Things to do in Matera

Matera, with its captivating history and stunning landscapes, is a gem in the Basilicata region of Italy. With its distinctive blend of stone buildings, cave dwellings,  and churches, the city presents a picturesque scene, earning its place as one of Italy's most photogenic cities.

The top things to do in Matera include strolling through its charming streets, experiencing a stay in a cave hotel, sampling traditional foods, and immersing oneself in its rich history.

As one of the oldest continuously inhabited places globally, Matera's origins date back to the Paleolithic era, with its porous calcareous rock terrain forming natural caves for troglodytes to dwell in.

Today, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it boasts a harmonious mix of historical wonders and distinctive walking trails, welcoming visitors with open arms. Don't miss this beautiful city, where history, culture, and scenic beauty converge for an unforgettable experience.

With its abundance of captivating experiences and unique attractions, Matera stands as an essential destination to explore in Italy. From exploring cave churches and historical dwellings to savouring the local cuisine and sleeping in a cave hotel, there are countless things to do in Matera. Stroll along its enchanting streets, bask in the panoramic views from the city's viewpoints, and delve into its profound history and culture. Whether it's admiring the fascinating Church of Saint Mary of Idris or immersing in the eerie charm of the Church of Purgatory, Matera offers an unforgettable journey back in time. Embrace the beauty, history, and joy of Matera, making the most of every moment in this enchanting Italian gem.

Best Things to do in matera

Matera, a captivating city perched atop rocky cliffs in southern Italy, is a destination that enchants visitors with its unique architecture, rich history, and cultural treasures. Amidst its labyrinthine streets and ancient dwellings, Matera offers a plethora of best things to do that promise a memorable and enriching experience. Let's explore the top activities and attractions that make Matera a must-visit destination.

Discover the Sassi: A Journey into the Past

One of the best things to do in Matera is to immerse yourself in the mesmerizing Sassi, a complex network of cave dwellings and rock-cut architecture. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Sassi stands as a testament to Matera's historical significance and enduring charm. Wander through the winding alleys, marvel at the intricate stone carvings, and step inside the ancient cave homes that offer a glimpse into the daily life of generations past. The Sassi invites you to embark on a journey back in time, where history and culture come alive in every corner.

Explore the Matera Cathedral: A Fusion of Styles

Matera Cathedral, known as the Cattedrale di Santa Maria della Bruna, is a splendid example of architectural brilliance that should top your list of the best things to do in Matera. The cathedral's facade showcases a captivating blend of Romanesque and Apulian-Romanesque styles, while its interiors exude a sense of grandeur and spiritual tranquillity. As you step inside, admire the ornate decorations, exquisite frescoes, and the stunning rose window that bathes the space in ethereal light. The Matera Cathedral is a cultural gem reflecting the city's religious heritage and artistic prowess.

Wander the Streets of Civita: A Hidden Gem

Civita, a charming neighbourhood nestled within Matera, is a lesser-known treasure that offers an enchanting escape from the bustling city centre. Exploring Civita is undeniably one of the best things to do in Matera, as it allows you to meander through quaint streets adorned with colourful flowers, traditional homes, and inviting piazzas. This hidden gem offers a serene ambience that invites you to relax, savour the local atmosphere, and capture stunning panoramic views of Matera's unique landscape.

Visit the Palombaro Lungo: An Underground Wonder

Delving into Matera's subterranean world is another one of the best things to do in Matera. The Palombaro Lungo, an impressive cistern carved deep beneath the city, showcases Matera's ingenious engineering and architectural marvels. This vast underground space, once used to collect rainwater, offers a fascinating glimpse into the city's ancient water management system. Guided tours take you on a captivating journey through the labyrinthine corridors, revealing the intricate construction and historical importance of this hidden wonder.

Experience Matera's Cultural Festivals: A Celebration of Tradition

Matera comes alive with vibrant festivals that celebrate its cultural heritage and traditions. Among the best things to do in Matera is to participate in these lively events that showcase the city's artistic spirit. The Festa della Madonna Bruna, held in July, is a dazzling procession that pays homage to Matera's patron saint with elaborate floats, traditional costumes, and a festive atmosphere. The Matera Women's International Film Festival, held in September, is a celebration of cinematic art that brings together filmmakers and cinephiles from around the world.

Matera stands as a captivating destination that beckons travellers to immerse themselves in its history, culture, and unique charm. From exploring the ancient Sassi to admiring the Matera Cathedral's architectural splendour, wandering the streets of Civita, delving into the Palombaro Lungo's underground wonders, and experiencing the city's vibrant cultural festivals, Matera offers a myriad of best things to do that cater to every traveller's interests. As you traverse the cobbled streets and marvel at the stone-carved beauty, Matera leaves an indelible mark on your heart and soul, inviting you to embrace its timeless allure and create lasting memories.

