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

#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.

▪️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~

Matera, Italy This is a 7,000-year-old ancient city and another world cultural heritage site in southern Italy. In the early days, the entire ancient city was built along the mountain wall and people lived in caves. It was not until the 19th century that the Italian government realized that the people here often fell ill due to the humidity because they had lived in the caves for a long time. The houses we see today have been rebuilt by the government. Matera, Italy This ancient city, which dates back 7,000 years, is another UNESCO World Heritage Site in southern Italy. In its early days, the entire ancient city was built along the cliffs. It wasn't until the 19th century that the Italian government realized the residents, who had long lived in caves, were often falling ill due to the damp conditions. Today, the houses have been rebuilt by the government to address these issues.

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

Matera is located in the Basilicata region in southern Italy. Matera is famous for its history of Sassi caves. People have lived there since the Paleolithic Age. The stacked Sassi caves have houses, churches, etc., but there is no running water in the caves, and the poor living conditions lead to serious infectious diseases. Before the 1960s, there were still poor people living here. It was not until the government began to pay attention to this area and relocated people elsewhere and improved the environment that it became what it is today. #travelinspiration#travelbeautifulgirlsphotography#attractionphotographyguide

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!

During my visit to Sassi di Matera, an ancient cave dwelling in Matera, I stumbled upon a small church inside a cave. It was a perfect spot to take a short break. Looking at the church built within the cave, I couldn't help but wonder if the people who lived in such harsh conditions relied on their faith to endure. It's fascinating to see how the people of that time practiced their faith, and I highly recommend visiting this place to get a glimpse of their spiritual life.

This is a small chapel built inside a cave. The white door was open, so I went inside and found a tiny chapel with religious paintings hanging on the walls and frescoes on the altar. Although it was much smaller than a large cathedral, I could feel the deep faith of the people who lived at that time, as they even built a chapel inside a cave. It was truly inspiring and evoked a sense of respect. 📍Chiesa Rupestre di San Vito dei Lombardi (o della Madonna dell'Aiuto)

Coming to Italy for five days and don't know what to do? Don't worry, this guide will help you navigate Italy and make your trip even more exciting! / 🚩Itinerary: D1: Pompeii -> Caserta Royal Palace On the first day, visit the ruins of Pompeii and experience the weight of history. Afterwards, head to the magnificent Caserta Royal Palace to admire the splendor of the Italian royal family. D2: Sorrento -> Amalfi Coast On the second day, we will travel to picturesque Sorrento, and then tour the beautiful Amalfi Coast, enjoying the magnificent scenery of the Mediterranean Sea. D3: Matera Sassi -> Matera Cathedral On the third day, delve into the Sassi di Matera, experiencing the ancient residential culture, and then visit the solemn Matera Cathedral, feeling the sacred atmosphere of religion. D4: Lecce Cathedral On the fourth day, we will visit the historic Lecce Cathedral, exploring its unique architectural style and religious culture. D5: Capri -> Blue Grotto -> Church of San Paolo Apostolo -> Castel Nuovo -> Galleria Umberto I -> Royal Palace of Naples On the last day, we will take a boat to Capri, visit the mysterious Blue Grotto, and then visit the Church of San Paolo Apostolo. Afterwards, we will visit Castel Nuovo and the magnificent Galleria Umberto I, and finally arrive at the magnificent Royal Palace of Naples, concluding this trip perfectly. 🏰✨ / Must-See Attractions: ✨ Pompeii: Travel back to Pompeii two thousand years ago. The ruins of the ancient city will bring you back to the life scenes of that time. Walking through it, you can almost feel the pulse of history and the ancient charm. 🌊 Capri: This is a classic representation of Mediterranean style! Imagine the azure blue water intertwined with the lush vegetation on the island, breathtakingly beautiful. Come to Capri and enjoy the romance of the Mediterranean! 🏺 Amalfi Coast: Traveling along this coastline, you will be attracted by the gorgeous porcelain shops along the way. Every place here is like a painting, immersing people in a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere, feeling the endless beauty. / 🧳 Travel Preparations: 📞 Be sure to get a local SIM card, which is convenient for communication and allows you to check out attractions and restaurants online. 🔌 Don't forget to bring a plug adapter, otherwise, electrical appliances from our country may not be usable there. 🪪 Make sure you have all your documents, including your passport and visa. These are essential when traveling abroad. 👗 It can still be a little chilly in Italy in March, so bring some spring and autumn clothes and a light jacket, just in case. Also, comfortable shoes are a must, as we'll be doing a lot of walking! / Enjoy the blend of ancient Roman charm and modern fashion on your Italian journey. See you next time! 👋🇮🇹

