This guide covers everything you need: the 22 best things to do, where to stay in a cave hotel, the best restaurants, and how to plan your trip. If you are making a southern Italy trip, Matera belongs on your list.
Planning a broader southern Italy trip? Also read my 7-day Puglia itinerary and my guide to Bari - both pair perfectly with Matera.
Matera is one of those cities that stops you completely. You turn a corner and suddenly the entire landscape drops away into thousands of cave dwellings carved into a canyon wall. Nothing prepares you for it.
I visited in July and it was genuinely unlike anywhere else I have been in Italy. The sassi, the ancient cave city, are over 10,000 years old. Walking through them feels like stepping back through every layer of human history at once.
Jump To
- Where is Matera?
- What is Matera known for?
- How old is Matera?
- How many days do you need in Matera?
- How to Get to Matera
- 22 Unmissable Things to Do in Matera:
- 22.See how they would make olive-oil
- Tours in Matera
- Where to Stay in Matera ⭐
- Best restaurants in Matera
- Best bars and nightlife in Matera
- History of Matera
- Matera Travel Tips
- Weather in Matera and the Best Time to Visit
- Visiting Matera with Your Partner
- Visiting Matera with Kids
- Events in Matera
- Movies Filmed in Matera
- More FAQ'S
- More Southern Italy Guides
Where is Matera?
Matera is located in the Basilicata region of southern Italy, right on the edge of the Gravina di Matera canyon. It is one of the least visited regions of Italy, which makes it feel wonderfully unspoiled.
The city is divided into four main areas: Sasso Barisano, Sasso Caveoso, Civita, and Piano. The sassi cave dwellings are concentrated in Barisano and Caveoso. Civita is the elevated ridge where the wealthy once lived, and Piano is the modern part of the city.
What is Matera known for?
Matera is famous for its sassi - cave dwellings carved directly into the rock face of the Gravina canyon. These are not ruins. They are still standing, still intact, and many are now hotels, restaurants, and wine bars.
Matera was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993 and served as a European Capital of Culture in 2019. It is also one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with cave settlements dating back nearly 10,000 years.
It has also served as a film set for some of the most famous movies ever made - more on that below.
How old is Matera?
The city's history dates back over 10,000 years, making it one of Italy's oldest settlements and possibly one of the world's oldest. The caves date back to the Paleolithic period. Matera's transformation from a national disgrace to a European Capital of Culture in 2019 is a testament to the enduring spirit of its inhabitants.
How many days do you need in Matera?
I recommend 2-3 days to see the old city. I stayed 2 nights July 2023 and thought it was the perfect amount of days. However, I would have rather went in April or October because it was very hot.
How to Get to Matera
By Car
Driving is the easiest way to reach Matera. From Bari take the SS96 and SS99 (about 65 km). From Naples, use the A3 and E847. From Rome, take the E45. Car rentals are available in all major nearby cities - I recommend booking in advance through Discover Cars.
By Train
Matera does not have a direct high-speed train connection. The easiest route is to take Trenitalia to Bari, then transfer to the Ferrovie Appulo Lucane local line directly into Matera. The full journey from Rome takes about 4 to 5 hours.
By Bus
Flixbus runs regular routes from Rome, Naples, and Bari. I traveled by bus from Bari, it took about 1 hour. One note: I ended up walking 30 minutes into the old town from the bus stop because taxis were not available. Budget extra time for this.
By Plane
The closest airport is Bari Palese Airport (BRI), about 60 km away. From there you can rent a car, take a taxi, or connect by bus. Naples Airport is further but also an option if you are combining a trip to the Amalfi Coast.
Car Rentals:
If you are planning on renting a car in Bolzano, it is important to do your research beforehand. There are several rental companies that offer competitive rates and good customer service. I recommend this car rental service.
Get more italy travel tips
22 Unmissable Things to Do in Matera:
1.Discover Matera's history at Casa Noha and Museo Laboratorio della Civilta Contadina.
Casa Noha is a collection of 13th-century houses that have been painstakingly restored. Wander through the ancient dwellings and discover how people lived centuries ago. The Museo Laboratorio della Civilta Contadina provides insight into Matera's rural culture, with artifacts from the 19th and 20th century on display.
2.Wander along Matera's main road, Via del Corso, for shops and restaurants.
Matera's main road, Via del Corso, is a great place to explore and find souvenirs or pick up local delicacies. This busy thoroughfare is lined with shops, restaurants, and bars for the perfect combination of sightseeing and relaxation.
3.Explore Matera's caves on a guided tour.
Climb through Matera's cave dwellings and delve into its history on a guided tour. The knowledgeable guides provide insight into the city's culture and lifestyle, as well as its socio-economic challenges.
This is the exact tour that I went on: Sassi di Matera.
