Matera

Travel Guide

Matera
Matera
Matera
Matera
Matera

Known as the city of stone, this labyrinth of prehistoric dwellings and magnificent architecture provides an unforgettable trip.

Explore rows of intricate limestone homes and churches in the remarkable ancient settlement of Matera. Then step thousands of years into the future to discover a beautiful Romanesque cathedral and sculptures by world-renowned artists.

Marvel as the vast Sassi District appears out of the desolate cliffs. Declared a World Heritage site in 1993, this troglodyte settlement is among Italy’s first areas of human habitation.

Along the eastern edge of the sprawling city is Sasso Barisano, the larger of two stone districts on either side of a steep ravine. Many caves here have been converted into cafés and restaurants. Browse gift shops where you can purchase handmade whistles and ceramics.

On the far side of the ravine you will find Sasso Caveoso, a smaller area of caves which remains almost completely untouched since the time of the first settlers. Walk along dusty paths and wooden bridges and discover the ancient living quarters to get a real sense of what life must have been like for these cave dwellers. The easiest way to reach Sasso Caveoso is by walking from the car-park on Via Madonna delle Virtu.

Head back to town to find out how the caves here have been changed and adapted. The Chiesa di Madonna delle Virtu e di San Nicola dei Greci feature spooky dome-ceilinged rooms and faded frescoes while the Museo della Scultura incorporates magnificent contemporary sculptures from Cambellotti, Matta and Cascella.

Leave this underground maze behind and walk 5 minutes west to the stunning 13th-century cathedral. The highlight of the striking white exterior is a grand rose window. Head inside to discover pretty chapels and gilded motifs.

The city’s newer section has many excellent restaurants and hotels. Try the adapted caves for a more unusual experience. In late September, attend the Women’s Fiction Festival, which includes talks and question sessions with top international authors.

Located in the Basilicita region and a 5-hour drive south of RomeOpens in a new window, Matera is a perfect destination to discover ancient history and fantastic Italian hospitality.

Locanda di San Martino Hotel & Termae Romanae

Locanda di San Martino Hotel & Termae Romanae

3 out of 5
Via Fiorentini 71, Matera, MT
The price is RM482 per night from 16 Oct to 17 Oct
RM482
RM549 total
16 Oct - 17 Oct
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3-star spa hotel in Matera. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff in our ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (809 reviews)
"Greta place p"

Reviewed on 5 Oct 2025

Locanda di San Martino Hotel & Termae Romanae
Aquatio Cave Luxury Hotel & SPA

Aquatio Cave Luxury Hotel & SPA

5 out of 5
Via Conche, Matera, MT
The price is RM2,188 per night from 20 Oct to 21 Oct
RM2,188
RM2,446 total
20 Oct - 21 Oct
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 5-star spa property in Matera. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the property condition ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (536 reviews)
"The hotel itself is spectacular and staff are very friendly."

Reviewed on 20 Sept 2025

Aquatio Cave Luxury Hotel & SPA
UNA HOTELS MH Matera

UNA HOTELS MH Matera

4 out of 5
Via Germania, snc, Borgo Venusio, MT
Stay at this 4-star spa hotel in Matera. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an outdoor pool. Popular attractions Sassi and the Park of the Rupestrian Churches ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (267 reviews)
Scelta super consigliata
"Trattandosi di un viaggio di lavoro non ho utilizzato le offerte come SPA e piscina. Ma, l'hotel è molto confortevole, possiede un vasto parcheggio gratuito, è ubicato in periferia (cosa che in una città piccola come Matera è realmente ininfluente) quindi senza le problematiche della ZTL e del traffico ..."

Reviewed on 30 Sept 2025

UNA HOTELS MH Matera
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Fra i Sassi - Residence

Fra i Sassi - Residence

3 out of 5
Via D'Addozio 102, Matera, MT
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly residence in Matera. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and a rooftop terrace. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (319 reviews)
"Great property and location. Staff very friendly."

Reviewed on 10 Sept 2025

Fra i Sassi - Residence
Residenza del Monaco Bianco

Residenza del Monaco Bianco

Via Lucana 200, Matera, MT
Book a stay at this spa residence in Matera. Enjoy free WiFi, a full-service spa, and breakfast (surcharge). Popular attractions Sassi and the Park of the Rupestrian ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (47 reviews)
"The best B&B that we have experienced. The room has an indoor sauna, rain showers, wine cooler, small kitchenette and ample of space. Host is very helpful on local food. Not far from the city center."

Reviewed on 22 Sept 2025

Residenza del Monaco Bianco
Residence del Casalnuovo

Residence del Casalnuovo

Via Casalnuovo 116/118, Matera, MT
Stay at this residence in Matera. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and daily housekeeping. Popular attractions Viewpoint of Matera and the Sassi and Sassi ...
Fantastic service!
"Carmella was wonderful and made sure we got what we needed. She definitely made two tired travelers feel right at home."

Reviewed on 17 Jun 2024

Residence del Casalnuovo
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Popular places to visit

Things to do

Reviews of Matera

4.9
Top destination
5 - Excellent
34
5 - Excellent 89%
4 - Good
4
4 - Good 11%
3 - Okay
0
3 - Okay 0%
2 - Disappointing
0
2 - Disappointing 0%
1 - Terrible
0
1 - Terrible 0%

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

A fantastic experience

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

It is a really unique place. We only had half a day there and will definitely return for 2-3 days to more thoroughly explore the town and its surrounds.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

I would recommend Rossella rooms to anyone who wants to visit Matera.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

Matera is a very interesting place with a fascinating history.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

The town was beautiful and so much history to see and take in Views were stunning and plenty of restaurants and cafes to choose from

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

Was gobsmacked by Matera. Had no idea about this place. Very interesting.