Red Bull Cliff Diving Polignano a Mare 2026: Cliff Diving on the Adriatic

Welcome to Red Bull Cliff Diving 2026 in Polignano a Mare

From September 25 to 27, 2026, the small cove of Lama Monachile in the heart of Polignano a Mare once again becomes a breathtaking natural arena. For the thirteenth time, the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series stops in this southern Italian coastal town, where men dive from 27 metres and women from 21 metres into the turquoise waters of the Adriatic.

Highlights and Attractions at Red Bull Cliff Diving in Polignano a Mare

• Twelve men and twelve women, plus wildcard divers, compete across five dive groups: front, back, inward, reverse and handstand
• The diving platforms sit directly above the iconic Lama Monachile cove, framed by the white limestone cliffs of the old town
• A quirky local touch: to reach the platform, athletes walk through the living room of a private house perched on the cliff edge
• Spectators watch the action from the terraces, balconies and viewpoints of the old town, most famously from Terrazza di Santo Stefano
• In the evenings, illuminated cliffs, music and a festive program along the piazza and waterfront promenade add to the atmosphere
• Polignano is the penultimate European stop of the season before the grand finale in November in Muscat, Oman

Program and Schedule: What to Expect in Polignano a Mare

Over three days, the world's best cliff divers compete for valuable points toward the overall season standings. Alongside the official diving rounds, the weekend features live entertainment, music and local food along the old town streets. Exact round by round timing is usually published shortly before the event.

Tickets and Attending Red Bull Cliff Diving 2026

The event is completely free for spectators. That said, the best viewing spots along the cliffs and on the Roman bridge, the Ponte Borbonico, fill up hours before the diving begins. Anyone wanting a clear view of the cove should arrive early or secure a spot on one of the surrounding terraces.

Visitor Tips: Travel and Accommodation in Polignano a Mare

• Polignano a Mare lies about 35 kilometres southeast of Bari and is easily reached via the coastal road
• The historic centre is closed to traffic during the event, so parking should be found on the outskirts of town
• Given the large crowds this weekend draws, booking accommodation in Polignano or nearby Monopoli well in advance is recommended
• Late September still brings mild, pleasant weather to the Adriatic coast, so light evening wear is usually enough
• A stroll through the whitewashed old town, with its handwritten poems painted on doorways and walls, is worthwhile regardless of the competition