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Let me just get the awkward bit out of the way now: I don’t really think you need to visit Monopoli when you go to Puglia. It was one of the only towns we visited that I wanted to leave sooner than we planned, rather than ending up exploring for longer than we planned.
While most blogs promise that Monopoli in Puglia will be a total gem where you’ll experience authentic vibes in Puglia, I literally couldn’t have had a more opposite experience.
It felt like a run-through tourist trap with a few cool pockets still hanging on.
I’m including a guide to it on my blog anyway because I understand that this is an unpopular opinion! Maybe I went on a horrible day! People have varying experiences! So I wanted to write a guide for you but also make sure I set your expectations, because if you’re on my blog there’s a chance we have similar tastes!
10 Beautiful Places to Visit in Puglia’s Valle d’Itria (+ 1 Surprising Tourist Trap You’ll Want to Skip)
10 Beautiful Places to Visit in Puglia’s Valle d’Itria (+ 1 Surprising Tourist Trap You’ll Want to Skip)
Keep scrolling to check out my guide to Monopoli, and read more about my HONEST thoughts on one of Puglia’s most popular destinations.
Delve into Italy
Don’t forget to check out the rest of my Italy posts and guides if you’re still planning your perfect trip!
Things to do in Monopoli in Puglia
Real Talk:
Puglia—like so many parts of Italy—is feeling the pressure of overtourism. And while I want to believe that if you’re here on my blog, you’re the kind of traveler who cares about leaving places better than you found them… I still have to say it:
Don’t be an asshole when you travel. Not in Puglia, not in Italy, not anywhere.
I’ve seen too many visitors treat locals like background characters or behave like the region exists solely for their vacation. So here’s your friendly-but-firm reminder:
If you’re going to make people’s lives harder, please just stay home.
1. Get Lost in Monopoli’s Winding Old Town Streets
When you get to Monopoli your first stop will probably be the centro storico, where you can wander through a maze of winding whitewashed streets. Much like the rest of Puglia you can admire the hanging laundry, ancient churches and sounds of daily life as you get lost.
Monopoli’s old town boasts about 20 churches (try to find them all!), each with its own history and story, including Chiesa di San Salvatore, which is said to be the town’s oldest. The Cattedrale Maria Santissima della Madia is a popular spot to visit, with its remarkable story of a miraculous ceiling raft. We were unable to go inside due to a wedding happening the day we visited, which was actually really lovely to watch.
Beyond the churches, you can marvel at the Palmieri Palace, with its stunning Baroque design, which also hosts Monopoli’s International Festival of Art and Photography (more on that later).
Getting lost in the more residential parts of the centro storico was probably the best part of Monopoli to me.
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2. Discover the Charm of the Porto Antico
Monopoli’s Porto Antico is one of the more charming bits of Monopoli.
While most of the working harbors in Puglia are industrial and usually ugly (fair enough, they’re not there to be pretty!) the Porto Antico in Monopoli set against the whitewashed backdrop of the old town.
It’s filled with cute blue and red “gozzo” fishing boats, (typical in Puglia), gently floating on crystal-clear turquoise waters. It’s not uncommon to see fishermen hauling in their daily catch or chatting to one another.
This is an ideal spot for people watching and just generally enjoying the atmosphere – especially early in the morning!
3. Unwind at Monopoli’s Beaches
When visiting Monopoli in Puglia, enjoying its beaches is a must—or at the very least you must enjoy them visually.
In the heart of the centro storico, Cala Porta Vecchia offers a picturesque beach with views of the old town. Cala Porto Rosso and Porto Verde are other nearby favorites with sandy shores and sea caves.
For a larger, more lively beach experience, Cala Paradiso offers a beach club (my choice) and free sections. These beaches, surrounded by crystal-clear waters, are ideal for both relaxing and exploring Monopoli’s charm.
4. Explore Monopoli’s Art Scene at the PhEST Festival
PhEST is Monopoli’s International Festival of Photography and Art, held annually from late August to early November. This is probably the best time to visit Monopoli, because this is a particularly cool exhibition.
It transforms the city into an open-air gallery, showing stunning visual works from renowned photographers and artists.
