Matera Travel Guide: 13 Best Things to Do in Matera, Italy

There are plenty of beautiful towns and cities to visit in Italy, but nowhere else feels quite like Matera.

Matera is a city of caves. Imagine wandering through a maze of honey colored stone streets where homes, churches, and restaurants have been carved directly into the rock. Even in this modern world, the historic Sassi of Matera makes you feel like you’ve been transported thousands of years back into ancient times.

Perched above a dramatic limestone canyon in southern Italy, Matera is one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, with people living here for over 9,000 years. Once considered one of Italy’s poorest cities, it has undergone one of the most remarkable transformations in Europe and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its breathtaking cave dwellings, world class cave hotels, and unforgettable atmosphere.

We spent one night in Matera as part of our week-long Puglia road trip, and long after the trip, it’s still the stop everyone asks me about. Matera isn’t technically part of Puglia, but it’s close enough that anyone going to Puglia should add it to their itinerary. We slept in a cave suite, dined in a candlelit cave restaurant, and had cocktails at a bar built into the rock face.

Whether you’re planning a road trip through Puglia or looking for one of Italy’s most unique destinations, Matera deserves a spot on your itinerary. In this Matera travel guide, I’ll share the best things to do in Matera, where to stay, and everything else you should know before visiting.

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Why Visit Matera?

Few places in Italy feel as timeless as Matera. The city is famous for its ancient cave dwellings, known as the Sassi, which have been continuously inhabited for thousands of years. Its history is unlike any other city in Europe. For thousands of years, people lived in caves dug into the soft tufa rock of the ravine, layering cave houses on top of houses until the hillside became a honeycomb of dwellings, churches, and cisterns.

By the mid 20th century, the Sassi had become a symbol of deep poverty. People were living in dark caves without running water or electricity, often sharing the space with their animals. At one point, Matera was called “la vergogna d’Italia,” or the shame of Italy. Then in the 1950s, the Italian government forcibly relocated about 15,000 residents to new housing in the modern town above.

The Sassi sat abandoned for decades, but eventually, artists and visionaries moved back in, and the Sassi were named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993. Matera also began getting the spotlight on screen, featured in famous films like The Passion of the Christ and the James Bond movie No Time to Die. Then in 2019, Matera was crowned European Capital of Culture.

Today, those once abandoned caves have been thoughtfully transformed into boutique hotels, restaurants, museums, and shops while preserving the city’s remarkable character, and that contrast between ancient stone and modern luxury is exactly what makes visiting Matera so special.

Beyond its fascinating history, Matera is simply one of the most beautiful destinations in southern Italy. Or maybe all of Italy! The city’s winding stone alleyways, panoramic canyon views, and golden limestone buildings create a setting unlike anywhere else in the country. Whether you’re wandering through the historic neighborhoods, watching the sunset over the Sassi, or spending the night in a luxury cave hotel, visiting Matera is an experience that feels both ancient and unforgettable.

Understanding the Sassi: A Quick Orientation

Before diving into the list, it helps to know the lay of the land. Matera’s historic center is made up of two cave districts, collectively called the Sassi (literally “the stones”), draped over two valleys with a big rocky hill in between:

• Sasso Barisano is the northwestern district, and the more restored of the two. This is where you’ll find the highest concentration of cave hotels, restaurants, and shops.
• Sasso Caveoso is the southeastern district, and the rawer, more ancient feeling side. Many caves here remain much as they were left in the 1950s. This is where we stayed.
• The Civita is the big rocky hill that sits between the two Sassi, with the Matera Cathedral on top. From up here, you get lovely views over both districts.

The Sassi sit on the edge of a deep canyon called the Gravina di Matera. On the other side of the canyon is the Parco della Murgia Materana, a wild, open park scattered with more than a hundred ancient churches carved into the rock. This is also where you’ll find the famous viewpoint looking back at the whole city.

The 13 Best Things to Do in Matera

1. Wander the Sassi

Start anywhere and walk. We initially tried to stare at a map and follow a path, but gave up pretty quickly because not only was it confusing, every angle of Matera is gorgeous anyways and getting lost is part of the fun.

Every alley in the Sassi opens onto another jaw dropping composition of stacked stone houses, arched doorways, chimneys sprouting from the rock, and staircases leading places you can’t predict.

That said, Google Maps does work well in Matera, so whenever you’re ready to find your way to a specific viewpoint, restaurant, or back to your hotel, you won’t stay lost for long.

If you want the history to come alive as you explore, consider a guided walking tour of the Sassi with a local guide. With only one night, we self-toured, but it’s what I’d book with a second day.

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2. Piazza San Pietro Caveoso

Although getting lost is fun, there are still a few spots and viewpoints you can’t miss.

