Polignano a Mare with Kids

What do to & Hidden gems

Explore Puglia’s Cliffside “Pearl of the Adriatic” as a family

Polignano a Mare is a postcard-perfect seaside village perched on limestone cliffs above the Adriatic, offering a blend of natural beauty and authentic local charm that delights both kids and adults. Steeped in history and folklore, this compact town invites families to wander its maze of whitewashed alleys where poetry is literally written on the walls. Children can stand awestruck on panoramic terraces as waves crash against caves below, while parents appreciate touches of living history – from the old stone Roman bridge at Lama Monachile (once part of Trajan’s ancient road) to the manually wound town clock that still chimes above the main square. Despite its popularity with tourists, Polignano remains a real community; you’ll spot local families chatting in the piazza, kids kicking soccer balls, laundry fluttering from balconies, and fishermen mending nets – a vibrant scene that makes visitors feel welcome. In fact, Polignano was crowned the “Most Welcoming City on Earth” by a global travel survey in 2023, a testament to its friendly atmosphere and family-oriented hospitality. With mostly pedestrian streets and easy logistics (the train station is a 10-minute walk from downtown), exploring Polignano with a stroller or energetic toddlers is low-stress. Whether you’re tracing the lyrics of “Volare” strung above Via Roma or savoring a gelato as you watch the sunset from a clifftop balcony, Polignano a Mare offers an enchanting blend of relaxation and adventure that will create lasting memories for your family.

Best Indoor Family Activities in Polignano a Mare with kids

While Polignano a Mare is all about the outdoors, there are a few indoor diversions for escaping the midday heat or a rare rainy day. These intimate indoor gems provide both learning and fun in kid-sized doses.

Museum of Contemporary Art “Pino Pascali

This small waterfront museum, once a slaughterhouse, celebrates Puglia’s modern artist Pino Pascali with quirky sculptures, pop-art pieces, and prize-winning works. Older kids and teens will enjoy the imaginative displays and multimedia installations. Don’t miss the terrace for stunning Adriatic views, or the friendly staff who love sharing stories. Just a 5-minute walk from the center, it’s a cool, quiet break.

Museo dei Bambini Lecce

A short 1-hour by car or train from Polignano a Mare, this interactive children’s museum in the heart of Lecce is designed for ages 0.5–10. Kids learn through open-ended, curiosity-driven play with wind tunnels, light displays, and building activities, all in air-conditioned comfort during 2-hour sessions. Parents join in the fun too, making science discoveries and exploring exhibits alongside their children—an engaging way to create lasting memories while escaping Puglia’s summer heat."

Best Outdoor Family Activities in Polignano A Mare with kids

Polignano a Mare is essentially one big outdoor playground for families, blessed with natural wonders and lively public spaces. The historic centro storico (old town) is largely pedestrian-only, meaning even young kids can roam safely as you explore. Local families take their evening passeggiata (stroll) around 7–8 PM, when the stone streets glow golden and the sea breeze cools the air – join them to feel a part of authentic Italian life. Here are some not-to-miss outdoor activities and experiences.

Stroll the Old Town & Cliffside Terraces

Enter through the ancient Arco Marchesale gate – once protected by a drawbridge and still adorned with a faded fresco overhead – and meander the narrow lanes. Every turn reveals a surprise, from the Palazzo dell’Orologio (a quaint clock tower still hand-wound daily by a resident) to Vicolo della Poesia, a tiny “Alley of Poetry” where inspirational quotes are painted on steps and doors. Make your way to one of the panoramic balconies such as at Santo Stefano (overlooking the famous Lama Monachile cove) or the terrace by Piazza San Benedetto. From these railings, the view is breathtaking – white cliffs plunging into turquoise water, and if you glance back toward town, the jumble of stone houses feels like a castle atop the sea.

Domenico Modugno Statue & “Volare” Lookout

On a broad seaside promenade stands a bronze statue of singer Domenico Modugno, arms wide open as if about to take flight. Families love mimicking the pose, capturing fun photos with the town’s cliffs in the background. From this lookout, the sea stretches endlessly on one side, and on the other the stacked houses of Polignano cling to the rocks. In late summer, it becomes the stage for the Red Bull Cliff Diving competition, thrilling to watch even for children. Any time of year, the view inspires a collective “wow.”

