Best Things to Do in Monopoli, Puglia (Italy) – A Personal Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Puglia and wondering what are the best things to do in Monopoli You’re in the right place!

Nestled along Italy’s stunning Adriatic coast, Monopoli is one of those places that steals your heart the moment you arrive. This charming coastal town is full of hidden gems, from picturesque historic streets to sun-soaked beaches, bustling markets, and, of course, incredible local food.

We recently spent a few amazing days exploring the town and completely fell for its laid-back vibe, whitewashed streets, and authentic Italian charm.

Monopoli, a magical coastal town in Puglia, has quickly become one of our favourite spots in Italy

In this Monopoli travel guide, we’ll share all our favourite Monopoli things to do, top dining places (because Monopoli’s food scene is so good), quality souvenirs you'll love to bring back home, plus handy tips for making the most of your visit.

And since finding the right place to stay can make or break a trip, we’ve included where we stayed (and absolutely loved!) along with a few other great hotels and apartments in Monopoli to help you plan your perfect Puglia getaway.

Whether you’re visiting Monopoli for a quick seaside escape or as part of a longer Puglia itinerary, this guide will help you experience the best of this charming coastal town like a local.

Reasons to visit Monopoli

If you ever find yourself in Puglia - Italy, you’ve got to stop in Monopoli. It’s one of those towns that just pulls you in — with its little white streets, boats bobbing in the harbor, and the smell of the sea everywhere. You can spend the morning wandering through the old town, grab a plate of fresh seafood for lunch, then swim in the clear blue water just a few steps away.

It’s not fancy, just real and beautiful — the kind of place that makes you slow down and enjoy every moment.

Does Monopoli make a good base for exploring Puglia?

Monopoli is a great base for exploring Puglia.

From this charming seaside town, you can easily catch a train north to Trani, Bari or Polignano a Mare, or head south to visit Ostuni, Fasano, Brindisi, and Lecce.

It’s also a perfect starting point for exploring the beautiful Itria Valley, home to picturesque towns like Alberobello, Locorotondo, and Martina Franca. You can reach them by local bus, car, or on an organised tour.

Explore Puglia from Monopoli

👌 See Polignano a Mare, Locorotondo, and Monopoli in a day (guided car trip)

👌 Ride through Puglia’s countryside on a fun-filled buggy and quad experience

Best time to visit Monopoli, Italy

We visited Monopoli, Puglia in late October 2025 and were pleasantly surprised by the warm, sunny weather (22–24°C) and the lingering crowds of visitors.

For swimming and sunbathing, May through late September is ideal, with warm seas and long, sunny days. Early mornings and late afternoons are especially magical, offering golden light and fewer people.

Summer (June–August) brings higher temperatures and more tourists, making a private boat tour a great way to enjoy the coast.

If you prefer exploring, tasting local cuisine, and soaking up history, spring (March–May) and October are the best times to visit, with pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

👉 Note: Many restaurants close from November to March, so plan accordingly.

Top things to do in Monopoli, Italy - Our top picks:

1. A stroll through Monopoli’s Centro Storico

Exploring Monopoli historic centre was a delight, especially since it was just around the corner from our apartment, Casa Mia, near the Cathedral.

Wandering through the narrow, crisscrossing streets felt like stepping into a labyrinth, full of charming cafés, local restaurants, and cute souvenir shops.

The area is magical at any time of day, whether in the soft morning light or during a relaxed evening stroll. Don’t miss a walk along the promenade by Porto Vecchio, where small blue fishing boats bob gently in the water, adding to the town’s seaside charm.

Every corner is incredibly picturesque, so make sure to bring your camera!

2. Walk along Lungomare Santa Maria (seafront promenade)

Walking along the sea promenade was among our favourite things to do in Monopoli. We usually took the winding streets of Via Argento, Via Papacenere and Via San Vito until we reached Lungomare Santa Maria.

It’s one of those places where you can take your time, enjoy the sea views, and maybe stop for a drink at one of the cafés along the way.

As you get closer to the water, the salty breeze grows stronger, and you can already hear the waves crashing against the rocks. 

