Monopoli is a beautiful coastal metropolis located within the Puglia area of southern Italy. This charming place is stuffed with character and historical past, and it’s simply one in all my favourite cities within the area.
That can assist you plan your journey, I’ve compiled an inventory of the most effective issues to do in Monopoli. There’s lots to see and do right here, from discovering picturesque seashores to having fun with the scrumptious native delicacies and taking lengthy night walks alongside the traditional harbor and waterfront.
I spent a number of weeks in Monopoli earlier this 12 months and actually liked it. Town receives a good variety of vacationers, however on the similar time feels very actual and genuine. I’m positive you should have a incredible time there.
Finest Issues to Do in Monopoli
Listed here are a few of the prime issues to do in Monopoli, Puglia based mostly on my firsthand expertise within the metropolis.
1. Take a Strolling Tour of the Outdated City
Monopoli’s previous city is a shocking, atmospheric labyrinth of cobbled backstreets, tiny piazzas, and previous whitewashed buildings with green-painted shutters and window containers full of colourful flowers.
I spent hours aimlessly wandering round this magical place and loved each minute of it. One of the simplest ways to be taught concerning the metropolis, its tradition, and traditions is to take a strolling tour of the previous city.
On this non-public guided tour, you’ll be launched to all the metropolis’s primary sights, together with Plebiscito Sq., the waterfront promenade, Porta Vecchia, the Cathedral, and the historic metropolis partitions. And on the finish, you’ll get to style some conventional Puglian treats.
2. Savor the Native Delicacies
Monopoli is thought for its scrumptious seafood. Nonetheless, even in the event you don’t really feel like seafood, there are many different conventional dishes to attempt as properly.
I like the meals in Puglia. There’s one thing concerning the simplicity of the dishes, along with the freshness of every ingredient, that makes Puglian delicacies actually scrumptious.
For a singular and social introduction to typical Puglian meals, think about becoming a member of gastronomic-historical tour of Masseria Spina, a fortified advanced close to Monopoli that’s now a resort. You’ll pattern Puglian chosen meals whereas exploring the fascinating web site.
3. Go to the Castello Carlo V
Guarding the doorway to Monopoli’s historic harbor, the Sixteenth-century Castello Carlo V is a powerful sight. It’s some of the iconic locations to go to in Monopoli and affords unimaginable views of the previous metropolis and out to sea.
For hundreds of years, the fortress was used as a jail and a defensive fortress, however right this moment it’s open to the general public and serves as a museum.
Visiting the Castello Carlo V is likely one of the greatest issues to do in Monopoli for households. Inside, you may discover its varied rooms and consider the fascinating assortment of artifacts that inform the story of its lengthy historical past.
4. Loosen up on the Seashore
Monopoli is blessed with a beautiful shoreline and there are many beautiful seashores to select from. With calm, crystal-clear waters and year-round sunshine, it’s an amazing place for taking a dip within the sea or simply stress-free within the solar.
My favourite seaside in Monopoli itself is Cala Pora Vecchia, on the southern fringe of the previous city. It’s sheltered inside a small bay and has a shocking backdrop with iconic views of town partitions and the whitewashed previous city.
Different nice seashores in Monopoli embody Cala di Porto Verde, Porto Rosso, Porto Nero, Porto Bianco, and Cala Cozze. All of those are appropriate for swimming and are situated inside simple strolling distance of the historic heart.
5. Be Awed by the Cattedrale Maria Santissima della Madia
One of many prime locations to go to in Monopoli, the Cattedrale Maria Santissima della Madia dates again to the twelfth century. It was constructed close to the location of an historic Roman temple and took over 300 years to construct from begin to end.
The primary purpose for this was a scarcity of wooden for the development of the roof. Nonetheless, in 1117 a raft drifted into the harbor supposedly carrying a picture of the Virgin Mary. This was seen as a miracle and wooden from the raft was used to complete the roof.
From the surface, the Romanesque cathedral appears to be like pretty plain. However the inside is nothing in need of breathtaking. It’s huge, with elaborately-carved colourful marble in all places, imposing statues, and an intricately-painted ceiling that options angels and biblical scenes.
That is undoubtedly some of the spectacular issues to see in Monopoli, Italy.
6. Gorge on Unbelievable Gelato
The gelato in Monopoli is famous. Throughout my time within the metropolis, I ate extra of the stuff than I care to consider.
For my part, Gasperini serves the most effective gelato in Monopoli. They’ve been round since 1936 and their gelatos and sorbets are out of this world. My favorites had been their pistachio crunch and darkish chocolate sorbet, however truthfully, each taste is unimaginable.
