• Countries
• Italy
• Matera

Uncovering Matera: The Ultimate 4-Day Budget Trip

Experience the timeless charm of Matera without breaking the bank.

28 August 2023

A trip to Matera, Italy on a limited budget can be an enchanting experience filled with history, culture, and stunning architecture. Explore the ancient cave dwellings, known as Sassi, which offer a unique glimpse into the past, and enjoy the panoramic views from the city's many viewpoints, all for little to no cost. Indulge in the local cuisine at affordable trattorias and take advantage of budget-friendly accommodations, including hostels and guesthouses, making it the ideal destination for travelers looking to experience Italy's charm without breaking the bank.

Travel plan

• Check into the charming budget-friendly hotel, Locanda di San Martino, a former 13th-century monastery turned cozy accommodation.
• Start your adventure by wandering through the Sassi di Matera, the ancient cave dwellings carved into the cliffs it's like stepping into a time machine!
• Visit the fascinating Casa Grotta, a traditional cave home furnished with rustic relics that'll transport you back to the 1950s.
• Climb up to the Piazzetta Pascoli for panoramic views of Matera's unique landscape, where ancient meets modern in a mesmerizing dance.
• Sample local delicacies at Osteria PicoBar, where the scent of freshly baked bread intertwines with the joyful chitchat of friendly locals.

• Start your day with a delightful breakfast at Caffè San Biagio, a café tucked away in a hidden alley, serving up steaming cappuccinos and flaky pastries.
• Lose yourself in the intricate labyrinth of the Rock Churches, marveling at the ancient frescoes that tell stories of old.
• Join a guided tour at the Casa Cava, a unique art space carved into the tufa stone, featuring contemporary exhibitions that blend seamlessly with their historical surroundings.
• Stroll through the picturesque Murgia Park, a rocky haven for natural beauty enthusiasts, where the chirping of birds mingles with the whisper of the wind in the canyon.
• End the day with a soul-soothing dinner at La Talpa, a cozy trattoria serving up traditional homemade dishes that'll make your taste buds sing with joy.

• Savor a leisurely brunch at Antica Cantina Pepe, a charming spot where rustic elegance meets culinary delights and the aroma of homemade pasta fills the air.
• Delve into the rich history of Matera at the Museo Ridola, where captivating artifacts and informative displays weave together the city's fascinating past.
• Explore the vibrant narrow streets of the Sasso Barisano district, dotted with artisan workshops, quirky galleries, and cozy cafés inviting you for a mid-afternoon espresso.
• Discover the ethereal atmosphere of Madonna delle Virtù e San Nicola dei Greci, an ancient rock-hewn church that exudes tranquility and offers breathtaking views of the ravine.
• Indulge in a glass (or two) of locally sourced wine at L'Arte Infusa, a rustic wine bar where vines and art become one, before retiring to your comfortable lodgings at Albergo del Sedile.

• Enjoy a hearty breakfast at La Paranza, a local favorite renowned for its homemade bread, jams, and mouthwatering pastries that'll make you want to stay another day.
• Take a scenic stroll along the Via Lucana, lined with colorful buildings and lively boutiques, for some last-minute souvenir shopping.
• Bid farewell to Matera with a visit to the iconic Cathedral of Matera, known for its architectural beauty and breathtaking views of the cityscape.
• Reflect on your unforgettable journey while savoring a scrumptious lunch at L'Abbondanza Lucana, a cozy trattoria serving up traditional Lucanian flavors.
• Wave goodbye to Matera, promising to return and unlock more of its hidden secrets, as you head off to your next adventure.