As you make your way to the sea, glance to your left and you’ll spot the Chiesa di San Salvatore, one of Monopoli’s oldest and most charming churches. Walking further you'll reach Bastione Santa Maria, one of the best viewpoints in Monopoli.

At the far end of the promenade, Castello Carlo V, top Monopoli attraction, proudly keeps watch over the harbour—a perfect spot to pause and take in the views.

3. Taking boat tours from Monopoli

When we walked along Monopoli’s old port, we saw people boarding boats to explore the nearby coast. We didn’t join a tour this time, but next time we definitely will—it’s super easy to book one here!

To discover the hidden coastal caves around Monopoli and Polignano, try this shared 2.5-hour boat tour. If you prefer a more exclusive experience, you can book a private boat tour from Monopoli instead.

4. Visiting the Cattedrale Maria Santissima della Madia

Just around the corner from our Casa Mia apartment, we came across the most amazing surprise — the Basilica Cattedrale Maria Santissima della Madia, a stunning Baroque cathedral that completely blew us away.

The Cattedrale Maria Santissima della Madia at dusk — its Baroque façade glows softly as the sun sets over Monopoli’s old town

What’s even cooler is the story behind it. Back in the 12th century, when the original wooden church was being built, the builders ran out of roof beams. Total disaster… until a wooden raft carrying an image of the Virgin Mary mysteriously drifted into the harbor.

Turns out, the wood from that raft was exactly what they needed to finish the roof. Talk about perfect timing!

The interior of Monopoli Cathedral left us speechless — so much detail and light

The old wooden church isn’t there anymore, but the Baroque cathedral that replaced it is absolutely worth a visit.

We popped inside this Monopoli attraction (it’s free to enter!) and were instantly wowed by how beautiful it was — the details, the light, the quiet atmosphere. It felt like one of those unexpected finds that makes wandering aimlessly so worth it.

5. Savouring local eats in Monopoli

Monopoli ranks among Italy’s top food destinations. The cuisine may be simple, relying on fresh fish, seafood, and seasonal vegetables, but each dish bursts with flavour.

If you’re a pasta lover, you’re in for a treat. Orecchiette, the signature pasta of Apulia, is a must-try. 👍 Sign up for a hands-on pasta class near Monopoli and master orecchiette from scratch

The classics are orecchiette with broccoli rabe and orecchiette with meat ragù, but don’t miss the local specialty, pasta alla ‘assassina’, a spicy dish that’s unique to the region.

For a quick bite, panzerotti are perfect — deep-fried dough pockets stuffed with everything from mozzarella and tomato sauce to mortadella, pistachio, or vegetables.

And of course, no visit is complete without sampling Apulia’s incredible cured meats, mozzarella, stracciatella, and burrata. Sweet lovers will adore pasticciotto, Apuglian treat made of crumbly shortbread pastry filled with a creamy custard (crema pasticcera in Italian).

Sampling the delicious local cuisine is definitely one of the best things to do in Monopoli.

Where to eat in Monopoli - Our top picks:

Il Vicoletto (Via Orazio Comes 56)
Tucked away on a quiet side street just a few steps from Castello Carlo V, this small restaurant is an absolute gem. With only about 10 tables, it’s tiny, so booking a reservation is a must.

The food here is outstanding — simple, authentic, and full of Apulian flavour. The menu is small, which is always a good sign, and every dish feels homemade. The staff is incredibly friendly, and the chef even comes out to greet guests, which adds such a personal touch.

We couldn’t get enough of the orecchiette al ragù pugliese at Il Vicoletto Trattoria in Monopoli — warm, satisfying, and full of local flavour

We tried the parmigiana di melanzane — rich, cheesy, and perfectly baked — and it was heavenly. 

The orecchiette al ragù Pugliese are a must: tender little ear-shaped pasta in a sweet tomato sauce with pieces of melt-in-your-mouth meat.

For something more adventurous, try the spaghetti all’assassina, a unique and spicy dish where raw pasta is cooked directly in tomato sauce, finished with a dollop of stracciatella on top.

The prices are very reasonable for the quality — most typical dishes range from €13–15. If you’re in Monopoli and want an authentic taste of Apulia, this is the spot to go!

