20 Things to Do in Monopoli, Italy (2024 Travel Guide)

Monopoli is a beautiful coastal town in southern Italy. It’s a hidden gem. Let’s check out 20 must-see spots and things to do in Monopoli in 2024.

Is Monopoli, Italy worth visiting?

Yes! Visit Monopoli in Italy. This quaint coastal town in Puglia combines history and nature. Walk through the historical center. Lie on beaches like Cala Porta Vecchia. The food is fresh and super tasty. There is a lot of seafood but also typical meals from Apulia. The castle of Charles V and the Cathedral of Madonna della Madia are worth a visit. Monopoli is less crowded than other places and very welcoming. It gives you a real Italian vibe.

How to pronounce Monopoli, Italy?

You say Monopoli like "moh-NOH-poh-lee." Stress the second syllable. Pronounce each vowel clearly.

Where is Monopoli, Italy?

Monopoli is a cute coastal town in southern Italy, around 40 kilometers southeast of Bari. It's right by the Adriatic Sea.

Where is Monopoli, Italy near?

There are really cool places close to Monopoli. Polignano a Mare, with its cliffs and transparent waters, can be reached from Monopoli in 8km to the north. Alberobello, with the Trulli houses, is 20km to the southwest. Ostuni, the Bianco (White) City, is 45km to the south. Fasano can be found 12km to the south, with historical places. In 18km to the west, there is Castellana Grotte with its caves.

How big is Monopoli, Italy?

Monopoli is about 61 square miles. This cute coastal town, as of early 2024, has about 47,847 people living there

What is in Monopoli, Italy?

Monopoli, Italy is super cool because of its old sights, epic beaches, and great food. The Castle of Charles V and the Cathedral of Madonna della Madia should definitely be on your list! The Old Harbor is also pretty adorable and there’s a lot of picturesque fishing boats. If you want to visit some old churches, definitely check out Chiesa di San Salvatore. The best beaches to relax are Cala Porto Rosso and Cala Paradiso. So, don't be shy and go to old markets, scenic paths, and cool events…it is well worth it!

Is Monopoli, Italy safe?

Monopoli, Italy, is super safe for tourists, a relaxing vibe, just don’t leave your belongings lying around, and keep an eye on your stuff, especially the beach. The locals are very decent, welcoming people. It's a great spot to explore. Nice place to visit.

How to get to Monopoli, Italy?

Getting to Monopoli, Italy is pretty simple.

If you’re coming from Bari, take a regional train. It’s cheap and quick—only about 30-40 minutes and costs around €3. Trains run often, so it's super flexible.

From Rome, take a Trenitalia train. High-speed takes about 4.5 hours. Night train takes about 6.5 hours. Buses like Itabus or FlixBus take 6-7 hours and cost between €20 and €60.

Driving? Monopoli is 40 kilometers southeast of Bari. Just hop on the SS16 highway. It’s a 40-minute drive.

Monopoli’s well-connected by train and bus. Easy peasy for travelers from all over Italy.

Where to park in Monopoli, Italy?

Parking in Monopoli, Italy is tough, especially in summer. Free parking with white lines is limited. Blue lines mean pay-and-display. For an easy time, use the new Porto Nuovo area. It has free, well-lit parking, and it's a ten-minute walk to the center. Or, use pay-and-display near the old harbor and Porta Vecchia.

Can you swim in Monopoli, Italy?

Yes, you can totally swim in Monopoli, Italy. The town's got some killer beaches with crystal-clear waters, perfect for a dip and chill vibes. Check out Cala Porta Vecchia near the historic center. Porto Ghiacciolo's got a great setting and a semi-private beach. Cala Paradiso and Lama Monachile are also awesome with stunning views and great waters for swimming and snorkeling. Overall, Monopoli's coast stretches about 13 kilometers with a mix of sandy shores and rocky spots.

Are there sharks in Monopoli, Italy?

Yes, there are sharks in the Mediterranean waters surrounding the waters of Monopoli, Italy. Blue, thresher, and mako sharks are all found in the Mediterranean, but sightings of those as well as attacks on humans are super rare. Blue sharks sometimes come closer to the shore, thresher and mako sharks, on the other hand, prefer deeper waters. The risk to people? Super low. That’s why the beaches in Monopoli are still a popular spot for swimming and other water-related fun.

Where is Monopoli, Italy on a map?

On a map, look at the "heel" of Italy. Monopoli is along the coast, southeast of Bari.

