Monopoli is a perfect combination of old world charm and great beaches; a wonderful, typical, picturesque Apulian town, which despite it's unquestionable charm manages to retain it's traditional identity. Lots of quaint narrow streets, pretty squares, and a picturesque harbor to boot. The old town is a typical Apulian gem replete with quaint narrow streets, pretty squares, interesting houses, and a picturesque harbor.
The walking tour will take you to visit the small Castle, which is set in a very picturesque square. The homes and small buildings are charming. You will walk through an arch doorway that opens to the sea with a lovely walk along the harbor. This is a very cute castle and the best part of it is its view over the blue waters of Monopoli, with its characteristic village surroundings and fishermen's port.
Then, you'll see the baroque cathedral dedicated to the Madonna della Madia protector of the town, an amazing basilica. Seemingly small, it turns out to be a huge cathedral with amazing ornaments from the inside. Very elaborately decorated with gold and a variety of marble in amazing colors. The number of side altars along both sides of the main auditorium are stunning. It's hard to imagine a more fantastic townscape: narrow alleys, arches, towering spires, a fort, old stone walls, light coming in from a dozen different directions, and a crystal clear swimming beach, right outside the gates. It's a photographic dream.