Cala & Fuci (Via Roma 247)
We chose this little spot thanks to its glowing reviews, and it didn’t disappoint. Our goal was to try pucce, a traditional street food from Apulia. Think of it as soft flatbread stuffed with all sorts of delicious fillings.

A mouthwatering puccia with octopus and zucchini — hearty, flavourful, and authentically Puglian

We went for the puccia with grilled octopus and zucchini, and it was absolutely generous — every bite packed full of flavour. Prices are very reasonable, around €9 for a stuffed puccia.

To finish, we couldn’t resist a classic tiramisù — the perfect sweet ending. If you’re looking for authentic Apulian food without breaking the bank, Cala & Fuci is a great choice!

Martinucci Laboratory - Monopoli (Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II, 69)
This is the perfect spot to grab something sweet any time of day — they’re open all day long! 🍰 The pastry selection is huge, and although they also serve gelato, we didn’t get a chance to try it this time.

A pasticciotto from Martinucci — perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat!

We went straight for their pasticciotti, the oval-shaped pastry from Lecce, and they were absolutely delicious. We sampled several flavours — classic one with pastry cream, lemon and almond, pistachio and ricotta, pastry cream/gianduja — and every single one was so good.

At just €2 each, it’s an absolute bargain for such a tasty treat. You can also grab them to go if you’re exploring the town!

Bella Blu Gelateria (Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi 7/8)
We absolutely loved this gelateria right in the heart of the Centro Storico. They have such a huge selection of gelato flavours that choosing just two felt impossible! The staff were super friendly and patient while we made up our minds.

A medium cup (coppetta media) with two flavours cost €3 — a great deal for how good it was. There’s also a small seating area if you want to take a break and enjoy your gelato slowly. There’s almost always a line out front, but honestly, that’s always a good sign!

6. Diving into Monopoli’s beach life

With a variety of charming beaches along its coast, exploring them is one of the best things to do in Monopoli during the summer months.

Cala Porta Vecchia, located right by the old town, is a favourite for its easy access and postcard-worthy views of ancient stone walls rising above the sea. The shallow waters here make it ideal for families or a quick dip after exploring the historic centre.

If rocks aren’t your thing, Porto Bianco is the best beach in Monopoli for you. With a large sandy stretch, crystal-clear water, a family-friendly atmosphere, and a central location, it’s a popular free beach on summer weekends.

A short walk south leads you to Cala Paradiso and Lido Santo Stefano, where soft sand and calm, clear water invite longer swims and lazy afternoons on rented loungers.

For a more secluded experience, head to Cala Corvino or Cala Susca, where rocky coves and hidden swimming spots reward those willing to wander a little further.

Sunbathing in Monopoli is more than just lying on the beach — it’s a full sensory experience. The scent of salt and sunscreen mixes with the sound of gentle waves and distant laughter.

Local beach bars, or lidi, serve refreshing Aperol Spritz and freshly made focaccia, so you can soak up the sun without ever leaving your spot.

7. Searching for unique Apuglian souvenirs

One of the most delightful Monopoli Puglia things to do is hunt for unique Apulian souvenirs.

Wandering through the charming streets, you’ll find something special around every corner — from colourful handmade ceramics to locally produced olive oil, cheeses, and crispy tarallini.

Here are some of our favourite shops we discovered while exploring the heart of Monopoli.

This beautiful ceramic "orcio", filled with local olive oil, made such a lovely (and tasty) souvenir to bring home from Puglia

Apuglia – La Finestra sul Mare (Via Porto 8)
This cute shop is full of beautiful handmade ceramic products — plates, bowls, cups, olive oil bottles, and decorative pieces. Here you can find the perfect memento to remind you of Monopoli once you’re back home.

They also offer a wide selection of extra-virgin olive oils, pestos, jams, and pasta. The olive oil is from their own production, and you can even taste it on the spot. It’s available in bottles, cans, and "orci" - colourful hand-painted ceramic jars.

We stocked up here with several packs of Zio Pasquale taralli (so yummy!) and some olive oil.

Crunchy Zio Pasquale taralli — we couldn’t resist buying several packs! One of the best foodie souvenirs from Puglia.

