Matera in Italy is one of those places that left us completely speechless. Carved into a limestone rock that lies in a deep valley, it’s a maze of ancient cave dwellings, winding alleys, and stone churches that feels like stepping into another world. We spent two days exploring Europe’s oldest city, discovering the many historical sights, viewpoints, and delicious restaurants you simply can’t miss. We’ve rounded up all the best things to do in Matera in our complete guide.
Best Things to do in Matera, Italy
Matera in Italy has been on both my and Hannah’s bucket lists for years! With its many churches and houses built into the natural rock formations, we knew we wanted to visit this ancient city on our Puglia itinerary. And although it’s not officially part of the region, it lies nearby and is definitely a place you won’t want to miss.
As the oldest city in Europe, it has an incredible atmosphere, and everywhere you look is simply picturesque. Wander through the tiny streets that zigzag up between the rocks and discover the city’s history while you pop into little side alleys and peer across the valley. Note: You’ll have to climb many stairs, but it’s worth every step of the way!
Also read: best things to do in Puglia, Italy
Many of these caves were initially used as homes, churches, and monasteries and still look as impressive as they did centuries ago. Make sure to spend a day exploring the Sassi’s narrow alleys, stone stairways, and labyrinth streets. Pop into some of the caves that have, in recent years, been converted into stunning boutique hotels, restaurants, shops, and museums.
The area is now a UNESCO site and makes a photographer’s playground with its unique corners. I really enjoyed exploring the cobbled alleys and finding the most beautiful bars. We had a lovely aperitif on this amazing terrace in the heart of the Sassi: Conzato Norcineria.
2. Saint Agostino Convent
This 16th-century Augustinian convent is one of the best places to look out over Matera, especially around sunset when the historic city colors in a beautiful golden hue. However, the building itself is worth a visit, too, with statues of the Saints Peter and Paul on the facade and a beautiful entranceway. Inside, you can admire marble altars and stunning frescoes.
Tip: The convent sits at one of the higher points of the city, meaning it’s a bit of a walk. However, along the way, you’ll find plenty of little gems and cave cafes worth popping into.
As you wander along, you’ll be treated to incredible views. I really liked Belvedere di Piazza Giovanni Pascoli! Here, you can gaze across the ancient city and spot landmarks like the Church of Santa Lucia alle Malve and the Matera Duomo. The road also leads to some of Matera’s best things to see, like the art-filled Palazzo Lanfranchi and the National Archaeological Museum, both just steps away.
There’s also a handful of cozy bars, eateries, and gelato places where you can stop for some refreshments!
4. Soak up the Views at the Belvederes
While much of the Sassi di Matera is picture-worthy, nothing tops the views you get at the so-called ‘Belvederes’, Matera’s many viewpoints. From these spots, you get to look out across the ancient cave city, where its buildings sprawl across the limestone hills.
This easily makes it a photographer’s paradise. Some of our favorite viewpoints in Matera are:
The Belvedere Murgia Timone was the very best viewpoint, according to us. It lies on the opposite side of the valley and overlooks the city, offering some of the most incredible views of the cave dwellings. We recommend visiting either early in the morning or around sunset, when the city’s cozy lights turn on.
Tip: You can either drive here or walk from Piazza Vittorio Veneto to Porta Pistola. Scale down into the valley from there and then cross a wooden bridge.
5. Piazza V Veneto
Visiting Piazza Vittorio Veneto, with its grand fountain, is one of the best things to do in Matera, Italy. The fountain is fed by huge cisterns underground that, due to excavations in the square, are visible.
The square is lined with buildings featuring Renaissance and Baroque facades, including the beautiful Church of San Domenico and the 18th-century Annunziata Palace. Pick out a terrace to soak up all the intricate details, enjoy a drink, and watch as people pass by. In the late afternoon and early evening, this part of town gets extremely lively!
6. Explore the Palombaro Lungo
Did you know that you can also enter the Metera’s underground water reserve? Right underneath the square (Piazza Vittorio Veneto), you can walk down the iron staircase near the fountain and find this giant cistern. It was built in 1832 to collect water from the hill above and distribute that to the residents. Entrance fee: 3 EUR per person.
Did you know? This public cistern was brought to light during the construction of Piazza Vittorio Veneto. It’s roughly 14 meters deep and 50 meters long — wow! It was used until the 1930s when the Apulian Aqueduct brought water to the city instead.
7. Church of Saint Mary of Idris
Nestled within the cliffs of Matera lies one of the most unique places in the city: the Church of Saint Mary of Idris. This famed ‘chiesa rupestri’, a church carved entirely out of rock, is incredible to see both inside and outside and offers some of the best views across the Sassi.
Did you know that the Church of Saint Mary of Idris dates back to the 1100s? The rocky church stands out from its neighboring beige buildings, making it the centerpiece of the Sasso Caveosi (the southern part of the Sassi). Make sure to take a peek inside the carved-out rooms and admire the frescoes that once covered all the walls. Entrance fee: 4 EUR, but you can combine it with the entrance to other churches.
Photography tip: The end of the street Recinto S. Nicola has one of the most incredible angles of the Santa Maria de Idris.
Join this walking tour that includes a visit to Santa Maria de Idris.
8. Stay in a Cave Hotel
Staying in a cave hotel is, without a doubt, one of the best things to do in Matera. These dwellings were previously home to many people and workers, making it a unique experience to stay in one yourself. Carved right into the rocks of Sassi di Matera, there are some of the most incredible hotel options to choose from.
9. Duomo di Matera, Italy (Matera Cathedral)
Matera’s Cathedral, perched high on the ridge dividing the city’s two Sassi, offers a stunning insight into history and architecture. Built in the 13th century in the Apulian Romanesque style, the Duomo has stood proudly for over 700 years, dedicated to Matera’s patron saints.
