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There are great many things to do in Italy, and so are in Monopoli.
Monopoli is a gem on the Adriatic Coast that offers a treasure trove of authentic experiences and wonders waiting to be discovered.
This charming town boasts labyrinth alleyways, fascinating historic sites, and a lively culinary scene that will satisfy any palate.
Whether you wish to soak in the sun at the beach, delve into the art and history of the city, or wander the quaint streets and markets, Monopoli has something for everyone.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Monopoli:
1. Monopoli Old Town
Monopoli Old Town is a charming and historic district located on a narrow peninsula jutting out into the Adriatic Sea in Puglia, Italy.
What to see or do: Stroll along the narrow, winding streets of the old town and marvel at the well-preserved centuries-old buildings made of pale stone.
Admire the Baroque-style Basilica of Madonna della Madia, visit the Castle of Charles V, a fortress that now houses an archaeological museum, and explore the picturesque harbor and seafront promenade.
Don’t miss: Make sure you take some time to enjoy the pristine beaches nearby.
Visit the Cathedral of Maria Santissima della Madia, one of the city’s many churches and chapels, and enjoy the artwork and ornate interior.
Be sure to sample some of the area’s delicious seafood and local wine, as well.
Insider travel tips: Visit in the early morning or late evening to avoid crowds and enjoy the quieter side of the town. Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the cobblestone streets.
Be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially if visiting during a religious holiday.
Monopoli Old Town is best enjoyed by foot, so consider leaving your car or scooter behind and walking or cycling instead.
2. Castle of Charles V
The Castle of Charles V is a fortress located in the picturesque town of Monopoli, in southern Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the well-preserved castle, built in the 16th century by the Holy Roman Emperor, Charles V. It is home to several exhibitions, including historical artifacts and local art.
The castle also hosts cultural events and concerts throughout the year.
Don’t miss: Be sure to see the panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea and Monopoli’s historic town center from the castle’s ramparts. The castle also features a rooftop terrace garden, perfect for enjoying a coffee or aperitivo with a stunning view.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the annual Monopoli Festival, held in mid-August, for a unique cultural experience featuring food, music, and traditional dances. Arrive early in the day to avoid long lines and crowds.
Wear comfortable shoes to walk the castle’s steep steps and ramparts.
3. Cathedral of Madonna della Madia
The Cathedral of Madonna della Madia is a stunning Romanesque church located in the charming coastal town of Monopoli in southern Italy.
What to see or do: Take a moment to admire the beautiful façade of the cathedral with its intricate carvings and reliefs, including those of the Madonna and Child.
Head inside to see the stunning frescoes, sculptures and intricate carvings that adorn the walls, ceilings and altars.
Don’t miss: One of the most striking features of the Cathedral is the elaborate baroque altar designed by the famous local architect and sculptor Stefano da Putignano.
It is a must-see for all visitors!
Insider travel tips: – Plan to visit the cathedral during the quieter times of day to avoid crowds and to fully appreciate its peaceful aura.
4. Cala Porta Vecchia
A beautiful cove located in the historic center of Monopoli, a charming seaside town in Puglia, Italy.
What to see or do: Enjoy a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters of the cove, or relax on the golden sandy beach while sunbathing. Take a stroll around the picturesque old town and appreciate the stunning sea views along the way.
Don’t miss: Watching the sunset from the beach while sipping on a glass of local wine. Marvel at the warm and rich colors that paint the sky and reflect on the sea.
Insider travel tips: Get there early to secure a spot on the beach, as it can get crowded during peak season. Consider bringing snorkeling gear to explore the marine life in the cove.
Don’t forget to try some local seafood dishes at the nearby restaurants.
5. Beach of Porta Vecchia
Porta Vecchia Beach is a beautiful stretch of coastline in the charming town of Monopoli, situated in the province of Bari, Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can relax on the fine sands and soak up the sun, swim in the clear waters of the Adriatic Sea, and try water sports like paddleboarding, kayaking, and windsurfing.
Don’t miss: The stunning views of the Old Town and the ancient walls of Monopoli, which provide a picturesque backdrop to the beach.
Insider travel tips: – Arrive early to secure a good spot on the beach as it can get quite crowded during peak season.
6. Basilica of San Nicola
A historical church located in the charming seaside town of Monopoli in southern Italy.
What to see or do: Admire the stunning Romanesque architecture of the 11th-century basilica, with its intricate facade and soaring bell tower. Step inside to see the beautiful frescoes and mosaics, including a notable depiction of St.
Nicholas, the patron saint of sailors and children.
Don’t miss: Take time to explore the charming historic center of Monopoli, with its winding streets and pretty whitewashed houses. Visit the nearby Castello di Carlo V, a well-preserved castle that dates back to the 16th century.
Insider travel tips: Plan your visit for the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds.
If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of a traditional wedding procession, as Basilica of San Nicola is a popular spot for weddings.
Remember to dress modestly and respectfully when visiting a religious site.
7. Lungomare Santa Maria
A picturesque seaside promenade stretching along the historic city center of Monopoli, Italy.
What to see or do: Enjoy a leisurely stroll or bike ride along the Lungomare Santa Maria, and admire the stunning views of the Adriatic Sea and the old town.
There are also several small beaches and coves along the way, where you can relax and go for a swim.
Don’t miss: The iconic 16th-century Red Castle, which is situated at one end of the Lungomare and provides a stunning backdrop for photos.
Insider travel tips: The Lungomare is particularly enchanting during sunset, so make sure to visit in the late afternoon. You can also rent bikes from the city center to explore the promenade more quickly.
