White houses on a rock face with a cove between two cliffs below – the best-known postcard subject on the Adriatic coast.
Polignano lies south of Bari right on the sea, about an hour’s drive from Matera. The old town sits on a limestone cliff that drops vertically into the water.
The cove
Lama Monachile, the small pebble cove between the rock walls, is the view everyone knows. Swimming is possible, though in summer with plenty of company.
Old town
Narrow white lanes, several terraces above the sea, and plaques for Domenico Modugno, the singer of “Volare”, who was born here.
Practical
Parking is difficult in summer; a car park on the edge of town and a walk in is usually quicker. For a swim, pack water shoes – the cove is stony.
Read on
- Monopoli – the quieter neighbour a few kilometres south
- Day trips around Matera – all the destinations in overview