Piazza San Pietro Caveoso is the only square in the Sassi that opens directly onto the canyon, framed by the Chiesa di San Pietro Caveoso (church) and the towering rock of Idris.

3. Church of Santa Maria di Idris

Carved into the giant rock that towers above Piazza San Pietro Caveoso, this little rock church called Church of Santa Maria di Idris is one of Matera’s icons. Climb the staircase that wraps around the rock for one of the best free viewpoints in the city, with the whole Sasso Caveoso spread out below you.

This is also the church we could see from our hotel‘s breakfast terrace, and the view stopped me in my tracks every single time.

You can go inside for a small entry fee. The church is open daily from 9:30 am to 7 pm. We didn’t have enough time to make it inside during our short one night visit, but if you have the chance, go for it!

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4. Stay at a Cave Hotel

One night in Matera felt too short for us. I know some people visit Matera as a day trip, but I highly recommend spending at least one night here so you can experience the city without the day trippers, when the Sassi glow under warm lanterns.

And if there is one thing you have to do in Matera, it’s sleeping in a cave hotel. There’s no question about it! It might be the most unique experience in all of Italy.

The Sassi’s ancient cave dwellings were once simple homes carved into the limestone cliffs, but many have been beautifully restored into boutique hotels that blend centuries of history with modern luxury. Behind their stone walls, you’ll often find elegant rooms with vaulted ceilings, spa-like bathrooms, cozy lighting, and every modern comfort you could ask for. Despite their history, cave hotels are far from rustic.

We stayed at Sant’Angelo, a luxury cave hotel right by Piazza San Pietro Caveoso, and got upgraded to their largest cave suite upon arrival. Falling asleep under a hand carved stone ceiling was a bucket list moment I didn’t know I had, and breakfast on the terrace overlooking the ancient city is a view I’ll never forget. Staying here was easily the highlight of our visit, and it made us appreciate Matera in a completely different way.

You’ll find more details, plus my other favorite cave hotels, further down in this post.

Tip: Cave hotels are among the most popular accommodations in Matera, and many of them only have a few rooms. Book as early as you can!

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5. Learn About Matera’s History Through Its Cave Museums

While Matera’s cave hotels showcase the city’s luxurious present, these caves were once home to families living in extremely difficult conditions. Visiting one of Matera’s cave museums provides important context for the city’s incredible transformation and makes exploring the Sassi even more meaningful.

Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario is a preserved cave dwelling that recreates what daily life looked like for local families until the 1950s. Inside you’ll find simple furnishings, handmade tools, and even the space where the livestock slept (yes, people lived with their animals in these times).

Casa Noha, operated by the Italian National Trust (FAI), uses immersive multimedia presentations to tell the story of Matera.

Casa Grotta del Casalnuovo is located in the quieter Casalnuovo district, and offers another authentic look into traditional life in the Sassi. It’s similar to Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario, so you can choose the one that appeals to you most.

6. Piazzetta Pascoli and the Classic Viewpoints

There are several famous viewpoints for incredible views of the Sassi.

I’ve already mentioned Piazza San Pietro Caveoso in #2.

For the postcard panorama of the Sassi with the Cathedral rising above the rooftops, head to Piazzetta Pascoli (Belvedere di Piazza Giovanni Pascoli) on the edge of the modern town. The nearby Belvedere Luigi Guerricchio, just off the main square, offers another sweeping angle (first photo below).

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And the most iconic scenery you’ll see when you search Matera on social media is this spot above. It took us a while to find it because there isn’t really a name for it. To get here, just head to the Church of Santa Maria di Idris. These stairs are right in front of the church.

7. Drinks at a Bar Carved Into the Rock

Matera’s aperitivo scene is unlike anywhere else, because the bars themselves are caves.

Zipa Café is built directly into the rock, and seating spills outdoors across the bare rock with sweeping views over the Sassi. This is hands down one of the coolest bars we’ve set foot into. Or should I say on to?

We got here just after 6 pm and were able to get seats in less than 5 minutes. When we were leaving, there was a line out the door. Seating is limited, especially around sunset, so arrive a little early if you want one of the outdoor spots overlooking the Sassi.

Whether you’re stopping by for an afternoon coffee, an aperitivo before dinner, or one of their signature cocktails, the atmosphere alone makes it worth a visit.

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8. Take a Guided Walking Tour

While I personally love exploring a place on my own at my own pace, there is so much history in Matera that joining a walking tour can help you better understand the city’s fascinating past.

A knowledgeable guide can point out hidden churches, explain the history of the Sassi, and share stories that you might otherwise miss while wandering independently. I’m pretty sure we passed by some significant churches and historic sites without even realizing it. I would definitely do a guided tour on my next visit.

A guided tour is a great way to gain a deeper appreciation for this remarkable city before continuing your own exploration.