20 Best Things to Do in Monopoli, Italy

1. Check Out Centro Storico di Monopoli

Wander the old town. Narrow streets and cute buildings. Soak up the Italian vibe.

2. Visit Basilica Cattedrale Maria Santissima della Madia

Check out this cathedral. The design is amazing. A must-see in Monopoli.

3. Explore Castello di Carlo V

Visit this historic castle. Get panoramic sea views.

4. Relax at Lido Colonia

Chill at Lido Colonia beach. Clear waters and chill vibes. Perfect for sunbathing.

5. Enjoy Cala Porta Vecchia Beach

Hit up Cala Porta Vecchia Beach. Sunbathe and enjoy sea views. Soak in the sun.

6. Discover Chiesa di Santa Maria del Suffragio detta del Purgatorio

Explore this unique church. Cool history and architecture. Worth a visit.

7. Take a Boat Tour

Rent a boat or join a tour. See Monopoli from the water. Skipper and aperitif included.

8. Wander Through Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi

Stroll through this busy square. Cafes and shops all around. Perfect for people-watching.

9. Visit the Museum of Sacred Art

Check out this museum. See religious artifacts and art. Dive into local history.

10. Tour Monopoli’s Countryside by Bike

Bike through the countryside. Enjoy the scenic routes and fresh air. Eco-friendly fun.

11. Indulge in a Local Food Tour

Join a food tour. Taste local seafood and dishes. Sip on local wines.

12. Explore the Ruins of Egnazia

Visit these ancient ruins. Fascinating look into the past. Close to Monopoli.

13. Attend a Cooking Class

Learn to cook Apulian dishes. Perfect for food lovers. Hands-on fun.

14. Visit the Palmieri Palace

Explore this historic palace. Architectural gem in Monopoli. Peek into noble past.

15. Take a Walking Tour

Join a guided tour. Learn about Monopoli's history and culture. Local experts lead the way.

16. Experience Local Markets

Wander through local markets. Fresh produce and crafts. Unique souvenirs.

17. Visit the Porto Antico di Monopoli

Check out the ancient port. Historic ships and seaside vibes. Enjoy the view.

18. Enjoy a Gelato at Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II

Treat yourself to gelato. Chill at this central spot. Great for people-watching.

19. Explore Monopoli’s Churches

Discover historic churches. Each has its own charm. Full of stories.

20. Join a Historical Tour of Rural Park

Tour the Rural Park. Taste local wines. Learn about agricultural heritage.

How do you spend a day in Monopoli?

If you want to spend an awesome day in Monopoli, first start in the old town, go for a stroll up and down its small whitewashed streets and take a look at the Baroque Cattedrale Maria Santissima della Madia. Don’t miss Castello di Carlo V with its amazing sea views and then spend some hours soaking them in at Cala Porta Vecchia beach. Go and check the Egnazia archaeological site, take a walk on the Lungomare promenade, and admire the views from Bastione Santa Maria. Finally, go for dinner at La Locanda Sul Porto or Gaia Osteria Popolare, where you can eat delicious local seafood and drink wine. Voilà, vibes in Monopoli, ready for you!

How long to stay in Monopoli, Italy?

How long to visit Monopoli in Puglia, Italy? It depends on your vibe. Short and sweet? Stay two to three days to see the old town and the cathedral, and manage to get to Porto Verde and Cala Porto Rosso beaches. More time? Stay four or five days to enjoy the historic center and chill on the beach, and perhaps venture to day trips to Polignano a Mare and Alberobello. Wanna go deep? Stay a week or more to experience the local culture, hit festivals, or perhaps take a cooking class.

Where to stay in Monopoli, Italy?

Monopoli is a lovely town for a laid-back stay, with a range of price points. Hotel Don Ferrante is luxurious with superb sea views. Masseria Torrepietra offers modern comfort in an ancient villa. Murattiane has a rooftop jacuzzi and is an excellent choice for town views. For budget options, I really liked Porto Giardino – it’s family-friendly. For something more rural, Masseria Il Melograno gave me that Italian country feel.

The Best Hotels in Monopoli, Italy

These hotel spots cater to all budgets and preferences for an unforgettable stay in Monopoli, Italy.

Budget Hotels in Monopoli

Masseria Torrepietra
Just 3 km from Monopoli and the coast. Masseria Torrepietra has a chill vibe with an outdoor pool and terrace. The on-site bar is super cute. Great for budget travelers wanting comfort.

