A complete guide to Monopoli | An hidden gem on Puglia seaside

Monopoli is a typical place off the tourist radar. Not far from Bari and Polignano, Monopoli has relaxed vibes, and reasonable prices.

In this guide we will walk you through the best things to do in Monopoli, starting from the old town and ending the day while enjoying a spritz and watching a beautiful sunset.

Our initial plan didn’t include Monopoli but while we were heading towards Polignano, we saw many locals getting off the train at that station. One things we are sure as seasoned travellers, always trust locals about places to go. Glad we jumped off that train!

The cute hidden gem is often overshadowed by the nearby Polignano and Bari. That’s why we will help you today planning the itinerary, with the best things to do in Monopoli. Rest assured that you can fill an entire day out. Are you curious now to see what to do in Monopoli Puglia? It’s time to show you our best guide to Monopoli.

Best tours in Monopoli

• Snorkeling in Monopoli: Cala Incina and Porto Alga
• Monopoli: Legends and History Tour
• Monopoli Walking Tour with wine Tasting
• Parco Rurale Tour with Tasting of 3 Apulian Wines
• Boat tour from Monopoli to Polignano (Sailing boat!)
• Monopoli: Masseria Spina Tour with Apulian Food Tasting

Haven’t been to Puglia yet? Read our reasons why Puglia is worth visiting.

Best things to do in Monopoli

• Get lost in the old town
• Wander along the lungomare
• Check the view from Bastione di Santa Maria 
• Visit Castello Carlo V
• Step inside Chiesa di San Salvatore
• Enjoy the beautiful crystal blue water 
• Admire Cattedrale Maria Santissima Della Madia
• Explore Museo Della Cattedrale
• Visit Palmieri Palace 
• Enjoy Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi Square
• Stroll around Porto Antico di Monopoli

How to get to Monopoli from Bari

Things to know before visiting Monopoli

Monopoli is an old walled town in Apulia’s province of Bari. However, there is a vast territory outside the old town consisting of 99 hamlets, so-called in Italian Frazioni and Contrade. It is a significant tourism hub, close to Bari, the main city of the Region and well connected by public transport and highway roads.

The surrounding area is particular, with rural farmhouses, little “agriturismo”, and whitewashed houses mainly for tourists. The town’s most prominent landmarks include the Charles V Castle, the St. Stephen Coastal Castle, the Monopoli Cathedral, and the magnificent Palazzo Palmieri.

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A cute white Town on the Coast

Monopoli is gorgeous, but you have understood that since the preview of this post. However, there are no exact words to let you understand this city which you should visit. Monopoli is considered a hidden gem town in Italy, often overshadowed by the nearby instagrammable Polignano.

We were so impressed by Monopoli, which is simply stunning, even without having big tourist attractions. The main sightseeing of the city is so minimalist that it makes every glimpse natural and beautiful.

Like going through the Monopoli old town’s cobblestone narrow streets, hand in hand, walking through a beautiful maze of alleys in pure Italian Style, the Southern one, which is different, romantic, rustic but gorgeous. We have tried our best to resume all the things to do in Monopoli, in one, short but curated guide to Monopoli, Puglia.

Get lost in the old town

The modern Centro Storico is surrounded by amazing colours, cosy boutiques and typical Italian-style balconies. Seek the hidden corner of Monopoli, follow your curiosity and instinct and you will be transported in inhabited narrow streets. In those streets, the city starts to be completely white with only blue and green blinds and balcony markings amazing colours.  

Sounds like a fairy tale village, isn’t it? Wandering along the old town means getting to know more about Monopoli’s history. In every corner, you will find something different, small squares and arches that will bring you toward the crystal blue sea.

Make sure you have your camera with you as wandering around the Centro Storico is one of the best things to do in Monopoli especially if you love photography!

Are you looking for the right place where to stay in Monopoli? Read our ultimate guide to all the best accommodations in Puglia, Italy.

Check the view from Bastione di Santa Maria 

Located just beyond the port and opposite Santa Maria Della Zaffara Church, you will see an old defensive tower with two well-preserved cannons overlooking the sea. This was designed to protect the city of Monopoli during violent times. You can climb the stairs and visit the Bastione where you can check the view from the top. Make sure you spot the Castle Carlo V while up there.

READ ALSO | Puglia food guide

Visit Castello Carlo V

This castle is on the list of things to see in Monopoli, Italy for a reason. Built on a promontory, this 16th-century castle was part of the fortifications around Monopoli. Over the years, this castle has been restored to host weddings, exhibitions and conferences. It is today a must-see place among the local touristic places and part of Monopoli’s landmarks landscape.

Remember that no trip to Monopoli is complete without stopping and admiring these fortress walls.

Step inside Chiesa di San Salvatore

Along the old town wall, it’s located one of the oldest churches in Monopoli: San Salvatore Church. Nowadays, this church is used for cultural events, exhibitions and concerts. 

If you wish, you can visit the interior of this church, which we highly recommend, and the entrance is completely free.

INTERESTING FACTS | According to a myth, the church was built by a captain, Salvatore, who with his crew, survived a shipwreck. For this reason, the church overlooks the sea and that’s why takes the name of Salvatore, the Saviour.

Enjoy the crystal blue water

It doesn’t matter if you are exploring Monopoli in summer, in winter or in autumn, one of the best things you can do is to grab a coffee, a good book and enjoy the peaceful sea. The last time we went by sea, it was at the beginning of summer when we went to the Amalfi Coast.

