The historic metropolis of Matera ought to function prominently in your southern Italy travel itinerary. With caves remodeled into stylish lodging, enjoyable eating places and bars constructed into rocky outcrops, and a historical past like no different, there are quite a few issues to do in Matera.
Nick and I lately spent 5 days exploring the slender alleyways, eating on the regional delicacies, and having fun with the entire fascinating locations to go to in Matera. Initially, it wasn’t on our radar, however after this journey, it’s protected to say that we’d return in a heartbeat.
Matera is situated in Basilicata, proper on the border with the extra well-liked Puglia region of Italy. Many vacationers mix a visit to Matera with an prolonged keep in Puglia (ourselves included), however there’s sufficient to see and do in Matera to spend 5 days or so right here.
From being impoverished and thought of the shame of Italy, to gaining UNESCO status and being a high Hollywood film site, Matera has been by way of all of it and has risen to grow to be a must-visit place in Italy.
To not point out, Matera has been inhabited because the Palaeolithic times (tenth millennium BC), that means it’s one of many oldest, constantly inhabited locations on earth!
Don’t miss this magical vacation spot, it’s in contrast to wherever we’ve been on our travels.
Finest Issues To Do in Matera
For such a small place, there are various actions for vacationers in Matera. Town revolves round its caverns and also you’ll spend a whole lot of time caves, eating in them, and (in case you select) spending the evening in a single.
Throughout our 5 days right here, we had been capable of cowl a lot of the high issues to do in Matera. Right here’s an inventory of my advisable issues to do, meals to attempt, and experiences to have throughout your keep.
1. Be part of a Strolling Tour
There’s a lot to learn about Matera and in case you don’t do some form of tour, you gained’t have any concept of what you’re — it’ll simply be a bunch of rocks and caves. Bring the city to life with a walking tour.
Irrespective of the place on the planet we journey, we at all times attempt to begin our go to off with a guided stroll across the streets. That is one of the simplest ways to get to know the vacation spot by way of the eyes of an area information.
We visited Matera within the month of October (which is taken into account the shoulder/low season) and located that most of the guides had been solely providing excursions in Italian. Sadly, our choices for English-speaking strolling excursions had been a bit of restricted.
Fortunately, we had been capable of meet up with Antonio to discover the Sassi (two distinct districts), whereas studying in regards to the geology, vegetation, and historical past of the town from an area who was born and raised in Matera. Take a look at this highly-rated walking tour.
2. Have Cocktails in a Cave
This needs to be the good factor to do in Matera. Because the solar units, head to Zipa Cafe, pull up a beanbag chair, and luxuriate in a handcrafted cocktail in a cave bar.
Stroll up a couple of steps and also you’ll discover a stylish bar constructed into the rock with a few tables and mixologists creating some distinctive drinks. Inside is nice for when it’s raining in Matera, however I like to recommend sitting outdoors in case you can.
Go for a beanbag seat, or one of many many rock-cut benches, with cushions that hold you from getting too chilly or uncomfortable.
You’ll be able to come to Zipa Cafe any day of the week from midday till 8:00 pm. For those who go to earlier within the day or don’t really feel like having booze, they’ve fruit smoothies, juice photographs, and low on provide too.
I recommend coming round sundown for one among their extraordinary cocktails comprised of gin, mezcal, rum, or scotch. We tried Zipa’s variations of the basic spritz cocktail and might extremely advocate these as properly. Drinks vary from €5 – €9.
Handle: By way of Madonna dell’Idris, 15, 75100 Matera MT, Italy. Click here for directions.
3. Vist the Underground Cistern
Matera presents spectacular sights above floor, however when it’s raining, or when it’s notably sizzling outdoors, an incredible exercise in Matera is to go underground and take a look at the cistern, referred to as the Palombaro Lungo.
Town’s complicated water system extends throughout Matera, which is a part of the explanation the town has UNESCO standing. This explicit cistern was deserted in 1920 when an aqueduct was constructed and the Palombaro Lungo was made redundant. It wasn’t found once more till the Nineties after the excavation of the Vittorio Veneto Sq..