Che Buono di Tota Anna (Piazza XX Settembre)
Not far from Casa Mia apartment, you'll find a charming shop where you can stock up on high-quality Italian food products, both fresh and local.

We loved picking up thinly sliced salami with fennel — so flavorful — and delicious cooked ham, both of which pair perfectly with their soft, fresh bread rolls (panini). Don’t miss their pesto and fresh orecchiette from the fridge, which make for a simple yet incredibly tasty and affordable meal.

The store also offers a wide range of essentials, including milk, butter, yogurts, juices, Italian sweets, chocolates, and much more. Whether you’re looking to cook at home or grab a takeaway sandwich, this place has you covered.

Numeri Primi (Piazza Vittorio Emanuele 25-26)
While strolling toward the Casa Mia apartment, we stumbled upon this neat grocery store. It’s clean, well-stocked, and has pretty much everything you could want from Italian food — bread, salami, cheeses, cakes, cookies, wines, spirits, chocolates, spreads… you name it. We grabbed some Venchi chocolates for gifts, as well as some Bronte pistachios (Gusto Etna) for ourselves! Great place to do some shopping in Monopoli!

Annese (Piazza Vittorio Emanuele, 57)
This shop is one of the best places to buy olive oil in Monopoli. Annese
Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II, 57
This small grocery store sells their own products made in the countryside outside of Monopoli.

Great for picking up gifts like orecchiette and cavatelli pasta (you can even learn to make them yourself at this pasta class in Monopoli), taralli, or local olive oil and other jarred goodies to take home.

8. Quick getaway from Monopoli to Polignano a Mare

During our stay in Monopoli, we couldn’t resist visiting nearby Polignano a Mare, just a five-minute train ride away.

We caught a late-morning train around 11 AM (buy tickets in both directions online - see here why) and spent a few wonderful hours exploring this postcard-perfect seaside town.

From the Polignano train station, it’s an easy walk straight down Viale delle Rimembranze to the Old Town. (If you need directions or a map, the tourist office is right at the beginning on the left.)

Our favourite postcard-perfect view of Polignano a Mare — where the cliffs meet the sea in timeless Italian charm

Polignano’s Old Town is a maze of whitewashed lanes lined with cosy cafés, pizzerias, souvenir shops, and tempting gelaterias. We wandered aimlessly, taking photos and soaking in the relaxed atmosphere.

Our sweetest stop was Lucarelli Gelateria on Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi, where we couldn’t resist a cup of rich gelato (€3.50 for a generous medium). The chocolate and salted caramel combo was pure perfection — worth every minute of waiting in the busy shop!

The best part of Polignano is its dramatic views of the Adriatic Sea. Just keep walking toward the water and you’ll find several viewpoints overlooking the cliffs and coastline — each one more breathtaking than the last.

Oro della Terra, a lovely spot in Polignano to pick up authentic Apulian treats

We took a short break at Aquamarea Café, sipping cappuccinos and enjoying a pasticciotto while admiring the view of Cala Monachile, a small cove nestled between limestone cliffs.

Even in late October, the beach was buzzing — visitors were dipping their feet in the sea, and a few brave souls were still swimming!

A bit further along, we reached the statue of Domenico Modugno, the beloved Italian singer of “Volare”. The lively square around his monument is filled with music, cafés, and happy tourists. Nearby, another scenic viewpoint offered postcard-perfect photos of Polignano’s famous sea caves (grotte in Italian).

Travelling from Monopoli by train - tip for buying tickets

If you’re travelling from Monopoli by train, it’s best to buy tickets online.

The station has no staff, and the ticket machines can be unreliable—we had issues both going to and returning from Polignano, with machines failing to print or out of order.

Booking online, for example via Trainline, ensures your tickets are ready on your phone, letting you hop on the train without any stress.

👉 If you buy paper tickets from a machine, remember to validate them before boarding. Use the white-and-green machines on the platform—insert your ticket until you hear a beep or see a stamp. Forgetting to validate can lead to a fine, even with a paid ticket!

