Nestled in the heart of Basilicata, Matera is a mesmerizing destination known for its ancient cave dwellings and rich history. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this enchanting city offers travelers a unique blend of culture, stunning landscapes, and mouthwatering local cuisine that beckons explorers from around the globe.
Finding the right place to stay in Matera is essential for fully immersing yourself in its charm. Whether you’re seeking luxury accommodations or cozy boutique hotels with breathtaking views, your choice will enhance your experience. Dive into our comprehensive guide to discover the best places to stay, nearby neighborhoods, top attractions, and helpful travel tips.
| Category | Recommended accommodation |
|---|---|
| 5 star / luxury |
Palazzo Gattini Luxury Hotel - VRetreats Sant'Angelo, Matera - Small Luxury Hotels |
| 4 star hotels |
Corte San Pietro Palazzo Del Duca Hotel & Restaurant |
| B&b & mid-range |
Casastella Slow Living B&B Antica Civita Luxury Room |
| Vacation rental / apartments |
Thymus Residence nei Sassi La Dimora Di Metello Maison d'Ax |
Entertainment, Laundry, Other, Restaurant, Parking, Internet, Kitchen, Tv, Business Services, Accessibility, Fireplace/Heating, Balcony/Terrace, Air Conditioner, Security/Safety, Child Friendly, Guest Services, Sports/Activities
Exceptional
65 reviews
B&bs, Cheap, Accommodations, Gites, Pet-friendly, Gostinicies, Rooms, Alberghi, Lodgings, Vacation rentals, Places to stay
Superb
925 reviews
B&bs, Cheap, Accommodations, Parking, Guest houses, Homestays, Gites, Gostinicies, Rooms, Alberghi, Lodgings, Vacation rentals, Places to stay
Superb
628 reviews
Cheap, Accommodations, Parking, Romantic, Boutique, Gites, Pet-friendly, 3-star, Gostinicies, Rooms, Alberghi, Lodgings, Hot tubs, Places to stay
Fabulous
1064 reviews
B&bs, Accommodations, Parking, Romantic, Gites, Gostinicies, Rooms, Alberghi, Lodgings, Vacation rentals, Places to stay
Superb
103 reviews
Guided Walking Tour of Sassi di Matera: Explore the ancient cave dwellings and rock churches of the UNESCO World Heritage site, Sassi di Matera. Learn about the city's history and architecture from an expert guide.
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Cooking Class with Local Cuisine: Join a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Materan dishes using local ingredients. Enjoy your culinary creations while mingling with fellow travelers.
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Wine Tasting Experience: Visit a local vineyard to sample region-specific wines, including Aglianico del Vulture. Gain insights into the winemaking process and the unique flavors of Basilicata.
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Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario: This cave home museum showcases how families lived in the 19th century. Visitor Tip: Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy a quieter experience.
Cathedral of Matera: Visit this Romanesque cathedral for its stunning architecture and panoramic views of the Sassi district. Learn about its fascinating history through informative displays.
Palombaro Lungo: Discover the impressive underground cistern that dates back to the 16th century. The guided tour reveals its significance in the town's water supply system.
The Core Tip: Matera is a small city best explored on foot. The ancient Sassi districts are pedestrian-friendly, allowing visitors to soak in the unique architecture and atmosphere.
The Pro Move: Wear comfortable shoes, as the cobbled streets can be uneven. Consider visiting early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid peak tourist traffic.
The Core Tip: Matera experiences its busiest tourist season in summer, with mild weather drawing visitors for outdoor activities and festivals.
The Pro Move: Visiting popular sites like the Sassi at sunrise provides a quieter experience and stunning photographic opportunities without the crowds.
The Core Tip: The compact nature of Matera makes it easy to navigate on foot; however, some areas may be steep. Travelers should plan their routes accordingly.
The Pro Move: Stay aware of your surroundings and use well-lit paths during evening strolls, especially in less populated areas.
The Core Tip: Most hotels, restaurants, and attractions in Matera accept credit cards. However, smaller vendors or local markets may prefer cash payments.
The Pro Move: It’s advisable to carry some small cash for purchasing local crafts or snacks from street vendors.
The Core Tip: Matera does not have its own airport; the nearest major airport is in Bari. From there, visitors can take a train or bus to Matera.
The Pro Move: Pre-booking a shuttle service or checking local public transit schedules can save time and ensure a smooth arrival experience.