Once we visited, we didn’t take a guided tour however merely learn the data in a brochure given to us on the entrance. The cistern isn’t all that lengthy and it solely takes round half-hour to stroll to the top and again. I assumed the Palombaro Lungo was actually fascinating and price a go to. It prices €3 to enter, and it’s open 7 days per week.
Handle: Piazza Vittorio Veneto, 75100 Matera MT, Italy. Click on here for instructions and particulars.
4. Cross The Ravine and See the Caves
If you’re within the Sassi the place the entire reworked accommodations, bars, eating places, and outlets are, and also you look throughout the ravine, you’ll discover some small neolithic caves carved into the mountainside.
Be certain to get an up-close view of those by crossing the Tibetan bridge and strolling up the hairpin turns to the highest of the cliffside.
Whereas the caves and the hike are fascinating sufficient on their very own, the view trying again at Matera is wonderful, particularly at sundown. This is among the greatest free issues to do in Matera for positive.
There are 3 ways to cross to the opposite aspect of the ravine.
1. Hike: the hike takes round 2 hours to return. Be certain to carry water, sunscreen, and a hat. Here’s the trailhead from the Sassi aspect to cross the ravine. Or, you’ll be able to follow this hike on AllTrails. There’s additionally this fun group walking trip.
2. Drive: in case you don’t really feel like going for a hike (merely strolling round Matera’s hilly streets may be difficult sufficient!), you’ll be able to drive to the opposite aspect, or take a bus. We drove because it was too sizzling after we made the last-minute determination to cross the ravine. From the middle of Matera to the Belvedere Murgia Timone viewpoint, is a couple of 15-minute drive.
3. Cycle: a good way to get some train after consuming all of the wonderful meals is to join this morning cycling trip. It’s about 16 kilometers in whole (return) and consists of tools, a information, croissant, and low. This is among the extra distinctive issues to do in Matera.
5. Pattern the Conventional Meals of Matera
As with all areas in Italy, Basilicata is dwelling to some distinctive, must-try dishes. Matera is sticking to its roots and presents elevated variations of dishes typical of previous occasions.
Matera is situated within the mountains and holds onto its sturdy agricultural traditions. Wheat is the primary crop, plus the farming and cultivation of olives, greens, legumes, and cheese. For livestock, sheep and lamb are probably the most outstanding.
We had been fairly naive in pondering that in our journey to Matera, we’d be eating on what we contemplate “typical” Italian meals. We had been looking out for Neapolitan-style pizza, wealthy risotto with truffles, and recent pasta with ragu, caccio e pepe, or amatriciana sauce.
What we discovered was a a lot lighter, and more healthy delicacies with taste mixtures that had been new to us.
I like to recommend making an attempt the fava bean puree with chicory, orecchiette (pasta formed like little ears) served with a gentle tomato sauce, Matera country-style bread, dried cruschi peppers, and antipasti which presents a tasting of many native specialties directly.
☞ SEE ALSO: Must-Try Food in Puglia, Italy
6. Be part of a Cooking Class at a Farmhouse
A greater option to get pleasure from the entire native specialties of Matera and the Basilicata area is to join a fun cooking class and learn to make among the dishes for your self.
We’ve taken cooking courses in lots of locations on the planet, with a few of our favorites being in Italy. Throughout this cooking class, you’ll meet up with Greg and Silvia at their farmhouse simply quarter-hour outdoors of Matera. Town itself is beautiful, however there’s one thing particular in regards to the countryside.
Collectively, you’ll learn to make a couple of conventional dishes, whereas sipping on native wines. Not solely will you learn to cook dinner, and achieve perception into life in Basilicata, however you’ll benefit from the fruits of your labor collectively on the finish. That is the proper exercise in Matera for teams, {couples}, or solo vacationers. Study extra about this cooking class in Matera.
An alternative choice in case you’d reasonably learn to make pasta (in a cave!), is this fun cooking class. It additionally consists of glasses of wine. Discover out extra and book your spot here.
7. Go to The Church buildings
There are more than 150 spiritual websites in Matera. Clearly, you gained’t be capable of cowl all of them throughout your keep, however there are a couple of you shouldn’t miss.
