Matera is the oldest city in Italy, and some people even say it’s the third oldest in the world. When I visited, it honestly felt like stepping into another world. In this post, I’ll share my Matera itinerary and guide you to the best places to explore in this city carved right into the rocky cliffs of the Basilicata region in southern Italy. The most famous part of Matera is the Sassi area, where you’ll find cave houses, stone churches, and old alleyways that look like they haven’t changed in centuries.
This post contains affiliate links where I earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). Your support helps me continue to provide valuable travel tips and recommendations. Find out more here.
Below are helpful resources to make your travel planning easier and stress-free:
🌟 Check out PUGLIA Ultimate Itinerary: The Best Travel Guide blog post!
Where to stay in Matera for all budgets
A little bit about Matera
Matera used to be known as the ‘shame of Italy’ because of its poverty and tough living conditions. But the city has changed a lot in recent years. Now it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was named the European Capital of Culture in 2019.
Today, Matera is one of the most interesting places to visit in Italy. It is full of history, charm, and amazing views. I loved getting lost in the maze of streets in the Sassi area. You can find hidden restaurants, cave hotels, and old rock churches everywhere you look. If you want to know what to do or where to find the best views, this Matera travel guide will help you plan your trip. Matera is just a short trip from Puglia, so it is easy to add it to your Italian itinerary.
How to get to Matera
Matera doesn’t have its own airport, but getting there is easy. The closest airport is Bari (Karol Wojtyła Airport), about an hour away by car. From Bari, you can rent a car or take the train and bus combo to reach Matera. I recommend renting a car if you want more flexibility to explore the area.
If you prefer trains, Bari Train Station is the main hub nearby and connects to lots of Italian cities. From there, you can catch a direct bus to Matera, or take a train to Altamura and then hop on a short bus or taxi ride. The trip takes you through beautiful countryside, so you’ll get to enjoy some great views along the way.
🌟 Check out Is Alberobello Worth Visiting? All you need to know blog post!
Tag It Onto Your Puglia Road Trip
If you’re planning a road trip through Puglia, I highly recommend adding Matera to your itinerary. It’s a great place and an easy detour from places like Bari, Ostuni, Lecce, Alberobello, Monopoli, or Polignano a Mare. Driving here is the best way to enjoy the beautiful southern Italian scenery and stop wherever you want along the way. No matter how you get to Matera, you’ll be amazed by its unique charm and fascinating history. It’s definitely worth the trip.
When to visit Matera
APRIL, MAY, SEPTEMBER, OCTOBER (shoulder season)
This is the best time to visit. The weather is mild and pleasant, perfect for exploring without the intense heat. Additionally, the crowds are much smaller, allowing for a more relaxed and enjoyable experience.
JUNE-AUGUST (peak season)
It is very busy and HOT. Prices for hotels are higher. The region becomes very crowded, which can make it harder to fully enjoy the sights and experiences.
NOVEMBER – MARCH (off-season)
The weather is cooler, and some hotels and restaurants close for the winter.
🌟Check out Best Cave Hotels in Matera, Italy to book Blog Post!
How many days to spend in Matera?
3 DAYS: To fully experience Matera.
Matera is not the kind of place you want to rush through. I recommend spending at least three days here, not just stopping by for a quick day trip. This way, you can really soak in the atmosphere and enjoy an experience you won’t find anywhere else in Italy.
If you spend three days in Matera, you’ll have enough time to really explore the Sassi area. This is the heart of the city, packed with ancient cave houses, cozy boutique hotels, traditional restaurants, and old churches carved straight into the rock. The vibe here is a mix of history, charm, and stunning views everywhere you look. Walk around the narrow stone streets, discover the city’s unique history, and find hidden terraces with amazing views over Matera.
If you stay longer than just a day, you get to really experience Matera. You can have dinner in a cave restaurant, sleep in a real Sassi cave hotel, and watch the city glow at sunset from a beautiful viewpoint. If you’re looking for a trip full of history, culture, and unforgettable views, make sure to spend at least three days in Matera.
🌟 Check out Capri 1 Day Ultimate Travel Guide: All You Need to Know blog post!
Getting around Matera
The Sassi of Matera is closed to most cars, so you’ll need to explore it on foot. This is actually the best way to see the city. The narrow streets are full of surprises! Every corner has a new view, a hidden courtyard, or an old cave house to discover. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes because the stone stairs and uneven paths can be tricky.
If you’re coming by car, you have to park in the upper part of Matera and then walk down to the old town. There are a few parking lots close to the center. We found one that was just a 10-minute walk from our hotel, which was really convenient.
🌟 Check out How to Spend the Perfect One Day in POSITANO blog post!
