Visiting Matera: Things to Do in the City of Caves

Among the rugged landscapes of southern Italy, Matera has a history as extraordinary as its scenery. When I visited Puglia, Matera was a bucket list place I knew I had to visit for a day trip as it was so close.

Known for its ancient cave dwellings in the Sassi di Matera, it is one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities. Matera has roots in the Paleolithic era as one of the oldest human settlements. I had the chance to spend a full day exploring all the beauty in Matera.

Visiting Matera felt like stepping into another world — the sheer beauty and intricacy in the cave dwellings blew me away. As I wandered through the winding streets of the ancient Sassi district, I was amazed at the unique homes and churches carved directly into the rocky cliffs. You could feel the city’s history, stretching back thousands of years throughout Matera.

A Short History of Matera

Despite its reputation in recent years as a World Heritage Site and Capital of Culture, Matera’s past has seen a rise and fall. With a revival to become the sought-after destination it is today, its history has a lot to it.

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993, Matera previously suffered poverty and neglect in the mid-20th century, earning the nickname “the shame of Italy.” As a result, the Italian Government relocated residents experiencing dire living conditions within the caves in the 1950s.

It wasn’t until the 1970s and 80s that the revival of Matera began, transforming it into the vibrant and beautiful destination that earned it recognition as the European Capital of Culture in 2019. Now, visitors can experience a thriving dining scene, boutique hotels, and an ancient history reserved for just a handful of places across the globe.

So If you’re visiting Italy, I can’t recommend making the effort to visit this ancient city. Located in Basilicata, Matera can be easily paired with an itinerary in Puglia as a day trip from Bari or Alberobello, or stay a little longer and spend the night in a cave hotel.

This guide covers everything to help you make the most of your time in Matera.

Is It Worth Going to Matera, Italy?

Matera’s rich history, cultural significance, and unique architectural approach make it a worthwhile destination in Italy. As one of the oldest cities in the world, Matera earned the title of European Capital of Culture in 2019 and its fascinating history is reason enough to visit. Paired with the incredible views across the Sassi, this distinctive city is the ideal destination to add to your itinerary in Puglia.

Short on Time? Here Are My Top Picks for the Best Hotels, Things to Do, and Tours for Visiting Matera:

Hotels

1. Sant’Angelo, for the best view
2. Sextantio Le Grotte Della Civita, for the best luxury hotel
3. Palazzotto Residence&Winery, for the best overall cave hotel
4. La Suite Matera Hotel & Spa, for the best contemporary hotel

Things to Do

1. Visit Casa Noha
2. Take an “Ape” (Tuk Tuk) Tour of the City
3. In-Depth Tour of the Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano Districts
4. Guided Tour of Historic Center, Sassi Rock Churches, and Cave House

Day Trip Tours

1. Half-day Tour from Bari Small Group
2. Private Half-day Tour from Most of Puglia

If you’re planning a trip to Puglia, don’t miss my 7 to 10 day Puglia itinerary, guide to the best towns to base yourself, and guides to Monopoli, Ostuni, Alberobello, Martina Franca, and Polignano a Mare!

Travel Tip: The best way to explore Puglia is by driving yourself. We use Discover Cars for our rental cars in Europe, choose full coverage insurance, and opt for trusted companies like Alamo, Hertz, or Sixt. Renting a car in Italy is quite easy, and while driving in Puglia can feel hectic, road-tripping there still felt manageable with a little extra caution (For more, read my guide to renting a car in Puglia). Book your car with Discover Cars here.

Matera, Italy Guide

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What to Know Before You Visit Matera

How to Get to Matera

By Bus

There are several bus companies operating routes between destinations across Puglia and further afield in Italy, such as Naples and Rome. Itabus offers connections to numerous destinations to and from Matera including Bari, Caserta, Brindisi, Napoli, Cosenza, and Lecce. You can book tickets online and I recommend you do this as they often sell out, especially in the peak summer months.

By Car

Matera is best reached by car. Just a 45-minute drive from Bari, follow the SS96 past Altamura and follow the exit towards Matera. Most of the Sassi is a ZTL area, so you won’t be able to drive there. There are several free and paid parking lots in Matera, but for the closest options to the Sassi, I’d recommend Parcheggio park scotellaro or Nicoletti Parking. I have a detailed guide about hiring a car and driving in Puglia which can give you more details on preparing to drive in this region of Italy. 

Rental Car Tip: We use Discover Cars for our rental cars in Europe, choose full coverage insurance, and opt for trusted companies like Alamo, Hertz, or Sixt.

