Having just returned from the sun-drenched coast of Puglia, I can tell you that finding the best places to stay in Polignano a Mare is key to unlocking its magic. This guide cuts through the noise to give you sharp, reliable advice on the best neighborhoods. You’ll get an authentic feel for each area, helping you find the right accommodation in Polignano a Mare for your trip.
Best Hotels in Polignano a Mare🔥
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Masseria Auraterrae
- ✨ 5-Star: Borgobianco Resort & Spa Polignano
- 🏨 4-Star: Covo dei Saraceni
- 🛏 3-Star: Tuo Hotel
- 💸 Cheap: Malù Bed&Breakfast
- 🏢 Apartament: VL Luxury Apartment - Housea
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Dimora Cardinale
- 🏩 For Couples: Le 3 di Tuccino
Quick Guide to the Best Areas 📃
- 🏛️ Historic & Timeless — Centro Storico
- 🏖️ Iconic & Central — Lama Monachile Area
- 🎣 Local & Relaxed — Lungomare Sud & Cala Paura
- 🚆 Practical & Modern — Modern Town
- ⛪ Quiet & Authentic — San Vito
- 🌳 Rural & Peaceful — The Countryside (Contrade)
1. Centro Storico: For Timeless Charm and a Sea View
The historic heart of Polignano a Mare is a mesmerizing labyrinth of whitewashed alleys opening onto stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. This compact, cliff-top old town is where you’ll feel Polignano a Mare’s ancient soul, with hidden courtyards, flower-draped balconies, and some of the best restaurants serving incredible Italian cuisine. A trip to Polignano a Mare without seeing it would be incomplete.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
Enter the old town through the historic Arco Marchesale to find the main square, Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II, home to the Chiesa Matrice. From there, wander the narrow lanes until you reach the sea-facing balconies with the best views of the famous Grotta Palazzese set into the cliffs below. Keep an eye out for the verses painted on doorways and walls by a local artist, a beloved feature that adds to the area’s poetic charm, one of the best things to do in Polignano. To experience the centre of Polignano a Mare without the intense crowds, explore its alleys early in the morning.
Quick Take (Pro & Con):
- Pro: Unbeatable atmosphere and direct access to the most picturesque sea views and dining spots.
- Con: Can be noisy in the evenings and crowded during peak season; pack light as navigating with large luggage through the narrow, stepped streets is a challenge.
Best For / Skip If:
Best for couples and travelers seeking romance and history. Skip if you require private parking directly at your accommodation or prefer modern amenities.
Best Hotels in Centro Storico
💎 Luxury hotels
- Vista Mare Polignano — Offers elegant rooms and suites, some with private balconies overlooking the Adriatic Sea, right in the historic center.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- La Casetta di Babbo — A charming one-bedroom house in the heart of Centro Storico, just minutes from Lama Monachile beach.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Casa Immacolata Affittacamere — Comfortable rooms with modern amenities, perfectly located for exploring Polignano a Mare’s historic center.
2. Lama Monachile Area: For Iconic Views and the Famous Beach
This area is defined by the sight Polignano a Mare is famous for: the famous Lama Monachile beach, a stunning pebble cove set between dramatic cliffs. This spot in Polignano a Mare puts you steps from the town’s most iconic image, with easy access to the beach and the Centro Storico. The vibe is vibrant and energetic, bustling with people eager to capture the perfect photo or take a dip in the turquoise water.
The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
The scene is dominated by the Ponte Borbonico, also known as the Ponte di Polignano, the bridge offering the classic viewpoint over Monachile beach. Nearby, the promenade leads to the famous statue of singer Domenico Modugno, his arms open toward his hometown. Locals know this beach in Polignano gets incredibly busy; for a more peaceful experience, visit at sunrise when the light is soft and the crowds have yet to arrive.
Quick Take (Pro & Con):
- Pro: You are at the absolute epicenter of Polignano’s most famous scenery and beach.
- Con: It is the busiest part of town, with constant foot traffic, especially from mid-morning to sunset.
Best For / Skip If:
Best for photographers and beach lovers who want to be in the heart of the action. Skip if you are looking for a quiet, secluded getaway.
