Matera, Italy is not only the oldest town in Italy, but also one of the oldest towns in the world. There is evidence of human habitation dating back over 10,000 years. The most famous aspect of Matera, the sassi (or cave dwellings) have brought both shame and tourism to the city.
Poverty and disease swept through the sassi, and the Italian government relocated the cave inhabitants to more modern housing between 1952 and the 1970s. Luckily for us, the sassi were restored and now house beautiful restaurants, boutique hotels, and even art museums. This UNESCO World Heritage site is the perfect destination for authentic Italian culture, rich history, and stunning views everywhere you look!
Getting to Matera
If you are flying into Italy, you will likely arrive in Bari, which is the closest airport to Matera. From Bari, you can take a train, bus, or rent a car to reach Matera. If you are traveling from within Italy, there are train and bus connections from major cities like Rome and Naples as well.
Parking in Matera
If you’re arriving by car, it’s important to note that the historic center is closed to cars for most of the day. Depending on when you arrive, you may be able to unload your luggage near your hotel before parking elsewhere. However, it’s easiest to head straight to a parking lot in the modern city. There are options for street parking, or 3 main parking lots where you can park for the duration of your stay.
Where to Stay
No trip to Matera is complete without a night in a cave hotel. The Sassi di Matera is full of beautiful, boutique hotels that provide the unique cave-dwelling experience with all of the modern day amenities. Though this may sound like an expensive option, we came across many beautiful, affordable options. Many of the hotel options also offer complimentary breakfast. Our hotel had a stunning view of the cave church, and parts of our room were untouched cave that could be lit up at night to create an unmatched ambiance. You can find our exact stay here.
How Long to Stay
Matera is easily seen in one day. That said, I would recommend spending one night here so that you can see the town transform over a full 24-hour period. This will allow you to experience Matera in a different light (literally).
What to See
Churches
There are 3 main churches in Matera worth visiting. The first and most famous is the Santa Maria di Idris, or the cave church. The second is the Cattedrale di Matera, located above the Sassi, with stunning views. Finally, there is the Chiesa di San Francesco d’Assisi, which is in the modern town.
The style and architecture of these 3 buildings could not be more different. The first and third options are free to enter, but there is a small fee for entry to the cave church. If you only have interest in visiting one, I recommend visiting the cave church for an incredibly unique experience. You will be amazed by the centuries-old paintings and carvings that still decorate the walls. You will also have beautiful views of the entire Sassi below the cave church. Be sure to cover your shoulders and wear sensible shoes for the walk up.
A Traditional Cave Home
See how people lived as recently as forty years ago in Matera. The cave is set up to represent a real family dwelling, complete with furniture and an audio-guide for information.
The Sassi from Various Vantage Points
The Fontana Dell’Amore Statues are located at a beautiful vantage point with an incredible view of the rock church. Hike up here for a special sunset view.
The rock church itself sits high above Matera and has an incredible view of the city below. It’s beautiful at all times of day, but the city especially glows in the golden evening light.
Crialoss Bistro allows you to view the city below while enjoying an aperitivo or delicious meal. If you plan to dine here, I recommend booking in advance.
Via Madonna delle Virtù wraps all the way around Matera, with beautiful views of the surrounding gorge and mountains. From here, you’ll also have the best view of Piazza San Pietro Caveoso. The juxtaposition between the old cave dwellings and the newly revived Sassi is incredible!
Where to Eat
Ristorante Francesca
This delicious restaurant is located near the Piazza San Pietro Caveoso. The ambiance is fantastic and the food is incredible. We each ate a pasta dish, and we shared some local bread and another Basilicata delicacy – pepperoni cruschi.
Trattoria del Caveoso
As the name suggests, this restaurant is located in a cave but also has a beautiful outdoor patio. They serve delicious lunch and dinner made with local ingredients made in Matera and neighboring Puglia.
Crialoss Bistro
A perfect spot for an aperitivo! If you plan to visit at or near sunset, I recommend making a reservation beforehand.
Charlie’s Speakeasy
This popular spot is located in the new, modern part of Matera. It’s very cute and a lively spot for a drink after the sun goes down!
Buon Viaggio!
