Things To Do
in Matera
Matera is a dramatic city carved into ancient stone, famous for its Sassi cave dwellings that cling to the cliffs. The historic center winds through a labyrinth of stairways, churches carved into rock, and sunlit piazzas that reveal layers of history. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the city blends millennia of life with a vibrant, modern culture.
Visitors can wander the rocky lanes, catch sunset over the ravine, and savor Lucanian cuisine in atmospheric eateries.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your adventure by wandering through the ancient cave dwellings of Sassi, a UNESCO World Heritage site. As you stroll through the narrow alleyways, take in the breathtaking views of the rock formations and the Murgia Park. Stop by a local café for a traditional Italian breakfast of cornetto and cappuccino.
Visit the Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario, a cave house museum that provides insight into the history and culture of Matera's inhabitants. Afterward, indulge in a leisurely lunch at a trattoria, savoring homemade pasta dishes inspired by local ingredients. Spend the afternoon visiting the stunning rock churches, adorned with Byzantine frescoes.
As the sun sets, enjoy a stroll through the illuminated streets of Sassi, where the dramatic lighting enhances the ancient stones. Treat yourself to dinner at a scenic rooftop restaurant, tasting local wines and dishes like orecchiette with crumbled pork sausage. End the evening with a gelato in hand, taking in the enchanting atmosphere of this magical city.
Begin with a visit to the Museo Nazionale Ridola, where you can explore the extensive archaeological collections showcasing the region's history. Spend time appreciating the ancient artifacts and the evolution of Matera's unique cave dwellings. Afterward, enjoy breakfast at a local bakery with some fresh pastries.
Spend the afternoon at the Palombaro Lungo, a vast underground cistern that showcases Matera's engineering marvels. Take part in a guided tour to learn more about its significance to the city's water supply. Afterward, unwind at a nearby café, soaking in the local vibe.
Attend a traditional cooking class, where you'll learn to prepare favorite regional dishes with a local chef. After your culinary experience, sit down to taste the fruits of your labor, complemented by freshly made wine. Conclude your evening by witnessing a live music performance at a local venue.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🍝Dinner for two (mid-range restaurant) | $30-60 |
| 🏨Hotel room per night (budget to mid-range) | $60-140 |
| 🚎Public transit or local transport | $1-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical heritage and dramatic cave-dwelling architecture
- Compact, walkable center with atmospheric streets and excellent food
- Hilly terrain with many stairs; can be tiring for some visitors
- Nightlife is quieter than in bigger cities; peak-season crowds can be intense
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Dov'è il bagno?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Matera
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic overlook of the Sassi di Matera with the Gravina gorge and sunlit stone architecture.
Exterior views of a preserved cave dwelling that illustrates traditional life.
Panoramic cityscape from the cathedral square, with vantage points over the Sassi.
Rock-cut churches offering dramatic lighting, textures, and history.
Food in Matera
Matera Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crusty, porous bread baked in wood-fired ovens, perfect with olive oil and local cheeses.
Must-Try!
Small pasta dumplings tossed in bright tomato sauce with garlic and chili.
Flat, elongated pasta often served with tomato sauce, pecorino, and olive oil.
Slow-cooked lamb with dried peppers (cruschi) for a smoky, sweet-spicy note.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Daily market offering seasonal produce, bread, cheeses, and olives; a great place to sample everyday Italian street fare.
Casual stalls offering fried gnocchi, crocchè (potato croquettes), and roasted peppers.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Use Buongiorno or Ciao with a handshake or light kiss among friends; polite conversation is valued.
Dress modestly in religious sites; shoulders and knees should be covered inside churches.
Take time for meals and conversations; Italian culture appreciates warmth and hospitality.
Safety
Tipping in Matera
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is often included in the bill; if not, rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is common practice.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common; some small venues may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm, dry days; plan early morning or late afternoon activities, wear sun protection, and stay hydrated; some sites may have midday closures during peak heat.
Pleasant temperatures with fewer crowds; ideal for walking tours and hillside trails; occasional rain is possible.
Mild but chilly; cooler evenings; some outdoor sites may have limited hours; enjoy hearty regional dishes in warm trattorias.
Moderate temperatures and blooming landscapes; optimal for photography and outdoor exploration.
Matera at Night
Hiking in Matera
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Rugged paths along the Gravina gorge with viewpoints and rupestrian sites.
Plateau hikes offering sweeping views of Matera and ancient cave sites.
Airports
How to reach Matera by plane.
Major international gateway for the region; approximately 60–70 minutes by car to Matera.
Smaller international airport serving regional and some international flights; roughly a 2-hour drive to Matera depending on traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A growing audience drawn to the Sassi, architecture, and culture.
People with strong ties to agriculture, tradition, and regional crafts.
Academic presence in nearby universities brings a youthful element.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region; local matches and clubs are a common weekend activity.
Hilly routes around Basilicata attract cyclists; scenic rides into the countryside are popular.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Matera.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Matera you can enjoy pasta, vegetables, cheeses, and bread; request tomato- or olive oil-based sauces and grilled vegetables; avoid heavy meat stocks and opt for vegetarian pasta dishes.