We took many walks along the Porto Vecchio, watching the boats and the calm sea

One-day itinerary in Monopoli, Puglia

A Bright Monopoli Morning

Begin your morning in Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II, the lively heart of Monopoli’s Borgo Nuovo. The square hums with life as locals sip espresso and chat in the sun. Take a seat at Martinucci Café, order a velvety cappuccino and a warm pasticciotto, and let the city slowly wake around you.

With breakfast done, wander into Monopoli’s Centro Storico—a sunlit labyrinth of whitewashed lanes and hidden courtyards. Start at Piazza Garibaldi, admire the Cathedral of Santa Maria della Madia, and stroll through Piazza Palmieri with its stately Palazzo.

Drift toward the Old Port, where bright fishing boats bob beneath Palazzo Martinelli and the old Castle Carlo V stands watch over the waves.

When hunger calls, slip into Il Vicoletto nearby—a cosy spot where you can linger over a simple, delicious lunch before continuing your seaside wander.

Lazy Afternoon Vibes

Spend your afternoon unwinding by the water. The twin beaches of Porto Bianco and Porto Rosso are ideal for swimming or relaxing in a postcard-perfect setting.

If you’d rather stay close to town, Cala Porta Vecchia offers beautiful views and easy access, while Cala Paradiso, a little farther out, has a lovely beach club for extra comfort.

On your way back, take some time to browse the small artisan shops and pick up a few local souvenirs.

Sunset and Evening Strolls

As evening falls, return to the historic center, where the glow of lanterns and the scent of the sea make every corner feel magical.

Enjoy dinner at Carlo Quinto, known for its delicious seafood dishes, then end your day with a leisurely stroll through the quiet streets—perhaps with a gelato in hand—soaking in the charm of Monopoli by night.

👍 Best rainy-day activities in Monopoli

Where to stay in Monopoli: Beachfront stays, hidden courtyards, and rustic masserias

There are numerous apartments and small hotels throughout Monopoli, Puglia. You can choose from those overlooking the old port with stunning sea views, hidden within the charming Centro Storico, set in quiet residential areas, or just steps from the beach.

You can also stay in a masseria — a traditional countryside house surrounded by olive groves, perfect for a peaceful escape. Whatever your travel style, there’s something in Monopoli for everyone.

We stayed at Casa Mia, a lovely and comfortable apartment tucked right next to the entrance of Monopoli’s old town, just a short stroll from the Cathedral.

The location couldn’t have been better — close enough to feel the buzz of the historic center, yet peaceful enough for a good night’s sleep.

We instantly felt at home. The small kitchen was perfect for preparing breakfast or even a proper meal — one evening we made orecchiette with pesto, just like the locals!

The cozy living room, complete with a TV, became our evening spot for watching Italian game shows (a surprisingly fun way to pick up a few Italian phrases).

A charming stone staircase leads up to the spacious bedroom and bathroom — both airy and comfortable. Another iron staircase takes you up to the terrace, where you can sip a coffee or a glass of wine.

The location is ideal, within easy reach of both the old town and the newer part of the city, where you’ll find grocery stores, bakeries, and everyday shops.

👍 Hosts can arrange anything you like — from taxis and organised trips around Puglia to boat tours or even a relaxing massage!

Handpicked list of places we’d like to stay in Monopoli:

Experience authentic Puglia at a Masseria

If you’re craving a taste of the Puglian countryside while staying close to Monopoli, there’s nothing quite like a masseria.

These traditional farmhouse or country estate, unique to southern Italy, offer guests an authentic taste of rural Puglia life - surrounded by olive groves, vineyards, and the quiet countryside. They combine rustic charm with modern comfort, making them a signature experience of the region.

👉 If you’re staying at a masseria, it’s best to have a car, perfect for exploring nearby towns and beaches.

Masseria Il Melograno

For those seeking something a little more indulgent, Il Melograno is a 5-star sanctuary. Gourmet meals, a serene spa, and sprawling gardens make it a dreamy retreat, with rates from €250–€500/night.

Masseria - Trulli Genius Loci Dimore

This charming trullo, just outside Monopoli, is set in peaceful countryside surrounded by olive and fruit trees. Beautifully decorated and fully equipped, it has a spacious private garden for relaxing. Paolo, the host, offers a warm welcome and helpful local tips, making your stay truly memorable.

