Matera Unveiled: A Day Trip Through Time

Matera, where ancient beauty and rustic charm blend harmoniously.

28 August 2023

Matera, located in southern Italy, is a breathtaking city known for its ancient cave dwellings carved into limestone cliffs. A trip to Matera offers a unique opportunity to explore the history of human habitation, with stunning views and a rich cultural heritage. Visitors can wander through the narrow streets, visit the famous Sassi di Matera, and indulge in authentic Italian cuisine while immersing themselves in the charm of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

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Day trip plan

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Day

A Journey Through Matera's Timeless Beauty

  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Caffè Fortunato, sipping a cappuccino and indulging in their flaky pastries.
  • Step back in time as you explore the Sassi di Matera, a stunning ancient cave-dwelling district that will leave you in awe of its rugged beauty.
  • Visit the Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario, a preserved cave house that offers a glimpse into the daily life of Matera's past residents.
  • Feast on a traditional lunch at Osteria Malatesta, where the flavors of Matera come alive in dishes like orecchiette with lamb ragù.
  • Embark on a panoramic walk along the stunning Murgia Timone, a natural park that offers breathtaking views of the old town and surrounding countryside.
  • End your day at Trattoria da Nico, a cozy restaurant tucked away in the Sassi where you can savor typical Lucanian dishes, like peperoni cruschi and savory lamb skewers.

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

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Matera, Italy offers a unique and family-friendly trip experience. Known for its fascinating ancient cave dwellings, the city provides a glimpse into history while captivating kids and adults alike. Explore the impressive Sassi di Matera, stroll through charming medieval streets, and indulge in local delicacies for an unforgettable family adventure in Matera.