2025 Matera Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in March)

▪️As a loyal fan of 007, I have followed 007 to many places, Venice, the Alps, and because of "007. No Time to Die", I am full of curiosity about this cave town. - ▪️I drove from Sorrento for 7 hours to Matera. I have to complain that the roads in Italy are really not good at night, and there are no street lights, it's really too dark. - ▪️It is recommended that friends who drive by themselves park their cars in the new city and then walk to the scenic area. The ancient city of Matera has a history of more than 9,000 years and is listed as a World Cultural Heritage by UNESCO. The cave buildings here are all excavated on the cliffs, and the church's report building is still preserved, the whole city is like a maze, walking on the old stone road is a special experience. There are also craftsmen making stalactite sculptures by hand on the roadside, remember to buy a stalactite refrigerator sticker to take home~

located in Matera city, southern Italy, Basilicata Region, this unique Unesco World Heritage Site is an extensive cave-dwelling districts, called the sassi. The caves of Matera had been inhabited for centuries, even now people there are still living there, after been renovated to become a comfortable houses. In 1993 the town was made a UNESCO World Heritage site, for being "the most outstanding, intact example of a troglodyte settlement in the Mediterranean region, perfectly adapted to its terrain and ecosystem". Have you see the Mel Gibson's film The Passion of the Christ? Well Matera was the one of the filming locations! #spooktaculartrip #tripblazers #lucaworldtraveler

Matera is an absolutely amazing gem to visit on the map of Italy! With plenty of architectural surroundings and historical places of interest this is definitely the place you should visit if you consider yourself as a lover of these subjects. With plenty of wallet friendly bars, caffès and restaurants and can really fully enjoy your time there not overpaying for the service and quality you receive. And most importantly amazing and friendly local people that will help and socialise with you at any time #createwithtrip #matera#mountainview #palazzo Gattini #italy #history##awesomepic #cafe

#High Altitude Viewing #Overseas Travel Stepping into the ancient city of Matera in southeastern Italy, I felt the fascinating attraction hidden here! It has no gorgeous buildings, no bustling markets, no bright colors, and no exquisite appearance. But it has history, uniqueness, antiquity, simplicity and primitiveness. To see the most simple, beautiful and original Matera, there is an observation deck located in the new city that is not to be missed. The New Town is located on a high ground. The Belvedere sui Sassi next to Palazzo Lanfranchi is a must-visit place for every tourist. From here, you can overlook a visually stunning panoramic view of the ancient city. 📍 Belvedere di Piazza Giovanni Pascoli Piazzetta Pascoli, 75100 Matera MT #星WRITERCHONGCHONG #ItalyTravel

Nestled in a small canyon carved by the Gravina River, this town was inhabited for thousands of years since the Palaeolithic times. In the prehistoric times, the local population started to settle in dwellings in the calcareous rock of the canyon itself that today are known as 'sassi'. Due to the extreme poverty conditions in the '50s, the government had to relocate most of its population to new housing in the modern part of the city. Thanks to a change in culture and in local administrators, the 'Sassi's' saw a renaissance in the early 90's and are now being promoted as touristic attractions. Over the last two decades, many economic activities have populated these dwellings: restaurants, pubs, shops, bed and breakfasts and luxury hotels. Today Matera is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Today it is a must-stop for many tourists who travel across Southern Italy, especially after a stay in Apulia or Calabria.

So ancient and unique! In the cave-city in southern Italy, Matera, it feels like you are stepping back in time!