Boat Tour of the Sea Caves

A boat tour offers a completely different perspective of Polignano. Dozens of caves carve into the cliffs, and local captains guide families right inside these magical grottoes. Light beams into the caves, turning the water shades of emerald and sapphire. Kids will be wide-eyed at formations that look like dragons or castles, while parents enjoy the thrill of gliding so close to nature. Most tours last one to two hours and include a chance to swim in calmer waters. It’s an unforgettable adventure for the whole family.

Ape Calessino Tour (Tuk-Tuk Ride)

For a bit of fun and convenience, hop into a brightly colored three-wheeled Ape Calessino. These tuk-tuk taxis rattle through Polignano’s streets, offering quick guided tours to scenic viewpoints and nearby landmarks. Children love the novelty of riding in what feels like an oversized toy car, while parents appreciate giving little legs a break. Drivers are friendly and often point out hidden spots or stop for photo opportunities. It’s a breezy, entertaining way to cover more ground, and a great option when the afternoon sun is too hot for walking.

Coastal Walk to San Vito

A flat, 3 km walk or bike ride along the coast takes families to San Vito, a quiet fishing hamlet with a centuries-old abbey overlooking the sea. The journey itself is pleasant, with sea breezes and countryside views. Once there, children can watch colorful boats bobbing in the small harbor or search for crabs along the rocks. Parents will love the peaceful setting and seaside trattorias where kids can enjoy pasta after exploring. It’s a relaxed half-day outing that combines light exercise, local history, and authentic coastal charm.

Best Playgrounds & Parks in Polignano

Not everything in Polignano has to be about sightseeing. When children need to burn off energy, there are dedicated spaces where families can relax together. The town offers a central playground shaded by pine trees, as well as seasonal rides that pop up in the evenings. These spaces are where local families gather, making them wonderful opportunities for children to meet playmates and for parents to experience authentic community life.

Parco Giochi “Villa Pinocchio”

Polignano’s main park, known as Villa Pinocchio, is a safe and inviting spot just minutes from the historic center. Fully fenced and shaded by tall pine trees, it features swings, slides, climbing structures, and even inclusive play equipment for children of all abilities. Older kids can use the small sports courts or skate area, while toddlers enjoy the open space. Parents will appreciate benches, restrooms, and a café kiosk nearby. In the late afternoon, the park fills with local families, making it the perfect place for kids to make friends.

Seasonal Rides at Piazza Aldo Moro

Piazza Aldo Moro is Polignano’s main communal square—spacious, central, and a frequent venue for occasional summer events and cultural gatherings. Surrounding cafés and bars come alive in warm evenings, serving aperitifs and offering animated social spots with music rather than a full fair-like atmosphere. There’s no permanent carousel or mini-train, but the square’s lively vibe, open layout, and nearby amenities make it a favorite meeting place for families and locals alike.

Best Gelato & Sweet Treats in Polignano A Mare

Polignano a Mare has earned the nickname “città del gelato”, and for good reason. Gelaterias line the streets of the historic center, offering everything from traditional flavors to creative seasonal varieties. An evening stroll almost always ends with a cone in hand, making gelato part of the family experience here. Beyond ice cream, cafés serve local specialties like the famous Caffè Speciale, a sweet treat unique to Polignano. Whether it’s a refreshing afternoon stop or a nightly ritual, sampling gelato together is a highlight for families in town.

Il Super Mago del Gelo (Mario Campanella)

This historic café, open since 1935, is beloved for its creamy gelato and its signature invention, the “Caffè Speciale.” Parents can sip the rich espresso layered with lemon zest, sugar, cream, and a hint of amaretto, while kids choose from a rainbow of gelato flavors made fresh daily. Located just outside the old town, it’s perfect for a sweet stop before or after a seaside walk. Families gather here in the evenings, making it as much a social experience as a treat.

Gusto Caruso Gelateria

A favorite among locals, Gusto Caruso is known for its intense, natural flavors that capture the essence of fresh fruit and roasted nuts. Seasonal specialties like prickly pear, watermelon, or fig appear alongside classics such as pistachio and chocolate. They also cater to dietary needs with vegan and dairy-free options, ensuring every family member has a choice. The gelateria itself is simple and unpretentious, but the quality shines through. It’s an ideal stop during a family passeggiata, offering a refreshing reward for kids and adults alike.