1. San Pietro Caveoso
San Pietro Caveoso is among the greatest locations to go to in Matera. From the skin, this Thirteenth-century catholic church is sort of the sight. It’s constructed proper on the sting of the cliffside and has a gorgeous baroque exterior.
You’ll be able to go together with a information to study extra in regards to the church, however we went independently and simply loved wandering round and gawking on the beautiful particulars. With a purpose to see the ornate picket ceiling with frescos, you (or one other customer) must pay €1 to activate the lights…
Handle: Piazza S. Pietro Caveoso, 1, 75100 Matera MT, Italy. Click here for directions.
2. Church of Saint Mary of Idris
Also referred to as the Chiesa di Santa Maria di Idris, or the Madonna de Idris, this is among the most fascinating church buildings we’ve ever been to.
The church is actually a cave reduce into the rock and has no excellent decorations like most church buildings. What this cave church does have, nonetheless, is unbelievable frescos on the wall.
The one attainable draw back is the €4 entrance payment. The realm is extraordinarily small so per sq. meter, this needs to be one of many costlier sights in Matera. On high of that, images aren’t allowed inside. Regardless, it is a high vacationer attraction in Matera you gained’t need to miss.
Handle: By way of Madonna dell’Idris, 75100 Matera MT, Italy. Click here for directions.
3. Matera Cathedral
Also referred to as the Cattedrale di Maria Santissima della Bruna e Sant’Eustachio (that’s a mouthful!). From the skin, it appears like fairly a fundamental cathedral.
Nonetheless, when you step inside, you’ll be blown away by the touches of gold, the rose-colored columns, and the attractive frescos. This imposing cathedral is a must-visit in Matera and is simply €1 to enter.
Handle: Piazza Duomo, 75100 Matera MT, Italy. Find it on the map here.
8. Discover by Ape Automobile (Tuk-Tuk)
I’ve to confess, we had been very stunned after we noticed a vibrant purple tuk-tuk zip previous us whereas in Italy.
However, because it seems, these tuk-tuks (or ape-cars as they’re referred to as right here), are literally fairly typical for southern Italy. Made by Piaggio, the identical firm because the Vespa, these 3-wheelers had been sometimes used as gentle industrial automobiles to move items.
Today in Matera, they’ve been remodeled right into a enjoyable option to get across the metropolis. The streets are very hilly and may be exhausting to stroll all day (particularly within the sizzling summer season warmth). A enjoyable option to get round and study a bit extra about Matera is to join a tour aboard an Ape Calessino.
For those who’re on the lookout for issues to do in Matera for households, or with teams, it is a enjoyable concept. Excursions are round an hour lengthy and are reasonably priced. Take a look at this highly-rated tour.
Enjoyable truth: when translated from Italian, Vespa means “wasp” (as a result of buzzing sound the scooter makes), and Ape means “bee” (as a result of they’re used for working, like a employee bee).
9. See Matera From Above in a Sizzling Air Balloon
Matera is a fascinating metropolis to stroll round, however seeing it from above could be spectacular. Whereas we had been admiring the golden dawn colours from the deck of our lodging, a few sizzling air balloons soared above us.
Whereas not for the faint of coronary heart, or for these on a finances, a hot air balloon ride in Matera is an exercise you gained’t neglect. This is among the greatest issues to do in Matera for {couples}, particularly in case you’re celebrating an anniversary, a birthday, or planning a proposal.
The prices rely on whether or not you’re reserving a personal journey or a gaggle expertise. Discover out extra in regards to the prices, necessities, and extra here.
10. Benefit from the Viewpoints
Since Matera is located on a hill, it’s no shock that there are some unbelievable viewpoints all through the town.
Among the best issues to do in Matera within the early night, and at evening is to benefit from the view. At sundown, the buildings are lit up in a golden hue, and within the night, the twinkling lights of the town create a magical scene.
I like to recommend the panoramic viewpoints situated on the Piazza Duomo, Tre Archi, and Belvedere di Piazza Giovanni Pascoli. For those who’d wish to have an aperitivo with a view, try Terrazza Cavaliere or Quarry Lounge Restaurant.
11. Discover the Hidden Alleyways
The Sassi in Matera are the 2 stone-dwelling districts: Barisano and Caveoso. Every of those neighborhoods has a singular really feel, a unique type of cave properties, and plenty of hidden streets and alleys to find.
