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 P6,509 per night from Jul 2 to Jul 3
P6,509
P7,426 total
Jul 2 - Jul 3
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! (724 reviews)
"Beautiful room with a wonderful view from the patio. Delicious breakfast. Great spa services at the amazing Thermae!"

Reviewed on Jun 29, 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 P27,161 per night from Jul 4 to Jul 5
P27,161
P30,408 total
Jul 4 - Jul 5
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! (481 reviews)
"Very friendly and helpful staff! Much needed help to room with luggage 👍"

Reviewed on Jun 23, 2025

Aquatio Cave Luxury Hotel & SPA
Sextantio Le Grotte Della Civita
Sextantio Le Grotte Della Civita
4 out of 5
Via Civita 28, Matera, MT
The price is P22,043 per night from Jul 24 to Jul 25
P22,043
P24,778 total
Jul 24 - Jul 25
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4-star luxury hotel in Matera. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and a rooftop terrace. Popular attractions Sassi and the Park of the Rupestrian ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (311 reviews)
An incredible experience!
"We had trouble finding the parking garage! One phone call and Jennifer got us there step by step. Very helpful to say the least. We were given a warm greeting upon arrival. The staff were all friendly and pleasant to talk with. Our room was very clean and inviting. There were beautiful candles lit ..."

Reviewed on Jun 20, 2025

Sextantio Le Grotte Della Civita
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! (306 reviews)
"Nice cave hotel. Cool room, very comfortable. 2 outdoor terraces with great Sassi views. Easy access by taxi, not many stairs. Well located for attractions and restaurants. Tasty home made breakfast items.Lovely staff. Enjoyable stay."

Reviewed on Jun 14, 2025

Fra i Sassi - Residence
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 Jun 17, 2024

Residence del Casalnuovo
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! (37 reviews)
"Had a great time. Nice location nearby main area in Matera. Very easy to get out and walk around."

Reviewed on Sep 9, 2024

Residenza del Monaco Bianco
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.

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