The event takes place across various historical and cultural venues, which is in itself quite a draw, in my opinion. The festival emphasizes themes of the Mediterranean, focusing on connections between cultures and people, and celebrates contemporary art, photography, and music.
5. Take a Boat Trip to See Monopoli from the Water
My ideal way to experience Monopoli’s charm is from the sea… you won’t be swarmed by tourists that way!
Hop on a boat tour to take in the stunning views of the coastline, historic buildings, and crystal-clear waters.
It is worth noting – and this kind of proves my point! – that pretty much every boat tour from Monopoli brings you a little ways up the coast to take in the stunning beauty of Polignano a Mare and its cliffs…
Best Boat Tours Sailing from Monopoli
6. Stroll the Lungomare for Stunning Adriatic Views
A walk along the Lungomare—a promenade along Monopoli’s coastline—is a lovely thing to do so long as it’s not too crowded. You’ll get a stunning view of the Adriatic Sea, and it’s well paved, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll.
However, when I visited in late June it was crammed with people. We went in the middle of the day, when many people were headed to the beach, so I would try this in the evening for better results. The Lungomare is lined with benches and greenery, making it a theoretically ideal place to relax and enjoy the serene surroundings.
Where to Eat in Monopoli in Puglia
Monopoli might have been a mixed bag for me, but its food scene still has a few standout moments. Whether you’re after authentic flavors or avoiding tourist traps, here are my top picks for where to eat in town. Buon appetito!
- Bella Blue Gelateria: Indulge in some of the creamiest, most flavorful gelato at Bella Blue, a local favorite for sweet treats.
- Tuttoapposto: With a focus on creative dishes and a modern vibe, Tuttoapposto is the spot to go for something a little different in Monopoli.
- Sottocoperta: Sottocoperta delivers a cozy atmosphere and seafood that’s as fresh as it gets, perfect for a laid-back dinner by the sea.
- Porto Rosso: Enjoy beachfront dining at Porto Rosso, where the seafood is top-notch, and the Adriatic views complete the experience.
- Panini & Vini: For a quick, no-fuss meal, Panini & Vini serves up hearty sandwiches with quality ingredients and local wines.
- Birra Del Console: If you’re a craft beer lover, Birra Del Console offers a great selection of local brews to sip on while soaking in the Monopoli vibe.
- Rosso Granato Monopoli: Known for its rustic yet elegant dishes, Rosso Granato serves up traditional Puglian cuisine with a contemporary flair.
- Trattoria La Locanda dei Mercanti: At Trattoria La Locanda dei Mercanti, you’ll find authentic, homemade Puglian dishes in a warm, welcoming setting.
- Ristorante Piazza Palmieri: Ristorante Piazza Palmieri is a fine dining spot offering Mediterranean cuisine with a creative twist, perfect for a special night out.
- Al Maré: A laid-back restaurant with stunning sea views, Al Maré is the place to savor fresh seafood in a relaxed atmosphere.
- Komera: For lovers of African flavors, Komera brings the taste of Ethiopia to Monopoli with its authentic and flavorful dishes.
Where to Stay in Monopoli in Puglia
While Monopoli might seem like a convenient base, I’d actually recommend staying in nearby Polignano a Mare instead. It offers a more authentic experience with breathtaking views, better beaches, and a cozier vibe.
For an unforgettable stay, consider these three fantastic options in Polignano that I think you’ll love:
€ | 4 Star | Recently Renovated & Chic
Palazzo Marzionna is a chic B&B in the heart of Polignano a Mare, blending modern comfort with charming hospitality. Just steps from the beach and historic center, it’s the perfect spot for a laid-back stay. Expect tastefully renovated rooms, thoughtful amenities like a large shower and mini fridge, and warm, personalized service. Breakfast is a treat at the local café. A serene escape in a prime location 50m from the entrance to the centro storico!
Photo: Booking.com
€€ | 4 Star | Swanky Amenities
Aeris Suite & Relax is a stunning boutique gem in Polignano a Mare, where modern luxury meets historical charm. Family-run with impeccable hospitality, the hotel features beautifully restored cave rooms and a serene spa built into the rock. Start your day with a homemade breakfast on the terrace, then explore the nearby old town and beaches. Whether it’s the personalized service or luxurious suite amenities, you’ll have the perfect romantic getaway at Aeris!
