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Matera, Italy

Destination Guide

Matera

Italy

Best things to do in Matera

22 curated attractions in Matera, Italy. Handpicked for every kind of traveler.

Best time

April - June, September - October

Average temp

17°C/63°F

Budget

Mid-range

Safety

Very safe

About Matera

Matera is an ancient city in southern Italy, known for its Sassi, a complex of cave dwellings carved into limestone that date back thousands of years. This unique architecture creates a visual, with homes and churches literally built into the rock face, observable from various vantage points. The city's history has shaped not just its buildings but also its culture, attracting artists and tourists drawn to its cinematic qualities, often serving as a backdrop for films. Despite its historical significance and scenery, many visitors come primarily for the Crypt of Original Sin, which houses frescoes that showcase the area's religious heritage and artistry, making it a central point of interest in the city.

Who it's for

Perfect for history buffs and anyone intrigued by unique architectural landscapes. Those seeking modern public transport options might find themselves disappointed, as the local system is not reliable, and the hills might be a challenge for some. If you prefer a city life with amenities at your fingertips, this probably isn't your ideal destination.

Getting around

Public transport: Poor

  • The Sassi area is best explored on foot, which can take a couple of hours if you want to see everything
  • There are limited local buses, but they're not timed well, so walking is generally the better option
  • Matera is about a 90-minute drive from Bari, where the nearest airport is located
  • Parking near the Sassi can be tricky, so plan accordingly
Palazzo Viceconte

Palazzo Viceconte

Historic houses & mansions
Palazzo Lanfranchi

Palazzo Lanfranchi

Art museums & galleries
Palombaro Lungo

Palombaro Lungo

Caves & cenotes
Piazzetta Pascoli

Piazzetta Pascoli

Cultural & Heritage Sites
Museum of Contemporary Sculpture Matera

Museum of Contemporary Sculpture Matera

Art museums & galleries
Piazza San Pietro Caveoso

Piazza San Pietro Caveoso

Historical Attractions
Parco della Murgia Materana

Parco della Murgia Materana

National parks & nature reserves
Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario

Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario

Historic houses & mansions
Sassi di Matera

Sassi di Matera

Ancient ruins & archaeological sites
Casa Noha

Casa Noha

Historic houses & mansions
Museum of Musical Instruments of Basilicata

Museum of Musical Instruments of Basilicata

Specialty & quirky museums
Convento di Sant'Agostino

Convento di Sant'Agostino

Monasteries
Belvedere Luigi Guerricchio

Belvedere Luigi Guerricchio

Arts and Entertainment Venues
Belvedere di Piazza Giovanni Pascoli

Belvedere di Piazza Giovanni Pascoli

Cultural & Heritage Sites
Church of San Giovanni Battista

Church of San Giovanni Battista

Churches & cathedrals
Belvedere Murgia Timone

Belvedere Murgia Timone

Natural Wonders
Matera Cathedral (Cattedrale di Matera)

Matera Cathedral (Cattedrale di Matera)

Churches & cathedrals
Church of Santa Maria de Idris

Church of Santa Maria de Idris

Churches & cathedrals
Chiesa del Purgatorio

Chiesa del Purgatorio

Churches & cathedrals
Materasum Ipogeo

Materasum Ipogeo

Caves & cenotes
Crypt of Original Sin (Cripta del Peccato Originale)

Crypt of Original Sin (Cripta del Peccato Originale)

Caves & cenotes
Tramontano Castle

Tramontano Castle

Castles & palaces

Where to eat in Matera

The places worth planning a meal around.

I Vizi Degli Angeli

I Vizi Degli Angeli

Italian · $$

★ 4.6 · 1,681 reviews

Piu Sud

Piu Sud

Italian · $$

★ 4.5 · 1,380 reviews

Crialoss

Crialoss

Italian · $$

★ 4.6 · 679 reviews

zipa cafè

zipa cafè

Italian, Café · $5–$15

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