Our walking tour guide was born and raised in Matera and admitted that even he hadn’t been down the entire slender streets within the Sassi.
A number of the streets result in useless ends, and when that occurs, simply backtrack and take a unique route. Because the Sassi is situated on a hill, you’ll be doing a little up and down for positive, however you’ll be able to attempt to stroll laterally. I cherished slowly meandering across the streets away from the primary vacationer sights and absorbing the environment of Matera.
The principle street on the backside of the Sassi (Via Madonna delle Virtu), which overlooks the ravine, is a principally flat route you’ll be able to take to get from Barisano to Caveoso. Nonetheless, vehicles are allowed on this street, so it’s not as peaceable of a stroll when in comparison with the narrower streets.
The views from every district are completely different, so be sure to stroll the size of the Sassi, and in case you see an interesting-looking street, take it! You by no means know the place it can lead.
12. Occasion the Night time Away
Within the Sassi, you gained’t discover a whole lot of nightclubs or loopy nightlife, however there are some actually nice cocktail bars. For those who’re on the lookout for enjoyable issues to do in Matera at evening, head to one among these bars.
We got here throughout Area 8 one evening after a late dinner and the place was filled with individuals having fun with handcrafted cocktails, meals, and music.
Space 8 typically has stay DJs and is a good place to go for a drink, whether or not you’re touring by your self, or with buddies. Cocktails begin at €8, whereas a glass of wine is €5. Discover Space 8 on the map, here.
One other cool spot serving up refined cocktails is Charlie’s Speakeasy. It’s situated close to Space 8 so you would do some bar hopping. Discover Charlie’s here on the map.
13. Expertise What Life Was Like in a Cave
Today, Matera is a romantic vacation spot. With renovated cave properties, golden lights within the night, and Aperol Spritz with unbelievable views, it truly is a gorgeous place.
However, it wasn’t at all times this fashion. We needed to get a greater understanding of what residing circumstances had been like in Matera earlier than tourism.
It’s laborious to think about now, however for 1000’s of years, individuals had been residing in these small cave properties with out working water, or electrical energy. Households had been massive, and it wasn’t unusual to have 5 or extra youngsters, mother and father, chickens, and even donkeys all residing inside one small cave dwelling.
The Sassi was overcrowded, individuals had been impoverished, residing circumstances had been unsanitary, and illness was rife. It wasn’t until the 1950s, after creator Carlo Levi visited Matera and wrote in regards to the squalor that folks had been residing in, that the federal government determined to step in. Within the mid-Nineteen Fifties, 15,000 individuals had been moved from cave properties into government-built, fashionable lodging outdoors of the Sassi.
The Casa Grotta nei Sassi di Matera is a replicated cave dwelling, with typical furnishings of that point. There’s an audio information that actually brings the place to life. This is among the high issues to see in Matera, and prices €5.
Handle: Vico Solitario, 11, 75100 Matera MT, Italy. Click here for directions.
14. Pattern the Native Wine
We had been blown away by the standard of purple wines from the Basilicata/Matera area. We’ve sampled wines all world wide, and in different elements of Italy as properly, and actually, the native Aglianico selection was very good, as was the Primitivo.
For those who’re into purple wines, you’ll be completely satisfied to listen to that 82% of wines produced on this space are reds, and 80% of these are utilizing the Aglianico grape.
The waiters on the eating places in Matera sometimes recommend glorious native wines. For daring, intense wines with a lot of tannins, I like to recommend the Physis Anglianico 2017, and the Martino Aglianico del Vulture Superiore Riserba 2012.
For having such unbelievable wine, I used to be stunned that I couldn’t discover a lot of wine excursions on provide. So, we simply drank the good wines on the eating places. There’s one wine tour that I got here throughout; you’ll be able to check it out on Viator.
15. Go to The Spa
Certain, you’ll be able to go to the spa wherever on the planet, however there aren’t many locations the place the spa is inside a cave! For those who’re questioning what to do in Matera when it’s raining, it is a nice exercise.
The great factor in regards to the Aquatico Cave Luxury Hotel and Spa is that you just don’t must be a visitor of the lodge to get pleasure from a day of wellness and rest at their spa.