It was around 1 and a half hours and the tour guide was great! We got to see some of the 10,000 year old caves.
4.Explore the unique rock churches like Santa Maria de Idris and San Pietro Barisano.
Matera's impressive rock churches are must-sees on any visit. The Santa Maria de Idris and San Pietro Barisano were carved directly into the landscape to create spaces of worship for Matera's residents. Step inside these awe-inspiring structures and appreciate their intricate details.
5.Experience the awe-inspiring Cava Del Sole, an old abandoned quarry.
A visit to Matera is incomplete without a trip to the Cava Del Sole. This old abandoned quarry, located in the Barisano district, showcases stunning natural formations and provides an immersive experience of nature's power.
6.Get drinks at Zipa Cafe
Zipa Cafe is an eclectic bar located in the ancient sassi district. Enjoy drinks and snacks while you soak up the atmosphere of this unique spot. The bar also hosts regular events such as music performances and art exhibitions.
7.Marvel at the Palombaro Lungo cisterns, a unique water collection system.
The Palombaro Lungo cisterns are located in the Sasso Caveoso district. These ancient reservoirs were ingeniously built to collect water from nearby springs and provided Matera's residents with a reliable source of water for centuries.
*I HIGHLY recommend seeing this. It costs 3 euros, you only need 20 minutes to go through it. I thought it was so beautiful.
8.Enjoy a traditional meal at one of Matera's trattorias or ristorantes.
Matera is renowned for its traditional cuisine. Sample the city's specialties such as their famous orecchiette pasta dish and Materano ham at one of the restaurants in the historic center.
9.Find your favorite viewpoint, such as Belvedere Piazzetta Pascoli or Belvedere Luigi Gurrigghio.
Matera's viewpoint offer some of the best views of the city and its surroundings. Take in the breathtaking panoramic vistas from Belvedere Piazzetta Pascoli or Belvedere Luigi Gurrigghio and get lost in a moment of awe-inspiring beauty.
10.Tour Matera's underground aquarium, Grotte di Santa Maria de Idris.
The Grotte di Santa Maria de Idris is a unique underground aquarium located in the sassi district. Here, you can explore an array of fascinating marine life from squids and jellyfish to colorful coral reefs.
11.Visit the archaeological site of Matera with its ancient tombs
The archaeological site of Matera is home to ancient tombs, stone tools, and other artifacts that date back thousands of years. Uncover the secrets of this remarkable city on a guided tour with an experienced guide or explore independently at your own pace.
12.Climb the Duomo Tower for a bird's-eye view of the gorge.
Matera's Cathedral, known as Il Duomo, is the Cattedrale di Maria Santissima della Bruna e Sant'Eustachio. Located at the highest point in the old city, on a ridge between the two sassi, it was constructed in the 13th century. The cathedral's bell tower gracefully dominates the Matera skyline.
The Romanesque exterior of the cathedral is elegantly simple, showcasing a stunning rose window. Centuries later, intricate interior decorations were added, featuring lavish golden accents and captivating ceiling frescoes. Access to this architectural marvel is available at a nominal fee of €1.
Should you find yourself in need of refreshment or a moment of respite, the Duomo Café on the piazza offers a surprisingly affordable experience, given its picturesque surroundings.
13. Visit Casa Grotta
This was an old house that people in the 1950's were inhabiting. It was around 7 euros per person and you got to see the conditions in which the people lived in.
The cave was home to an entire family, consisting of about six members, along with mules, chickens, and pigs. Within these one-room museums, you can marvel at the furniture, tools, and artifacts from that time, providing a captivating glimpse into life in the sassi. Pairing this experience with the film at Casa Noha enhances the understanding of this unique lifestyle.
While Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario, conveniently situated near the cave church Santa Maria di Idris in Sasso Caveoso, remains a popular choice among visitors, it tends to get crowded with tour groups. During our last visit, we discovered a quieter yet equally fascinating gem: Casa Grotta C'era Una Volta in Sasso Barisano.
14.Visit Matera's churches, such as San Giovanni Battista and San Francesco d'Assisi.
Matera is home to several grand churches that reflect its rich history. Explore the ornate churches such as San Giovanni Battista and San Francesco d'Assisi, both of which contain stunning works of art.
15.Hike along the Gorge in the Parco Regionale della Murgia Materana.
The Parco Regionale della Murgia Materana is a protected nature reserve in the Murge region. Take a hike along the Gorge and enjoy stunning views of the landscape as you make your way through this unique area.
16.Explore the Rupestrian Churches in Murgia Materana Park with a local guide.
Take a guided tour through the Rupestrian Churches in Murgia Materana Park. Learn about the history and stories that accompany these ancient structures, as well as their unique features such as frescoes and carvings on the walls.
