Matera Magic: A 3-Day Adventure in Ancient Italy

Matera: Journey through Ancient Beauty.

28 August 2023

Matera, Italy offers a unique and unforgettable experience for tourists. Known for its ancient cave dwellings that date back thousands of years, the city is a fascinating blend of history and charm. Visitors can explore the Sassi di Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site, wander through the narrow stone streets, and immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of this enchanting destination.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring the Ancient Sassi

  • Check in to the La Grotta della Civita, a unique cave hotel that seamlessly blends rustic charm with modern luxuries.
  • Take a stroll through the narrow alleys of the Sassi, Matera's famous cave dwellings, and marvel at the historic architecture.
  • Visit the Casa Noha museum to discover the fascinating history of this ancient city and its transformation over the centuries.
  • Indulge your taste buds at Osteria Pico, a cozy restaurant serving traditional dishes made with love and locally sourced ingredients.
  • End the day with a breathtaking sunset view from Belvedere di Piazza Giovanni Pascoli, capturing the essence of Matera's beauty.
Day 2

Immersing in Matera's Cultural Delights

  • Join a guided tour to delve deeper into the cultural heritage of Matera, uncovering the secrets behind the ancient frescoes in the rock churches.
  • Visit the Palombaro Lungo, an incredible underground cistern system that once served as a lifeline for the city's water supply.
  • Experience the true essence of Matera's cuisine at Ristorante Francesca, where you'll savor divine dishes bursting with local flavors.
  • Explore the contemporary art scene at the MUSMA Museum, housed in a former church where art and history blend harmoniously.
  • Enjoy an evening stroll along Via Ridola, lined with charming boutiques, stylish bars, and quaint cafés perfect for people-watching.
Day 3

Uncovering Matera's Natural Beauty

  • Embark on an exhilarating hike in the stunning Murgia National Park, taking in breathtaking views of the rugged landscape and ancient ruins.
  • Discover the beauty of the Cripta del Peccato Originale, an underground rock church adorned with vivid frescoes depicting scenes from the Bible.
  • Treat yourself to a delectable brunch at the cozy and trendy Caffè Vittorio, known for its locally sourced ingredients and innovative dishes.
  • Unwind and relax at the La Palomba Hotel's rooftop pool, while soaking up the panoramic views of the Sassi.
  • Toast to an unforgettable trip with a glass of locally produced Primitivo wine at Enoteca dai Tosi, a charming wine bar with a warm ambiance.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Matera by plane is to fly into Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport (BRI) and then take a bus or rent a car for the remaining 65 kilometers to Matera.

Car

The best way to get to Matera by car is to drive from Bari. The journey takes about 1.5 hours via SS99 and SP175.

Train

The best way to get to Matera by train is to take a train to Bari Centrale station and then transfer to a regional train to Matera Centrale station.

Boat

There are no direct boat routes to Matera as it is an inland city. Therefore, it is not possible to reach Matera by boat.

Bus

The best way to get to Matera by bus is to take a direct bus from Bari city center or Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport directly to Matera. The journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.

Destination

Matera

Welcome to a charming town where the cobblestone streets lead you on a journey back in time, and where locals frequently debate whether their stones are actually ancestors in disguise – because apparently, talking rocks make the best tourist attraction.

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Number of days

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Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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