By Tour

You can also choose to join a day tour that makes traveling to and from Matera convenient, with the added benefit of having a guide. Most tours depart from Bari, and some also include a visit to Alberobello. My top recommended tours from Bari are:

• Half-day Tour from Bari Small Group
• Private Half-day Tour from Most of Puglia

The Best Way to Get Around Matera

The historic areas of Matera, known as the Sassi, are made up of two parts, Sassi Barisano and Sassi Caveoso. This is where most of the sites you’ll want to visit are centered, so it’s best to get around on foot. Matera is hilly and the old stone paths are uneven, so I recommend wearing comfortable shoes with some grip such as sneakers. 

Travel Tip: Feeling like you need a break off your feet? I’d book in one of these “Ape” Tours or TukTuk tours to see the city on wheels. If that one is sold out, this is another option for an Ape tour.

How Many Days Do You Need in Matera?

I visited Matera on a day trip and it was enough to see the highlights of the town. However, I’d recommend staying at least one night so you can enjoy the unique cave hotel accommodation that Matera is famous for. It also means you can make the most of the town in the morning and evening outside of the day trippers and tour groups that visit throughout the day.

When to Visit Matera

Matera is located inland and gets very hot during summer. On the other hand, it has been known to snow some winters, though it isn’t common. Summer is also the peak travel period and it can become quite busy during the middle of the day. Instead, I’d recommend you visit in spring or early autumn when temperatures are comfortable for walking around during the day and crowds aren’t too bad.

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Where to Stay in Matera

Nothing can beat the experience of staying in a cave hotel in Matera, I am remiss that on this trip we had to cancel our two nights at Sextantio Le Grotte Della Civita. It’s in my opinion, a bucket list experience while in the region, so I would make the effort to stay overnight.

The best place to experience a cave hotel is the Sassi, where many of the former ancient cave dwellings have been renovated to incorporate traditional features with modern convenience and comfort. Cave hotels range from affordable choices to high-end luxury stays and offer a unique way to experience this historic region of Italy.

Best Cave Hotels in Matera

1. Sextantio Le Grotte Della Civita — With a panoramic terrace that overlooks the Murgia National Park, this cave hotel combines modern comfort with a centuries-old aesthetic. A unique opportunity is available to book an exclusive dinner in the property’s former church by request.
2. Palazzotto Residence&Winery — Just a five-minute walk from the historic center in Sasso Barisano, this beautiful cave hotel has been created from traditional cave dwellings. Perfect for a romantic getaway, you can indulge in massages, wellness treatments, and wine tastings. 
3. Palazzo Degli Abati — Offering a mixture of cave and spacious standard-style rooms, the standout feature is the view from the hotel bar and restaurant overlooking the Sassi and Matera Cathedral. Be sure to book in for a drink at sunset on the terrace.
4. Cenobio Hotel & SPA — Offering a variety of spaces from double rooms to those with terraces, hot tubs, or even family rooms. There is a focus on wellness and a spa onsite for guests who want to unwind and relax during their stay.
5. Palazzo Del Duca Hotel & Restaurant — Large rooms that have been beautifully renovated to maintain traditional touches throughout. Some rooms include a hot tub or terrace, making this a great choice for couples. 
6. Sant’Angelo — A five-star stay with great restaurants onsite, including Regiacorte which has a terrace with views of Piazza San Pietro Caveoso. Rooms are usually renovated in a traditional style. They have fewer cave features than other hotels nearby. However, they still use the cave network for guest spaces.

Best Hotels and Holiday Rentals in Matera

If a cave hotel isn’t on your bucket list, then there is a selection of great traditional hotels and holiday rentals in Matera to choose from.

1. Alvino Relais Mulino Contemporaneo — Located outside of the historic center, this resort has a garden, seasonal outdoor pool, spa, and onsite restaurant. It’s a great choice if you’d prefer not to stay in the historic center and are looking for a hotel with parking.
2. La Suite Matera Hotel & Spa — With an air of relaxed elegance, this modern hotel exudes a sense of luxury just on the edge of the Sassi. Rooms are spacious, the hotel offers great views, and there is parking available on-site.
3. Palazzotto Morelli — A budget-friendly two-bedroom apartment just steps from the historic center. With a sunny terrace and a fully equipped kitchen, it’s perfect for self-catering too.
4. Apartments for You 2 — A renovated three-bedroom property that is great for families or groups. Located just outside the Sassi, it’s within walking distance of the major sights in Matera.

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Things to Do in Matera

Casa Noha

Casa Noha is a must-visit if you want to understand the history of Matera. Housed in an old cave dwelling, a 25-minute multimedia exhibition set throughout several rooms takes visitors through the history of Matera, from its rise to popularity in the Renaissance before being abandoned in the 20th century.