Matera Cathedral officially known as the Cathedral of the Madonna della Bruna and Sant'Eustachio. It’s the main place of worship in mature and the mother church of the entire archdiocese. The cathedral was built in the 13th century and has a commanding view over the town. And since 1962, it has been honoured to have been designated a minor Basilica. #celebrateit #italy #matera #church

The Sanctuary of the Madonna of the Three Doors, is one of the Rasputin Rock churches of Matera, which are really interesting and fairly unique structures. These were churches that were cut out of solid rock and then were embellished with beautiful frescoes inside, dating back to the 12th century. Sadly many of the frescoes are now in poor condition but you can still get a glimpse of what it must’ve been like in times gone by. You also get great views of the surrounding countryside from the upper level. #celebrateit #italy #matera #church

The Rectoral church Maria SS. Annunziata it’s a chapel attached to the church of Saint Yorgho. It was originally a hospital for the poor and later on became an oratory. The church is simple but elegant and dignified. Inside there are some impressive life-size plaster statues. All in all not the most impressive church ever but definitely worth a quick peek. #celebrateit #italy #church #locorotondo

The Palombaro Lungo is something quite unique. It’s the largest underground water system in the city of Matura, where rainwater and spring water from the surrounding hills are collected and in the past was necessary for the supply of water to the inhabitants. After being used for about a century and a half it stopped being used in 1927. It was kind of forgotten quite quickly and then rediscovered in 1991. The discovery contributed to the area being designated a UNESCO world heritage site. #celebrateit #italy #matera #cistern

The Church of Saints Peter and Paul in Matera, Italy is one of the main catholic places of worship in the town. t’Yhe current church in this location dates back to 1218. Sadly over the years due to different modifications and renovations, many of the original features of the church have been lost, although some still remain and it’s so intriguing to search for them inside the church. #celebrateit #matera #italy #church

#ancienttownvibes Exploring Matera in Italy is like stepping back into ancient history. This city, inhabited since the Paleolithic Age, is renowned for its unique "sassi" dwellings carved out of soft tufa rock. Walking through Matera, you can see homes, cisterns, churches, and tombs, all etched into the rock. The city's rich history is palpable, with every corner revealing stories of the past. Despite the lack of heat and running water in these ancient dwellings, Matera's charm remains intact. Today, it's a captivating destination for history buffs and explorers. Visiting Matera offers a glimpse into a bygone era, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in Italy's cultural and historical heritage.

#ancienttownvibes Stepping into Matera felt like entering a different era—an ancient world carved into the limestone cliffs of southern Italy. Known as the “City of Stones,” Matera is one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in the world, with its iconic Sassi cave dwellings preserving centuries of history and culture. As I wandered through the labyrinth of narrow alleyways, stone-carved staircases, and rustic dwellings, I was transported back in time, surrounded by a city that has stood the test of millennia. My exploration began in Sasso Caveoso, one of the two historic districts, where ancient cave homes, rock-hewn churches, and underground cisterns blended seamlessly into the landscape. The soft golden hues of the tufa rock glowed under the morning sun, casting long shadows over the rugged terrain. Every turn revealed another hidden passage, a weathered doorway, or a panoramic terrace overlooking the Gravina Gorge. I marveled at how people once lived in these cave homes, their walls echoing stories of resilience and adaptation. One of the most striking sights was the Rupestrian Churches, sacred spaces carved directly into the rock, adorned with faded frescoes that whispered of long-forgotten prayers. Santa Maria de Idris, perched dramatically on a rocky outcrop, offered breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding valley. The church’s dimly lit interior, with its centuries-old frescoes, carried an air of solemnity, reminding me of Matera’s deep spiritual roots. As I strolled through Sasso Barisano, the larger and more restored district, I saw how Matera had transformed in recent years. Boutique hotels, charming cafés, and artisan workshops now breathed new life into the ancient stone dwellings. I paused for an espresso at a terrace overlooking the city, soaking in the surreal contrast of past and present. The silence of the old streets, interrupted only by the distant ringing of church bells, made me appreciate the unique blend of history and modernity that defines Matera. At sunset, I climbed to the Belvedere di Murgia Timone, an overlook offering an unrivaled view of the city. As the golden light bathed the Sassi, Matera seemed to glow from within, its stone buildings resembling a cascading waterfall of light. The moment was almost mystical, a reminder of why this place has captivated travelers, artists, and filmmakers alike. Matera was more than just an ancient city—it was a living testament to human endurance, a place where history, culture, and raw beauty intertwined seamlessly. Walking its streets was like retracing the footsteps of countless generations, each stone holding a story, each shadow whispering a secret. This journey left me in awe of Matera’s timeless charm, and I departed with the sense that I had experienced something truly extraordinary.

