that serves coffee. The coffee isn’t fantastic, but the view is worth a sit.
Afterward make your way to the famous Lama Monachile, (the best views are from Belvedere su Lama Monachile) for some beach time. Then end your time with what may be the best sandwich of my life from Pescaria – Polignano a Mare. Order the octopus, broccoli, and stracciatella sandwich, it’s life-changing.
Alberobello (30 minutes)
Alberobello is a charming town in the Apulia region of Italy, famous for its unique trulli—traditional stone dwellings with conical roofs. These distinctive structures, made from limestone, have been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996. Don’t miss the Trullo Sovrano, the only two-story trullo, which serves as a museum showcasing traditional Puglian life.
A visit to the Church of Saint Anthony, with its distinctive trullo-shaped architecture, is also worthwhile. Stroll through the charming streets to discover local artisan shops offering crafts and souvenirs, and savor Puglian cuisine at one of the cozy trattorias, where you can try specialties like orecchiette pasta.
Ostuni (40 minutes)
Ostuni, often referred to as the “White City” (La Città Bianca), is a stunning hilltop town in the Apulia region of Italy, known for its whitewashed buildings and narrow cobblestone streets. We actually stayed here, so if you don’t, do a day trip. An early arrival is helpful, start in the historic center and make your way to the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta. Walk along the ancient walls, grab lunch, and soak in the views.
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1. Book Your Accommodations
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Self-driving is the best way to explore most destinations. I use Discover Cars for our rental cars, select full coverage insurance, and opt for a reputable company like Alamo, Hertz, or Sixt.
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I use Viator, Airbnb, and Get Your Guide to find the best tours and experiences. They are my favorite tour search engines. I always check all three as their inventory varies depending on the destination.
4. Book Your Private Transfers
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5. Get Cell Data for Your Trip
I use Holafly for international cell data. Their unlimited data eSIMs are easy to install, activate instantly on arrival, and let you skip local SIM cards and expensive roaming fees.
6. Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
I never leave the country without travel insurance. It provides comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong (ie. illness, injury, theft, or cancellations).
My favorite companies that offer the best coverage and rates are:
- World Nomads (best for all-around)
- Safety Wing (best for frequent travelers)
Xx,
Jessica