We grew up in Naples and used to see the sea and the beach almost every day. The first thing we did in Monopoli was to run along the coast and enjoy the fresh and relaxing sea breeze.

If you are visiting Monopoli in summer even better, you will be able to dip in the crystal water and enjoy the sun. At the end of the post, you will find a small section on where to find the best beaches in Monopoli, make sure you save it for the future.

Admire Cattedrale Maria Santissima della Madia

If you remember, we told you that Monopoli is not only about beaches, sun and good food. There are so many things to do in Monopoli and one of these is to visit the stunning Roman Catholic Cathedral.

This is more than just another pretty Italian style church; Monopoli’s cathedral has an interesting story attached to it. From the name, you can guess that it’s dedicated to Madonna Della Madia, who, as per the legend, arrived in Monopoli by sea in 1117 on a raft carrying 31 wooden beams. As the church was uncompleted these wooden beams helped the city to complete this masterpiece. What a story eh?!

Make sure you pop inside and admire the stunning interior which is more impressive than it might look from the outside.

Explore Museo Della Cattedrale

Churches are the pulsing core of a cultural visit to Puglia. The Architecture from the outside with a Salentino Baroque and the stunning details on the innards. Puglia has a lot to offer in these terms, and Monopoli it’s not second.

If you have time and you love religious art, consider visiting the museum on Piazza Cattedrale. For only €2 per person, you can visit the gorgeous inside from Thursday to Saturday from 6 to 8 PM and Sunday from 10.30 AM to 1 PM and from 6 PM to 8 PM.

READ ALSO | Best places to visit in Puglia, Italy

Visit Palmieri Palace

This fantastic baroque style of architecture represents a great example of Lecce architecture. During your Monopoli itinerary, you need to find the time to visit this gorgeous palace. Built for the Palmieri family, today it belongs to the Public Institution of Assistance and Charity.

If you wish to visit it, the entrance is entirely free and from 6 PM to 8 PM you can go in but the hours are not always adhered to.

READ ALSO | Top 15 things to do in Polignano a Mare

Enjoy Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi 

One of the best things to do in Monopoli is to enjoy every single moment, appreciate the surroundings and adore the beautiful Italian life. There is no better spot where you can enjoy all those small things than Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi. 

Here you will find many bars, restaurants and locals sitting on benches while catching up on the news of the day. It’s the ideal place where you can rest a bit before moving on to your next sights.

TIPS | If you are exploring Monopoli during summertime, you might want to check out the “Gelateria” in the square!

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Things to do near Monopoli Italy

POLIGNANO A MARE | One of the most popular and iconic places in Puglia is for sure Polignano a Mare. Known for its famous beach, Cala Porto, in your Puglian itinerary a day trip from Monopoli to Polignano a Mare is a must!

Located only 15 minutes by train and by car, Polignano is the perfect city to visit near Monopoli, Italy. Also, taking the train from Bari to Monopoli, you just need to get off at one station before Monopoli. The Old town of Polignano is just about 10 minutes walk from the train station.

ALBEROBELLO | While in Puglia, Alberobello is a must-see in the region. A UNESCO World Heritage site with its trulli, this town is the perfect day trip from Monopoli.

You can read all our tips and things to do in Alberobello here or you can always take a tour and book your spot here.

OSTUNI | Ostuni was a lovely surprise for us and you can easily use this gorgeous white town as your base for your one week in Puglia itinerary. Otherwise, if you plan to stay in Monopoli and move around, you can reach Ostuni in a few hours.

Find out more in our guide to Ostuni!

Best beaches in Monopoli

CALA PORTA VECCHIA | While walking around the old town, at some point you will reach the first beach in Monopoli. Cala Porta Vecchia offers a sandy beach and rocks where you can sunbathe. This part of the beach is really popular with locals and for us, it was the best one to get in touch with people and listen to their suggestions. (In fact, thanks to a lovely gentleman, we discovered Capitolo)

CALA PORTO ROSSO | Located 15 minutes’ walk from the old town, you can reach a sandy beach which usually gets crowded with locals.

CALA PARADISO | During warmer months, this beach becomes really popular thanks to its beach and club.

CALA VERDE | This sandy cove with its blue/green water will leave you speechless.

CALAMARENA | If you know locals, you might know this beach as it’s very popular among residents. You can rent sunbeds, enjoy the crystal blue water while enjoying a good Italian Spritz.

SPIAGGIA DI PORTO MARZANO | If you’re travelling to Monopoli with kids, this is the right spot for you. There is a free parking and thanks to that it gets very popular. Try to visit off seasons to enjoy the quiet environment.

PORTO NERO | Not far from the old town, Porto Nero beach is one of the best beaches in Puglia! It’s considered like this for a reason. The stunning crystal blue water is something that you have to admire. 

SPIAGGIA DI SANTO STEFANO | This is one of our favourite spot in Monopoli, overlooking the medieval castle.

CAPITOLO | Not many know this one, but if you really want to enjoy one of the most beautiful beaches in Monopoli, you should go to Capitolo. You can take the bus from the city centre and ask the driver where to get off as he will direct you better. Located close to Egnazia Archeological Park, this beach has got a variety of clubs plus free sections of the beach where you can easily sunbathe.