Unusual things to do in Matera

Matera, a city in southern Italy, is renowned for its ancient cave dwellings and stunning architecture carved into the rock. Often referred to as the "City of Stones," it has gained fame as a UNESCO World Heritage site and served as a backdrop for numerous films, including Mel Gibson's "The Passion of the Christ." While Matera is a popular tourist destination, there are many unique and unusual things to do in this captivating city.


Underground Matera: Discover the Hidden World

Beneath the enchanting streets of Matera lies an intricate network of underground tunnels, caves, and cisterns. Exploring this subterranean world is one of the most unusual things to do in Matera. Begin your journey by visiting Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario, a well-preserved cave dwelling that offers a glimpse into the lives of Matera's former residents. Don't miss the Sassi in Miniatura, a miniature village that replicates the city's ancient architecture in detail.

Matera's Bread Culture: Pane di Matera

While Italian cuisine is renowned worldwide, Matera has a unique culinary speciality known as "Pane di Matera" or Matera bread. This bread, characterized by its rustic appearance and rich flavour, is made using a traditional sourdough recipe and baked in wood-burning ovens. Visiting a local bakery to taste and learn about the art of bread-making is one of the unusual things to do in Matera.

Cave Church of Santa Lucia alle Malve: A Hidden Gem

While Matera boasts several churches carved into the rock, the Cave Church of Santa Lucia alle Malve is a lesser-known gem. This small church is tucked away in the Sasso Caveoso neighbourhood and features stunning frescoes dating back to the 13th century. The quiet and serene atmosphere makes it an excellent spot for reflection and appreciation of Matera's religious history.

Casa Noha: An Immersive Multimedia Experience

For a unique perspective on Matera's history, visit Casa Noha, an immersive museum that utilizes multimedia exhibits to recount the city's past. This innovative approach provides visitors with a captivating journey through Matera's evolution from ancient times to the present day.

MUSMA - The Museum of Contemporary Sculpture

While Matera's historic architecture is a prominent feature, the Museum of Contemporary Sculpture (MUSMA) adds a modern twist to the city's cultural landscape. Housed in a stunning 16th-century palace, MUSMA showcases an impressive collection of contemporary sculptures from both Italian and international artists. The juxtaposition of modern art within a historic setting makes this museum one of the truly unusual things to do in Matera.

Hike the Rupestrian Churches Trail

While Matera is known for its cave dwellings, it is also home to numerous rupestrian churches. These churches, hewn into the rock, feature ancient frescoes and are scattered throughout the region. Embark on a hiking adventure along the Rupestrian Churches Trail to discover these hidden gems while enjoying Matera's stunning landscapes.

Bicycle Tour of the Murgia Plateau

For a more active adventure, consider joining a bicycle tour of the Murgia Plateau surrounding Matera. This unique tour allows you to explore the rugged landscapes, ancient caves, and expansive views while experiencing Matera's natural beauty from a different vantage point.

Matera offers a plethora of Unusual things to do in Matera and beyond its renowned cave dwellings and historic architecture. From exploring underground Matera to savouring unique flavours and immersing yourself in contemporary art, the city has much to offer to adventurous travellers looking to uncover its hidden treasures. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a foodie, or an art lover, Matera's charm and uniqueness are sure to leave a lasting impression.

Things to do in Matera at Night

Matera, the ancient city of stone in southern Italy, takes on a unique charm when the sun sets. While it's famous for its mesmerizing architecture and historical sites, Matera offers a distinct array of nighttime activities that are far from ordinary. Here, we'll delve into some unusual things to do in Matera at night, showcasing the city's hidden gems and vibrant nocturnal atmosphere.

Moonlit Strolls Through the Sassi

One of the most unusual yet enchanting experiences in Matera at night is taking a moonlit stroll through the Sassi, the ancient cave dwellings. As the soft glow of streetlights illuminates the stone facades, you can explore the labyrinthine streets, discovering hidden courtyards and unique viewpoints. Matera's rocky terrain takes on an almost mystical quality under the moonlight, creating an atmosphere of tranquillity and wonder.


Rooftop Dining with a View

For a memorable culinary experience, book a table at one of Matera's rooftop restaurants or bars. Enjoying a meal or a drink with a panoramic view of the city is a truly unique way to savour Matera's beauty. The juxtaposition of historic architecture against the night sky creates an unforgettable ambience. Many establishments offer regional dishes and wines, allowing you to savour the flavours of Matera while exploring unusual things to do in Matera.

