Clear skies, transparent sea, and classic white houses: this is the dream postcard of Monopoli in Apulia, a true gem among Apulian villages. Monopoli is a place that invites you to live, explore, and savor every nuance. Get ready for an engaging and intriguing experience.

Located in the province of Bari, just a few kilometers from Polignano, Cisternino, and Ostuni, Monopoli has nothing to envy compared to the more famous towns of northern Apulia; in fact, it is ready to surprise you!

I was truly enchanted by its picturesque historic center, a labyrinth of charming alleys and narrow streets, its panoramic seafront dominated by the silhouette of the castle, and the fairytale-like old port, a magical corner that looks like it came straight out of a postcard.

Last but not least, it is also a paradise for food lovers, rich in traditional trattorias where you can taste authentic Bari and Apulian delicacies that are simply irresistible!

But I don’t want to reveal everything right away. The photos and emotions captured will tell you about this city in all its beauty.

Cala Porta Vecchia in Monopoli

As soon as you arrive in Monopoli, it is impossible not to be captivated by the beauty of Cala Porta Vecchia, the natural gateway to the historic center. This small cove, the first beach you encounter just outside the ancient walls, is easily accessible with a pleasant walk and is always very popular. But its proximity is not the only reason for its popularity!

Its shallow, sandy seabed, combined with incredibly clear waters, makes it perfect for families, inexperienced swimmers, and children who can have fun in complete safety. The beach is framed by a panoramic railing from which you can admire the sparkling sea under the sun.

I have to admit, as I watched people diving and enjoying that crystal-clear water, I felt a bit envious myself! Next time, a swimsuit is a must!

The Historic Center of Monopoli

From the small gem of Cala Porta Vecchia, it only takes a few steps to enter the heart of Monopoli’s historic center, a true journey through time that takes you straight back to the early medieval era. Here, it’s not just about sightseeing but about immersing yourself in the atmosphere, strolling through a labyrinth of cobbled streets and alleys that seem to hold secrets at every turn.

Every turn offers a new surprise: charming arches, ancient whitewashed houses, majestic noble palaces, and churches that suddenly appear. Then there are the small squares that magically open up to offer breathtaking views of the sea or the surrounding historic buildings.

The magical touch? The streets are adorned with vibrant plants and flowers, an explosion of beauty that stands out against the dazzling white of the houses. Every corner is postcard-perfect, ideal for those who love capturing every “Instagrammable” detail!

But the charm of Monopoli doesn’t stop here. Every corner of the historic center is alive, animated by cozy cafés, traditional restaurants, and small artisan shops. And how can you resist the temptation of local flavors? Here, you can enjoy a delicious sandwich with freshly grilled octopus, bite into a crispy panzerotti, or indulge in a plate of orecchiette with turnip greens, an authentic Apulian tradition. 

The Cathedral of Monopoli

In the heart of Monopoli’s historic center, Largo Cattedrale is home to the majestic Basilica Cathedral of Maria Santissima della Madia, with its imposing late Baroque façade. Next to it, a 33-meter-high wall, built in 1786 by Giuseppe Palmieri, protected worshippers from strong mountain winds.

Inside, the cathedral amazes with its splendor: precious marble, elegant columns, a frescoed dome, and works by Jacopo Palma the Younger and Francesco de Mura. But the real jewel of the cathedral is the chapel housing the icon of the Madonna della Madia.

This chapel, a triumph of colors, marbles, and splendid pictorial cycles, can be reached by climbing a staircase leading to a perfect panoramic point to admire the basilica from above, capturing every detail of this magnificent sacred artwork.

Diocesan Museum of Monopoli

A few steps from Monopoli’s Cathedral, the Diocesan Museum has preserved history and art since 2002. Its restored halls house works that narrate the Byzantine, Swabian, Angevin, Aragonese past, and ties with Venice and Naples. Among the treasures on display, the Madonna della Madia stands out. Admission costs only €2.00 and includes free guided tours upon reservation, an unmissable opportunity to discover the city’s history and spirituality.

The Old Port of Monopoli

During my walk through Monopoli’s historic center, I discovered the city’s true gem: the Old Port, dating back to the 5th century BC. Passing through the Ancient Port Gate, I was met with an enchanting panorama: the shimmering sea, blue boats, white houses, and an intense sky.

The atmosphere was magical, made even more evocative by the presence of Palazzo Martinelli, an elegant testimony to Venetian rule.

As I strolled along the port, I felt the sea breeze tousling my hair and let myself be carried away by the music of an old song echoing from an open window. I stopped to contemplate the horizon, with this melody in my ears, and for a moment, I felt like I was part of that scene—so evocative and authentic.

The waterfront and the walls

Starting from the Porto Vecchio, I recommend you indulge in a walk along Monopoli’s city walls and waterfront. It is a truly rejuvenating experience, with the sea accompanying you closely and the wind cooling your face. Walking along this scenic route, you will have the opportunity to discover fascinating corners and unforgettable views, until you reach the majestic lighthouse that stands elegantly on the promontory. The view from there is simply spectacular!

Continuing along the waterfront, you will have the opportunity to explore the historic towers of the city. Among them, the most interesting is undoubtedly the “cannon,” officially known as the Santa Maria Keep. By climbing a small staircase, you will be able to access an exclusive balcony that offers a breathtaking view of the harbor and the sea horizon. It is a vantage point that will give you a unique and unforgettable perspective of Monopoli and its beautiful sea. Don’t miss the opportunity to discover these enchanting places and be enveloped by the magic of this corner of Apulia.

Charles V Castle

At the end of the promenade along the waterfront, you will find the majestic Castle of Charles V, located on the picturesque Punta Penna. This imposing fortress, which dates back to the period of Spanish rule, stands with all its grandeur and perfect preservation, like a silent witness to history.

The carefully restored castle is now a vibrant center for conventions and meetings, combining history with modernity. But the charm does not end there: inside you will also find a small but fascinating museum. Here, you can explore precious testimonies that tell the story of Monopoli through the centuries, from its origins to the present day

Getting Around the Villages of Apulia

The best way to travel around Apulia is by renting a car, which allows you to explore the region freely without schedule constraints. Reaching Monopoli by car is very simple, and there are many parking areas near the historic center.

During our visit in July, we had no difficulty finding parking, but as always, leaving with extra time is the best strategy. Cars can be easily rented at Bari or Brindisi airports, the two main gateways to Apulia.

If you’re looking for the best rental car rates, I recommend booking through Discover Cars, a reliable platform that compares offers from various rental companies, ensuring highly competitive prices and transparent conditions. You can check available deals and book easily online here.

Concluding my exploration of Monopoli was like closing a fascinating book that I never wanted to end. Every corner of this city, from the picturesque Porto Vecchio to the majestic Castle of Charles V, offered me unforgettable emotions and unexpected discoveries. Walking along the coastline, I breathed in the cool sea breeze and was enchanted by the timeless beauty of its ancient walls and breathtaking views.

If you are planning a trip to the region of Apulia, this is one stop you cannot miss. Its fascinating history, enchanting views and the warmth of its people make it a corner of paradise that promises to win you over. I invite you to get lost in its alleys, explore its wonders and be enveloped in the magic that only Monopoli can offer.

Every moment spent here is an opportunity to experience something extraordinary and unique.
Enjoy your trip and have a good discovery!

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