Best Hotels in Lama Monachile Area
💎 Luxury hotels
- Hotel Covo dei Saraceni — Perfectly positioned overlooking the beach, this classic hotel offers spectacular views and direct access to the cove.
- San Michele Suite — A boutique property with luxurious sea-view suites carved into the cliffside, offering an unforgettable perspective of Lama Monachile.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Aquamarea — Features a fantastic rooftop terrace with a hot tub, providing guests with a great spot to relax and enjoy views of the sea and beach.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- B&B A Pochi Passi — Offers clean, comfortable accommodation with a simple, modern style, living up to its name by being “a few steps” from the main viewpoint.
3. Lungomare Sud & Cala Paura: For a Relaxed, Local Seaside Vibe
Just south of the bustling center, the atmosphere shifts to a more relaxed, local pace. This area follows the seaside promenade, leading to small, authentic fishing coves and beautiful beaches. It offers a glimpse into the everyday maritime life of Polignano, away from the main tourist throngs but still within easy walking distance of the old town.
Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
The main walkway leads to Cala Paura, a charming pebble beach and harbor where you’ll often see fishermen mending their nets. Continue further to discover Port’Alga, a rocky inlet cherished by residents. Here you’ll find a quirky local favorite: a small wooden boat that has been converted into a free public library where you can borrow or leave a book. This area is perfect for renting a small boat or a paddleboat to explore the coastline independently.
Quick Take (Pro & Con):
- Pro: A more authentic and tranquil seaside experience with beautiful coastal walks.
- Con: The beaches here are rockier and less “picture-perfect” than Lama Monachile, and amenities are fewer.
Best For / Skip If:
Best for travelers who enjoy coastal walks and a quieter, more local atmosphere. Skip if you want a sandy beach with full services right outside your door.
Best Hotels in Lungomare Sud & Cala Paura
💎 Luxury hotels
- Cala Ponte, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel — Offering an outdoor pool and spa center, Cala Ponte Hotel is located in Polignano a Mare in the Apulia Region, 19 mi from Bari. Guests can enjoy the on-site bar and free WiFi throughout.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Dimora Anderì — Provides stylish, well-equipped rooms and is frequently praised for its helpful hosts and proximity to the local coves of Cala Paura and Port’Alga.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Antiche Volte - Dimore di Charme — Antiche Volte – Dimore di Charme in Polignano a Mare offers recently renovated guest house rooms with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and free WiFi.
4. Modern Town: For Convenience and Transport Links
West of the Centro Storico lies the newer part of the town of Polignano a Mare, built on a more conventional grid system. This area lacks the ancient charm of the old town but compensates with practicality, offering easier private parking, more spacious accommodation, and immediate access to the train station. It’s the functional hub where everyday life unfolds.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
This neighborhood revolves around Piazza Aldo Moro, the town’s main modern square, and is connected by streets like Viale Trieste. The Polignano a Mare train station is located in Polignano a Mare’s centre, providing direct links from Bari Central train station (the main airport is Bari Karol Wojtyla) along the Adriatic coast to cities like Monopoli and Lecce, which is the best way to reach Polignano for many travelers. For a great local snack, look for a panificio (bakery) in this area in the morning to grab fresh focaccia barese, a regional specialty beloved by locals.
Quick Take (Pro & Con):
- Pro: Excellent for travelers using public transport to explore Puglia; accommodation is often more affordable and accessible.
- Con: It lacks the historic atmosphere and immediate sea views that make the old town so captivating.
Best For / Skip If:
Best for budget-conscious travelers and those planning numerous day trips by train. Skip if your priority is being immersed in historic, cliff-side charm.
Best Hotels in Modern Town
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Echi di Puglia — This highly-rated bed and breakfast earns rave reviews for its exceptional hosts, delicious breakfast, and comfortable rooms.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Malù B&B — A favorite for its combination of affordable price, friendly service, and a prime location just a few minutes’ walk from the train station.