Matera by Candlelight: Guided Tours

Matera's historical centre takes on a different persona when explored by candlelight. Several guided tours offer this captivating experience, where you'll wander through dimly lit alleys and squares. Expert guides share fascinating tales of Matera's history and legends, making it an unusual and captivating way to learn about the city's past while soaking in its romantic atmosphere.

Music and Culture at Casa Cava

Casa Cava, a unique cultural centre in Matera, is housed within an ancient cave. At night, it comes alive with music performances, art exhibitions, and cultural events. Check the schedule to see if any performances or events align with your visit. Experiencing live music or art exhibitions in the subterranean setting of Casa Cava is a truly unusual and immersive cultural experience.

Star Gazing at Murgia Plateau

For unusual things to do in the Matera experience, venture out to the Murgia Plateau on the outskirts of Matera for some stargazing. Away from city lights, this plateau offers excellent visibility of the night sky. Consider joining an astronomy tour to learn about the constellations and planets while enjoying the serene beauty of the Materan night.

Traditional Nighttime Tarantella Dance

Embrace Matera's cultural heritage by attending a traditional Tarantella dance performance. This lively and rhythmic folk dance is a celebrated part of Southern Italian culture. Check for local events or performances, especially during festivals or special occasions, to witness the energetic and infectious Tarantella under the night sky.

Matera Underground: Ghost Tours

Explore Matera's eerie side with a nighttime ghost tour of the underground. Beneath the city's surface lies an intricate network of tunnels and caves, each with its tales of mystery and intrigue. These guided tours delve into the stories of the past, bringing to life the city's darker history and legends.

Matera Noir: Literary Exploration

For literary enthusiasts, Matera offers an unusual and atmospheric experience through its connection with literature. Discover the city's noir side by exploring locations mentioned in crime novels set in Matera. Follow in the footsteps of fictional detectives while absorbing the ambience of the city's enigmatic streets.

Late-night gelato and Espresso

Indulge your sweet tooth by treating yourself to late-night gelato or espresso at one of Matera's charming cafes. The city's picturesque streets are dotted with quaint cafes that often stay open well into the night. Savouring a scoop of gelato or a rich espresso in the quiet of Matera's nighttime can be a simple yet delightful experience.

Matera's allure extends far beyond daylight hours. The city reveals its hidden treasures and unique charm after dark, offering a range of unusual and captivating activities for those willing to explore. From moonlit strolls through ancient alleys to cultural performances and literary explorations, Matera's nightlife promises an unforgettable experience. Whether you're seeking romance, culture, or adventure, Matera at night has some unusual things to do in Matera.

Day trips from Matera

While Matera itself is a captivating destination with its ancient cave dwellings and historic charm, the surrounding region offers a wealth of unusual day trips that provide unique insights into Southern Italy's rich cultural and natural heritage. Here, we'll explore some extraordinary day trips from Matera that are worth it, showcasing the hidden gems and diverse experiences awaiting you.

Alberobello: Trulli Magic

Located about an hour's drive from Matera, Alberobello is a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its unique trulli houses. In addition, it is one of the best day trips from Matera that you can embark upon. These cone-shaped, dry-stone huts are a symbol of the region and offer a surreal and picturesque sight. Stroll through the enchanting streets of Alberobello, and you'll feel like you've entered a fairytale village. Don't miss the Trullo Sovrano, a two-story trullo that provides insight into the history of these charming structures and it is also one of the most unusual things to do in Matera.

Castelmezzano and Pietrapertosa: Flight of the Angels

Embark on an extraordinary adventure by visiting Castelmezzano and Pietrapertosa, two picturesque villages nestled in the Dolomiti Lucane mountain range, just over an hour's drive from Matera. Known for their stunning landscapes and adrenaline-pumping activities, these villages are home to the "Volo dell'Angelo" (Flight of the Angels), a thrilling zip line experience that allows you to soar through the rugged terrain, offering unparalleled views of the mountains below.

Taranto: Ancient History and Seaside Charms

Approximately an hour's drive from Matera, Taranto is a coastal city steeped in ancient history. Explore the historic old town, which boasts ancient Greek and Roman ruins, including the impressive Aragonese Castle. Stroll along the seafront promenade, sample fresh seafood at local restaurants, and visit the National Archaeological Museum to uncover the city's rich past.

