Things to do in Matera

Activities, attractions and tours

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While Central and Northern Italy get most of the love from tourists, I am huge fan of the rugged south, where you'll find such incredible historic cities like Matera. The historic center neighborhood of Matera is featured in this picture, taken from the national park side of the city. One of the most unique cities in Italy, it was actually built on caves called sassi and is more like Jerusalem that a traditional Italian neighborhood. In fact, this is the filming location of the Passion of the Christ. Tip: stay in one of the sassi Airbnbs for a cave-like experience unlike any other. #lifeatexpediagroup
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Most popular experiences in Matera

Tours & day trips

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Discover Matera, the ancient city - English tour

Discover Matera, the ancient city - English tour

Activity duration is 3 hours
10.0 out of 10 with 12 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is €30 per adult
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Private & custom tours

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Pulo di Altamura: excursion in the Alta Murgia National Park

Pulo di Altamura: excursion in the Alta Murgia National Park

Activity duration is 3 hours
Free cancellation available
Price is €20 per adult*
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Food, drink & nightlife

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Guided Sassi di Matera Tour with Live Traditional Music Experience

Guided Sassi di Matera Tour with Live Traditional Music Experience

Activity duration is 2 hours
Free cancellation available
Price is €15 per adult
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Adventure & outdoor

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Pulo di Altamura: excursion in the Alta Murgia National Park

Pulo di Altamura: excursion in the Alta Murgia National Park

Activity duration is 3 hours
Free cancellation available
Price is €20 per adult*
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What to do in Matera

Popular places to visit

Closeup model of the Sassi di Matera - meaning stones of Matera which are prehistoric cave dwellings in the Italian city of Matera, Basilicata. It is one of the first or eldest settlements of Italy.

Sassi and the Park of the Rupestrian Churches

5/5(19 reviews)

You can learn about the history of Matera when you stop by Sassi and the Park of the Rupestrian Churches. Visit the spas in this trendy area or simply enjoy its local cheese shops.

Sassi and the Park of the Rupestrian Churches
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Viewpoint of Matera and the Sassi

5/5(22 reviews)

Find out about the history of Matera with a stop at Viewpoint of Matera and the Sassi. Visit the spas and churches in this trendy area.

Viewpoint of Matera and the Sassi

Cathedral of Matera

4.5/5(21 reviews)

You can learn about the history of Sasso Caveoso with a visit to Cathedral of Matera. Visit the spas and churches in this romantic area.

Cathedral of Matera

Casa Grotto di Vico Solitario

4.5/5(4 reviews)

You can study the exhibits at Casa Grotto di Vico Solitario, a museum with a story of its own, during your trip to Sasso Caveoso. Visit the spas in this trendy area or simply enjoy its local cheese shops.

Casa Grotto di Vico Solitario

Palombaro Lungo

4.5/5(7 reviews)

You can find out about the history of Matera with a trip to Palombaro Lungo. Visit the spas and churches in this romantic area.

Palombaro Lungo

Piazza San Pietro Caveoso

4.5/5(14 reviews)

Learn about the local history of Sasso Caveoso with a stop at Piazza San Pietro Caveoso. Visit the spas and churches in this romantic area.

Piazza San Pietro Caveoso

Convent of Sant'Agostino

You can find out about the history of Sasso Barisano with a trip to Convent of Sant'Agostino. Visit the spas and churches in this trendy area.

Convent of Sant'Agostino

Church of Santa Maria de Idris

4.5/5(14 reviews)

Learn about the local history of Sasso Caveoso when you take a trip to Church of Santa Maria de Idris. Visit the spas and churches in this trendy area.

Church of Santa Maria de Idris

Crypt of the Original Sin

4/5(1 review)

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Crypt of the Original Sin during your travels in Matera. Visit the spas in this romantic area or simply enjoy its local cheese shops.

Crypt of the Original Sin
Alleyway. Altamura. Puglia. Italy.

Altamura

PT0BK6 Panorama of the old city (Colle della Civita) of Matera, European Capital of Culture 2019

Sasso Barisano

Frequently asked questions

Is Matera worth visiting?
Matera offers an interesting mix of local charm, attractions and culture. Whether you're into history, nature or local culinary flavours, there's plenty you'll find here.
How do I spend a day in Matera?
Start your day with a visit to Crypt of the Original Sin and Grotta dei Pipistrelli e Grotta Funeraria. Then, check out different areas of Matera for local restaurants and a little retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in Matera?
Don't go home without exploring Crypt of the Original Sin, ranked the top tourist attraction in Matera.
Is three days enough to stay in Matera?
Three days in Matera is more than enough to enjoy the city's leading attractions. Many guests stay for two days on average. Crypt of the Original Sin, National Museum of Medieval and Modern Art of Basilicata and Grotta dei Pipistrelli e Grotta Funeraria are among the top-rated sights. Like to see more? Hang around a bit longer to explore nearby hotspots such as Sasso Caveoso.
What are some activities to do in Matera with kids?
If you're searching for activities and sights for all of your group, check out these excellent ideas for what to do in Matera with kids.

What to do in Matera for adults?
Viewpoint of Matera and the Sassi and Casa Grotto di Vico Solitario are just a few of the things to do in Matera. With lots of activities available, there's something here for everyone to explore.
Are there free things to do in Matera?
One of the easiest ways to learn about free things to do in Matera is to speak with a local tour guide. You'll get insider views on hip neighbourhoods, parks and other top attractions you can experience without reaching for your wallet. Grotta dei Pipistrelli e Grotta Funeraria is one sight that doesn't have an admission fee.

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