Be sure to have a scoop (or two) of this superb gelato whereas sightseeing in Monopoli – you received’t remorse it!
7. Discover Polignano a Mare
The picturesque coastal city of Polignano a Mare is likely one of the hottest locations to go to in Puglia. The city is greatest recognized for its dramatic cliffs and white pebble seashores, and its beautiful Lama Monachile is likely one of the most photographed seashores in Italy.
Polignano a Mare is situated a mere 8 kilometers from Monopoli and there are frequent trains between the 2 locations which might take you there in as little as 12 minutes.
It’s among the best and best locations to go to close to Monopoli, and I extremely suggest taking a day journey there in case you have time. This budget-friendly boat journey is a good choice for exploring the Polignano a Mare coast, plus it consists of an aperitif and Prosecco.
Because of its reputation, Polignano a Mare can get fairly busy within the peak summer season seasons (June-August). It’s nonetheless lovely however be ready for crowds on the city’s extra well-known sights, corresponding to Lama Monachile and the Roman bridge. I used to be there in late September this 12 months, and it was splendidly crowd-free.
8. Examine Out Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II
Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II is likely one of the largest city squares in Italy. Surrounded by bushes, outlets, cafes, and bars, it’s one in all Monopoli’s main focal factors.
Within the heart of the piazza, you’ll discover a sexy fountain and a big monument honoring town’s residents who died preventing in World Warfare I.
At night time, this huge sq. involves life, with households and pals of all ages coming right here to benefit from the heat night time air. The environment is festive most evenings, and it’s an amazing place to come back with a chilly beer or two and immerse your self in genuine native life.
9. Be taught In regards to the Secrets and techniques and Legends of Monopoli
Monopoli is an historic metropolis, steeped in historical past and legends. From the story of the Madonna rising from the ocean to the secrets and techniques locked contained in the partitions of the fortress, it’s a singular and engaging place.
Be taught extra concerning the metropolis’s diverse and dramatic previous along with some native secrets and techniques and legends on this incredible tour. It’s led by an skilled information who will take you across the metropolis’s previous streets and present you a few of its extra mysterious corners.
You’ll additionally uncover a few of the greatest locations within the metropolis for avenue meals, espresso, and ice cream, liked by locals.
10. Individuals-Watch in Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi
Italy is likely one of the greatest nations on the earth for people-watching, and there’s nowhere higher for this in Monopoli than the Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi – an intimate sq. within the coronary heart of the previous city.
There are a lot of cute cafes across the fringe of the sq., making this the proper place to tug up a chair, order a spritz or a espresso, and watch the locals going about their days. For me, this is likely one of the most enjoyable issues to do in Monopoli, Italy.
11. Discover the Native Space by Bike
The world round Monopoli is a patchwork of historic villages, fortified farmhouses, rock church buildings, historic mills, and olive groves. It’s additionally pretty flat, making it an ideal place to discover by bike.
You’ll be able to both rent bikes and make a journey out by your self or be a part of this highly-reviewed bicycle tour which departs from near the middle of the previous city of Monopoli.
Your information will present you the best way alongside quiet nation roads and delicate filth tracks to find some really memorable sights, together with a cave church with frescoes from the Center Ages, groves of almond and olive bushes over 1,000 years previous, and an underground oil mill.
12. Pattern Conventional Puglian Wine
Puglian wine is superb and visiting a standard vineyard is likely one of the greatest issues to do round Monopoli. Many wineries within the area welcome friends and provide tastings. You’ll be able to both manage this your self or go to as a part of a guided tour.
This tour takes place in Masseria Spina, a fortified advanced close to Monopoli that’s now a resort. Through the tour, you’ll pattern three Puglian wines when you discover the fascinating web site.
It’s an effective way to study historical past when you attempt some incredible wines.
13. Take a Boat Journey Alongside the Coast
The shoreline round Monopoli is beautiful, and taking a ship journey to understand it correctly is likely one of the greatest issues to do close to Monopoli.
There are a number of totally different tour operators to select from, providing every little thing from brief sightseeing excursions to multi-day crusing cruises.
This Personal Catamaran Tour from Polignano a Mare is superb worth and provides you a singular perspective of the dramatic cliffs and idyllic seashores that the realm is legendary for. You’ll additionally swim within the Adriatic Sea and luxuriate in a refreshing drink with native appetizers.