Matera tips and things to know
CURRENCY
Italy uses the Euro (€) and you can pay by card almost everywhere. Still, I recommend having some cash on you for small shops or places that might not take cards.
LANGUAGE
Italian is the official language, but many locals understand and speak basic English. Learning a few Italian phrases like “Grazie” (thank you) and “Per favore” (please) goes a long way.
SAFETY
Matera felt very safe, but as always, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings. Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
COMFORTABLE SHOES
Be prepared for a lot of walking, there are also a lot of uneven cobblestone streets! Matera is an ancient city with many stairs and irregular surfaces, so comfy shoes are a must.
FAME
Matera became famous as a filming location for many movies, few ex: The Passion of the Christ, Wonder Woman and James Bond No Time to Die.
🌟 Check out Best Luxury Beach Clubs in Puglia, Italy: Guide blog post!
Where to Stay in Matera
If you visit the city of Matera, I highly recommend staying in the Sassi district. This is the heart of the city and it’s where you’ll find the famous cave hotels carved right into the ancient rock. Spending a night here is a unique experience you won’t find anywhere else.
PALAZZO DEGLI ABATI
If you want to feel like you’ve stepped back in time, stay at Palazzo degli Abati i. Some of the rooms are carved right into the ancient stone, while others are in an 18th-century building. You get a mix of history and modern comfort here.
The outdoor terrace has the best view of Matera, and you can enjoy your free breakfast there in the morning. It opens again at 1 pm for aperitivo, so you can relax with a drink and take in the scenery. This is a family-run boutique hotel in the heart of the Sassi district, and the service is warm and personal. I highly recommend it if you want an authentic Matera experience.
SEXTANTIO LE GROTTE DELLA CIVITA
Sextantio Le Grotte Della Civita is a unique place to stay right in the heart of Matera’s Sassi district. The rooms are actually caves, so you get to experience what it was like to live here centuries ago, but with all the comforts you need. The candlelit caves feel cozy and special, and the breakfast is made with local ingredients. It’s honestly one of the most memorable places I’ve stayed.
IL BELVEDERE
Il Belvedere is one of the best places to stay in Matera if you want amazing views of the Sassi. You will have a free breakfast on the terrace while taking in the scenery. The hotel is just a short walk from all the main sights, and the cave rooms are beautiful and peaceful. It’s a great spot to relax after a day of exploring.
PALAZZOTTO RESIDENCE & WINERY
Palazzotto Residence & Winery is a beautiful boutique hotel right in the heart of Matera. The building itself is historic, with carved stone details that give it a lot of character. There are only 10 suites here, and each one is unique. You get elegant rooms, a terrace where you can relax, free breakfast, and helpful concierge services.
One of the highlights is the wine tasting at the Radino Wine Bistrot or in the Lounge and Winery room, which is carved directly into the stone. The location is perfect, just a short walk from the Cathedral of Matera.
CORTE SAN PIETRO
Corte San Pietro is one of those places that makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. The hotel is set in old stone houses right in the heart of Matera’s Sassi. Each room has its own entrance and is decorated with hand-carved wood and stone, which gives it a really cozy and authentic vibe. In the morning, you can have breakfast in the peaceful courtyard. It’s easy to get here by taxi, and you’ll be just a short walk from the old town.
PALAZZO DEL DUCA HOTEL
Palazzo Del Duca is a stunning luxury hotel where history meets modern comfort. The building is beautifully preserved and has a panoramic terrace with amazing views. Some rooms even have their own private pools, spa baths, or a terrace, which makes your stay feel extra special.
AQUATIO CAVE LUXURY HOTEL & SPA
Aquatio Cave Luxury Hotel & Spa is one of the most interesting places you can stay in Matera. The rooms and suites are carved right into the ancient caves, but they feel modern and comfortable. There’s a relaxing spa, an indoor pool, and a restaurant where you can try local Basilicata dishes in a beautiful courtyard setting.
AQUE CAVE
Aque Cave is another great option if you want to experience staying in a cave hotel. The rooms are cozy, clean, and decorated with a lot of attention to detail. At night, the candlelight makes the place feel even more special. Breakfast is included, and the location is perfect—you’re just a short walk from some of the best restaurants and bars in the area.
CENOBIO HOTEL & SPA
Cenobio Hotel & SPA is a small boutique hotel with just 9 rooms, right in the heart of Matera’s Sassi district. It’s close to all the main sights like Palombaro Lungo, the Cathedral, and the MUSMA Museum. The hotel has a cozy, intimate vibe and combines luxury with wellness. There’s a spa where you can relax after a day of exploring, and the rooms have all the modern comforts you need.
