{"id":44810,"date":"2026-01-29T17:30:00","date_gmt":"2026-01-29T16:30:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/destinations-europe.com\/?p=44810"},"modified":"2026-01-26T17:17:20","modified_gmt":"2026-01-26T16:17:20","slug":"what-do-matera-italy","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/destinations-europe.com\/en\/what-do-matera-italy\/","title":{"rendered":"What to do in Matera? The 7 must-see attractions"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

From the southern coast of Italy rises the ancient city of\u00a0Matera<\/a><\/strong>. This magnificent city, located in the Basilicata region, very close to Puglia, has many centuries of history to tell. While Matera is known for its cave dwellings, it long suffered from a bad reputation. In the 1950s, these dwellings were called “the shame of Italy.” But today, much has changed, and the city has become a popular filming location for productions from all over the world. That should tell you just how stunning the place is. So, for your next getaway, here are the things to do in Matera. Obviously, only the must-sees.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u2708\ufe0f Not too far away<\/strong>. If you’re in the area, why not take a trip to neighbouring Puglia? Here are\u00a011 must-see places<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0and\u00a0how to get there<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\ud83d\uddd2\ufe0f\u00a0Visiting Matera: some tips before your trip<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Before we begin our list of must-do things in Matera, here are some tips for your next Italian getaway.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to get around in Matera?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

In Matera’s historic center, walking is the main mode of transport. This area is entirely pedestrianized. Therefore, if you are driving, it is advisable to leave your car in one of the parking lots in the more modern, outlying districts. It is possible to enter the old town for a very short time (about fifteen minutes) if your hotel is located within it, allowing you to leave your luggage. Request permission through your hotel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Where to park in Matera?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

So, where should you leave your car in Matera during your visit? There’s no shortage of parking; there are nearly 25 lots around the historic centre. There are also underground parking garages at the entrance to the legendary Sassi (see below). So, no need to panic. But be warned, if you drive into the pedestrian zone, the fine can be hefty \u2013 see, for example,\u00a0this review<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0on the Routard website.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Where to see the sunset in Matera?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The city of Matera is full of viewpoints for admiring the city at sunset. From\u00a0Piazza Duomo<\/strong>\u00a0, in front of Matera Cathedral, for example, you’ll have a sublime panorama of the Sassi and the rock-hewn churches. Another option is the\u00a0Luigi Guerricchio viewpoint, which offers a view of the cathedral. Finally, though more difficult to access, the\u00a0Murgia Timone viewpoint<\/strong>, perched atop Mount Murgia,\u00a0\u00a0is undoubtedly the most beautiful view of the city and accessible after a pleasant hike.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Which hotel should I choose in Matera?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Recently, with the growing appeal of tourism and the success of booking platforms, hotels have sprung up all over Matera. Here are three that are worth a visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

First, there’s\u00a0Corte San Pietro<\/a><\/strong>, which occupies a renovated historic building carved into the rock, right in the heart of the Sassi. An exceptional establishment for a stay immersed in local culture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In a somewhat similar style, there is the\u00a0Palazzotto Residence & Winery<\/a><\/strong>. Here too, beautiful stonework throughout, a substantial breakfast, all about 500 meters from Matera Cathedral.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, for those on a tighter budget, there’s\u00a0Il Nespolo Matera<\/a><\/strong>. It retains the cave-like feel of the previous establishments, but in a slightly more minimalist style.<\/p>\n\n\n\n