14. Get pleasure from a Stroll Alongside the Promenade (One of many Finest Free Issues to Do in Monopoli at Evening)
Monopoli has some of the lovely harbors in Italy and a sexy seafront promenade hyperlinks this to the seashores simply south of the previous city.
This can be a great place for a stroll at any time of day however is especially magical at sundown. Be a part of the locals who collect right here to fish or meet pals, and watch the sundown paint town partitions and the whitewashed previous city a collection of vivid colours.
There’s one thing about this place that’s simply so romantic. Having fun with the sundown right here is one in all my top-recommended issues to do in Monopoli for {couples}.
15. Go on a Guided Day Journey to Bari, Polignano a Mare, and Alberobello
When you’re brief on time and need to see as many alternative locations within the area as doable, with all transport included, this tour may be good for you.
First, you’ll go to Bari, the capital of Puglia, the place you’ll be proven round the principle sights of the well-known Bari Vecchia historic district. Subsequent, you’ll head to Alberobello, which is legendary for its distinctive conical “trulli” homes.
Lastly, the tour takes you to see the attractive city of Polignano a Mare, well-known for its cliffs and picturesque seashores.
Observe, the tour begins in Bari, however you may choose to be picked up from varied places, together with from a number of locations in Monopoli. Be sure you choose the pickup level that’s most handy for you on the time of reserving.
Fast Journey Itineraries for Monopoli
Nonetheless lengthy you must spend in Monopoli, listed below are a couple of recommended journey itineraries that will help you get probably the most out of your go to.
1 Day in Monopoli Itinerary
You’ll be able to go to a lot of the prime locations to see in Monopoli in sooner or later.
Begin by exploring the previous city and soak up a few of Monopoli’s beautiful structure. Head all the way down to the harbor to observe the colourful fishing boats, then spend an hour or two on the seaside.
Take a stroll alongside the promenade to observe the sundown and end the day by having fun with dinner in one of many metropolis’s many wonderful eating places.
2-3 Days in Monopoli Itinerary
Day 1: As above.
Day 2: Take a day journey to Polignano al Mare for some beautiful coastal views, and go on a ship journey to see the shoreline from the water.
Day 3: Spend the day exploring the realm by bicycle and/or go to one or two of the area’s wonderful vineyards.
1 Week in Monopoli Itinerary
With every week in Monopoli, you may comfortably do all the actions and see all the locations talked about on this information.
You’ll be capable of take your time, actually stopping to savor every expertise. You received’t be pressed for time in any respect, and it is going to be as much as you as to the way you need to schedule your time right here.
The place to Keep in Monopoli
These are a couple of of the most effective neighborhoods in Monopoli for vacationers.
Outdated City – Finest for First-Time Guests
The previous city is the place you’ll discover a lot of the prime vacationer sights in Monopoli, Italy. The streets are slim, winding, and really picturesque. Vista Cattedrale is a superb mid-range condo proper reverse the Cathedral.
Harbor Space – Finest for Eating places
There are such a lot of wonderful eating places subsequent to the traditional harbor, you’ll be spoilt for alternative. To this present day, it stays a working fishing port and could be very atmospheric. Albergo Diffuso Monopoli is a incredible mid-range guesthouse on this space.
Cala Porta Vecchia – Finest for Seashore Lovers
This seaside is situated simply south of the previous city and is a good spot for sunbathing and swimming. Staying right here could be a great wager for these searching for someplace just a little quieter, away from the bustle of central Monopoli, however inside simple strolling distance of all of the motion.
Take a look at B&B A C-Caste – some of the highly-rated locations to remain on this a part of city.
Finest Eating places in Monopoli
Don’t miss these nice locations to eat in Monopoli.
Angolocinque Restaurant
This wonderful upmarket restaurant is situated subsequent to the attractively landscaped Largo Fontanelle park. You’ll be able to anticipate to pay round €40-50 per particular person, so it’s undoubtedly not the most cost effective restaurant on the town, however the high quality is really excellent and I’d say it’s truly superb worth for what you get.
Strive the blended antipasti choice and the orecchiette pasta with pistachio sauce. Heavenly.
Trattoria La Locanda dei Mercanti
This conventional mid-priced seafood restaurant is situated within the coronary heart of the previous city, near the fishing harbor. They serve a spread of fantastic pasta and contemporary fish, cooked to perfection. Their grilled tuna steak is excellent.
They’re normally tremendous busy within the evenings, although you’re extra more likely to get a desk at lunchtime with out having to e book or wait.