The underground, adults-only services embrace a heated pool, sauna, and Turkish bathtub. Plus, you will get a therapeutic massage, facial, or different physique care therapies. A go to to the spa is among the greatest issues to do in Matera for {couples}. Discover out extra about the spa and hotel here.
Fast Journey Itineraries For Matera
We spent 5 days in Matera, however want we had stayed per week. Even in case you solely have sufficient time for a day journey to Matera, it’s value it. Listed below are some steered itineraries.
1 Day in Matera Itinerary
With someday in Matera, I believe the very best plan is to join a walking tour in the morning to get oriented with the town and study its historical past.
After the morning strolling tour, seize a tasty sandwich at Il Rusticone, earlier than visiting two or three church buildings. I like to recommend seeing those listed above: San Pietro Caveoso, the Church of Saint Mary of Idris, and the Matera Cathedral.
For those who’re staying till the night, don’t miss having a Spritz or a handmade cocktail at Zipa Cave Bar, and dinner at Trattoria del Caveoso. Attempt the ravioli with burrata and tomato sauce, and the pasta with pistachio and cruschi peppers.
2-3 Days in Matera Itinerary
With a couple of days in Matera, you’ll be capable of see and do fairly a bit.
I nonetheless advocate starting with a walking tour to study in regards to the historical past of Matera. Be certain to ask your information for native food and drinks suggestions.
A few lunch choices for two days in Matera are Il Rusticone for pucce sandwiches, and Bella Vista pizzeria for tasty wood-fired, Neapolitan-style pizza (which is tough to search out on this a part of Italy). Attempt the “Napoli Mia” (margarita with buffalo mozzarella) and the Diavola (with spicy salami) – each are unbelievable.
Within the afternoons, as with the someday in Matera itinerary above, try a church or two in your first day. The rock church (Church of Saint Mary of Idris) is probably the most distinctive, whereas the Matera Cathedral is the grandest.
You could possibly additionally head out on an Ape tour of the city, go to the Palombaro Lungo cistern, or go to this recreated cave-dwelling. This cave-dwelling showcases how individuals lived up to now earlier than the city was deserted and residents had been moved into extra appropriate lodging.
Your evenings may be spent both having fun with a sundowner with a view at Crialoss, Zipa Cafe, or Terrazza Cavaliere. Or, possibly your lodging has an incredible view and you may merely get pleasure from a glass of wine out of your deck. Be certain to wander round and luxuriate in Matera while it’s lit up at evening.
1 Week in Matera Itinerary
With a full week in Matera, you’ll be capable of cowl the entire sights, and even do a day journey or two.
Begin with the identical itinerary for 1-3 days: go on a walking tour, go to the church buildings, wander round and easily benefit from the sights, and eat some tasty meals.
One other half day may be spent crossing the ravine on foot (or on a cycle trip) to take a look at the caves, and climbing alongside the various trails.
A go to to a farmhouse to learn to cook dinner conventional meals from Basilicata is a good way to spend a day as properly. Discover out extra about that cooking class here.
Lastly, you would spend a morning or a day stress-free at this cave spa. Deal with your self to a therapeutic massage or facial therapy, or get pleasure from a swim within the heated pool and sauna.
Within the early night, cross the ravine by bus or automobile and take a look again in direction of Matera — which might be glowing within the sundown. The lighting within the late afternoon or early night is the very best.
For a late afternoon or pre-dinner dessert, don’t miss Cremes Bureau – Vero Gelato Artigianale for some extremely creamy, flavorful gelato and sorbet.
Get pleasure from dinners at Ristaurante Baccus, Trattoria Caveoso, Il Rusticone, Stano, or Bella Vista Pizza. For late-night drinks, head to Area 8 or Charlie’s Speakeasy.
The place to Keep in Matera
There are two fundamental areas of Matera for vacationers; the Sassi, and the brand new city. The Sassi (outdated city) is split into two elements, however you would keep in both of them and luxuriate in a wonderful location.
For those who’re on the lookout for extra fashionable lodging, and aren’t keen on sleeping in a renovated cave, you then may contemplate staying within the fashionable space of Matera. We stayed within the Sassi and had been proud of that selection.