PIANELLE RESORT
Pianelle Resort is a modern hotel built right into Matera’s famous Sassi caves. I love how it mixes contemporary style with the city’s unique history. The rooms are clean and comfortable, and you’ll be staying just a short walk from all the main attractions. It’s a great choice if you want to experience Matera’s charm while enjoying modern amenities.
🌟 Check out Monopoli Beaches: Beautiful Spots to Explore in Italy blog post!
Must Visit Places in Matera
SASSI DI MATERA (SASSI CAVEOSO AND SASSI BARISANO)
The Sassi di Matera are two old cave neighborhoods right in the center of Matera. People have lived in these caves since the Paleolithic era, so you really get to see how ancient the city is. When I visited, I felt like I was traveling back in time. The narrow streets, stone houses carved into the rock, and winding staircases make this place feel like a real-life maze.
CASA GROTTA DI VICO SOLITARIO
Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario is a museum that lets you step into the past and experience life in Matera’s ancient cave dwellings. It’s an authentic cave home that has been preserved with original items like a bed, loom, and spaces for animals, giving you a glimpse of how people lived here in the early 20th century. It’s a great way to understand the history and culture of Matera.
PALOMBARO LUNGO
Palombaro Lungo is a large underground cistern (water storage tank) that’s part of Matera’s ingenious historical water collection system. Built in the 16th century, it was used to collect rainwater for the city and can hold up to five million liters. It’s a fascinating place to visit!
CATTEDRALE DI MATERA
Cattedrale di Matera stands at the highest point of the city. This 13th-century cathedral has incredible views of the Sassi districts and a breathtaking interior with intricate frescoes dating back to1270. Whether you’re drawn to its historical significance, architectural beauty, or panoramic views, the Cattedrale di Matera is absolutely worth visiting. It’s a must-see stop while exploring the ancient streets of Matera, providing a deeper connection to the city’s past and a moment of awe-inspiring beauty.
PIAZZA DUOMO
Piazza Duomo is one of the most picturesque squares in Matera, located right next to the Cattedrale di Matera. It’s a perfect place to sit back, relax, and admire the cathedral’s stunning façade. The views are pretty amazing too, you can see so much of the old town, with all its rooftops, winding streets, and stairs.
CHIESA RUPESTRE DI SANTA MARIA DE IDRIS
Chiesa Rupestre di Santa Maria de Idris (Church of Santa Maria de Idris) is a stunning church built into the dramatic cliffside of a rock. It also has one of the best views of Matera! Its interior is simple yet beautiful, with ancient frescoes.
The location is so unique – the perfect mix of history and incredible views. For an unforgettable experience, come back during golden hour, when the soft, warm light illuminates the Sassi of Matera, making the entire city glow. The steps of this church was also my favorite place to watch the sunset!
PIAZZA SAN PIETRO CAVEOSO
Piazza San Pietro Caveoso is a picturesque square known for its historic charm and stunning views. It is home to the medieval Church of San Pietro Caveoso, which was renovated in the 18th century. From the piazza, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Sassi district, the Gravina River ravine, and Murgia Materana Park.
CHIESA DI SAN PIETRO BARISANO
Chiesa di San Pietro Barisano is the largest church in Matera, carved directly into the rock. It has a beautiful façade and fascinating underground crypts, once used for religious rituals and storing mummified remains of priests. The church’s frescoes and unique architecture make it an absolute must visit while exploring the Sassi.
PIAZZA VITTORIO VENETO
Piazza Vittorio Veneto is a cozy square right in the heart of Matera and a good starting point for exploring the area. There are plenty of cafes around, so it’s a great spot to sit, relax, and enjoy the vibe.
MUSMA (MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY SCULPTURE IN MATERA)
Musma is a one-of-a-kind museum focused entirely on contemporary sculpture and is located right in the heart of Matera. It’s housed in a beautiful 17th-century Palazzo. The exhibits are displayed across a series of rooms and seven caves. This creates a really unique atmosphere where modern art meets ancient architecture.
When visiting Matera, staying in the Sassi district is a must for the best and most authentic experience!
Things to do in Matera
WALKING TOUR
Even if you’re not usually a fan of guided tours, I highly recommend taking one in Matera. It’s the best way to truly understand the history of Matera and how this ancient city evolved from a place of extreme poverty to a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a European Capital of Culture.
As you explore the Sassi of Matera, a knowledgeable local guide will bring the city’s past to life, sharing stories about its cave dwellings, rock churches, and centuries-old traditions. The transformation of Matera is absolutely fascinating and gives you a whole new appreciation for its incredible resilience and cultural significance. Link to Matera Sassi tour
BELVEDERE MURGIA TIMONE HIKE
Murgia Timone is a stunning viewpoint just outside of Matera. The easiest way to reach it is by hiking from Matera to Belvedere Murgia Timone, starting with a walk across a suspension bridge then follow an old mule path.