Nestled in southern Italy’s Basilicata region, Matera is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with a history dating back over 9,000 years. Walking through its ancient Sassi di Matera (cave dwellings), you’ll feel transported to another era, where homes, churches, and streets were carved directly into the limestone cliffs. Matera’s unique charm lies in its stone-carved architecture, which has earned it UNESCO World Heritage status. The Sassi districts, once considered impoverished settlements, have now been transformed into stunning boutique hotels, restaurants, and museums, blending history with modern comfort. Exploring the labyrinth of narrow alleys, hidden courtyards, and ancient stairways, you’ll uncover a city where time seems to stand still. A highlight of Matera is its rock-hewn churches, such as Santa Maria de Idris and San Pietro Caveoso, featuring frescoes that date back centuries. The city’s Cathedral of Matera, perched on the highest point of the Sassi, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the ancient landscape. At night, Matera glows with golden lights, creating a magical atmosphere that has made it a favorite filming location, including for movies like The Passion of the Christ and No Time to Die. Beyond its historical allure, Matera is also a hub for local cuisine, where you can savor traditional dishes like orecchiette pasta, pane di Matera (stone-baked bread), and local cheeses. With its ancient soul and cinematic beauty, Matera is a city where history and modernity coexist in perfect harmony, offering travelers an unforgettable glimpse into Italy’s past. #ancienttownvibes

#europetrip Matera is one of Italy’s most enchanting hidden gems, a city where history and beauty intertwine. Famous for its ancient Sassi cave dwellings, a UNESCO World Heritage site, Matera feels like a journey back in time. Carved into limestone cliffs, its stone houses, rock churches, and winding alleys create a breathtaking landscape. By night, the golden glow of lights transforms the city into a magical scene. Matera’s cultural vibrancy, traditional Lucanian cuisine, and cinematic charm make it unforgettable. Whether exploring historic caves or admiring panoramic views, this southern Italian treasure offers a unique and timeless experience like no other.

#europetrip Beyond its striking beauty, Matera is also a cultural hub, recognized as the European Capital of Culture in 2019. The city’s museums, art galleries, and local festivals celebrate its rich heritage and artistic spirit. Visitors can savor authentic Lucanian cuisine, from handmade orecchiette pasta to the region’s famous peperoni cruschi (crispy sun-dried peppers), paired with exquisite local wines. Matera’s cinematic landscape has also made it a favorite filming location, appearing in movies like The Passion of the Christ and No Time to Die. Whether admiring breathtaking views from the Murgia plateau, wandering through centuries-old rupestrian churches, or simply soaking in the atmosphere of this unique city, Matera leaves an unforgettable impression. A hidden pearl in southern Italy, it is a place of wonder, history, and timeless charm waiting to be discovered.

#getgoing2025 Matera, Italy Matera is an enchanting town located in the Basilicata region of southern Italy. It’s famous for its Sassi di Matera, ancient cave dwellings carved into limestone cliffs. These caves have been continuously inhabited for thousands of years and now house homes, churches, and hotels. Matera has been named a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it is one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities. The town has a growing reputation as an arts hub, with modern art galleries and festivals. Matera’s distinct landscape has also made it a popular filming location, including for movies like The Passion of the Christ.

