Polignano a Mare, Bari, Italy ????????

Polignano a Mare, a small town in the southern region of Puglia, Italy, is one of the most charming and romantic places in the country. It is located on a cliff overlooking the Adriatic Sea, and its old town is full of narrow streets, white houses, and stunning views. Polignano a Mare has become a popular destination for tourists who are looking for a romantic and exciting getaway. In this article, we will explore the beauty of Polignano a Mare, its main attractions, and the best places to stay and dine.

Location and History:

Polignano a Mare is located in the province of Bari, in the region of Puglia, Italy. It is about 35 kilometers south of Bari and 65 kilometers north of Brindisi. The town has a rich history that dates back to the Roman Empire. It was a strategic location for the Romans, who built a bridge over the Lama Monachile river, which runs through the town. The bridge was used to connect the Via Traiana, a Roman road that linked the ports of Brindisi and Bari.

Polignano a Mare was also an important center for the Byzantine Empire. The town was under Byzantine rule from the 6th to the 11th century, and during this time, it became a major trading center. In the 12th century, Polignano a Mare was conquered by the Normans, who built a castle on the cliffs overlooking the sea. The castle, known as the Castello di Polignano, still stands today and is one of the town's main attractions.

Main Attractions:

Polignano a Mare is a small town, but it has many attractions that make it a popular destination for tourists. The town's main attraction is its old town, which is full of narrow streets, white houses, and stunning views of the sea. The old town is also home to many cafes, restaurants, and shops, making it a great place to explore and relax.

Another popular attraction in Polignano a Mare is the Lama Monachile beach. The beach is located in a small cove surrounded by cliffs, and its crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The beach is also popular with locals, who come here to sunbathe and enjoy the sea.

The Castello di Polignano is another must-visit attraction in the town. The castle was built by the Normans in the 12th century and was used to defend the town from invaders. Today, the castle is a museum that houses a collection of art and artifacts from the town's history.

Polignano a Mare is also home to the Grotta Palazzese, a natural cave that has been turned into a restaurant. The restaurant is located on a cliff overlooking the sea, and its romantic atmosphere and delicious food make it one of the town's most popular dining destinations.

Where to Stay:

Polignano a Mare has many hotels and guesthouses that cater to tourists. Most of the hotels are located in the old town, and they offer stunning views of the sea. One of the best places to stay in Polignano a Mare is the Covo dei Saraceni, a hotel that is located in a historic building in the town center. The hotel has a rooftop terrace that offers panoramic views of the sea and the town.

Another great place to stay in Polignano a Mare is the San Tommaso Hotel, which is located just outside the old town. The hotel is surrounded by olive trees and has a large swimming pool, making it a great place to relax and unwind.

Where to Dine:

Polignano a Mare is known for its delicious seafood, and there are many restaurants in the town that serve fresh and delicious dishes. Here are some of the best restaurants in Polignano a Mare:

Grotta Palazzese - This restaurant is located in a natural cave overlooking the sea, and its romantic atmosphere and delicious food make it a popular destination for couples. The menu features seafood dishes and traditional Puglian cuisine.

Antiche Mura - This restaurant is located in the heart of the old town and offers stunning views of the sea. The menu features a variety of seafood dishes and traditional Puglian cuisine.

Il Bastione - This restaurant is located on the walls of the Castello di Polignano and offers panoramic views of the sea. The menu features a variety of seafood dishes and traditional Puglian cuisine.

Pescaria - This restaurant is located in the old town and offers a casual and relaxed atmosphere. The menu features a variety of fresh seafood dishes and local wines.

Osteria dei Mulini - This restaurant is located just outside the old town and offers traditional Puglian cuisine. The menu features a variety of meat and seafood dishes, as well as homemade pasta.

Polignano a Mare is a magical and romantic place that offers stunning views, delicious food, and a rich history. The town's old town, beaches, and attractions make it a popular destination for tourists who are looking for a romantic and exciting getaway. Whether you want to explore the narrow streets of the old town, swim in the crystal-clear waters of the sea, or enjoy delicious seafood dishes, Polignano a Mare has something for everyone.