Bernalda​

Latest page update: 16 May 2025
By: Dion Protani

  Where to Stay

Where to Stay in Bernalda
Bernalda, in the Province of Matera, is a town with a historic centre and close ties to the Ionian coast. While the town itself has limited established hotels, the nearby seaside area of Metaponto offers stronger options for visitors.
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In Metaponto, Magna Grecia Hotel Village provides spacious rooms, pools, sports facilities and organised activities, often praised for its family-friendly atmosphere (€€). Also in the area, Hotel Turismo offers a convenient location near the beach, with comfortable rooms, a pool and a restaurant, regularly noted for value and practicality (€€). Another choice is Meta Hotel Residence, combining modern facilities with beach access, consistently highlighted for comfort (€€).

Where is

Where is Bernalda?
The town of Bernalda is situated within the Province of Matera and has a population of 12,423 inhabitants. ​Covering an area of 126 km², it stands 127 metres above sea level and is located 103 km from Potenza, the capital city of Basilicata.

​​The main sight of Bernalda is the 11th century Norman castle which was restored by the Aragonese in the 15th century. 
Comune di Bernalda
Province: Matera

Region: Basilicata

Population: 11,921 (in 2024 - source)

​​​​​Size: 126 km²

Elevation: 127 metres

Highlights: Castello di Bernalda

Close by: ​​​Metaponto Archaeological Park, Pisticci, Craco​

Recommended accommodation: Hotel Giardino Giamperduto

What People Ask About Bernalda, Basilicata

Is Bernalda worth visiting?
Yes, Bernalda is worth visiting for its historic centre, elegant palaces, and lively main street, Corso Umberto I. The town is also known as the birthplace of film director Francis Ford Coppola, who restored a family palazzo here, now a boutique hotel.
How do I get to Bernalda?
Bernalda is located about 40 kilometres south of Matera and can be reached by car along the SS407 Basentana road. The nearest train station is at Metaponto, around 10 kilometres away, with regional services connecting to Taranto and Reggio Calabria.
What are the main attractions in Bernalda?
Key attractions include the Mother Church of San Bernardino da Siena, the Norman-Swabian castle ruins, and Palazzo Margherita, owned by Francis Ford Coppola. The town’s Corso is popular for evening strolls and local shops.
When is the best time to visit Bernalda?
Spring and autumn are the best times to visit, with mild weather for exploring the historic centre. Summer is busier and coincides with festivals, while winter offers a quieter atmosphere and a more local experience.
How long should I stay in Bernalda?
A one-day visit is usually enough to explore the town, its churches, and palaces. Staying longer allows time for excursions to Metaponto’s archaeological sites or the Ionian coast.
Related links

Discover

Discover Bernalda
Bernalda lies in the province of Matera, in the southern region of Basilicata, a few kilometres inland from the Ionian coast. The town rises on a hill overlooking the fertile Bradano Valley, with distant views towards the sea and the mountains of the Lucanian interior. Its historic centre is characterised by narrow streets, stone houses, and the remains of medieval fortifications that reflect its long history of settlement.
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Key sights include the Castello Aragonese, the Mother Church of San Bernardino da Siena, and the elegant palazzi that line the main street, Corso Umberto I. Bernalda is also known for its connection to the Coppola family, with director Francis Ford Coppola restoring a historic residence in the town. The nearby area offers easy access to Metaponto, with its archaeological park and sandy beaches, while the surrounding countryside is dotted with olive groves and vineyards typical of this part of Basilicata.

Things to Do

Things to Do in Bernalda
  • Historic centre of Bernalda features a blend of Baroque and medieval architecture, with narrow streets, stone buildings, and elegant palaces reflecting its past wealth. The town’s compact layout includes small piazzas and churches, offering visitors a sense of its rich cultural heritage. Bernalda’s position near the Ionian coast adds to its appeal.
  • Castello di Bernalda stands prominently above the town, a fortress with origins dating back to the 15th century. The castle’s robust walls and towers tell of its defensive role, and visitors can explore parts of the structure while enjoying views over Bernalda and the surrounding countryside.
  • Piazza Nicola Mignogna acts as the social heart of Bernalda, lined with cafés, shops, and historic buildings. The square hosts local markets and events, providing a space for community gatherings. From here, visitors can observe daily life and admire the traditional architecture.
  • Nearby beaches along the Ionian coast are easily accessible from Bernalda, offering sandy shores and clear waters. These coastal areas provide opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. The beaches attract both locals and visitors during the warmer months.
  • Guided tours of Bernalda and the surrounding area combine visits to historical sites with explorations of local vineyards and traditional farms. Guides share insights into the town’s history, culture, and cuisine. These tours often include tastings of regional products such as wine and olive oil, giving a fuller experience of the area.

Tours and Activities

Bernalda Tours and Activities
Basilicata Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations in Basilicata

1. ​Matera
2. Craco
3. ​Maratea
4. Melfi 
5. Pietrapertosa 
6. ​Sant'Angelo Le Fratte
7. Venosa
8. Pollino National Park
9. ​Satriano di Lucania
10. Castelmezzano ​

​👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Basilicata

How to Get to [Place Name]

How to Get to Bernalda
By Rail: Bernalda has its own train station, Bernalda Station, on the Taranto–Reggio Calabria line operated by Trenitalia. Regional trains connect the town to Taranto in about 50 minutes and to Metaponto in around 10 minutes. The station is located close to the town centre, with easy access to local amenities and connections to nearby coastal areas.

By Road: Bernalda is located in the province of Matera, approximately 40 kilometres south of Matera. The drive takes around 45 minutes via the SS7. From Taranto, the distance is about 70 kilometres, with a journey time of roughly 1 hour via the SS106. The town is well connected to both inland and coastal routes, with parking available near the centre and along the approach roads to Metaponto Lido.

Nearest International Airports:
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  • Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport: Situated about 110 kilometres northwest of Bernalda, with a drive of around 1 hour and 40 minutes via the SS7. This is the most convenient airport, offering frequent domestic and international flights.
  • Brindisi Salento Airport: Located roughly 130 kilometres east, taking about 2 hours by car via the SS106. It provides several routes to destinations across Italy and Europe.
  • Lamezia Terme International Airport: Approximately 190 kilometres southwest, with a journey time of around 2 hours and 50 minutes via the A2 and SS653. It offers a mix of national and international services.

Private Transfers

Bernalda Private Transfers
A private transfer provides a convenient and comfortable way to travel to or from Bernalda, allowing you to reach your destination without the need to drive or rely on public transport. You’ll be collected from your chosen location and taken directly to your destination by a professional local driver.

Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport and Brindisi Salento Airport are the most practical airport options, with routes running through the Ionian coast and the countryside of Matera province. Transfers can also be arranged to nearby towns such as Metaponto, Pisticci, and Montescaglioso, or to other destinations across Basilicata and Puglia.
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To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.

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