The Southern Gem That Looks Like a Movie Set
The first time I ever went to Puglia, I knew nothing about the southernmost Italian region. However, as we landed in Bari and took our rented car, something in the air told me I would love it here.
Needless to say, 3 days were not enough; some years later, we returned and spent one month exploring the Salentine Peninsula.
On our first visit, Polignano a Mare was our first stop on the itinerary. Because we were used to the more popular destinations in Northern Italy, Polignano felt like a breath of fresh air. On the one hand, back then, we were among the few foreign tourists, surrounded by Italian tourists.
On the other hand, Polignano actually felt – and still does – torn out of a movie set. Let’s see a few of the reasons why, together with the best things you should not miss in Polignano.
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Table of Contents
The Southern Gem That Looks Like a Movie Set
The Cliffside Setting That Feels Straight Out of a Film
You know those scenes in movies where a charming Italian village clings to the edge of a cliff, waves crashing dramatically below? That’s Polignano a Mare. Only it’s real.
The town literally spills over limestone cliffs above the Adriatic Sea, with whitewashed houses perched so close to the edge you’d swear they were holding their breath.
When you stand at one of the lookout points, the views are so cinematic you half expect a drone camera to swoop past.
It’s the kind of place that makes you reach for your phone every few minutes because every angle looks like a movie poster.
The Tiny Beach with Big Drama
Right in the heart of town, there’s Lama Monachile, a small pebble beach tucked between towering cliffs. It’s like nature built a film set and forgot to take it down. The turquoise water glows in the sunlight, and the stone bridge overhead adds that “ancient yet timeless” vibe directors love.
When we were there, we saw locals and travelers diving off rocks, laughing, and sunbathing on pebbles. It’s got that easygoing, effortlessly beautiful energy that’s so rare.
It’s impossible not to picture it as the backdrop to a romantic scene or a spontaneous summer adventure in an Italian movie.
The Vibe – All Charm, No Rush
What really seals the deal is the atmosphere. Polignano a Mare feels like it moves at its own rhythm – lazy, musical, and warm, like a scene set to an Italian ballad.
There’s always someone strumming a guitar, gelato dripping down your hand as you stroll through narrow alleys, and balconies overflowing with flowers.
The restaurants are candle-lit caves or sea-view terraces that make you linger just a little longer.
Top 3 Things You Shouldn’t Miss in Polignano a Mare
Before any trip or visit, I always sit down and search for the most important attractions on Google Maps. Of course, I do a lot of research online as well. But by searching on maps, I always found the hidden gems locals love.
If you ever want to visit, click on the map below and save it. I’ve saved over 150 places in Puglia.
The view over the Polignano a Mare beach
One of the most iconic images from Puglia, this beach is a must-see in Polignano. The easiest way to find the best viewpoint is by going to the Monumento a Domenico Modugno.
From there, I guarantee you will have the best view.
The Old Town Center
Even though Polignano is all about the blue sea and its symbiosis with the stone houses, I think the narrow, colorful streets of the old town are just as charming.
Whenever I come here, I love getting lost and discovering new, colorful corners and stunning viewpoints.
Stop for a coffee at one of the cafes and enjoy the daily life. Go as far away from the Arco Marchesale as possible for a more authentic experience.
Grotta Palazzese Restaurant
The most famous restaurant carved in a cave above the sea, Grotta Palazzese, is also an exclusive place.
Imagine dining inside a natural sea cave carved into the cliffs, with waves gently crashing below and candlelight flickering off the stone walls.
Eating here feels otherworldly, like you’ve stumbled onto the set of a dream sequence in a movie about la dolce vita.
Other organizational things to know
Getting to Polignano a Mare is easy from Bari, by car or by train.
If you travel by car, Parcheggio San Francesco or Polignano Central Parking are two great options. Just remember the parking rules in Italy: white means free parking, yellow means residential parking, while blue means paid parking.
Should you spend the night in Polignano? If you can, sure! Imagine having dinner in the cave restaurant and admiring the lit-up cave houses.
Moreover, it makes an excellent base for exploring the surrounding area.