Photo: Booking.com
€€€ | 4 Star | Artsy Luxury
Sei Stelle Mama blends modern design with historic charm in the heart of Polignano a Mare. Antonia and her team offer top-notch hospitality, ensuring every guest feels at home. The cozy rooms are immaculate, with delightful touches like their in-house skincare made from purple carrots! With nightlife steps away and delicious local breakfast on-site, it’s a perfect stay for anyone wanting both comfort and character. Soundproofed windows will ensure you get a peaceful night’s sleep even with the central square of the old town right outside your window.
Photo: Booking.com
Best Time to Visit Monopoli in Puglia
The best time to visit Monopoli is from May to September, when the weather is warm and ideal for enjoying the town’s beautiful beaches and outdoor activities.
During this period, temperatures range between 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F) with the cooler months being closer to the shoulder season months. Almost all of this time period will be perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the historic center.
July and August are the busiest months, with festivals and events like PhEST taking place, so for a quieter experience, late spring or early fall offers pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
If you want to visit during PhEST, you should go sometime in August-November.
FAQs about Visiting Monopoli in Puglia
Is Monopoli, Puglia worth visiting?
In my honest opinion, no, Monopoli is not worth visiting if you’re weighing it against other places in Puglia. If you’ll be in the area for quite a long time, then you should go for it, but if you have to make cuts to your itinerary, Monopoli is an easy cut. Check out my valle d’itria post for more on this.
Is Monopoli a good base for Puglia?
It’s certainly not a bad base for Puglia, geographically at least, but it’s not what I would choose. I found Monopoli to be overwhelming and crowded, with too much of a tourist vibe to keep me interested. I know that others have had a wonderful time in Monopoli, but I wouldn’t recommend it.
Does Monopoli have good beaches?
Monopoli is well located on the coast of the Adriatic Sea, making it a great spot if you’re looking for a Puglia beach holiday. The beaches near Monopoli are a mix of sandy and rocky, most of which are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and relaxing.
Popular spots like Cala Porta Vecchia are close to the historic center, providing stunning views of the old town. Porto Ghiacciolo and Lido Santo Stefano are family-friendly options with crystal-clear waters, while Spiaggia di San Vito and Porto Rosso are ideal for those seeking a quieter atmosphere.
Many of these beaches offer accessible facilities and nearby cafes, making them convenient for visitors looking for a day by the sea.
Is Polignano or Monopoli better?
Polignano a Mare is definitely better than Monopoli. Not only did it feel more authentic and interesting than Monopoli, but I also think it’s a much prettier landscape to get to experience.
Polignano a Mare is also home to Puglia’s most famous beach, and one of Italy’s most famous restaurants, so if you want to really experience a true Puglian town, Polignano a Mare is a better bet than Monopoli.
Also, both towns are on the coast, but Polignano a Mare has better beaches (in my opinion).
What is better, Ostuni or Monopoli?
In my opinion, Ostuni is eons better than Monopoli, both in terms of visiting and staying in Puglia. Ostuni is such a unique, and quintessentially Puglian experience, with its lime washed buildings, ancient city walls, and panoramic views from its hilltop position.
The only real pro that Monopoli would have over Ostuni is that it’s right on the coast, and you could get to the water much faster than from Ostuni. However, I would still recommend a different coastal town, like Polignano a Mare, before Monopoli.
How much time do you need in Monopoli
A full day in Monopoli is enough to explore its old town, visit the port, relax on the beach, and enjoy the local cuisine.
To be honest, we only spent half a day in Monopoli because, as I’ve said, the vibes were just off, and I didn’t wanna be there anymore. In that time we basically saw everything we wanted. We wandered the centro storico, people watched at the beaches and the port, and got a coffee in town. There’s not a ton to do in Monopoli, so you don’t need ages to check it out.
However, if you want to use it as a base to explore nearby areas, 2-3 days would be ideal to fully appreciate the town and its surroundings.
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Are you ready to explore Monopoli in Puglia?
I hope you found this post helpful!
If you’re still trying to plan the perfect trip to Puglia, check out the Puglia archives here.
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