Basilicata Travel Guide (Southern Italy/Italy/Europe)

Introduction to Basilicata
List of Places to Visit in Basilicata
- Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Natural Attractions of Basilicata: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Hiking/Biking Routes of Basilicata
Best Things to Do in Basilicata: Activities and Tours
Week-Long Itinerary for Basilicata
Food and Drink Scene of Basilicata
- Must-Try Dishes
- Local Beverages
Where to Stay in Basilicata: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
What to Buy in Basilicata: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Local Culture and Customs of Basilicata
Best Time to Visit Basilicata
Do’s and Don’ts of Basilicata
- Do:
- Don’t:
Safety and Health
- Safety in Basilicata
- Health in Basilicata
Getting to Basilicata: Transportation Options and Logistics
How to Get Around in Basilicata
Where to Go Next from Basilicata: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Conclusion

Introduction to Basilicata

Located in Southern Italy, Basilicata is one of Italy’s lesser-known regions, with plenty of unspoiled and undiscovered gems waiting to be explored. Its cultural and historical significance dates back to ancient times, with a rich mix of Greek, Roman, and Byzantine influences. The region’s natural beauty is also unmatched, with sweeping valleys, picturesque villages, and breathtaking coastline.

List of Places to Visit in Basilicata

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

If you are into history and culture, Basilicata won’t disappoint. Some of the must-visit attractions include:

Matera: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this ancient city is famous for its Sassi (cave dwellings) carved out of limestone rocks in the Gravina River Valley. Museums, galleries, and churches dotted around the town showcase the region’s rich heritage.
Castelmezzano and Pietrapertosa: These two picturesque towns are perched on the Dolomiti Lucane mountain range, offering spectacular views and a glimpse into the region’s traditional rural lifestyle.
The 13th-century Norman Castle in Lagopesole: The castle is a fascinating example of the region’s medieval fortress architecture, with a strategic location at the heart of the Basento valley.

Natural Attractions of Basilicata: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Basilicata is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Some of the top-rated natural attractions include:

The Pollino National Park: Spread across Basilicata and Calabria regions, this park has the highest mountain range in southern Italy, providing plenty of opportunities for hiking and trekking. It’s also home to unique flora and fauna species, including Apennine wolves, golden eagles, and roe deer.
The Park of the Rupestrian Churches of Matera: The park showcases over 150 rock-cut churches, chapels, and monasteries inspired by Byzantine and Baroque art.
The Ionian Coast: Basilicata has over 30 miles of coastline along the Ionian Sea, with pristine beaches, hidden coves, and crystal clear waters. Scuba diving, snorkeling, and windsurfing are popular activities in the region.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Basilicata

Basilicata has plenty of trails and routes for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Some popular ones include:

The Lucanian Apennine Trail: This long-distance hiking and biking trail covers over 120 miles, connecting the Pollino, Dolomiti Lucane, and Appennino Calabro ranges.
The Monterosso Calabro Circuit: This 15.5-mile circular route is ideal for experienced hikers or bikers, starting from the charming village of Monterosso Calabro and passing through the Pollino National Park.

Best Things to Do in Basilicata: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking and biking, other popular activities and tours to explore the beauty of Basilicata include:

Wine Tasting: Basilicata is known for its wine production, with two DOC (Denominazione di Origine Controllata) areas, Aglianico del Vulture, and Matera. Wine tasting tours in local wineries offer a chance to appreciate the flavors and aromas of the region’s best wines.
The Flight of the Angel in Castelmezzano: This adrenaline-pumping activity involves gliding over the Ziopiero Valley suspended from a steel cable, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Cooking classes: Learn to cook some of the traditional dishes of Basilicata with local chefs in cooking classes.

Week-Long Itinerary for Basilicata

A typical one-week itinerary for exploring Basilicata could look something like this:

Day 1-2: Explore Matera, including visits to Sassi, museums, galleries, and churches.
Day 3: Take a wine tasting tour in the Vulture area, including visits to wineries and a tasting of Aglianico red wine.
Day 4: Visit Castelmezzano and Pietrapertosa, and experience the Flight of the Angel.
Day 5-6: Trek the Pollino National Park, including visits to the Zumpano Caves and the Morano Calabro Medieval Village.
Day 7: Relax on the Jonian Coast and explore the beaches near Maratea, including the famous Black Sand Beach in Praia a Mare.

Food and Drink Scene of Basilicata

Basilicata’s cuisine is deeply rooted in the region’s rural history, with hearty and flavorful dishes that use local ingredients. Some must-try dishes include:

Must-Try Dishes

Lucanica Sausage and Meatballs: Made with pork, chili, and fennel seeds, these are the region’s traditional sausages and meatballs.
Pecorino Cheese: Made from sheep’s milk, this cheese is aged for up to 2 years and has a tangy and robust flavor.
Cavatelli with Broccoli Rabe: This dish consists of hand-rolled pasta with broccoli rabe, garlic, chili, and olive oil.

