This coastal town in Puglia has a medieval center with whitewashed buildings, a 16th-century castle, and sandy beaches along 13 kilometers of Adriatic shoreline.
Monopoli lies 40 kilometers southeast of Bari along Italy's Adriatic coast. In this Puglian town, you can climb the pentagonal Castle of Charles V, walk through medieval streets to watch fishermen at work in the port, or swim at one of the rocky coves along the shore. The town extends beyond its walls into 99 rural hamlets, where olive groves and vegetable farms supply local restaurants with ingredients for regional dishes.
Exploring the Medieval Center
The limestone streets of Monopoli's historic center lead to the sea, with buildings painted in white and decorated with dark green wooden shutters and iron balconies. The Castle of Charles V, built in 1525, guards the harbor entrance from a small promontory. You can visit the castle daily from 9:00 to 19:00, see rotating art exhibitions inside, and climb to the upper levels for views across the Adriatic.
The Port and Harbor
At Porto Antico (old port), local fishermen return with their catch each morning around 8:00. Blue and red wooden boats called gozzi line the harbor, while their owners mend nets along the quay. Many fishermen welcome conversations about their work. From the harbor, you can walk along a two-kilometer seafront promenade (lungomare) that follows the town's medieval defensive walls, with cafes spaced along the route.
Beaches and Swimming Spots
Cala Porta Vecchia beach sits next to the old center, making it convenient to combine swimming with exploring the town. Large rocks protect the swimming area, and you'll find changing rooms and a snack bar on site. For more swimming options, drive or cycle to nearby coves like Porto Ghiacciolo and Cala Verde, reached via a coastal road that passes olive groves and stone walls.
Local Food Scene
Visit the morning fish market near Porto Antico to see the daily catch of red mullet, sea bass, sea urchins, and octopus. Restaurants around the old port cook these fresh catches simply - grilled with olive oil and lemon, or in clay pots with potatoes and herbs. Local farms supply vegetables like cime di rapa (turnip tops) and fave (broad beans), which cooks incorporate into pasta dishes throughout the town.
Getting There and Around
Trains run between Bari and Monopoli hourly from 6:00 to 22:00, taking about 30 minutes. From the station, follow signs for a 15-minute walk to the historic center. While you can explore the center on foot, rent a bicycle to reach the beaches and countryside. Local buses connect to nearby towns like Polignano a Mare and Alberobello, with reduced service on Sundays.
