Matera is one of the most incredible places you can visit in Italy, and once you see it, you’ll understand why!
Famous for its ancient cave houses, winding stone streets, and breathtaking views, Matera feels like a city from another world. And the best part? You can actually stay in one of its historic caves!
Located in Southern Italy, Matera is home to the famous Sassi di Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with thousands of years of history. But beyond its fascinating past, it’s also an incredibly romantic and photogenic destination, especially when the city lights up after sunset.
Whether you’re planning a day trip or a romantic weekend, Matera is absolutely worth adding to your Italy itinerary.
In this mini guide, I’ll share where to stay, what to see, the best things to book, and my personal tips to help you plan an unforgettable visit!
How many days?
1-3
Best time to visit
Apr–Jun & Sep–Oct
Best base
Matera
Need a car?
Yes, recommended
Nearest airports
Bari or Naples
Budget
Moderate, good value
Book ahead
Hotels with Sassi views
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Stay in a charming cave hotel in Matera’s old town or choose a modern hotel outside the center. Here are my top 3 picks for every budget!
A beautiful 4-star hotel in the heart of Matera's old town, offering some of the best views of the Sassi. With gorgeous interiors, an incredible location, and surprisingly reasonable prices, it's my top pick!
$$$ Mid-range
Check availabilityA modern 4-star hotel on the outskirts of Matera, offering excellent value for money. A great choice if you're traveling by car and prefer a comfortable stay away from the busy old town.
$$$ Budget-friendly
Check availabilityOne of Matera's most beautiful luxury hotels! This stunning 5-star property offers elegant cave-style accommodation, beautiful interiors, and iconic views over the historic Sassi district.
$$$ Luxury
Check availability
Matera
My favorite view!
Sassi di Matera – Explore the famous ancient cave houses and charming stone streets.
Belvedere Murgia Timone – Enjoy the most spectacular panoramic view of Matera.
Matera Cathedral – Visit the beautiful cathedral overlooking the historic Sassi.
Casa Grotta nei Sassi – Discover what life was like inside Matera's traditional cave homes.
Palombaro Lungo – Explore a fascinating underground water cistern beneath the city.
There’s more to Matera than beautiful views and historic streets. Guided tours, day trips, and local food experiences are great ways to discover the city. Here are 3 activities worth booking in advance.
Walk through the historic Sassi with a local guide and discover a traditional cave house and a rock-hewn church.
Visit Alberobello and Matera in one day, with organized transport from Bari and time to explore both towns.
Try regional wines and traditional local products in the atmospheric setting of Matera's ancient Sassi caves.
Matera is full of charming restaurants where you can enjoy traditional local food, often with beautiful views of the Sassi. Here are my restaurant recommendations for different tastes and budgets.
An elegant fine-dining restaurant with excellent Italian cuisine and one of the best views of Matera's old town.
A charming cave restaurant in the heart of the Sassi, serving traditional dishes in a beautiful historic setting.
A popular bistrot in Matera's old town, perfect for a casual meal or a quick bite while exploring the city.
Best choices
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