Hey everyone, I just got back from a trip to Matera, and it was absolutely amazing! 🎇 I have to share it with you all. As soon as I got off the bus, I was captivated by the unique charm of this ancient city. The stone houses of Matera are stacked on top of each other, scattered along the steep slopes, and the ancient stone walls and arched doors tell a thousand-year-old story. Walking through the narrow cobblestone alleys, I felt like I had traveled back to the Middle Ages. In the famous Sassi area, every stone seems to be telling a story of the past. The sunlight shines on the ancient buildings, creating a beautiful interplay of light and shadow, and every photo is a masterpiece. The churches, transformed from caves, have exquisite murals inside. Despite the ravages of time, they still exude artistic brilliance, making one marvel at the wisdom and creativity of the ancients. In Matera, you can also feel a strong cultural atmosphere. You can often see local artists' studios in the streets and alleys, where they use brushes and hands to incorporate the beauty of Matera into every piece of work. Walking into a small café, savoring authentic Italian coffee, and listening to people at the next table chatting enthusiastically in Italian, the atmosphere is truly enchanting. The food in Matera is also not to be missed. Fresh pasta with rich meat sauce is incredibly satisfying with every bite; and the local cheese is rich and creamy, with a strong milky flavor. This trip to Matera left a deep impression on me. It is not as bustling and noisy as some popular tourist cities, but it has a tranquil and profound beauty. If you also like to explore history and culture and seek unique travel experiences, Matera is definitely a great choice, and I'm sure you'll fall in love with it too! 💖

Matera is honestly one of the most magical places I’ve ever visited. Matera is located in the Basilicata region of southern Italy but it’s fairly easy to reach by train from Bari. You need to take two trains, but it seems like it’s a guaranteed connection between both services. Visiting Matera can easily be done as a day trip from Bari, but I would also recommend staying overnight if possible. I really wish that I had been able to do that. It’s a beautiful town just to wander around all the beautiful streets and see all the beautiful architecture. There are cave dwellings that can be visited also. I would highly recommend the Museo Laboratorio della Civilta Contadina, aside form Matera itself it was my favourite place that I visited. If you are ever visiting southern Italy, make sure Matura is on your list of places to visit! #getgoing2025 #matera #italy #basilicata

Arrived on a pretty winter day in matera, absolutely stunning!

What an incredible place! Stuffed full of some much stuff! From magazines from the 1930's to old furniture, from old tools and equipment to a complete 1900's barber shop. If you really want to see how people lived 100+ years ago, skip the queues and overcrowded cave houses and come here. The entry fee is only 4 euro and there is way more to see here than at the cave houses! I stumbled across this place pretty much by accident but besides Matera itself this was best place I visited, so glad I found it. Would highly recommend it and if I am ever in Matera again I would definitely make a repeat visit. If you are visiting Matera you have to come here! #getgoing2025 #museum #matera #basilicata

Italy is not big but it is very long🤣 Do you know how different the north and south are? Most of Italy's popular check-in attractions are actually in the north, including Florence, Milan, Venice, etc. Therefore, the urban architecture and tourist attractions in the north are more urbanized, and people in their daily lives are more indifferent. The south is slower and more ancient, and many architectural attractions have retained their original flavor, and the local people are more enthusiastic and cheerful. The lifestyles and language habits of people in the north and south are also very different. So if you want to truly experience, try and integrate into Italian life, come and join us for an in-depth tour! From south to north, a full experience on one line😎😎 🛬[Itinerary]: day1: Rome-Assisi-Italian Town day2: Italian Town-Venice day3: Venice-Sirmione-Milan day4: Milan-Cinque Terre day5: Cinque Terre-Pisa-Florence day6: Florence-Orcia Valley-Rome day7: Rome day8: Rome-Naples-Pompeii day9: Pompeii-Amalfi-Salerno day10: Salerno-Matera-Alberobello-Bari day11: Bari-Castello del Monte-Rome 🧡[tips]: 1. No matter in the north or south of Italy, people don’t have the habit of drinking hot water, so if you need hot water, it is recommended to bring your own kettle! Or ask for hot water from the hotel restaurant (drinking too much can easily cause internal heat 🤣) 2. Italian hotels don't provide toothbrushes, toothpaste and slippers. It is recommended to bring your own or buy them at a nearby supermarket 3. Don't bring too much cash. Many places accept credit cards or some places in the north already support Alipay Italy · Europe Rome · Metropolitan City of Rome Milan · Metropolitan City of Milan Pompeii · Metropolitan City of Naples Naples · Metropolitan City of Naples Amalfi · Province of Salerno Matera · Matera Venice · Metropolitan City of Venice Florence · Tuscany

