Where to stay in Polignano a Mare: areas, accommodation and practical tips
Guide on where to stay in Polignano a Mare: from the clifftop old town to the trulli countryside, with budget tips, accommodation and the ideal area for every traveller.
Polignano a Mare: the balcony over the Adriatic
Polignano a Mare is one of Puglia's most iconic images: white houses perched on a cliff plunging into the deep blue of the Adriatic. The hometown of Domenico Modugno has conquered the world, and choosing where to stay here requires attention because space is limited and demand very high.
Best areas to stay
Old Town (on the promontory)
The ancient village develops on a rocky promontory between two coves (Lama Monachile and Porto Contento). Narrow alleys, vertiginous sea terraces, marine caves and the famous view of the Lama Monachile arch. Few properties but full of charm: B&Bs in courtyard houses, boutique hotels and historic residences.
- Pros: breathtaking sea views, unique atmosphere, quality restaurants
- Cons: very crowded in summer, impossible parking, high prices
- Average budget: €120-250 per night in high season
New town (Via Roma and surroundings)
The modern part immediately behind the old town, with lively squares, gelaterias and car parks. Hotels and B&Bs more accessible, 5 minutes' walk from the viewpoint. The best compromise for those not wanting to spend a fortune.
- Pros: parking, old town nearby, more reasonable prices
- Cons: less charm, no direct sea view
- Average budget: €80-150 per night
San Vito and southern coast
Heading south along the coastal road towards Monopoli. The Abbey of San Vito with its cove is one of the most photographed spots. Few scattered properties, villas and holiday homes on the cliffs. Tranquillity and views.
- Pros: quiet, spectacular natural views, less tourism
- Cons: car needed, few services
- Average budget: €90-170 per night
Countryside and contrada (inland)
A few kilometres from the sea, restored masserie and trulli offer a more intimate and authentic experience. Pools among olive trees and breakfasts with garden produce.
- Pros: peace, pool, better prices, rural experience
- Cons: car essential, 10-15 minutes from centre
- Average budget: €80-180 per night
Accommodation types
- **B&Bs with sea terrace**: in the old town, few and sought-after (book months ahead)
- **Boutique hotels**: contemporary design in restored historic buildings
- **Courtyard houses**: traditional Polignano architecture with shared courtyard
- **Trulli and lamie**: inland, typical stone constructions
- **Holiday apartments**: in the new town, for families and longer stays
- **Masserie**: inland, with pool and zero-km produce
Budget tips
Polignano has Puglia's most unfavourable demand/supply ratio: the old town is small and properties limited. July-August prices are among the highest in the region. The real bargain is May or October: the village is beautiful out of season too.
Money-saving tricks
- Staying in Monopoli (7 minutes by train) halves costs
- The new town costs 30-40% less than the old town
- September after the 15th: still warm sea, prices down 30%
- Inland contrade offer superior quality at lower prices
Best area for each traveller
- **Romantic couple**: Old Town, private terrace on the cliff
- **Instagram lover**: Old Town, steps from Lama Monachile
- **Family with children**: New town, more space and reachable beaches
- **Limited budget**: New town or Monopoli (by train)
- **Relaxation and nature**: San Vito, cliffs and secret coves
- **Apulian experience**: Masseria inland, olive trees and local cuisine
Getting around from Polignano
The train station (Bari-Lecce line) is 10 minutes' walk from the centre. Frequent trains to Bari (30 min) and Monopoli (7 min). The old town is entirely pedestrian. For coves along the coast you need a car. Electric bikes are perfect for the coastal road in summer.