9. Palombaro Lungo

Beneath Piazza Vittorio Veneto in the modern town hides one of Matera’s most astonishing sights: a cathedral sized underground cistern, hand carved into the rock, that once held the city’s water supply. Short guided visits to the Palombaro Lungo run through the day and cost just a few euros.

10. Cross the Gravina to Belvedere Murgia Timone

For the most iconic view of Matera, head across the Gravina Canyon to Belvedere Murgia Timone. From this panoramic overlook you can see the entire cave city rising from the limestone cliffs, with the Sassi cascading down toward the canyon below.

You can drive there in about 15 minutes, or hike down into the canyon and up the other side via the suspension bridge (allow a couple of hours round trip). We ran out of time for this one, and it’s the first thing on my list for our return.

11. Explore Matera’s Rock Churches

Matera is home to more than 150 rock churches carved directly into the limestone cliffs, many dating back hundreds of years.

These rupestrian churches feature fascinating cave interiors, ancient frescoes, and remarkable architecture that blends seamlessly into the surrounding landscape. Some are hidden throughout the Sassi, while others are scattered across the opposite side of the Gravina Canyon.

Although the largest church in Matera is the Matera Cathedral, built in Apulian Romanesque style, the largest rupestrian (rock) church is Chiesa di San Pietro Barisano.

The Church of Santa Maria di Idris, which we’ve already covered, and Chiesa di San Pietro Barisano are the must sees.

If you have extra time, don’t miss the Church of Santa Lucia alle Malve, Madonna delle Virtù and San Nicola dei Greci, or the Crypt of Original Sin, often called the “Sistine Chapel” of rupestrian art because of its extraordinary medieval frescoes.

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12. Try Peperoni Cruschi

Matera is located in the Basilicata region of Italy, and one of the region’s traditional specialties you can’t miss is peperoni cruschi: dried red peppers that are quickly fried until they’re light and crispy.

They can be enjoyed on their own as a snack or served alongside pasta, meat dishes, or cheese, adding a uniquely sweet and smoky flavor that’s become one of Basilicata’s most iconic ingredients.

We had a pasta dish with peperoni cruschi at Trattoria del Caveoso, and I highly recommend it!

Also try these local specialties when in Matera:

• Pane di Matera (Matera bread): traditional sourdough bread with a thick, crunchy crust and soft interior.
• Cialledda: a rustic bread salad made with tomatoes, olive oil, and seasonal vegetables.
• Lucanica sausage: a flavorful local pork sausage seasoned with fennel and spices.

13. See Matera at Sunrise

If I’ve already convinced you to stay overnight in Matera, then I recommend you wake up early, step out of your cave hotel, and walk the Sassi in the soft morning light before anyone else is awake.

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The viewpoints that were busy the evening before are completely empty, the light turns the stone a pale gold, and the only sound is church bells. Watching Matera wake up was one of my favorite moments of our entire week in southern Italy, and it’s only possible if you spend the night.

Where to Stay in Matera: The Best Cave Hotels

Now that you have a list of the top things to do in Matera, and since I’ve convinced you to stay a night or two, here are my recommendations for where to stay.

Whatever you do, stay in a cave hotel inside the Sassi di Matera. It’s one of the most unique hotel experiences in Italy, and the entire character of Matera changes once the day visitors leave. These are the properties I shortlisted, researched obsessively, and would happily book:

Sant’Angelo (where we stayed): a Small Luxury Hotels member spread across 33 restored residences by Piazza San Pietro Caveoso. Gorgeous cave rooms, an unbeatable breakfast terrace, and flawless arrival logistics. It ended up being one of the most memorable hotel stays of our lives.

Sant’Angelo is what Italians call an albergo diffuso, a “scattered hotel.” Instead of one building, the hotel is an entire restored neighborhood: 33 historic residences spread across a maze of caves, stairways, and stone courtyards, with the reception, breakfast terrace, and rooms tucked into different corners of the hillside.

The hotel has two main groups of room types: the Grotta and the Palazziata. The Grotta rooms are the cave rooms, so I recommend these. We booked the Grotta Patio but got upgraded to the Grotta Superior Patio, and we would choose to stay here again in a heartbeat!

From the hotel you can see Piazza San Pietro Caveoso and the Murgia Materana Park.

Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita: the most iconic cave hotel in Matera, wonderfully raw and candlelit, with freestanding bathtubs set inside thousand year old caves. The romantic, back-in-time choice.

Aquatio Cave Luxury Hotel & Spa: a five star option near the Cathedral with an indoor cave pool and underground spa. Ideal if you want the cave atmosphere with full modern resort amenities.

Palazzo degli Abati: a boutique stay in the Sasso Barisano next to the rock church of San Pietro Barisano, with a rooftop terrace and sweeping Sassi views at a gentler price point.