Notice: Be certain to learn critiques earlier than selecting a cave keep. I like to recommend checking to verify there are home windows and good lighting, and that no critiques point out it being damp. Be certain to ask about heating for the cooler months, if air-con is required for the summer season, and ensure the property has a dehumidifier.
These are a couple of of the very best locations in Matera for vacationers.
The Previous City (Sassi): Finest for First-time Guests
For those who’re a vacationer seeking to see the entire fundamental sights and locations to go to in Matera, I recommend staying within the outdated city. In case your finances permits, be sure to e book a room with a balcony or deck of some kind because the views of Matera are unbelievable.
Listed below are a couple of high locations to remain in Sassi, together with high cave lodge stays.
1. Holiday Home with Terrace: That is the place we stayed throughout our journey to Matera. The two-level house is a one-bedroom, however there’s additionally a settee mattress in the lounge.
The kitchen is properly stocked for a brief keep and there are two bogs (one upstairs and one downstairs). The bed room was advantageous, however the primary draw of the home was the massive deck with an incredible view of the ravine and the Sassi. We loved many coffees and glasses of wine there and located it laborious to peel ourselves away. Learn more here.
2. The House of Giò: This lovely 2-story house is trendy, fashionable, and the proper place for a pair. The balcony with expansive views is a pleasant place to have espresso and a day aperitivo. Click here to learn more.
3. Palazzotto Residence & Winery: The luxurious cave rooms at this lodge must be seen to be believed. The employees listed below are useful and welcoming and a scrumptious breakfast is served to visitors. Learn critiques and see the latest prices here.
4. Il Belvedere: The rooms right here have lovely uncovered stone partitions, and provide air-con in the summertime and heating within the cooler months. A typical Italian breakfast of pastries and low is served on the patio, which boasts unbelievable views of the Sassi. Discover out extra in regards to the hotel here.
5. Aquatico Cave Hotel and Luxury Spa: For those who’re on the lookout for lodging with a spa in Matera, it is a very good selection. Visitors obtain a complimentary 60 minutes on the spa to benefit from the sauna, hammam, and heated indoor pool. The rooms are fashionable and comfy and the onsite restaurant is a pleasant bonus. Study extra about this spa hotel here.
Matera New City
Listed below are some choices outdoors of the Sassi.
1. Casa Sul Boulevard: This two-bedroom condo is a good possibility for 2 {couples}, or a household touring to Matera. This contemporary lodging is situated just some steps from the Sassi. Find out more here.
2. Residenza 1955: This self-catering lodging is in an incredible space for biking and presents parking (which may be laborious to come back by!). The Sassi is about 2 kilometers away. Find out more here.
We use and advocate Booking.com for lodge and condo stays in Matera.
Finest Eating places in Matera
For us, the restaurant scene in Matera was a bit hit-and-miss. When you’ve been in Matera for a couple of days, you’ll begin to discover the identical dishes (or variations of them) showing on each menu. Having stated that, we did find yourself discovering some nice locations to eat in Matera. Listed below are my high restaurant picks for a meal in Matera.
Bella Vista Pizza (The Finest Place To Eat Pizza in Matera)
For those who’re craving a correct Neapolitan-style, wood-fired pizza with a fluffy crust and recent components, Bella Vista has you coated. Service is sweet they usually provide inside and outdoors seating.
There are quite a few forms of pizzas to select from, however we had the Diavola and the Bufala, and each had been flavorful and cooked to perfection. Most locations in Matera don’t serve pizza for lunch, however Bella Vista does.
Pizzas are round €9. Discover it on the map here.
Ristorante Baccus (Finest for Elevated Delicacies)
Even in October, we would have liked to make a reservation for this restaurant. Whereas it’s not the most affordable place to eat in Matera, the meals was tasty, the service was immediate, and the environment was energetic.
Along with buddies, we ordered many dishes, however standouts embrace the cruschi peppers, cod souffle, lasagna, pasta with roasted purple and inexperienced pepper sauce, pasta with pistachios, and the sporcamusi (sizzling cream puff) for dessert.
