Things to do in Matera

The best time to visit Matera is during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is mild and pleasant. These seasons offer fewer crowds compared to summer, making it easier to explore the historic sites comfortably. Winters can be cold and rainy, while summers tend to be hot and busy with tourists.

Key attractions in Matera include the Sassi di Matera, the ancient cave dwellings; the Rupestrian Churches like Santa Maria de Idris; the Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario; the Matera Cathedral (Cattedrale di Matera); the MUSMA Museum of Contemporary Sculpture; the Palombaro Lungo underground cistern; and the Piazza Vittorio Veneto, the main square.

A 2 to 3-day visit is ideal to fully explore Matera. Spend the first day exploring the Sassi districts and cave churches, the second day visiting museums and the cathedral, and use any additional time to enjoy local cuisine and stroll through the historic center. This allows a balanced experience of history, culture, and leisure.

Matera is best explored on foot due to its compact historic center and narrow streets. Local buses connect some areas but walking offers the most authentic experience. The nearest major airport is Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport, from which you can take a train or bus to Matera. Matera also has a train station with connections to regional hubs, making it accessible by public transport.

On Arovago you can compare experiences in Matera from €5, with an average price of about €88 among the most reviewed activities. We compare offers from 5 travel websites: the same tour can cost different amounts on different sites, so it pays to compare before booking. Final prices are set by each partner.