Holiday in Polignano a Mare

What makes Polignano a Mare special as a destination?

Polignano a Mare is one of the most spectacular coastal towns in Italy and the jewel of the Apulian Adriatic coast. The old town perches on rugged limestone cliffs that drop straight into the turquoise sea, offering breathtaking views. The place became famous as the birthplace of the legendary singer Domenico Modugno, whose song "Volare" echoes around every corner and whose statue with outstretched arms stands at the cliff's edge. The absolute highlight is Lama Monachile beach, also known as Cala Porto - a tiny cove between high rock walls, accessed via an old stone arch bridge. The image of this cove with its crystal-clear turquoise water, white cliffs, and the old town houses perched above is one of the most photographed motifs in Southern Italy and has made Polignano an Instagram phenomenon. In summer, the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series takes place here, where cliff divers plunge into the sea from heights of up to 27 meters. The old town itself is a labyrinth of whitewashed alleys, where ceramic shops, small galleries, and traditional restaurants hide. The numerous terraces and balconies offer surprising views of the sea and the caves that have eroded into the cliffs below the town. Grotta Palazzese houses one of the most spectacular restaurants in the world - dining in the natural sea cave by candlelight is an unforgettable experience. From Germany, Polignano a Mare can be reached via Bari Airport, which is only 35 kilometers away. Regular trains from Bari take about 30 minutes. A rental car allows for exploration of the entire Apulian coast with its trulli villages, olive groves, and hidden coves. The best travel time is from May to October, with July and August being very crowded. Polignano offers moderate prices by Italian standards, except for upscale restaurants.