Dimora dei nonni 199
Right in Monopoli. Dimora dei nonni 199 offers free WiFi and private parking. Garden views and beauty services make it a sweet deal for affordable stays.

Le Volte Di San Leonardo
Only 200 meters from Porta Vecchia Beach. Perfect for beach lovers on a budget. Quiet street views and hosts who really care.

Family Hotels in Monopoli

Porto Giardino - CDSHotels
This spot has loads of activities for both kids and adults. Near the coast with spacious rooms and various dining options. Ideal for families.

Il Casale Di Kevin
Recently renovated with a garden and BBQ facilities. Great for families. Plenty of space for kids to play and adults to chill.

B&B Donna Luisa
Located in Monopoli. B&B Donna Luisa offers comfy stays with a garden. Warm hospitality and a convenient location. Perfect for families exploring the area.

Mid-Range Hotels in Monopoli

Palazzo Indelli
In the heart of Monopoli. Palazzo Indelli mixes historic charm with modern comforts. Central location for easy access to attractions and dining.

Masseria Santa Teresa
In the scenic Puglia countryside. Masseria Santa Teresa offers a peaceful retreat with modern amenities. Outdoor pool, lush gardens, and traditional architecture.

Hotel Residence La Corvetta
Balanced comfort and affordability. Outdoor pool and close to the beach. Ideal for relaxation and exploring Monopoli's attractions.

Luxury Hotels in Monopoli

Don Ferrante - Dimore di Charme
Once a fortress, now a luxury spot with panoramic cliff views. Small pool with hydromassage jets, exquisite design, and top-notch service. A luxury standout.

Masseria Il Melograno
Surrounded by olive trees. Masseria Il Melograno has an outdoor pool, wellness center, and private beach club. Luxurious experience with beautiful setting and excellent amenities.

Albergo Diffuso Monopoli
Unique accommodations in the historic center. Spacious apartments, charming breakfast rooms, and exceptional service. Perfect for history and luxury lovers.

What to eat in Monopoli, Italy?

Monopoli food to try: local Puglian food. Lots of seafood. Mainly fresh fish. Octopus. Sea urchins. Some great places I went to are Trattoria da Pierino L’Inglese for seafood, La Locanda dei Mercanti for a more cozy and traditional food, and Orto if you want to try something unique. This place is a Michelin Guide restaurant but it is more into seasonal food. For street food, Vini & Panini is a place to try – awesome paninis and great antipasto there. Il Gelato per Passione for gelato (near the beach).

Where to eat in Monopoli, Italy?

Monopoli has some delicious eats. Grab some simple, tasty seafood at Trattoria San Domenico, or more inventive Puglian traditional dishes at La Locanda dei Mercanti. The Ristorante Il Guazzetto or Ristorante Lido Bianco are the go-to spots if you love seafood: sit by the terrace and order fresh fish; you won’t regret it. For a date, head to Locanda Indelli in Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi, and for breakfast The King Street Food, where you’ll see plenty of locals stop off for their morning cup of coffee. Looking for a super-chilled lunch by the water? Porto Rosso is the place to go.

The Best Restaurants in Monopoli, Italy

Here are the best spots to eat in Monopoli, Italy, broken down by type:

Casual Dining

The King Street Food: Chill spot with street food, English-style chips, Pucce, and unique pizzas.

Spaghetti d'Italia: Cozy place with various spaghetti dishes, including veggie and vegan options.

Family-Friendly

Magnapulia: Great for families, with tasty meat platters and sandwiches in a casual setting.

Pinsotti: In the old quarter, serving pastas and unique pinsa with creative toppings.

Mid-Range

Metae: Popular for Italian and seafood, using fresh, local ingredients.

Porto Rosso: Italian and seafood by the sea, offering a great dining experience.

Fine Dining

Jamantè | Experience Restaurant: Modern place with ocean views, offering a six-course tasting menu of Puglian seafood.

Le Cucine di Masseria Spina: Elegant spot with traditional Puglian dishes and regional wines.

Is it better to stay in Monopoli or Polignano a Mare?

Choosing between Monopoli and Polignano a Mare is a matter of taste: Monopoli is more real, less touristy, has a bigger historic center, and is less artificially over-the-top with historic sites. Plus if you are looking for a beach, options are more, and only takes a 10-minute walk to reach gorgeous sandy beaches. On the contrary Polignano a Mare has a stunning location on the cliffs, an incredible historic center and scene. Touristic, and crowded in summer, it could be an additional destination for a day tour. Both are very close. Either will be a great base to explore Puglia.