Matera Travel Guide

Plan the perfect trip to Matera with this comprehensive travel guide. Explore the best things to do, see, eat and stay in Matera and its surroundings.


Matera Travel Guide: Best Things to Do, See, Eat and Stay

Introduction to Matera

Situated in Basilicata, in Southern Italy, Matera is a charming and unique destination that has gained popularity due to its stunning Sassi di Matera, a complex of cave dwellings carved into the cliffsides. Matera has also been named the European Capital of Culture for 2019, which has further boosted its status as a travel destination.

Matera is a walkable compact town with only two, one-way streets, and many of the top attractions are easily accessible on foot. As you wander through the winding streets and cave houses of Matera, you can’t help but feel transported back in time.

List of Places to Visit in Matera

Whether you’re interested in history, culture or nature, Matera has a lot to offer. Here are the top places and attractions to visit in Matera.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Sassi di Matera: The Sassi is the historical center of the city and is famous for its cave dwellings, rock churches and ancient water cisterns.
  • MUSMA: This museum of contemporary sculpture is housed inside an ancient church.
  • Casa Noha: A multimedia museum that illustrates the history of Matera through an engaging video.
  • Cathedral of Matera: A must-visit landmark featuring a beautiful 13th Century Romanesque facade and an altarpiece made of carved ivory and gold leaf.
  • Cripta del Peccato Originale: One of the most famous and stunning of the many cave churches around Matera that features well-preserved frescoes.

Natural Attractions of Matera: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Park della Murgia Materana: A national park that boasts stunning views of the Sassi di Matera from above as well as numerous hiking trails.
  • Parco della Grancia: A nature reserve that offers great walks and a comprehensive display on local flora and fauna.
  • Belvedere di Murgia Timone: A panoramic viewpoint that overlooks the city and the surrounding landscape.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Matera

If you’re looking for an active holiday, Matera is the ideal destination to indulge in hiking and biking.

  • The Great Apulia Bike Trail: A 195 km bike route that runs from Monopoli on the Adriatic Coast to the gateway of Basilicata via Matera.
  • Appian Way: A popular hiking trail goes through the ancient Roman way. This walk offers various landscapes and view of the natural landscape and sassi di Matera.

Best Things to Do in Matera: Activities and Tours

With its rich culture and history, Matera has several things to offer, from food and wine tours to cultural landmarks. Here are a few things that visitors shouldn’t miss.

  • Rock climbing sessions: Scale the heights of the Sassi to gain a unique view of the town.
  • Wine Tasting Tour: Discover the local wines, particularly Aglianico del Vulture, accompanied by delicious local bread, olives, and cheeses, and attend specially organized winery tours.
  • Guided walking tour: Explore the town of Matera and gain a deeper insight into the history of this fascinating land.
  • Cooking class: Learn the recipe and how to prepare the typical dishes of Matera under the guidance of a local chef.

Week-Long Itinerary for Matera

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Matera, here’s a sample itinerary:

Day 1 Arrival Explore Sassi di Matera Dinner    
Day 2 Guided City Walk MUSMA Museum Lunch in Piazza San Pietro Barisano Pietrapenta Rock Church  
Day 3 Park della Murgia Materana Hike Lunch at a traditional local restaurant Visit to caves and museums Sunset at Belvedere Dinner
Day 4 Cookery Class and Food Tour Matera Cathedral Visit Murgecchia Visit Palombaro Lungo  
Day 5 Beach Trip to Cavamarina Visit nearby Gallipoli Cognato Regional Park Dinner    
Day 6 Bike Tour on Via Appia Trail Visit Crypt of the Original Sin Visit the Central Market Cooking Class  
Day 7 Departure or Free Day        

Food and Drink Scene of Matera

Italian cuisine with a slightly more rough and rustic twist awaits you in Matera. Here are some dishes and drinks you shouldn’t miss:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pezzente: A bread-based dish, stuffed with organic onions and tomatoes, salted capers, and anchovy fillets.
  • Fave e cicorie: A traditional Puglia recipe consisting of mashed fava beans and chicory greens.
  • Crapiata di Agnello: A local dish made from lamb, potatoes, eggs, and rice.