Know Before You Go to Matera

Where Is Matera?

Despite Matera being on most Puglia itineraries, Matera is not actually in Puglia. It sits just across the regional border in Basilicata, the wild, mountainous region that forms the arch of Italy’s boot. But because it’s only about an hour’s drive from Bari, Matera pairs perfectly with a Puglia road trip, and I consider it an essential stop on any first time visit to the region. It was Day 1 of our 7 day Puglia itinerary for exactly that reason.

How to Get to Matera

The closest airport to Matera is Bari International Airport Karol Wojtyla (BRI).

The easiest way to reach Matera is by car. This corner of Italy really rewards having your own rental car, and Matera is no exception.

• From Bari: about 1 hour (65 km). This is what we did, landing at Bari airport in the morning, exploring Bari Vecchia, and driving to Matera in the afternoon.
• From Alberobello or the Valle d’Itria: about 1 to 1.5 hours.
• From Lecce: about 2 hours.
• From Naples: about 3 hours.

There are buses and trains that can get you to Matera from Bari, but if you want flexibility in your plans, and if you plan on exploring the nearby Puglia region, having a rental car is the best way to do it.

Parking in Matera 

Something you need to know and prepare for: you cannot drive into the Sassi. The historic center is a restricted traffic zone (ZTL), the lanes are mostly staircases anyway, and your hotel will almost certainly be reachable only on foot.

The easiest and safest bet is to park at a lot on the edge of the historic center. Most hotels have a shuttle or some way of getting you to the property after you park in an outside lot. I would highly recommend communicating with your accommodation to have a parking plan in place before arriving, to avoid a last minute logistical nightmare.

We parked at Parking Sant’Isidoro, a convenient lot just outside the Sassi, which costs 20 euros for 24 hours. Our hotel partners with the lot, so we simply paid through the hotel, and a driver was already waiting to shuttle us and our luggage to the property when we arrived.

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How Long Do You Need in Matera?

One night is the minimum, but my recommendation would be two nights.

A day trip technically works, but you would miss the two most magical windows in Matera: the evening, after the day trippers leave and the Sassi glow under warm lanterns, and the early morning, when you’ll have the viewpoints entirely to yourself. Sleeping in a cave hotel is also half the reason to come.

With two nights, you could add the rock churches, the Palombaro Lungo cistern, and the hike to the Murgia plateau viewpoint across the canyon.

If I return, and I intend to, I’d stay two nights.

When to Visit

Like the rest of southern Italy, the best time to visit Matera is in the shoulder seasons: May, June, September, and October. We visited in mid June and had warm sunny days, pleasant evenings, and manageable crowds. July and August bring intense heat, and all that pale stone reflects the sun, so plan for early mornings and evenings if you visit in peak summer.

Matera FAQ

Is Matera worth visiting? 

Without question. It was one of the most memorable stops of our entire southern Italy trip, and it’s barely an hour from Bari. There is nowhere else like it in Europe.

Is one night in Matera enough? 

One night gives you the essentials: an afternoon and evening in the Sassi, dinner in a cave, sunrise, and a cave hotel stay. Two nights would add the Murgia viewpoint, the rock churches, and the Palombaro Lungo at a relaxed pace. A day trip means missing the best of Matera, which happens after dark and at dawn.

Is Matera in Puglia? 

No, it’s in neighboring Basilicata, but it borders Puglia and fits seamlessly into a Puglia road trip. See my full Puglia itinerary for how to slot it in.

Can you drive into the Sassi? 

No. The historic center is a restricted ZTL zone and mostly staircases. Park at a lot like Sant’Isidoro (about 20 euros per day) and arrange a shuttle pickup through your hotel in advance.

Can you get to Matera by public transportation? 

Technically yes, with a bus or a train, but for added flexibility, and if you want to also experience Puglia, a rental car is essential.

Is Matera walkable?

Very, but vertically. Expect stairs, uneven polished stone, and more stairs. Wear grippy comfortable shoes and pack light.

Was Matera really in a James Bond movie?

Yes. The dramatic opening sequence of No Time to Die was filmed in the Sassi and on the surrounding cliffs.

Final Thoughts

We arrived in Matera with high expectations, and somehow the city exceeded every one of them in less than 24 hours. 

It’s rare for a destination to feel this different, not just from home but from the rest of Italy: sleeping inside the rock, eating pasta dusted with crimson pepper crisps, watching sunrise over a cityscape that has barely changed in centuries.

If you’re planning a trip to Puglia, definitely cross over into Basilicata and visit the city of Matera.

I hope this guide helps you plan your own stay in the city of caves. If you have questions while planning, leave a comment below, I’d love to help. And for the full week in southern Italy, start with my Ultimate Puglia Itinerary.

Check out my other Italy posts for inspiration!