Masseria Mammella

Masseria Torre Coccaro

How to get to Monopoli from Bari

The closest airport to Monopoli is Bari Airport (57 km to the north), making it easy to reach from other parts of Italy (by plane or train) and Europe (by plane).

We took the Ryanair flight from Dubrovnik, Croatia — and honestly, we couldn’t believe how quick it was. Less than 30 minutes in the air and you’re already over the Adriatic, landing in beautiful Puglia.

Check the next train from Bari Aeroporto to Bari Centrale at the electronic departure board

Taking the train from Bari Airport to Bari Centrale

Landing at Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport (BRI) is a breeze, and getting into the city by train is one of the easiest (and cheapest) ways to start your trip

🧭 Finding Your Way

After you’ve gone through arrivals and picked up your luggage, you’ll step into the main airport hall, where you’ll find car rental counters, cafés, small eateries, and an information desk right in the middle.

The staff here are friendly and happy to point you toward the train if you’re unsure where to go.

🚶 Getting to the Train Station

To reach the station:

1. Leave the terminal and cross the road to the building directly opposite.
2. Take the escalators down to the ticket area.
3. You’ll see ticket machines where you can buy your fare to the city.

🎟️ Buying Tickets

• Select “Bari Centrale” on the screen.
• Choose how many tickets you need and pay by card or cash.
• Tickets cost around €5.30 (one way).
• Your ticket prints instantly — no need to validate it again.
• Follow the signs through a short tunnel (2–3 minutes) to the platform, where you’ll scan your ticket to enter.

🚉 About the Train

Don’t expect a dedicated airport express — these are regular local trains (the FM2/FR2 lines) that connect the airport with Bari Centrale.
You’ll likely be sharing the ride with commuters and locals, especially during rush hour, but that’s part of the fun.

• ⏱ Journey time: about 15 minutes
• 🚆 Frequency: every 20–25 minutes
• 🕔 Operating hours: roughly 05:26 AM – 11:38 PM
  
  

Taking the train from Bari Centrale to Monopoli

When we arrived at Bari Centrale, we stepped out of the main hall and crossed over to the building opposite — the one serving trains to other cities in Puglia and beyond.

Trains between Bari Centrale and Monopoli are comfortable, affordable, and take less than 30 minutes

Since we didn’t have tickets to Monopoli yet, we stopped by the Trenitalia ticket office, where the staff were friendly and got us sorted in minutes.

You can choose between Intercity and regional trains — both comfortable and quick.

We opted for the Intercity (€9, with reserved seats — no need to validate tickets), while the regional option cost just €3.90 (tickets must be validated at the small yellow or green machines). The platforms are on the same level, which makes catching your train super easy.

With a bit of time to spare before our train, we popped into a nearby café for a quick espresso and a pastry — because honestly, that’s just how you do it in Italy. ☕🥐

What to Expect at Monopoli Train Station

Monopoli’s train station is small and unmanned, so it’s a good idea to arrange a taxi in advance through your hotel or apartment host, especially if you’re staying in the Centro Storico, which is about a 10–15-minute walk away.

Taxis can be a little pricey — our short 3–4-minute ride cost around €20 — but it’s a quick and hassle-free way to reach your accommodation, especially if you have luggage or arrive late in the evening.

A few hours in Bari — so much fun!

Getting back from Monopoli to Bari

Our flight back from Bari Airport was scheduled for the evening, so we decided to spend the afternoon soaking up a bit more of Bari. We left our apartment in Monopoli around 11 AM and hopped on the 11:30 train. 

👍 Booking our tickets online beforehand made everything easy!

Once we arrived at Bari Centrale, we left our luggage at Stow Your Bags luggage storage, which is only a few minutes walk from the train station building (Piazza Aldo Moro 29). It’s secure and a great option for storing your luggage for as long as you need.

👌 We recommend booking a locker online in advance (there are various sizes available). We had two medium-sized suitcases, and a large locker was perfect for them. We paid around €19 for 5 hours.

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Benvenuti!

Italy captured our hearts, one delicious bite at a time. We’re sharing the cities we explored, the dishes we tasted, and the moments that made us fall in love.

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