Local Beverages

  • Aglianico del Vulture: A local organic red wine made in a volcanic soil area located northwest of Matera.
  • Grappa di Matera: This local grappa is produced from local grape varieties in neighboring regions.

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

Matera offers plenty of accommodation options for every budget, from guesthouses to luxury hotels and comfortable hostels. Here are a few noteworthy options:

  • L’Hotel in Pietra: This elegant four-star hotel situated in a 14th-century building offers luxurious rooms with great views of the city.
  • Ai Terrazzini: A four-star hotel made up of traditional Matera dwellings that feature lovely caved and vaulted rooms.
  • Ostello dei Sassi: This hostel offers cheap accommodation in a converted cave.
  • Residence del Casalnuovo: A new option located directly in the city center of Matera, offering modern apartments with large and nicely renovated spaces.

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

Looking for something practical and unique to take home with you? Here are some recommendations for souvenirs and local products to bring home:

  • Pottery: Local artisans make beautiful ceramics, from cups and mugs to more elaborate pieces.
  • Olive Oil: The “liquid gold” of Southern Italy, olive oil in the region is organic and pure.
  • Peperoni cruschi: Toasted dried sweet peppers, which are typical of the area, and can be used as a condiment.
  • Local Wines: Take home a bottle of Aglianico del Vulture to share with friends and family.

Local Culture and Customs of Matera

Respect the local traditions and customs while visiting Matera. Many businesses may close on Sundays and long lunch breaks. People generally don’t expect a tip for services rendered, but it’s always appreciated if you choose to do so.

Best Time to Visit Matera

Matera is best visited between April and October when the weather is warmer and bright. Expect long sunny days with cool nights especially in Spring and Autumn. During peak tourist season in July and August, expect to share with your visit to more foot traffic.

Do’s and Don’ts of Matera

Do:

  • Explore the town on foot and admire the unique Sassi structures.
  • Eat and drink at local establishments and try the traditional cuisine.
  • Visit at least one museum or historical attraction.

Don’t:

  • Litter or make too much noise in public places.
  • Trespass into caves or houses as some still remain peoples homes.
  • Abide by the decorum of visiting religious buildings especially in crypt churches.

Safety and Health

Safety in Matera

Matera is generally a safe city, but it’s always advisable to be cautious with your personal safety and belongings while in any urban area. For those who are traveling by car, it’s important to note that the roads in Matera can be quite narrow and winding.

Health in Matera

Italy has a world-class healthcare system, and as such, there are ample medical facilities in the region. Many of the hospitals have English-speaking doctors, although you might want to keep the phone number of your embassy or consulate handy just in case.

Getting to Matera: Transportation Options and Logistics

Matera is easily accessible by several modes of transport. Here are some details on how to reach Matera.

Airports Near Matera

  • Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport - Bari’s main airport is located 70km (43 miles) from Matera
  • Brindisi-Salento Airport - Brindisi’s international airport is located 140km (87 miles) east of Matera.

Bus Stations Near Matera

  • Matera Centrale Bus Station - Located in the Sassi district, is well-connected to various Italian cities like Naples, Bologna via Flixbus Bus provider.

Other Options

  • Train services: The nearest train station is in Bari, which is connected to cities such as Rome, Florence, and Milan.
  • Taxis or Rental Cars: Both Taxis and car rentals services are available for local travel.

How to Get Around in Matera

Matera is a small town, and many of the sites are located within walking distance of one other. However, there are also several buses and taxis to help you get around.

Where to Go Next from Matera: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’ve finished the top sights in Matera, you can choose to stay in Basilicata region or head to nearby cities and towns.

  • Alberobello: A nearby town that features unique trulli houses that date back to the 14th century.
  • Pompeii: Another top Italian destination situated about 320km (199 miles) from Matera and a perfect destination to visit while exploring nearby Neapolitan cities.
  • Lecce: Also known as the “Florence of Southern Italy,” situated on the heel end of Italy known for its great baroque architecture, art, and ceramics.

Conclusion

Matera is a lovely destination with plenty to offer visitors, from its unique cave dwellings to elegant squares and historic landmarks. Whether you’re a history buff, art lover or adventure seeker, you’re sure to find something to keep you entertained during your visit to Matera.

Old city Old city St Antonius St Antonius San Giovanni Battista church San Giovanni Battista church