MATERA ESSENTIAL INFORMATION

Matera, in the region of Basilicata, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and famous for its Sassi — ancient cave dwellings carved into limestone cliffs. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and named a European Capital of Culture (2019), Matera offers a unique blend of prehistory, medieval architecture, Baroque churches, and cinematic scenery.

🚆 How to Get to Matera

✈️ By Air

The closest major airports are:

  • Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport (BRI) – ~65 km (~1.5 hrs)
  • Naples International Airport (NAP) – ~250 km (~3.5 hrs)

🚊 By Train

  • Matera Centrale Station – served by Ferrovie Appulo Lucane (FAL)
  • From Bari Centrale: ~1.5 hours via regional trains (change at Altamura or Gravina on some routes)
  • ⚠️ Note: Matera is not served by Trenitalia; check schedules on ferrovieappulolucane.it

🚌 By Bus

  • Direct buses from:
    • Bari (~1.5 hrs)
    • Naples (~4.5 hrs)
    • Rome (~6 hrs)
  • Operators: MarinoBus, Itabus, Miccolis, FlixBus
  • Arrive at Matera Villa Longo or Matera Centrale

🚗 By Car

  • From Bari: ~1.5 hrs via SS96 + SS7
  • From Naples: ~3.5–4 hrs
  • Tip: Useful for visiting nearby towns (Aliano, Craco, Metaponto)

🕰️ Best Time to Visit

  • Spring (April–June): Mild weather, fewer crowds
  • Autumn (Sept–October): Golden landscapes, comfortable temperatures
  • Winter (Dec–Feb): Atmospheric, especially during Christmas lights and presepe (nativity scenes)
  • Summer (July–Aug): Hot (up to 38°C), busy, but with festivals and events

🌤️ Climate

  • Mediterranean-continental hybrid
    • Summer highs: 30–38°C
    • Winter lows: 3–10°C
  • Dry climate, so even winter visits can be pleasant with clear skies

🚍 Getting Around

  • On foot: Matera is very walkable; most of the Sassi districts are pedestrian-only
  • Local buses: Operated by Miccolis; useful for reaching upper districts
  • Car: Not recommended inside the Sassi; limited ZTL (restricted traffic) zones
  • Taxis: Available but limited — pre-booking suggested

🎟️ Tourist Info

  • Tourist Information Office – Matera
    • 📍 Piazza Vittorio Veneto, 39
    • 🕒 Open daily 9:00–13:00 / 15:00–19:00
    • ☎️ +39 0835 336166
    • 🌐 www.basilicataturistica.it

🏨 Where to Stay

  • Sassi: Cave hotels and B&Bs carved into stone – magical and central
  • Centro Storico: Walking distance to sites, more modern accommodations
  • New Town (Matera Nord/Sud): Cheaper, quieter, and better parking

💡 Tip: Many cave hotels include breakfast on panoramic terraces.

🍽️ What to Eat in Matera

  • Pane di Matera IGP: Ancient-style bread made with local semolina
  • Crapiata: Traditional legume stew
  • Strascinati: Pasta with breadcrumbs and local sauces
  • Pignata: Slow-cooked lamb or mutton stew
  • Lucanian sausage and local cheeses
  • Aglianico del Vulture wine and Matera DOC labels

🛍️ Local Shopping

  • Handmade ceramics and carved stone
  • Linen, embroidery, and artisan crafts
  • Local food products: peperoni cruschi, bread, honey, olive oil

🛒 Best areas:

  • Via Ridola
  • Via del Corso
  • Via Fiorentini (Sassi area)

📌 Key Tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes: Uneven stone streets and lots of stairs
  • Bring water: Especially when exploring the Sassi in warmer months
  • Sunset is best viewed from Belvedere Murgia Timone (accessible by car or hiking trail)

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