Matera – A Hidden Gem in Italy You Must See

The first time I saw Matera, I literally stopped walking mid-step. I was approaching from the ravine side, and suddenly this incredible stone city appeared before me like something from a dream. Houses carved directly into rock, stacked on top of each other in impossible ways, glowing golden in the morning light. I've traveled to some pretty amazing places, but nothing—and I mean nothing—had prepared me for this.

If you're looking for one of those life-changing travel experiences, the kind that makes you see the world differently, then Matera needs to be at the top of your list. Trust me on this one.

Introduction

There are very few places in the world that can literally transport you through time, but Matera does exactly that. Perched dramatically on the edge of a ravine in southern Basilicata, this extraordinary city is carved from the very stone it sits on. The famous "Sassi" — those ancient cave dwellings stacked above one another like some incredible stone honeycomb — make Matera so much more than just another beautiful city in Italy. It's a living, breathing museum and easily one of the most mind-blowing Italy must see destinations you'll ever encounter.

UNESCO recognized its magic back in 1993 (and honestly, what took them so long?), and the city has transformed from centuries of poverty and abandonment into one of Europe's Capitals of Culture, which it celebrated in style in 2019.

Why Matera Captures the Imagination

The moment you set foot in Matera, you understand why filmmakers are obsessed with this place. When the sun hits those limestone houses, they transform from creamy white to warm gold at dawn, then blush pink as the day ends. Walking through the maze-like alleys, climbing ancient stone staircases, and discovering hidden cave churches feels like you're living inside a movie — which explains why directors chose Matera for films like The Passion of the Christ and No Time to Die.

But here's what I love most: Matera isn't just some beautiful relic frozen in time. Behind those incredible stone walls, you'll find the most charming boutique hotels, artisan workshops where craftspeople still work with their hands, and cozy trattorias serving traditional recipes passed down through generations. The warmth of the people matches the golden glow of the stone.

Getting to Matera: From Bari to Matera

Most travelers use Bari as their gateway to southern Italy, and honestly, the journey from there to Matera is half the adventure! If you're wondering how to get from Bari to Matera by train, I've got you covered:

Train option: Take the Ferrovie Appulo Lucane (FAL) train from Bari Centrale to Matera Centrale. The journey takes about 80–90 minutes, with trains running roughly every hour. Pro tip: grab a window seat — the views are incredible!

Bus option: Several bus companies connect Bari to Matera in around 1 hour and 15 minutes. Sometimes faster than the train, and just as scenic.

Either way, you'll be treated to this gorgeous ride through olive groves and rolling hills that gets more beautiful as you approach the "stone city." It's like a preview of the magic waiting for you.

Exploring the Sassi: Matera's Soul

The absolute heart and soul of Matera lives in its two Sassi districts: Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano. Both are UNESCO-protected neighborhoods where every corner holds surprises — cave dwellings that have sheltered families for centuries, rock-hewn churches with incredible frescoes, and hidden courtyards that feel like secret gardens carved from stone.

Sasso Caveoso

This is the older, wilder sibling of the two districts, and it feels absolutely raw and authentic. Walking through Sasso Caveoso is like stepping directly into history. These cave houses are dug deep into the rock itself, and when you realize that entire families — along with their livestock! — once called these spaces home, it gives you chills. This is where you really feel the weight and wonder of Matera's incredible story.

Sasso Barisano

Sasso Barisano has this amazing energy — it's where Matera's renaissance is most visible. Restaurants tucked into restored caves serve incredible local food, boutique hotels offer the chance to sleep in ancient stone walls, and artisan shops showcase the creativity that still thrives here. It perfectly captures Matera's new life as this vibrant cultural hub while respecting its ancient roots.

What to Do in Matera

Visit Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario: Step inside an actual traditional cave dwelling, preserved exactly as it was in the mid-20th century. It's humbling and fascinating to see how resourceful families made these stone spaces into warm, functional homes.

Admire Rupestrian Churches: Matera has over 150 rock churches scattered throughout the landscape, many decorated with medieval frescoes that will take your breath away. Each one feels like discovering a hidden treasure.

Climb to Belvedere Murgia Timone: For the most jaw-dropping views of Matera's skyline, you need to cross the ravine to this incredible lookout point. Bring your camera and prepare to be amazed.

For the full experience, I absolutely recommend joining a guided walking tour of Matera's Sassi. A passionate local guide brings all those layers of history to life — from prehistoric caves to the modern cultural revival that's transforming the city today.

Matera and Food Traditions

You know I can't talk about any Italian destination without diving into the food, and Matera definitely delivers! The absolute star here is Pane di Matera — this incredible golden, crispy bread with the softest, most perfect crumb inside. Made with local semolina and baked in traditional wood-fired ovens, it's honestly one of the most distinctive breads in all of Italy. I've written a whole love letter to this bread that you can check out in our dedicated article.

Pair that bread with local cheeses, perfectly cured meats, and a glass of rich Aglianico wine, and you've got yourself a simple but absolutely unforgettable taste of Basilicata. Sometimes the simplest combinations are the most magical.

Not Everyone Knows

Even though Matera feels like one of those special hidden gems in Italy, here are some secrets that even many visitors completely miss:

Underground cisterns: Beneath your feet lies this incredible complex water system carved out centuries ago. The Palombaro Lungo is the largest cistern, and visiting it feels like entering a cathedral made entirely of stone. It's absolutely breathtaking and most people walk right over it without knowing it's there!

The silent streets: Here's my favorite insider tip — wander the alleys early in the morning, before the cafés open and the day begins. The silence is profound; you'll hear nothing but your own footsteps echoing off ancient stone and the gentle calls of swallows. It's pure magic.

Lesser-known caves: While the main Sassi are well-explored (and rightfully so!), venture further into the Murgia plateau and you'll discover caves completely untouched by tourism. This is the real off the beaten path Italy that makes you feel like an explorer.

Festivals and Culture

Matera isn't just about ancient stones and history — this city absolutely comes alive with celebrations! The Festa della Bruna in July is this incredible mix of solemn religious tradition and explosive fireworks celebrations that light up the entire stone city. There are international film festivals, art exhibitions, and craft markets that showcase the vibrant local culture.

What I love most is that this isn't some museum city frozen in the past. Matera has this thriving, creative present that honors its history while embracing the future.

FAQ About Visiting Matera

Is Matera worth visiting?

Are you kidding me? Absolutely! As one of the most beautiful cities in Italy, Matera offers history, culture, and atmosphere that you literally cannot find anywhere else on Earth. It's a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

How many days should I spend in Matera?

I'd say two full days give you the perfect taste — enough time to explore both Sassi districts thoroughly, enjoy a guided walking tour, and make that essential trip to the Murgia viewpoint for those incredible photos.

Is Matera safe for tourists?

Completely safe, even for solo travelers like me! The streets are well-lit, and the locals are some of the most welcoming people you'll ever meet. I felt comfortable wandering around at all hours.

What's the best time to visit?

Spring and autumn are absolutely ideal — mild temperatures, perfect lighting for photos, and fewer crowds so you can really soak in the atmosphere. Summers can get pretty hot, but those evening hours are absolutely magical.

Can I drive in Matera?

Cars aren't allowed inside the historic Sassi (which is perfect, honestly), but there's plenty of parking just outside the historic center. From there, everything is beautifully walkable — and trust me, you'll want to walk every single street!