Hotels in Polignano a Mare

Polignano a Mare: Cliff Town Above the Adriatic

Polignano a Mare sits on a limestone promontory 34 km south of Bari along the Via Adriatica. The medieval old town — its centro storico — overhangs vertical cliffs that drop 20–25 metres into translucent Adriatic water. The town is best known as the birthplace of singer-songwriter Domenico Modugno, commemorated by a seafront statue, and as the setting for the annual Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series, held here since 2009. The Grotta Palazzese, a sea cave converted into a restaurant in the 18th century, draws visitors independently of the dive events.

Where to Stay

Hotels cluster in three zones: the cliff-edge centro storico inside the old walls, the modern town grid behind the railway station, and the shoreline strip toward Cala Paura to the south. Cave-level boutique rooms along Via Conversano book out weeks ahead in July and August. Budget options sit a short walk inland near Piazza Aldo Moro.

Practical Tips

• Getting there: Trenitalia regional trains run from Bari Centrale in roughly 35 minutes; the station is 600 m from the old-town gate.
• Best timing: May–June and September offer warm water without August crowds.
• Beach access: Lama Monachile cove, directly below the arch bridge, is the most photographed beach; arrive before 9 am for space.