Discover Polignano’s Historic Landmarks & Churches

Polignano’s charm is rooted in its history, woven into stone arches, centuries-old churches, and cliffside abbeys that still anchor daily life. Exploring these landmarks introduces children to the town’s past in ways that feel tangible and fun. Families can walk through medieval gates, admire hand-carved Nativity scenes, or pause at quirky details like skulls on a church door or a clock tower still wound by hand. These sites are compact and close together, making them easy to visit while wandering the old town. Each stop sparks curiosity and storytelling.

Arco Marchesale

This ancient gate is the main entrance to Polignano’s old town, once defended by a drawbridge and adorned with a fresco of the Madonna and Child. Walking under it feels like stepping back centuries, and it’s a wonderful way to introduce children to the town’s history. Families can pause here to imagine knights, merchants, and villagers passing through in medieval times. The archway is also stroller-friendly, making it an easy landmark to enjoy while exploring. It’s the perfect place to start a self-guided adventure into the historic center.

Chiesa Matrice di Santa Maria Assunta

Polignano’s main church, located in the central square, offers a surprising interior of Baroque altars and columns. The highlight for families is the intricate stone Nativity scene, carved in the early 1500s, which delights children with its lifelike figures. Visiting the church is a peaceful way to take a short break from busy streets, while giving kids a tangible look at local traditions. Entry is free, and it’s a great chance to encourage children to spot details, from angels on the ceiling to the colorful altar decorations.

Palazzo dell’Orologio

This graceful building in Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II is best known for its small town clock, which is still wound by hand by a local resident. Families often enjoy sitting in the square for a gelato while pointing out this charming detail to their kids. The palace also has decorative touches, like statues and old balconies, that help bring history to life. For children, knowing that a “real person” winds the clock adds a human element that makes the past feel closer and more relatable.

Chiesa del Purgatorio

This small church just off the main square stands out thanks to the skull carvings on its wooden doors, which never fail to capture children’s attention. While the symbolism reflects ideas of mortality and faith, for kids it feels a bit like discovering a “pirate church.” Inside, the atmosphere is calm and dimly lit, with beautiful artwork that rewards a short visit. It’s a quick stop that adds variety to a family stroll, sparking curiosity and perhaps inspiring questions about history, art, and local beliefs.

Best Family-Friendly Beaches & Beach Clubs in Polignano a Mare

The coastline around Polignano is rugged and dramatic, with cliffs giving way to coves of clear water. While the town’s beaches are mostly pebbly, they are stunning and accessible, and nearby sandy stretches in Monopoli provide great options for younger children. Families can choose between free public spots or organized lidi with umbrellas, loungers, and cafés for convenience. Many are within walking distance of the center, making beach time easy to combine with sightseeing. With calm, shallow areas and plenty of space to play, the sea is central to family life here.

Lama Monachile

Nestled between towering cliffs, Lama Monachile is Polignano’s most photographed beach. Its white pebbles and clear turquoise water make it unforgettable, though families should know it can be very crowded in July and August. The water is clean and inviting, perfect for splashing and swimming, but water shoes are essential to protect little feet from stones. Older kids enjoy climbing rocks on the edges or swimming under the Roman bridge that frames the cove. Arrive early in the morning or late afternoon for a calmer experience with children.

Cala Paura

This small cove close to town is especially popular with locals, who appreciate its calm waters and relaxed feel. Half the area is a public beach, while the other half is an organized lido with chairs and umbrellas. Children enjoy paddling near the shore, spotting fish, or watching teenagers jump from low rocks nearby. Parents love the informal, community atmosphere and the fact that it’s within walking distance of the center. For families, it’s a practical choice for a half-day swim and an authentic taste of local life.

Lido Cala San Giovanni

About 10 minutes north of Polignano, this organized beach is a comfortable option for families wanting more than just a towel on pebbles. Here you’ll find umbrellas, loungers, a restaurant, restrooms, and even small play areas, making it easy to spend a full day by the sea. The water is calm and shallow at the edges, giving younger children safe space to splash. While there’s a fee for services, the convenience and relaxed environment make it worth it for parents looking to unwind while kids play nearby.

Nearby Monopoli (Capitolo Beaches)

For sandy beaches, head just 15 minutes south to Monopoli, where the Capitolo area offers long stretches of golden sand and shallow water. Many beach clubs here are particularly family-oriented, with playgrounds, pedal boats, and snack bars that make a day at the beach easy and fun. The sand is soft, perfect for toddlers and castle building, while older kids can swim safely under watchful lifeguards. Parents can relax knowing facilities are close at hand. It’s an excellent add-on to a Polignano stay, especially if your children prefer sand to pebbles.