Local Beverages

Aglianico del Vulture Wine: This bold and complex red wine is made from the Aglianico grape variety grown on the volcanic slopes of Mount Vulture.
Ratafia Liquor: Made from cherries and almond kernels, this sweet liquor is often served as an after-dinner digestive.

Where to Stay in Basilicata: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Basilicata has plenty of accommodation options, ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. Some recommended options include:

Sextantio Le Grotte Della Civita in Matera: A unique hotel set in ancient Sassi caves, offering a rustic and authentic experience.
Sassi Belvedere in Matera: A mid-range hotel with stunning views over the Sassi, and a rooftop terrace.
Commonfare Hostel in Potenza: A budget-friendly hostel housed in a former convent, ideal for budget-conscious travelers.

What to Buy in Basilicata: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Some of the souvenirs and local products to buy while in Basilicata include:

Ceramics and Pottery: The region is famous for its unique pottery and ceramics, with intricate designs and patterns inspired by the region’s ancient heritage.
Olive Oil: Basilicata produces one of the best-quality olive oils in Italy, rich in antioxidants and monounsaturated fats.
Wrought Iron and Copper: Traditional artisanal products, including wrought iron candelabras, copper pots, and kitchen utensils, are other popular souvenirs to bring home.

Local Culture and Customs of Basilicata

Basilicata has a rich and unique cultural heritage, shaped by the region’s history, traditions, and lifestyle. Some of the local customs and traditions include:

The Feast of Madonna della Bruna in Matera: Celebrated on July 2nd, this religious festival involves a procession of a big statue of Virgin Mary through the streets of Matera, followed by music, food, and fireworks.
The Living Nativity Scene: During the Christmas period, many towns and villages in Basilicata re-create live nativity performances and processions, showcasing the region’s rich Catholic tradition.
The ‘Ndocciata in Agnone: Celebrated on December 24th, this festival involves a parade of fire, with locals parading through the narrow streets with burning torches and chanting ancient songs.

Best Time to Visit Basilicata

Basilicata is a year-round destination, with each season offering a unique experience. The best time to visit depends on your preferences for weather and activities:

Spring (March to May): The mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers make it an ideal time for trekking, hiking, and cycling.
Summer (June to August): The peak tourist season, with hot weather perfect for beach activities, water sports, and festivals.
Fall (September to November): The fall foliage, grape harvest, and olive harvest make it a vibrant and scenic season to explore the region.
Winter (December to February): Much milder than other parts of Italy and perfect for winter hiking and exploring the region’s Christmas traditions.

Do’s and Don’ts of Basilicata

Do:

Respect the local traditions and customs.
Try the local cuisine, especially the wine.
Hike and explore the region’s natural beauty.
Support local businesses and artisans by buying their products.

Don’t:

Wear inappropriate clothing while visiting churches or other religious sites.
Disrupt natural habitats or litter the environment.
Ignore the region’s cultural heritage and history.

Safety and Health

Safety in Basilicata

Basilicata is a safe region overall, with low crime rates. However, travelers are advised to take usual precautions and stay vigilant in crowded areas.

Health in Basilicata

Basilicata has a good standard of healthcare, with plenty of pharmacies, hospitals, and emergency services. All visitors should have travel insurance to cover any medical expenses.

Getting to Basilicata: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Basilicata

The nearest airports to Basilicata are Bari and Naples, both of which have regular domestic and international flights.

Bus Stations Near Basilicata

Potenza and Matera have main bus stations connecting to other towns and cities in the region.

Other Options

Basilicata can also be reached by train, with the nearest railway stations being Potenza Centrale and Ferrandina.

How to Get Around in Basilicata

Basilicata has a reliable public transport system, with buses and trains connecting to most major towns and cities. Taxis and car rentals are also available for hire.

Where to Go Next from Basilicata: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Some nearby destinations and excursions that can be added to your itinerary include:

Amalfi Coast: Famous for its rugged coastline, colorful villages, and excellent seafood, the Amalfi Coast is just a few hours drive from Basilicata.
Naples: The bustling city of Naples, famous for its pizza, archaeological sites, and art, is just a short train ride from Basilicata.
Puglia: Known for its beaches, architecture, and olive groves, Puglia is a neighboring region with its own unique culture and history.

Conclusion

Basilicata is a hidden gem of Southern Italy, offering visitors a perfect combination of cultural heritage and natural beauty. Plan your trip well, and you’ll discover a region that’s rich in experiences and memories.