Map of Matera, Italy

🏞️ What to do in Matera

Matera offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a paradise for explorers and enthusiasts. Dive into the rich heritage of this city while indulging in unforgettable experiences.

• Best Budget Activity in Matera:

  Walking Tour of Sassi di Matera: Explore the ancient cave dwellings and historic streets of Matera with a guided walking tour, offering insights into the city's fascinating past.

• Best Mid-Range Activity in Matera:

  Cooking Class in Matera: Immerse yourself in the culinary traditions of Matera by joining a cooking class, where you can learn to prepare authentic Italian dishes from local chefs.

• Best Luxury Activity in Matera:

  Hot Air Balloon Ride over Matera: Soar above the breathtaking landscapes of Matera in a hot air balloon, enjoying panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside in a luxurious experience.

🍽️ Where to eat in Matera

Matera is a culinary delight, offering a blend of traditional southern Italian flavors and innovative dishes. Don't miss trying the famous Matera bread and local specialties like orecchiette pasta and peperoni cruschi.

• Best Budget Restaurant in Matera:

  Trattoria da Peppe•$$:

  Authentic Italian pizzas and pasta dishes.

• Best Mid-Range Restaurant in Matera:

  Ristorante Baccanti•$$$:

  Fresh seafood and Mediterranean cuisine.

• Best Luxury Restaurant in Matera:

  Le Botteghe•$$$$:

  Fine dining experience with innovative Italian dishes.

• Best Budget Bar in Matera:

  Bar San Giorgio•$:

  Aperitivo with local wines.

• Best Mid-Range Bar in Matera:

  Bar del Corso•$$:

  Craft cocktails and light bites.

• Best Luxury Bar in Matera:

  Terrazza San Giacomo•$$$:

  Premium wines and breathtaking views.

🏰 What to see in Matera

Matera is a treasure trove of architectural wonders and ancient sites, captivating visitors with its rich history and charm. Explore the must-visit landmarks that showcase the city's unique beauty and heritage.

• Matera Sassi

  The historic Sassi cave dwellings, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offer a glimpse into Matera's ancient past and are a testament to human resilience and ingenuity.

• Matera Cathedral

  A stunning example of Romanesque architecture, Matera Cathedral boasts intricate carvings, beautiful frescoes, and a serene atmosphere that transports visitors back in time.

• Tramontano Castle

  Perched on a hill overlooking the city, Tramontano Castle offers panoramic views of Matera and houses a museum showcasing local history and artifacts.

• Church of San Pietro Caveoso

  This cave church features remarkable frescoes and intricate rock-carved details, providing a glimpse into Matera's religious and artistic heritage.

• Palombaro Lungo

  An underground water cistern dating back to the Middle Ages, Palombaro Lungo is an architectural marvel that highlights Matera's innovative use of natural resources.

🛍️ Where to go shopping in Matera

Matera offers a delightful shopping experience, with a mix of artisanal boutiques, traditional stores, and modern outlets to cater to every shopper's taste and budget. Explore the city's vibrant shopping hubs to discover unique finds and souvenirs to treasure.

• Best Budget Shopping Place in Matera:

  Mercato delle Pulci: This flea market is a treasure trove of vintage items, handmade crafts, and local trinkets at budget-friendly prices, perfect for souvenir hunting.

• Best Mid-Range Shopping Place in Matera:

  Piazza Vittorio Veneto: This bustling square features a mix of shops offering fashion, accessories, and gourmet products, ideal for those seeking quality goods at reasonable prices.

• Best Luxury Shopping Place in Matera:

  Via Ridola: Home to upscale boutiques, designer stores, and luxury brands, Via Ridola is where you can indulge in high-end fashion, jewelry, and exclusive items for a sophisticated shopping experience.

🚗 Getting Around Matera

• Public Transport

  Matera has a well-connected public transportation system that includes buses, trains, and more. The main mode of public transport within the city is the bus service operated by SITA Sud. Buses run frequently throughout the day, with tickets costing around €1.20 for a single journey. Timetables are available at bus stops and online.

• Main Transportation Hubs

  Matera does not have its own train station, with the nearest major transportation hub being Ferrandina-Pomarico railway station, located around 20 kilometers away from the city center. Buses and taxis are available at the station for onward travel to Matera. For those flying into the area, Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport is the closest airport, approximately 65 kilometers from Matera.

• Rental Services

  🚗 Car Rental: Visitors can rent cars from well-known providers such as Hertz, Avis, and Europcar in Matera. Prices typically start from €30 per day, depending on the type of car and rental duration. 🚲 Bicycle Rental: To explore Matera at your own pace, consider renting a bicycle. There are various rental shops in the city offering bicycles for around €10 per day, with options for guided tours available as well.