This can be a excellent place to go to attempt elevated, conventional meals from Matera. Pasta dishes begin are round €15 every, whereas meat dishes are round €15-20. Discover Ristorante Baccus here.
Il Rusticone (Finest for Sandwiches)
Il Rusticone is a busy restaurant that serves up tasty sandwiches by day and pizza by evening. We loved a pucce sandwich every on fluffy bread with salami, pecorino cheese, lettuce, and tomato.
The proprietor and chef listed below are so sort, and the kitchen serves up high-quality meals. I like to recommend this place to seize a fast chunk. Pizzas are round €7, whereas the sandwiches are €8.
Trattoria del Caveoso (The Finest Restaurant for Conventional Meals)
This trattoria is a superb restaurant that serves conventional meals. The employees right here is welcoming and after we visited, the restaurant was buzzing.
Don’t miss the ravioli with burrata and easy tomato sauce, the bacon-wrapped pork skewers, and pasta with caciocavallo cheese cream, pistachios, and cruschi peppers. To spherical off your meal, order the dessert plate, which incorporates samples of some tasty sweets. Find Trattoria Caveoso on the map.
Cremes Bureau – Vero Gelato Artigianale (Finest Gelato in Matera)
This gelateria serves up correct artisanal gelato with recent, pure components. After making an attempt a couple of completely different spots, this was my best choice for gelato in Matera. The entire flavors are good, however hazelnut and chocolate are my go-to. Discover the gelato shop here.
Getting To Matera
The principle hub within the space is the city of Bari. Situated about an hour’s drive from Matera, this coastal metropolis is dwelling to the primary airport within the area with service to many locations in Europe.
For those who’re flying with Ryan Air (like we had been), seek for Bari and also you’ll in all probability discover fairly a couple of flight choices. When you’re in Bari, you’ll be able to take a taxi, hop on the bus, get a private pick-up, take a practice, or rent a car to get to Matera. Trains go away commonly from the Bari FAL station.
We had been doing an extended trip around Puglia and determined to rent a car at Bari airport and I extremely advocate that you just do as properly. Having your personal wheels is one of the simplest ways to discover Matera and the Puglia area.
Take into account that you’ll be able to’t drive a automobile within the Sassi, so one of the simplest ways to discover the outdated city is on foot. There are various locations you’ll be able to park on the road for round €1 per hour (free at evening), or at parking garages like this one for €25 per day.
For those who don’t plan to do any exploring outdoors of Matera, then it’s in all probability greatest to take the bus, practice, or get a pick-up service from Bari. Click here to search for the very best value on rental vehicles.
Issues To Do in Matera: FAQs
Listed below are some solutions to generally requested questions on visiting Matera.
Matera is thought for being one of many longest, constantly inhabited locations on the planet. It’s well-known for its cave dwellings, and extra lately, for being the movie location for the Ardour of the Christ and James Bond “No Time To Die” films.
One of the best time to go to Matera for the solar is in the summertime, however temperatures soar. Winters are chilly and plenty of issues are closed. The shoulder seasons of Might, June, September, and October are the very best occasions to go to Matera.
Matera is completely value visiting. The outdated city is unbelievable, the cave lodging are so distinctive, and the historical past is unreal.
I like to recommend 3-5 days in Matera so that you just don’t must rush round to see all the pieces and might get pleasure from Matera at a leisurely tempo. Plus, you’ll be capable of do a day journey or two.
Sure, Matera is very safe for vacationers. The one factor to be aware of is all of the uneven stairs and the extraordinary solar in the summertime.
The most well-liked factor to do in Matera is to expertise sleeping in a renovated cave dwelling and to go to the distinctive rock church buildings.
The must-try, conventional meals in Matera are Orecchiette pasta, Materan bread, cruschi peppers, Fave e cicoria (fava bean puree), and lamb dishes.
In Closing
I hope you discovered this information to the very best locations to go to and issues to do in Matera helpful in planning your journey. As you’ll be able to see, the regional meals is exclusive, the surroundings is excellent, the persons are welcoming, and in case you’re , the day journeys from listed below are plentiful.
Most of all, the truth that Matera is among the oldest, constantly inhabited locations on earth is a purpose to go to in itself! Get pleasure from your journey to this magical metropolis.