Covering the restoration of the city and its now iconic position as a city of culture, the exhibition provides insight into the unique history of Matera, the Sassi, and the city’s inhabitants. It’s a great place to start to appreciate the city as you walk around. 

Wander Through the Sassi di Matera

The best way to see the Sassi di Matera is to wander around on foot. The streets of the historic center weave around the hilly landscape where centuries-old dwellings have been carved into the rock to create a network of cave houses (casa grotta). Since the town’s revival began in the 1970s and 1980s, many of these dwellings have been converted into hotels, restaurants, or shops to make the most of the city’s unique architectural style. For a bit of an adventure back in time, make your way to Palombaro Lungo, and explore the subterranean cistern carved from the rock directly below Piazza Vittorio Veneto.

Stay in a Cave Hotel

There aren’t a lot of places you can spend the night in a cave in comfort, but Matera is one. I recommend booking a night at a cave hotel in one of the Sassi to experience the magic of Matera. From budget-friendly stays to luxury hotels, there is plenty of choice when it comes to selecting the right cave hotel for your stay. I’ve recommended my top choices earlier in the guide if you plan on staying overnight.

Go Hiking Across the Ravine

Just across from the Sassi is Parco della Murgina Materana, which includes a 7,000-year-old collection of caves carved into the hillside. For the outdoorsy traveler, this is a great way to get a glimpse at the historical caves long before they were the modern homestays of the Sassi today. 

Head across the suspension bridge and follow one of the paths that crisscross their way across the hill as you climb to the top. You can opt to either visit this by yourself or join a guided tour, some of which provide access to the churches as well. 

In summer, temperatures can soar in the middle of the day, so I’d recommend heading out early in the morning or closer to sunset. You should set aside around two hours, so keep that in mind as the paths aren’t lit.

Marvel at Matera Cathedral

Perched atop the highest point in Matera, the Duomo is a 13th-century Apulian Romanesque-style church. While the views from outside the cathedral are worth a visit alone, it’s the interior of the church that is most impressive. Painted frescos depicting Madonna della Bruna and Child and the Last Judgement adorn the walls and ceiling that rise high above the pews below. 

The cathedral underwent a 10-year restoration project and is especially popular among Italian and Catholic visitors for its historical significance. 

Visit the Rock Churches

Matera’s unique history also affords it the numerous rock-hewn, rupestrian churches that are dotted throughout the Sassi. Carved into the soft tufa rock in the region, the cave churches are a must-see when in town. There are several you can visit throughout the city, and it’s possible to purchase a ticket that covers several. However, if you only have time to visit one, then make sure it’s Santa Maria di Idris, which also offers great views across the ravine and Sassi.

If you fancy seeing more of these churches with their ancient painted frescoes, Santa Lucia alle Malve and San Pietro Barisano are both included with the combo ticket. 

Enjoy the Best Views of Matera

The beauty of Matera’s landscape means there are numerous places in and around the Sassi di Matera to enjoy sensational, panoramic views. These views are even more spectacular at sunrise and sunset when the landscape is cast in a soft glow and the lights twinkle across the Sassi. Some of the best places to enjoy a view of the Sassi across town are:

• Belvedere di Piazza Giovanni Pascoli
• Belvedere Luigi Guerricchio detto dei Tre Archi
• Terrace above Church of San Pietro Barisano
• Church of Saint Mary of Idris
• The Convent of Saint Agostino

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Where to Eat in Matera

La Lopa

Set inside a traditional cave and with an adjoining courtyard which is lovely on a warm summer’s evening, La Lopa has a curated menu focusing on local dishes. Don’t miss menu items including Fave e cicorie, a bed of fava bean cream topped with chicory, or Il riposo della polpetta, bread balls fried in a delicious tomato sauce.

Ristorante Baccus

In the quieter Sassi Barisano, Baccus has a great selection of local dishes and great wine to pair with it. Try the orecchiette with cime di rapa, a twist on a Puglian favorite.

La Grotta Del Gusto

Whether dining in the cave interior or on the terrace, the food steals the show here. Keeping ingredients simple and authentic, it’s a great way to experience some of the local specialties. It’s also family-friendly and can cater to groups if booked ahead.

Il Rusticone

Budget-friendly and quick, this is Italian fast food done right. Delicious sandwiches in freshly baked bread with local ingredient fillings and amazing pizzas are the best way to enjoy Il Rusticone.

Laboratorio di Gelateria Artigianale

For the best gelato in town, you can’t beat Laboratorio di Gelateria Artigianale. With a selection of classic and seasonal flavors, it’s authentic and full of flavor.

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