Additionally, there are several cafes and restaurants dotted along the Lungomare where you can grab a bite to eat or enjoy a drink with a view.
8. Lido Blue Bay
A beautiful beach located in Monopoli, a town in the Apulia region of Italy.
What to see or do: Relax on the beach, swim in the crystal-clear waters, sunbathe, and enjoy the stunning views of the Adriatic Sea.
Don’t miss: Taking a walk along the scenic promenade, where you can enjoy the beautiful sunset while sipping on a refreshing cocktail.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early, especially in peak season, to secure your spot on the beach.
There are plenty of restaurants and cafes along the beach, so be sure to try some local cuisine while you’re there.
Also, don’t forget to bring sunscreen, as it can get very hot during the day.
9. Carnival of Monopoli
A traditional festival held in the town of Monopoli, Italy.
What to see or do: Enjoy the vibrant parade of colorful floats, live music, and dance performances. Indulge in delicious local food and wine offered by street vendors.
Participate in various carnival games and activities.
Don’t miss: The stunning fireworks display that ends the carnival festivities with a bang.
Insider travel tips: The carnival is usually held in February or March, so make sure to check the dates beforehand. Arrive early to get a good spot to watch the parade.
Wear comfortable shoes as the carnival often involves a lot of walking and dancing.
10. Grotta Palazzese
Grotta Palazzese is a stunning natural sea cave transformed into a high-end restaurant nestled in the cliffs of the picturesque town of Polignano a Mare, near Monopoli, in southern Italy.
What to see or do: Dine in an unforgettable setting, surrounded by the turquoise waters of the Adriatic Sea and the dramatic limestone cliffs. The menu is upscale but classic, featuring local seafood and Italian specialties.
The restaurant has live music during dinner service, adding to its romantic and magical ambiance.
Don’t miss: Book a table during sunset for a truly unforgettable experience. From May to October, the restaurant also offers an exclusive private cocktail service to enjoy before dinner.
Insider travel tips: Reservations are necessary well in advance, especially during peak season. Dress code is smart casual, and the restaurant has a no children under 14 policy.
The restaurant is pricey, but it is a once-in-a-lifetime dining experience.
11. Piazza Vittorio Emanuele
A historic square located in the heart of Monopoli, Piazza Vittorio Emanuele is surrounded by beautiful architecture and is a popular gathering spot for locals and visitors.
What to see or do: Take a stroll around the square and admire the grand facades of the surrounding buildings, including the 16th-century Palazzo Palmieri and the beautiful Church of Santa Maria della Zaffira.
Don’t miss: Be sure to stop by the fountain at the center of the square, which features a statue of Neptune riding a sea horse.
Insider travel tips: Visit Piazza Vittorio Emanuele in the evening when it is lit up by beautiful streetlamps and is even more magical.
For a true taste of Monopoli, head to one of the nearby restaurants that serve up delicious seafood and other local specialties.
12. Chiesa di Santa Maria Amalfitana
Chiesa di Santa Maria Amalfitana is a beautiful Baroque church located in the charming town of Monopoli in southern Italy.
What to see or do: Admire the stunning interior of the church, which features intricate frescoes, colorful marble columns, and a magnificent altar.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to climb the bell tower for panoramic views of Monopoli and the Adriatic Sea.
Insider travel tips: – Dress appropriately, as this is an active church.
13. Torre del Serpe
Torre del Serpe is a coastal watchtower located in Monopoli, Italy dating back to the 16th century.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the tower’s exterior and enjoy the beautiful views of the Adriatic Sea. It’s a perfect spot for a picnic or a photo op.
Don’t miss: Take a stroll along the beach that extends from the tower for a relaxing day. Don’t miss the chance to climb to the top to savour the picturesque views of the surrounding landscapes.
Insider travel tips: Visiting during the early hours of sunrise or late afternoon will enhance your view of the surrounding landscapes. Torre del Serpe is an excellent spot for families with kids to explore and enjoy the beauty of the sea.
14. Parco del Poggio
Parco del Poggio is a beautiful park located in Monopoli, Italy.
What to see or do: The park is perfect for a morning or afternoon stroll. It offers a stunning view of the Adriatic Coast and the Monopoli countryside.
You can explore the park’s walking trails, play with the outdoor fitness equipment, and have a picnic with your family or friends.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to savor the picturesque scenery and the fresh Mediterranean air while strolling through the park. Also, don’t forget to take some amazing pictures to capture the stunning view.
Insider travel tips: Before visiting, make sure to check the weather forecast and visit the park on a clear day to take full advantage of its beauty.
The park is also located near the seaside town of Monopoli, which offers plenty of restaurants and cafes to grab a bite to eat after enjoying the park.
15. Museum of the Egnazia Archaeological Area
The Museum of the Egnazia Archaeological Area is a museum located in the ancient town of Egnazia in Monopoli, Italy. The museum houses a collection of archaeological finds from the Apulian site.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the fascinating history of the ancient town of Egnazia through the collection of artifacts, including pottery, coins, sculptures, and jewelry from the Messapian and Roman periods.
The museum also features interactive exhibits, multimedia displays, and models of the archaeological site as it was during ancient times.
Don’t miss: The museum’s highlights include the extraordinary pebble mosaics depicting mythological scenes and the famous “Pedagogue” statue, which is suspected to have been a funerary monument.
Insider travel tips: To make the most of your visit, book a guided tour or audio guide to learn about the significance of the archaeological finds and the history of the ancient town.
Also, don’t forget to bring comfortable shoes for exploring the fascinating ruins surrounding the museum.