The trail has absolutely incredible views of the canyon! Along the way, you’ll pass ancient caves and rock-carved churches. The hike is about 2.5 miles (4 km) and takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. The panoramic views of Matera from above are totally worth it!
For the best experience, I highly recommend doing this hike early in the morning. Not only will you avoid the midday heat, but you’ll also get to enjoy the incredible views of the canyon in the soft morning light, making the scenery even more magical.
STAY IN A CAVE HOTEL
Experience true authenticity by staying in a cave hotel that was originally excavated during the Middle Ages. Imagine spending the night in a unique town where ancient history is woven into the very walls of your accommodation. In many of these cave hotels, you’ll find exposed rock and even 2-million-year-old shell fossils embedded in the walls, creating a fascinating link to the past.
Staying in a cave hotel is not just a place to sleep—it’s a chance to immerse yourself in the history and natural beauty of Matera. This one-of-a-kind experience offers a deeper connection to the city, allowing you to live like the locals did in centuries past, all while enjoying modern comforts in an extraordinary setting.
Best viewpoints in Matera
From ancient rock churches to hidden cafés, Matera has so many incredible viewpoints that really show off the beauty of this historic city carved into stone. Whether you’re looking for the perfect sunrise spot or a panoramic sunset view, these locations offer great views of the Sassi and the surrounding landscapes.
Here are 15 BEST MATERA VIEWPOINTS that you won’t want to miss!
- Belvedere Luigi Guerricchio (“Three Arches”)
- Chiesa Rupestre di Santa Maria di Idris
- Belvedere di Piazza Giovanni Pascoli
- Via D’Addozio, 70
- Belvedere Murgia Timone
- Piazza San Pietro Caveoso
- Gradoni Sant’Antonio
- The Terrace near Casa Cava
- The Convent of Sant’Agostino
- Chiesa di Santa Lucia alle Malve
- Basilica Cattedrale di Matera
- Crialoss, Panoramic Cave, Cafè Bistrot
- Zipa Cafè
- Ponte Tibetano della Gravina
- Casa Grotta nei Sassi di Matera
Where to eat in Matera
Il Fiore del Latte: A charming eatery offering fresh burrata sandwiches and gelato, situated near a local food market. It’s a great spot for a quick, delicious meal away from the tourist crowds.
Café Bistrot CRIALOSS: Grab an aperitivo on the prettiest panoramic terrace with best views of Matera.
Zipa Cafè: a cocktail bar set in a cave terrace, with beautiful views and a unique ambiance. Make sure to arrive early, as they don’t take reservations and lines are get long.
Conzato Norcineria: Specializes in traditional Italian cured meats and sausages, an authentic taste of local charcuterie.
Il Rusticone: Known for its rustic charm and hearty Italian meals, Il Rusticone is a favorite with locals.
Osteria al Casale: A traditional osteria with classic Italian dishes in a cozy setting, perfect for experiencing local flavors.
La Lopa: A popular spot offering a variety of Italian dishes.
Trattoria del Caveoso: Located in the heart of the Sassi district, this trattoria serves traditional Italian cuisine in a historic cave setting.
Tierra Osteria Contemporanea: A contemporary restaurant that mixes traditional Italian flavors with modern culinary techniques, offering a special dining experience.
I Vizi degli Angeli: Gelato
Need inspiration for your next trip? Check out some of my other posts:
- Mallorca Beaches: Ultimate Guide to Best Beaches
- Matera Itinerary: How to Spend the Perfect Time
- Is Alberobello Worth Visiting? All you need to know
- Best MALLORCA Itinerary 7 Days: The Ultimate Travel Guide
- Perfect one day in POSITANO, the BEST travel guide
- 4 Days Lisbon Itinerary: How to Plan the Perfect Time
- Find the Best Viewpoints in Positano: Ultimate Guide
- 13 Best Places to Visit in Southern Spain You’ll Love
- Epic Paris Itinerary: How to Spend the Perfect Time
- Guide to Beautiful Amalfi Coast Beaches & Beach Clubs
- Ultimate Amalfi Coast Travel Guide You Need for Italy
- Best Paris Cafes: Ultimate and Iconic Shops to Visit
Growing up between Europe and New York, I was always drawn to new places and how they made me feel. After visiting over 25 countries, that love has only grown. I enjoy finding great places to visit, stay, and eat—and I’m someone who really loves planning and staying organized. Through this blog and on Instagram, I share my travel tips, personal experiences, and ready-to-go itineraries to help you plan memorable trips.