17.Visit the Crypt of the Original Sin, also known as the "Sistine Chapel of Rupestrian Churches."
The Crypt of the Original Sin is a treasure trove of religious artifacts from centuries ago. Explore this fascinating structure, also known as the "Sistine Chapel of Rupestrian Churches" and admire its intricate details.
18.Immerse yourself in art at MUSMA, the Museum of Contemporary Sculpture.
MUSMA, the Museum of Contemporary Sculpture is a must-visit when in Matera. Explore the museum's vast collection of modern and contemporary sculptures from artists around the world.
19.Dine at local eateries like Trattoria del Caveoso and Dimora Ulmo.
Indulge in the city's delicious cuisine at local eateries such as Trattoria del Caveoso and Dimora Ulmo. Try traditional dishes like Senise peppers and Caciocavallo cheese, or pick up local delicacies to take home with you.
20.Indulge in gelato at I Vizi degli Angeli, a colorful and quirky gelateria.
Experience the flavors of Matera's gelato culture at I Vizi degli Angeli, a colorful and quirky gelateria. Sample delicious handmade ice cream in unique flavors like fig or almond, as well as classic favorites such as chocolate and strawberry.
21.Experience the Festa della Bruna, Matera's vibrant patron saint celebration.
Matera's Festa della Bruna is an annual celebration in honor of the city's patron saint. During this weeklong event, locals and visitors alike come together to enjoy parades, religious processions, games, and delicious food.
22.See how they would make olive-oil
MOOM, the Matera Olive Oil Museum, is a cool family-run museum located in an underground oil mill that dates back to the 15th century. Here, you can check out how olive oil used to be made, not for eating but as lamp oil.
Inside, there's a stable where two hardworking donkeys operated a circular stone mill to crush the olives into a paste. This paste was then put into woven bags and placed under massive wooden presses to extract the oil.
Imagine, these workers labored tirelessly 24/7 during the olive harvest season, catching just a few hours of sleep between shifts. Talk about dedication!
After the tour, don't miss out on a tasting of the owner's delicious olive oil, made on their farm just outside Matera. And if you're interested, prices for purchasing some are pretty reasonable too.
Tours in Matera
Where to Stay in Matera ⭐
My strong recommendation is to stay inside the sassi if your budget allows. Waking up inside a cave hotel, with the canyon spreading out below you, is one of the most memorable experiences you can have in Italy. The stairs and cobblestones are steep - pack light and wear shoes with grip.
If the stairs are not practical for you, there are excellent modern hotels in the Piano (new town) that are still close to everything.
Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita (Luxury)
The most celebrated cave hotel in Matera and one of the most remarkable hotels in all of Italy. Rooms are carved directly into the rock with original stone walls, candlelight-style lighting, and an atmosphere that is genuinely otherworldly. The hotel is minimalist by design - bare stone, handmade furnishings, and silence. It is expensive, and it is worth every euro.
👉 Book here: https://www.booking.com/hotel/it/sextantio-le-grotte-della-civita.html
Palazzo Viceconte (Luxury)
A beautifully restored 17th-century palazzo in the Civita district with elegant rooms, a rooftop terrace with panoramic views, and attentive service. It has the feel of a private noble residence. The terrace breakfast with views over the canyon is spectacular.
👉 Book here: https://www.booking.com/hotel/it/palazzo-viceconte.html
Locanda di San Martino (Mid-range)
A charming cave hotel with a rooftop pool, unusual in Matera. Rooms are carved into the tuff rock with warm lighting and comfortable modern furnishings. The pool terrace at sunset is one of the best spots in the city. Excellent value for the location and character.
👉 Book here: https://www.booking.com/hotel/it/locanda-di-san-martino.html
Hotel in Pietra (Mid-range)
A stylish cave hotel in Sasso Caveoso with beautifully designed rooms and a genuine sassi atmosphere. It is smaller and more intimate than some of the larger hotels. Staff are helpful and genuinely knowledgeable about the city.
👉 Book here: https://booking.stay22.com/savoringitalyllc/fpyJVHY5sZ
La Corte dei Pastori (Budget)
A simple, affordable guesthouse in the heart of the sassi district. Rooms are clean and basic. The location puts you right inside the old city, and the owners are friendly and helpful with recommendations. A solid base for budget travelers.
👉 Book here: https://www.booking.com/hotel/it/la-corte-dei-pastori.html
Best restaurants in Matera
When it comes to dining here are some restaurants:
- Regional specialities
- Trattoria del Caveoso
- La Nicchia nel Sasso
- La Lopa
- Tipicamente Matera
- Taverna La Focagna
- For a gourmet experience
- Dimora Ulmo (BEST RESTAURANT)
- Vitantonio Lombardo
- Best Gelato
- I Vizi degli Angeli - Gelateria Artigianale
Best bars and nightlife in Matera
Some of my favorite spots are:
- Zipa Cafe
- Area 8
- Charlie's Speakeasy
History of Matera
Matera's caves were inhabited nearly 10,000 years ago, dating back to pre-Neolithic times. The region's dry climate prompted early settlers to build sophisticated cistern systems to collect water - an engineering feat that still impresses today.