Where to Stay in Polignano A Mare

Polignano offers accommodations for every style of family trip, from cozy apartments in the historic center to countryside resorts and all-inclusive beach hotels. Staying inside the old town means being steps away from gelato, restaurants, and views, while resorts outside provide pools, green space, and organized activities for children. Families can choose self-catering apartments for flexibility, boutique hotels for charm, or larger resorts for full-service ease. Wherever you stay, the town’s compact size and welcoming atmosphere ensure you’re never far from the sea, the piazzas, or the magic of Polignano.

Serafini B&B

For families who want to stay in the heart of Polignano’s historic center, Serafini offers charming apartments inside traditional stone houses. Each space has a kitchenette, making meal prep for young children easy, and some come with roof terraces offering spectacular views. The central location means you’re steps from gelato shops, restaurants, and beaches, while still enjoying privacy. Hosts are known for their warm welcome and can arrange cribs or family-friendly extras. Staying here lets you truly live like a local family within the old town’s whitewashed alleys.

Borgo Bianco Resort & Spa

Set just outside Polignano among olive groves, Borgo Bianco offers a tranquil retreat with plenty of space for kids to run and play. The resort has a large swimming pool with shallow areas, a spa for parents, and a restaurant serving Puglian specialties. Rooms and suites are spacious and well-suited to families, with options for connecting rooms. While you’ll need a car, the trade-off is peaceful nights and countryside views, just a short drive from the sea. It’s a wonderful choice for families balancing relaxation with exploration.

Pietrablu Resort & Beach

This all-inclusive seaside resort is a hit with families, thanks to its multiple pools, private beach cove, and energetic kids’ club. Children can join in organized games, sports, and evening baby discos, while parents relax knowing entertainment is provided. Meals are buffet-style, with plenty of options to satisfy picky eaters as well as adventurous ones. Rooms are spacious, and the resort even offers a shuttle into Polignano for sightseeing. It’s ideal for families wanting a mix of cultural outings and stress-free holiday time with all the amenities on-site.

Best Family-Friendly Restaurants in Polignano A Mare

Eating out in Polignano is a family affair, with restaurants welcoming children as warmly as adults. Seafood is the star here, from fresh catches grilled simply to inventive sandwiches, but you’ll also find excellent pizza, pasta, and street food to suit every taste. Many spots offer outdoor seating, high chairs, and flexible menus, making dining with kids stress-free. From rustic trattorias by the sea to elegant terraces with cliff views, meals here are as much about atmosphere as food. Sharing long, leisurely dinners together is part of the Polignano experience.

Grotta Palazzese

Dining inside a natural sea cave is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and Grotta Palazzese offers just that. The restaurant sets its tables in a grotto carved into the cliffs, with the Adriatic crashing below. While it’s fine dining with a higher price tag, families with older children will find it truly memorable. Kids under 12 are allowed at early seatings, which works well for families. The atmosphere is dramatic, the menu refined, and the setting unlike anywhere else – a bucket-list experience if you want something extraordinary.

Terrazze Monachile

Perched near the dramatic Lama Monachile beach, Terrazze Monachile pairs elegant seafood dishes with one of the best views in town. Families who want a memorable meal will appreciate the panoramic terrace, especially at sunset. Though upscale, the restaurant is welcoming to children and offers smaller portions or simpler options on request. Parents can savor refined plates like grilled fish or seafood pasta, while kids enjoy risotto or cutlets. The setting alone is unforgettable, making it ideal for a special evening together.

Pescaria

Bella ‘Mbriana

For a more casual, kid-friendly meal, Bella ‘Mbriana is a welcoming pizzeria set in a cozy courtyard in the old town. Known for its wood-fired pizzas, it also serves pasta, salads, and grilled dishes, ensuring something for every taste. Outdoor seating gives children space to move, and service is fast and cheerful. It’s a good option for an earlier dinner with little ones, and prices are family-friendly. Afterward, you’re perfectly placed for a gelato stop or evening stroll through Polignano’s charming streets.

La Veranda di Giselda (San Vito)

Set right on the water in the village of San Vito, this family-run trattoria offers authentic Puglian cooking in a wonderfully relaxed setting. Tables are steps from the beach, so children can play in the sand while parents enjoy a plate of fresh seafood or antipasti. The staff are famously welcoming, and the menu is flexible – simple pasta dishes for kids are always available alongside the catch of the day. The combination of good food, warm hospitality, and seaside views makes it a family favorite.