To organise a holiday in Monopoli by car, plane or motorbike, here are some practical tips:
By car
Monopoli is about 44 km from Bari and can be reached in about 50 minutes along the Adriatic coast. It is advisable to arrive in a compact car, ideal for navigating the narrow streets of the historic centre and the countryside. If you are hiring a car, it is best to book in advance to get the best rates and for convenience at the airport or nearby. In Monopoli, you can find free parking a few minutes from the historic centre; however, it is useful to ask your hotel for directions to safe and free parking.
By aeroplane
The nearest airport is Bari Karol Wojtyła, from which Monopoli is easily accessible by car or taxi. For those arriving by plane, a good strategy is to hire a car directly at the airport to move around freely during your holiday, especially to explore the surrounding area. It is advisable to book your flight and car hire in advance to get the best prices. There are also low-cost flights to Bari, which make it easy to get to Monopoli.
On a motorbike
For motorbike enthusiasts, Monopoli and the Itria Valley are ideal for two-wheeled itineraries, with picturesque coastal and inland landscapes. A motorbike route could include stops from Bari to Mola di Bari, Polignano a Mare and Monopoli, taking in places of interest such as Castellana Grotte. The roads are beautiful but can be narrow and challenging in places, so it is important to drive carefully.
These tips can help you plan an organised and enjoyable holiday in Monopoli, with convenient and flexible travel options depending on your chosen mode of transport.
Recommended itinerary for 3 days in Monopoli by car
Here is a recommended itinerary for 3 days in Monopoli by car:
Day 1: Old town and seaside
Visit to the Cathedral of Maria Santissima della Madia, a religious and artistic symbol of the city.
Walk through the historic centre among colourful alleys, with a stop at Piazza Garibaldi and Palazzo Palmieri.
Explore the Old Port with the Castle of Charles V, from which you can enjoy a view of the sea.
Relax at Cala Porta Vecchia, a small, picturesque beach in the town centre.
Evening stroll along the seafront to the Red Lighthouse, one of the best vantage points for watching the sunset.
Day 2: Culture, history and districts
Visit historic churches such as San Domenico, San Francesco d'Assisi and San Leonardo.
Tour of the districts, ancient farms and countryside around Monopoli.
Visit Monopoli Sotterranea if you want a unique historical experience.
Dinner in a typical restaurant in the centre to sample local dishes.
Day 3: Excursions and relaxation in the surrounding area
Drive around to the most beautiful beaches in the area, such as Cala Cerasa or Lido Belli Freschi.
Possible excursion to Polignano a Mare or the Castellana Caves, just a few kilometres away.
Afternoon stroll along the seafront or shopping in the historic centre.
An evening at a disco or cocktail bar, such as Il Trappeto, or venues in the square.
This itinerary allows you to explore Monopoli at your leisure, enjoying both its historical and cultural heritage and its natural surroundings and the sea, all made easier by the use of a car to get around comfortably, even outside the city.
Recommended car parks and costs for long-term parking
In Monopoli, the recommended car parks with relative costs for long-term parking are:
Parking in Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II, the closest to the historic centre, with an hourly rate of €2.00, divisible, and a minimum charge of €0.50. Season tickets are not valid.
Piazzale Cristoforo Colombo car park, near the centre, with 230 spaces, most of which are reserved for guests of accommodation facilities. Open 24 hours a day but unattended. Hourly rate €1.00, with a maximum daily rate of €8.00 in summer and €4.00 in winter.
Nazario Sauro car park: 130 spaces, less well maintained, but a good compromise during the summer months. Similar rates.
Ex Scie car park, further away from the centre, with free shuttle service during peak hours, 260 spaces, rate €1.00/hour.
Blue lines with an hourly rate of €1.00 (minimum €0.50).
Discounted subscriptions are available for residents and local businesses (approximately £30 per month or £90 per year).
The new parking areas are located in strategic locations near the historic centre and offer approximately 125 spaces, which are useful for tourists.
For a longer tourist stop, we recommend Piazzale Cristoforo Colombo or Ex Scie, where there are more spaces and the daily cost is reasonable. The centre should be visited on foot to avoid restricted traffic zones with cameras.
These car parks make it easy to manage longer stays for tourists arriving by car in Monopoli.
Where to hire a car or motorbike in Monopoli
In Monopoli, you can find numerous reliable options for renting cars, motorcycles, or scooters, with well-reviewed facilities and services that are also accessible for extended stays.
Recommended car and motorbike hire in Monopoli
GO!RENT Car & Scooter Hire
It offers cars, scooters, and bicycles. It boasts excellent reviews (5.0 out of 903) and flexible services.
Rent Here Car Hire
Car hire only, clear and fair prices, service highly appreciated by customers.
Grcarplanning
Cars, scooters, and taxis, excellent accessibility, excellent experience according to reviews.
Easy Rent Car and Bike – Car and bike hire in Monopoli – Airport and station transfers in Brindisi and Bari
Cars, bicycles and transfers are readily available and accessible services are also provided for disabled persons.
Way To Move – Puglia by Vespa | Vespa Rental Monopoli
Specialising in Vespa and scooter hire for exploring the area.
I recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season, choosing the solution that best suits your needs: a car for excursions to Castellana, Trulli or the Itria Valley; a motorbike or scooter to move easily between the city centre and the coast. Many establishments accept credit cards and offer additional services such as transfers from nearby airports.