Monopoli is a seaside town with beautifully preserved historic buildings and an old port, where navy blue and red fishing boats sway on the water. There are also sandy, though quite narrow beaches that attract many vacationers in the summer.
The oldest part of Monopoli is centered around the port. It is the most attractive place in the city. High walls guard it from the sea, reminding it of the former defensive nature of this place. One of their elements is the Monopoli Castle. The waters of the old port cut deep into the buildings. Merchant ships used to moor here, today it is used by fishermen and for tourist purposes. The most characteristic sight from Monopoli are the navy blue Gozzi boats swaying on the water. Local fishermen go out to catch octopuses and fish living in the coastal zone.
The Old Town in Monopoli is a tangle of narrow streets and squares. Stone houses with narrow forged balconies shade them even on sunny days. The buildings are very compact, and when entering some streets you have the impression that you are walking through a tunnel. In squares such as Garibaldi Square you will find numerous restaurants, cafés and bars that are lively until late at night.
Monopoli's attractions also include its beaches. They are sandy and narrow, often limited by large boulders. One of the most popular is Plaza Porto Ghiacciolo, located at the foot of the city walls. Monopoli, despite good conditions for summer recreation, is still quite calm and has not been taken over by mass tourism.