Recently, the Orient Express released a new luxury train, the La Dolce Vita Orient Express, which will travel through Italy. The train will depart for the first time this spring and is now open for booking! 🚂 The train will offer 8 routes through Italy, passing through lakes, forests, coasts, the Alps, and cities. 🚂 In addition to the well-known Rome and Venice, the train will also reach many lesser-known Italian cities, such as Matera, the third oldest city in the world, and the village of Parena, with its medieval architecture, scenery, and cultural heritage. 🚂 One of the itineraries will include the world's first train ferry: when entering Sicily, the train will be assembled on a ferry, so you can continue to enjoy the train experience even on the water. 🛏️ The train has 12 carriages, including 12 deluxe rooms, 18 suites, and 1 independent Dolce Vita suite. 🍴 Michelin three-star chef Heinz Beck will be responsible for preparing the dishes and presenting the Wins Onboard wine 🍷 curated in collaboration with Vinitaly. ❗【👇Click below to start your time travel journey】 ❗

Exploring Puglia during winter was unforgettable. I strolled through Alberobello on a sunny afternoon, admiring its unique trulli houses glowing under the golden light. The calm streets made it feel like a journey back in time. I stayed one night in Matera, where walking through the ancient Sassi was magical. The old city’s charm, with its winding alleys, cave dwellings, and panoramic views, left me in awe. The winter sun added a gentle warmth to the crisp air, making the experience serene and enchanting - a perfect way to welcome the New Year! #newyearnewtrip

Croatia + Southern Italy Adriatic Sea 13-day romantic tour Go to Croatia, as if you are in a beautiful picture, the natural scenery and cultural heritage are unforgettable, with long coastlines, charming mountains, and clear lakes Follow the fifth season of "Divas Hit the Road" to check in at the filming location; feel the passion and fighting spirit of the red and white checkered football team There are also seafood, barbecue, cheese, and wine, each dish has a unique story and historical background Adriatic sunrise and sunset + Capri Island romance, 10 world heritage sites Radisson Grand, a luxurious experience on the journey Special hotel in the Plitvice Lakes National Park, open the window to see the world heritage national park Croatian seafood, every bite is full of the sea's deep affection In-depth tour of the Istrian Peninsula, a niche tourist destination that is difficult to reach by conventional Croatian routes "Game of Thrones" filming locations: Dubrovnik, Split In-depth tour of southern Italy: popular mushroom village, ancient city of Matera, sunny Naples, Pompeii ruins, scenic Capri Island, follow the movie to tour Rome

📍Corte San Pietro Hotel, Matera, Italy ✔️Pros Comfortable bedding, very friendly staff, unique experience staying in a cave, detailed travel information provided, breakfast, welcome food (fruit), daily water (2 still and 2 sparkling bottles), restaurant atmosphere, early check-in service ✔️Cons Separate parking fee, 1km walk from the parking lot (this seems to apply to hotels in the old town area) Room amenities: TV, minibar, safe, flat-screen TV, private entrance, air conditioning and heating, towels, hangers, bedside outlets Bathroom amenities: Rituals toiletries, European-style bidet, slippers, hairdryer

📍Hotel Corte San Pietro, Matera, Italy Room rate: Approximately 230,000 won per night for a classic double room (varies by season) 💵Private parking lot, 20 euros per day We applied for the shuttle service because we had to walk after parking. The shuttle service costs 15 euros (we give it directly to the driver, both cash and card are accepted) They kindly explained the travel information and we could contact them via WhatsApp at any time On the day of check-out, we had to leave before the breakfast time, but they prepared breakfast for us in advance. The room was cozy and well-maintained #Ho-kang-seu

📍Hotel Corte San Pietro, Via Bruno Buozzi, 97, 75100 Matera MT, Italy 📌Location in the heart of Sasso Caveoso 🕡Check-in/check-out 14:30/11:00 🚊Matera Train Station is just 1km away, and the town's cathedral is a 5-minute walk away ✔️Cave hotel in the old town ✔️There is an underground water tank system that seems to have been connected during World War II, so you can have a novel experience. ✔️Delicious breakfast, very friendly staff #Ho-kang-seu