Monopoli is a city not to be missed during your stay in Puglia. We recommend that you lose yourself in the narrow streets with their white houses, where it’s so pleasant to stroll.
We’ll detail our itinerary for visiting the old town as well as the beaches to explore around Monopoli, so you don’t miss a thing on the spot, with our updated addresses for 2025 to help you organize your trip with ease.
Our itinerary for visiting the historic center of Monopoli
We stayed two nights in Monopoli to take a breather and enjoy the city to the full. We’d rather take our time and enjoy the atmosphere.
We explore the old town on arrival mid-afternoon, returning the next morning after a good night’s sleep. Then it’s on to the coast to discover the beaches south of Monopoli, ideal for a lazy day.
Let’s set off for a stroll: into the historic center and lose ourselves in Monopoli’s narrow, colorful streets, between flower-filled balconies and local life.
Allow around 2 hours to walk through the old town, along the waterfront and around the picturesque port. If you like photography, allow a little more time.
The historic center
- Start with the Maria Santissima della Madia Cathedral. The façade is sober, but theBaroque marbleinterior is superb. In summer, come early or late to avoid the crowds.
- Then head down to Cala Porta Vecchia, the town’s integrated beach. It’s very popular in summer: sunrise or late afternoon are perfect for a leisurely swim.
Come back in the evening to enjoy a magnificent sunset over the Adriatic.
- Then follow the waterfront to Charles V’s castle. Temporary exhibitions are held here on a regular basis: if it’s open, take a look, as the grounds offer some lovely views.
- Finish off at Porto Antico, a charming little port with blue and white boats. The atmosphere of the fishermen in the early morning is well worth the detour.
Don’t miss the little stone passageway linking the port to the old town: postcard guaranteed.
- Take a break in Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi: cafés, restaurants and pretty terraces. Ideal for a spritz or gelato before the suite.
Our recommendations in Monopoli on our map
The most beautiful beaches around Monopoli
Just a few kilometers south of Monopoli, you’ll find a string of magnificent beaches and coves. Clear sand, turquoise water, golden rocks: we love it. Here are the ones we’ll still be returning to in 2025.
La Scaletta Beach
Our favorite. A succession of small coves: fine sand, transparent water, wild atmosphere. There are no services on site, so bring your own water and snacks.
Free parking approx. 5 minutes’ walk away.
Beach of porto marzano
A sheltered, sandy cove with crystal-clear water, perfect for an afternoon of idleness. It remains a good option even in high season.
Deckchair and parasol, bar/restaurant, parking 3 € approx.
Paradiso Beach
The closest to the center, so very popular in summer. Nice sandy beach with a few rocks, clear water. Arrive early, otherwise sit on the rocks.
Deckchair and parasol, bar/restaurant, parking 5 € approx.
Where to sleep in Monopoli?
Staying in the city center means you can enjoy the city day and night without having to use your car again. It’s what we prefer, especially for evening strolls.
In 2025, demand climbs early: remember to book your hotels in advance, especially for July-August and spring weekends.
➡️Notre Our favorite: Palazzo Indelli, a beautiful establishment right in the center, on a pretty square. Everything is done on foot. Comfortable bedding and impeccable cleanliness during our stay.
Are you looking for a place to stay during your stay in Puglia ? Find our tips and addresses in Where to stay in Puglia Italy: hotels, small hotels and unusual accommodation.
Guided tour of Monopoli
If you’d like to book a guided bike tour of Monopoli, to learn more about its history and get to know all the local anecdotes and good addresses, we recommend this excursion.
Rent a boat
Explore the coast around Monopoli by boat . With or without a license, you can cruise along creeks, find quiet swimming spots and enjoy great views of the old town.
To book, go to Samboat: a vast offer and a simple website. Filter by boat type, with/without skipper, with/without license…
Enter “Monopoli” and your dates, then compare: it’s quick and easy, especially in high season.
How to get to Monopoli
From Bari
Monopoli lies on the Adriatic coast south of Bari, just over 40 km away. Allow around 45 minutes by car, depending on traffic. Regional trains also run frequently on this route.
From Alberobello
We spend the night before in Alberobello. First you reach Polignano a mare in ~30 minutes, then Monopoli in a further ~15 minutes. It’s a fast and pleasant connection.
Where can I park for free?
Our map above shows a free parking lot about 15 minutes’ walk from the old town. Ask at your accommodation too: some addresses have parking solutions or useful partnerships.
Please note: as in many towns in Puglia, the center has a ZTL (limited traffic zone). Avoid entering it by car to avoid fines.
Our tip for 2025: park outside the historic centers and walk to the center. It’s often quicker and easier in high season.
Our best restaurant addresses
King street food
The King Street Food offers affordable pizzas in a pleasant little square away from the tourist flow. We like the lancia pizza with smoked scamorza, or the mozzarella di Bufala: a sure bet.
Magnapulia
Perfect for a pucceria/sandwich before the beach, with fresh, local ingredients. Simple and efficient.
A little feedback: we were a little disappointed by Bella Blu Gelateria (too sweet for our taste). But tastes vary: try them out and make up your own mind!
We continue our road trip in Puglia and take you to Lecce! If you enjoyed Monopoli, please rate the article below.
Enjoy your trip! Drop us a line if you’re planning this trip, or drop by on Instagram: we’ll be happy to reply.