5. San Vito: For Authentic Maritime Charm
A couple of miles north of Polignano (just a few km from Polignano a Mare) lies the tranquil fishing hamlet of San Vito. This small village offers a peaceful escape from the buzz of the main town. Its picturesque little harbor, dominated by a 10th-century Benedictine Abbey, provides a glimpse into a slower, more traditional way of life on the Puglian coast.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
The centerpiece is the Abbazia di San Vito, which overlooks a small port filled with colorful fishing boats. While the abbey itself is privately owned, its church opens for Sunday Mass, offering a rare opportunity to see inside. Many of the best boat tours exploring Polignano’s famous sea caves actually depart from the quieter harbor here in San Vito.
Quick Take (Pro & Con)::
- Pro: A truly quiet and authentic atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and escaping the crowds.
- Con: You will need a car or be prepared for a long walk to get to the main attractions in Polignano a Mare; dining options are limited.
Best For / Skip If:
Best for those with a car seeking a peaceful, traditional coastal base. Skip if you want nightlife and a wide variety of restaurants at your doorstep.
Best Hotels in San Vito
💎 Luxury hotels
- San Vito Luxury Accomodation — Modern apartments with a jacuzzi just 2 minutes’ walk from Lama Monachile beach.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Malù Bed&Breakfast — Cozy guesthouse offering modern rooms with a welcoming atmosphere, located in the heart of Polignano a Mare.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Petali Rosa - Dimora Grottino — A charming budget-friendly guesthouse offering cozy, stylish rooms in the heart of Polignano a Mare.
6. The Countryside (Contrade): For Tranquil, Rural Puglia Stays
The immediate countryside surrounding Polignano a Mare is dotted with olive groves, ancient stone walls, and iconic Puglian rural dwellings. Staying in the contrade (rural districts) means swapping sea cliffs for serene agricultural landscapes in the hills overlooking Polignano. A beautiful hotel in Polignano di Mare countryside is ideal for those looking to stay in a traditional masseria (fortified farmhouse) or a charming trullo.
The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
This area is a network of country lanes, like Strada Comunale Monte della Vecchia, connecting historic farm properties. The real appeal lies in the unique accommodation, as many historic masserie and trulli have been beautifully restored into holiday homes. A car is non-negotiable here, making it a perfect base for a Puglia road trip, and it gives you the freedom to explore inland towns like Alberobello and Castellana Grotte just as easily as the coast.
Quick Take (Pro & Con):
- Pro: Offers a unique, peaceful, and spacious alternative to staying in town, often with amenities like an outdoor swimming pool.
- Con: You are completely reliant on a car for everything, from grocery shopping to reaching the beach.
Best For / Skip If:
Best for families or groups seeking a self-catering rural retreat. Skip if you want to be able to walk to restaurants, shops, and the sea.
Best Hotels in The Countryside (Contrade)
💎 Luxury hotels
- Masseria Le Torri — A beautifully restored farmhouse offering a luxury experience with a stunning swimming pool, elegant rooms, and an excellent on-site restaurant.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Fusella Country House — Features chic, contemporary rooms and a lovely outdoor pool area, providing great style and comfort for the price.
FAQ
What is the best area in Polignano a Mare for first-time visitors?
For first-time visitors, the Centro Storico is the ideal choice. Its historic charm, stunning sea views, and proximity to the main sights provide the quintessential experience when you visit Polignano a Mare.
Where should you stay in Polignano a Mare for the best beach access?
The Lama Monachile area is unbeatable for beach access. You’ll be just steps away from the town’s most famous and iconic pebble beach, allowing you to enjoy it early in the morning before the crowds arrive.
Is Polignano a Mare a good base for exploring Puglia?
Yes, Polignano a Mare is an excellent base for exploring Puglia. Its position on the main coastal rail line makes it easy to take day trips to other popular destinations like Monopoli, Bari (which is just 33 km from Bari), Ostuni, and Lecce, a great option for a Puglia road trip by rail.
How many days do you need to fully experience Polignano a Mare?
Two to three days are sufficient to explore the town itself, enjoy the beaches, and take a boat tour of the sea caves. If you plan to use it as a base for exploring the wider Puglia region, a stay of five to seven days is ideal.
What is the best way to get around Polignano a Mare?
The town center, including the Centro Storico and Lama Monachile, is very compact and the best way to explore on foot. For visiting nearby areas like San Vito, just a few km from Polignano a Mare, or exploring the countryside, renting a car is the most convenient option.