Craco: Ghost Town Exploration

Craco, located about an hour from Matera, is an abandoned hilltop town that evokes an eerie and haunting atmosphere. Once a thriving medieval village, it was abandoned due to landslides and is now a ghost town frozen in time. Take a guided tour to explore the crumbling buildings, narrow alleyways, and the remains of a once-vibrant community. The haunting beauty of Craco offers one of the most unique and unforgettable day trips from Matera.

Metaponto: Archaeological Wonders

For history enthusiasts, a day trip to Metaponto, situated less than two hours from Matera, offers a fascinating journey into ancient Greece. Explore the archaeological park, which includes well-preserved temples, an ancient agora, and the remnants of an ancient theatre. The site provides a glimpse into the rich history of Greek colonization in Southern Italy.

San Giuliano Lake: Natural Oasis

San Giuliano Lake, located less than an hour from Matera, is an idyllic natural oasis surrounded by lush vegetation. Spend your day hiking around the lake, enjoying a picnic, or simply relaxing in this serene environment. Birdwatchers will also appreciate the rich birdlife that inhabits the lake's shores.

Murgia National Park: Hiking Adventure

Just a short drive from Matera, Murgia National Park offers hiking enthusiasts a diverse landscape of rocky plateaus, ancient caves, and breathtaking vistas. Explore the park's network of trails, including the "Parco della Murgia Materana," which leads to the "Belvedere di Murgia Timone," a viewpoint offering panoramic views of Matera's Sassi.

Matera's surroundings are a treasure trove of unusual day trip opportunities that complement the city's allure. Whether you're seeking historical insights, natural beauty, or thrilling adventures, these nearby destinations provide a diverse range of experiences that will enrich your journey through Southern Italy. Each day trip unveils a different facet of the region's history, culture, and natural wonders, making them essential additions to your Matera itinerary.

Where to park in Matera

Matera, often known as the "City of Stones," boasts a truly unique urban landscape with its ancient cave dwellings and winding streets. While this distinctive character adds to its charm, it also means that parking in Matera can be unlike what you'd encounter in other cities. Here's a guide to help you find where to park in Matera, along with some exceptional activities you can explore during your unusual things to do on a Matera visit.

Parking Zones in Matera

Matera has designated parking zones, each distinguished by different colours: blue, yellow, and white. Here's an overview of each zone:

• Blue Zone (Zona Blu): This is the most prevalent parking zone, typically situated in the city centre. It operates as a paid parking area, requiring you to obtain a parking ticket from nearby machines. The fees vary based on the location and time of day, and some areas have time restrictions, so be sure to check for any limitations indicated by signs.

• Yellow Zone (Zona Gialla): The yellow zone also functions as a paid parking area, but it's usually located slightly farther from the city centre. Rates in this zone are often more budget-friendly, making it a suitable choice if you don't mind a short walk to reach the main attractions.

• White Zone (Zona Bianca): Reserved mainly for residents and authorized vehicles, the white zone is typically off-limits for tourists. It's advisable to steer clear of this zone to avoid any issues.

Parking Garages and Lots

Matera provides several parking garages and lots where you can securely park your vehicle. These options are convenient if you prefer covered parking or plan an extended stay. Some of the notable parking facilities include:

• Parcheggio Muro Torto: Located in proximity to the historic centre, this parking lot offers easy access to Matera's primary attractions, making it an excellent choice for those keen on exploring the Sassi district.

• Parcheggio Madonna delle Virtù: Positioned on the city's outskirts, this parking area is particularly convenient for visitors arriving via the highway. Additionally, a shuttle bus service is available from here to transport you to the city centre.

Unique Ways to Experience Matera

While you're in Matera, make the most of your visit by exploring the city's exceptional and unusual things to do in Matera:

• Sassi di Matera: Traverse through Matera's ancient cave dwellings, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Meander along the narrow alleyways and explore the historic structures carved into the rock.

• Underground Matera: Venture into the captivating subterranean world of Matera by paying a visit to Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario, an ancient cave dwelling that provides valuable insights into the city's history.

• Sassi Film Festival: If your visit falls in October, consider attending the Sassi Film Festival, an event that showcases films in unique open-air settings, adding a cinematic flair to your stay.

• Matera by Night: Take a leisurely moonlit stroll through the Sassi, immersing yourself in the city's distinctive ambience after dark. The gentle illumination of streetlights and the ancient architecture combine to create a truly enchanting atmosphere.

In summary, when thinking about where to park in Matera, it may require some preplanning, but the effort is worthwhile for exploring this exceptional city. Be sure to observe parking zones and associated fees, and consider utilizing parking facilities for added convenience. While navigating Matera's streets and alleys, take full advantage of its unique attractions and activities to make your visit unforgettable and unusual things to do in the Matera experience.