Rome conquered Matera in the 3rd century BC. The Byzantine-era Basilica di San Giovanni Battista was built during the reign of Justinian and still stands. During the Middle Ages, Matera changed hands repeatedly before becoming part of the Kingdom of Naples in the 14th century.
By the 20th century, conditions in the sassi had deteriorated badly. Author Carlo Levi's 1945 book "Christ Stopped at Eboli" brought national attention to the poverty there. In 1954, the Italian government evacuated thousands of residents to new housing. The sassi were largely abandoned.
The 1980s brought restoration funding and a slow revival. In 1993 Matera became a UNESCO World Heritage Site. By 2019 it was named a European Capital of Culture. Today the same cave dwellings that were once a national disgrace house luxury hotels, art museums, and world-class restaurants.
Matera Travel Tips
- Wear comfortable shoes. The sassi are paved with ancient stone steps and uneven cobbles. Flip flops will not work. I would also recommend checking my full Italy packing list before you go - it covers southern Italy well.
- Visit early or late. The sassi get crowded midday in summer. Early morning light on the stone is beautiful and the streets are quiet. Check my Italy travel tips for general advice that applies across the country.
- Book your cave hotel in advance. The best rooms at Sextantio and Locanda di San Martino fill up months ahead in peak season.
- Carry cash. Many small restaurants and museums in the sassi prefer cash. Have euros on hand.
- Combine with Bari. Matera and Bari are only 65 km apart. The two cities pair beautifully as a 4 to 5 day southern Italy base.Plan the wider region. If you are in southern Italy for longer, Puglia is just across the regional border. Alberobello, Lecce, and the
Weather in Matera and the Best Time to Visit
Matera enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and warm summers. Here's a monthly breakdown of temperatures:
- January: 36°F (2°C) - 48°F (9°C)
- April: 43°F (6°C) - 61°F (16°C)
- July: 63°F (17°C) - 86°F (30°C)
- October: 50°F (10°C) - 66°F (19°C)
The best time to visit Matera is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is pleasant for exploration. Avoid the scorching summer months of July and August, as temperatures can be uncomfortably high. I was recently there in the middle of July, and it was unbearably hot. I would much rather go in October.
Visiting Matera with Your Partner
Matera's enchanting atmosphere makes it an ideal destination for couples. Wander through the city's romantic alleys, share a meal at a charming local restaurant, and enjoy breathtaking sunset views. Stay in luxurious cave hotels and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Visiting Matera with Kids
Matera works well with older children who can handle uneven stone terrain. Kids tend to love the cave houses, the underground cisterns, and the olive oil museum. The Sassi in Miniatura model and Vico Solitario Museum are also good stops. Bring comfortable walking shoes for everyone and plan for slower movement than you would do solo.
Events in Matera
Matera hosts various events throughout the year, but the standout is the Festa della Bruna, celebrating the city's patron saint each July 2nd. The event features illuminated alleyways, parades, and a mesmerizing fireworks display.
Movies Filmed in Matera
Matera's captivating sassi have provided the backdrop for several notable films, including "The Passion of the Christ," "Ben Hur," and "No Time To Die." Walking through the city, you may recognize scenes from these cinematic masterpieces. Some more movies are:
- "The Nativity Story"
- Medici: Masters of Florence"
- "Wonder Woman 1984"
- "Troy"
- "Clash of the Titans"
- "The Odyssey"
- "Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves"
More FAQ'S
In the summer it get very HOT and dry. It is located in the south of Italy so expect the winter to be cold, but not freezing.
Yes! Matera is a very safe city.
100% yes. If you have interest in history and are planning to travel in the south of Italy, I recommend going.
It is the third oldest city in the world, after Aleppo and Jericho, with over 10,000 years of history.
Yes, there are Italians that still live there as well as hotels and Airbnbs that have been converted into modern cave homes. The ancient caves outside the main center are uninhabited.
More Southern Italy Guides
- Things to Do in Bari - the gateway city for Matera and southern Puglia
- 7-Day Puglia Itinerary - the perfect complement to a Matera trip
- Best Things to Do in Puglia - top 15 highlights across the region
- Alberobello, Puglia - the UNESCO trulli village just over the Basilicata border
- Amalfi Coast Travel Guide - extend your southern Italy trip with the coast
- How to Plan a Trip to Italy - a step-by-step planning guide for first-timers and return visitors