Cime Di Tapas
Italian meals is scrumptious, however with so many superb dishes on provide, it may well generally be laborious to decide on what to order. For this reason I like Cime Di Tapas, an incredible mid-priced Italian tapas restaurant within the heart of the brand new city, near the Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II.
Their menu is seasonal and adjustments all the time. However in the event you see pasta with asparagus and shrimp, order it!
Pop Burgers
Typically you simply want a extremely good burger. If this occurs to be while you’re in Monopoli, head to Pop Burgers, the most effective burger joint on the town. Their burgers and fried rooster are top-notch, and every little thing could be very inexpensive.
Mare Chef
It’s not a restaurant, however this tiny meals truck served me the most effective fritto misto (blended fried seafood) I’ve ever eaten. It’s solely €11 for half a kilogram of the stuff.
Additionally they provide grilled panini sandwiches with octopus, tuna, or swordfish, collectively together with your alternative of do-it-yourself sauces. I selected the swordfish sandwich and it was divine.
Attending to Monopoli
When you don’t have a automobile, the best technique to get to Monopoli is to take the practice. Monopoli has a station with frequent direct trains to Bari, which in flip has connections to most different main Italian cities, together with Rome and Naples.
The closest main worldwide airport is Bari, with flights to numerous places all through Europe. From Bari, the practice to Monopoli takes round half-hour.
If in case you have your personal automobile, attending to Monopoli is even simpler. It’s situated on the principle southern Adriatic freeway (SS16) and the drive from central Bari takes about 40 minutes.
Parking within the heart of Monopoli could be tough at instances, however I discovered that in the event you drive round for lengthy sufficient the possibilities are you’ll discover a free house someplace. Maintain a watch out for parking restriction indicators although.
When you arrive in Monopoli, one of the best ways to get across the metropolis is on foot. A lot of the stuff to do in Monopoli itself is inside simple strolling distance of the middle.
Issues to Do in Monopoli: FAQs
Listed here are some solutions to generally requested questions on visiting Monopoli.
Monopoli is thought for its lovely shoreline, quaint environment, and scrumptious seafood. It’s additionally near a few of the most beautiful seashores in Italy, with crystal-clear water that’s good for swimming.
The very best time to go to Monopoli is within the spring and early summer season, or early fall, when issues are comparatively quiet however most locations are nonetheless open. That is additionally a good time of 12 months for sightseeing and exploring Monopoli’s many sights. In July and August, issues can get fairly busy, so in the event you’re searching for a quieter journey it’s greatest to keep away from this era.
Completely! Monopoli is an attractive metropolis with lots to supply guests. From its beautiful shoreline to its vibrant tradition and scrumptious meals, there’s one thing right here for everybody. Whether or not you’re searching for a romantic getaway or an action-packed trip, you received’t be dissatisfied.
You could possibly see a lot of the primary sights within the metropolis itself in a day. Nonetheless, that might really feel fairly rushed and also you wouldn’t have a lot time to loosen up and take every little thing in. I like to recommend spending no less than 2-3 days right here to get an actual sense of the place. If you wish to do any day journeys (and it is best to!), enable further days for these.
Sure, Monopoli, Puglia is a secure place to go to total. That mentioned, it’s at all times clever to take the standard precautions when touring, no matter the vacation spot. Concentrate on your environment, don’t depart any valuables in plain sight, and keep on with areas which might be lit at night time.
The most well-liked issues to do in Monopoli are exploring the previous city, stress-free on the seaside, sampling typical native dishes within the many great eating places, and taking boat journeys out alongside the beautiful coast.
The very best seaside in Monopoli is Cala Porta Vecchia. It’s an attractive bay situated close to the previous city, with crystal-clear waters and a number of other wonderful cafes and bars close by.
Being a port metropolis on the Adriatic, contemporary seafood is the meals that Monopoli is greatest recognized for. Different dishes to attempt embody orecchiette (the everyday handmade pasta of Puglia that appears like little ears), and the normal regional focaccia. There are additionally a number of wonderful gelaterias within the previous city, serving up scrumptious Italian ice cream.
Now You Know What to Do in Monopoli
I hope this text gave you a good suggestion of what to see and do in Monopoli. It’s an attractive metropolis with loads to supply. Regardless of being a reasonably small place, there are sufficient issues to do and locations to go to in Monopoli to simply justify together with it on any Puglia journey itinerary.
And in the event you, like me, desire smaller cities over big sprawling ones, you’ll most likely discover this to be the proper place to base your self whereas exploring extra of this glorious area.
Like This Article? Pin It!