As you approach, the cathedral’s grand façade with its intricate rose window and imposing bell tower immediately catches your eye. Inside, the Latin cross layout leads you past vibrant frescoes, including the famous 16th-century Nativity scene, a stunning altarpiece, and a Renaissance chapel dedicated to the Annunciation.
The cathedral also offers incredible views from its Belvedere, where you can enjoy sweeping vistas of Matera’s iconic stone landscape. This is a must-see stop in the timeless city of Matera, Italy.
10. Hike the Gravina Canyon
You can also hike about two hours through the Gravina Canyon near Matera. The deep ravine, which runs several kilometers long, separates the Sassi di Matera from the Murgia, a wild regional park dotted with ancient caves and rock-hewn churches.
This canyon once served as a natural fortress for the people of Matera. You can trace their ingenuity that remains in the soft tufa rock along its steep cliffs. Cross the Ponte Tibetano suspension bridge, into the heart of the canyon, where you get to see some breathtaking views.
Tip: Alternatively, you can drive to Murgia’s visitor center and take a short walk to the Belvedere Murgia Timore.
11. Matera’s City Center (The Piano)
While the Sassi di Matera undoubtedly steals the spotlight, the city’s vibrant downtown, known as ‘the Piano,’ is equally captivating. Only one street separates the two, yet they feel worlds apart. This more modern area of Matera is full of energy, where the streets hum with sounds of live music in Piazza V Veneto and people wander through the bustling Vida del Corso, dotted with shops, restaurants, and cafes.
Tip: You can also explore cultural gems like the Matera National Museum and Castello Tramontano.
Where to Stay
Staying in Matera, Italy, is like stepping into a living history book. Many of the city’s hotels are nestled within the iconic Sassi cave dwellings, allowing you to get an up-close look at how the ancient people of Matera once lived.
Whether you choose a boutique hotel with a chic, contemporary twist or a more traditional cave hotel with rustic stone walls, each option is truly a one-of-a-kind experience. Some even have rooftop terraces with breathtaking views over Matera!
Good to know: if you choose accommodation in the Sassi, you’ll most likely have to carry your luggage up and down steep stairs.
How Many Days in Matera, Italy?
Although Matera is good to visit on a day trip, you could easily spend two full days here, exploring the gorgeous streets and the surrounding nature. Next time, we definitely want to stay longer!
How to Get to Matera
Matera’s nearest airport is Bari, which is a comfortable 45-minute drive away from the city. Bari has many flight connections all over Europe, so it is also comfortable and fairly inexpensive to find a flight.
By Car
We recommend renting a car to get to Matera. As the cave city lies so close to other beautiful areas of Italy, such as Puglia, having a car gives you more flexibility to travel around.
We recommend to rent a car in Italy through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here.
It’s easy to navigate, too, with a good mix of highways between the main towns and winding scenic roads in the countryside.
Parking
It’s important to note that the Sassi di Matera is a ZTL (Limited Traffic Zone), which means only residents can pass through. So, although the roads might look open, you will get fined if you drive into this area. Luckily, there are plenty of parking options in Matera’s city center (The Piano). Most of these are paid options. We parked our car here.
By Bus or Train
If you’re already traveling in Italy by public transportation, then you can also get to Matera by train or bus. From Bari Airport, hop on one of the buses to Matera (1-hour journey). If you’re traveling by train instead, you can use the local line to reach the cave city. Just remember that this takes a while longer (~2,5 hours).
By Tour
Organized tours are also a great way to see the city. You can book them from most major cities in Puglia that offer return transportation and a guide. This way, you get to see the best spots and learn a little about them as well.
Getting Around
As Matera is a relatively compact city, it’s very walkable. You can easily explore all areas in a day. However, the streets are pretty narrow and steep, meaning you’ll be walking a lot up and down.
There’s also a shuttle bus to get from one side of the Sassi di Matera to the other (there are two parts). Tickets cost 1.50 EUR. Another option is to hop on an Ape tour (Italian tuk tuk), where a traditional work vehicle takes you around the stunning cave city.
Best Restaurants and Cafes in Matera, Italy
Nothing beats savoring a delicious meal in a romantically-lit cave, and there are plenty of cave restaurants in Matera, Italy. Not only is this experience in itself a must, but there are some incredible places to grab a bite in the city! We recommend eating at a local trattoria or osteria, with scrumptious traditional food like pepperoni cruschi (dried peppers), crapiata (a soup with legumes), and cavatelli pasta.
Some of our favorite places to eat in Matera are:
Tip: Many restaurants require a reservation during the high season.
Best Time to Visit
While July and August are the most popular months to visit Matera, they are also the hottest (and busiest!). This means you should book your hotels, restaurants, and tours well before your trip. Parking can also fill up quickly during these times, so we recommend visiting the most significant attractions first thing in the morning or later in the afternoon.
We visited in October and found it absolute perfection! The average daily temperature was 23 degrees Celsius, there were fewer crowds, and in the late afternoons/evenings, we often had the busy city streets to ourselves!
By purchasing through our links, you support us at no additional cost.
Thank you for your support. ♥️
- Find Hotels via Booking.com
- Find a Rental Car via Sunny Cars
- Find Flights to Italy via Skyscanner
- Get a Travel Insurance via Heymondo
- Book Tours & Attractions via GetYourGuide
- Book a Bus/Train/Transfer via 12Go
Looking for more travel information? Plan a chat with us for personalised travel advice or get an answer from the Salt in our Hair Travel Community on Facebook.