Embark on a scenic journey through Europe! This 12-day tour will immerse you in breathtaking natural beauty. Save this guide and start planning your romantic European adventure! -- Explore Europe and travel through the corridors of history, from the ruins of ancient Rome 🏛️ to the romantic streets of Paris 🌹, experiencing the unique customs and cultures of each destination. Discover diverse cultures and magnificent landscapes 🌄 on this European tour! -- 🛫Itinerary: Day 1: Depart from Shanghai and fly to Milan. Visit the renowned Milan Cathedral and then travel to the picturesque Dolomites. Day 2–3: Explore the Dolomites' jagged peaks and charming Italian towns. Afterward, journey to Venice, take a gondola ride along the Grand Canal, and return to the town for an overnight stay. Day 4–5: Depart from the Italian town and explore the Postojna Cave, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then, head to Ljubljana and visit the breathtaking Lake Bled before arriving in Zagreb. Day 6–7: Experience the charm of Zagreb, a historic Central European city. Afterward, visit the Rastoke Watermill Village and explore the magnificent Plitvice Lakes National Park. Finally, arrive in Zadar, a coastal city famous for its sunsets. Day 8–9: Depart from Zadar and explore the ancient Roman cities of Trogir and Split. Then, travel to Dubrovnik, home to one of Europe's most stunning coastlines. Day 10–12: Take a boat from Dubrovnik to the Italian port of Bari. Afterward, explore the ancient cave city of Matera. Finally, transfer in Rome for your flight back to Shanghai. 🛬 -- Essentials Before You Go: 🧳Don't forget these items for your European tour! 📞 A local SIM card is essential for staying connected in Europe. Get one in advance for a hassle-free experience. 🔌 Bring a plug adapter, as European outlets are different. A universal adapter will do the trick. 🪪 Ensure you have all necessary documents, including your passport and visa. Making copies is recommended for extra security. 👗 Pack clothes suitable for the weather. March in Europe can be chilly, so don't forget warm outerwear. 🔋 Remember your chargers for your camera and phone to stay powered up throughout your trip. -- 🎉Enjoy the diverse cultures and experiences on your European adventure! We hope every step of your journey is filled with joy and wonderful surprises!

The short holiday is coming! Here's a comprehensive guide to a 15-day in-depth multi-country European tour. It's super practical, so save it now and start your romantic European journey! / 🌍Itinerary at a Glance: Day 1: Depart from Beijing Day 2–3: Fly to Milan🛫, then take a train🚆to Naples, followed by a bus tour to Pompeii, Amalfi, and Salerno Day 4: Depart from Salerno, the bus trip covers Alberobello, Matera, and Bari Day 5–6: Depart from Bari, pass through San Giovanni, take a ferry🛳️to Messina, then head to Taormina, and finally arrive in Palermo Day 7–8: Travel from Palermo to Agrigento and Catania, and finally arrive in Syracuse Day 9–12: Tour around Syracuse, including Noto, Ragusa, etc., then head to Valletta, and visit Gozo Island and Comino Island Day 13: Fly back to Milan from Valletta🛬 Day 14: Return to Beijing from Milan🛫 Day 15: Arrive in Beijing🛬 / 🧳 Travel Essentials: Your Multi-Country European Travel Checklist! 📞 Prepare a phone card to stay connected. 🔌 Don't forget a plug adapter, as European standards are different from ours. 📜 Make sure you have your passport and visa ready for entry and travel. 👔 March in Europe can be chilly, so bring a warm coat. 🔋 Remember your charger and power bank to keep your phone and camera charged. 💊 Don't forget to pack common medications for headaches, colds, and other minor ailments. 💶 Bring a small amount of cash and a credit card for convenient shopping and dining. / Enjoy the exotic atmosphere and create unforgettable memories on your multi-country European tour! Trip.com group tours offer you a hassle-free and high-quality travel experience!

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.

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