Matera is a captivating city that left me in awe, drawing my attention continuously. This hidden gem is a must-visit destination in Italy. Visiting during the peak summer season, I found it pleasantly uncrowded, allowing me to explore the city without the usual hustle and bustle of tourists. What really caught my eye in Matera was the Michelin star hotel I stayed in, the significant Sextantio, which added depth to my itinerary. Matera exudes a romantic ambiance, making it ideal for couples, yet families are also welcomed. Being a small city, Matera offers a tranquil setting perfect for unwinding and relaxation.
Getting There
- To reach Matera, you will have to fly to Bari, Italy, as it’s the closest airport to Matera. The cost is reasonable for those already in Italy.
- When in Bari, I suggest exploring other towns in the Puglia region. If you’re heading to Matera from Bari, you’ll need to catch a bus. Since there are only a few buses per day, it’s essential to plan ahead. The bus stop is conveniently located next to the train station or sometimes offers pickups from the airport.
- The bus journey from Bari to Matera takes about an hour, so it’s relatively short. Upon reaching the bus stop in Matera, we arranged a taxi through our hotel, which cost around 25 euros.
- Traveling to Matera might seem daunting, but with thorough research and pre-booking transportation, the journey becomes much more manageable.
Where to Stay: Sextantio
When in Matera, there’s one exclusive accommodation I highly suggest – Sextantio. It’s a luxurious cave hotel where each room is unique. With prices varying from around 350 euros, it’s a worthwhile indulgence due to the unforgettable experience it offers. We especially enjoyed the bathtub and the constant ambiance of candles.
Arrival
Upon arriving in Matera, consider arranging for your hotel to pick you up from the station. This proved to be a highly convenient and cost-effective decision for us. Upon arrival, before checking in, our lobby attendant provided us with a map of Matera and recommended some must-see attractions. Our lobby assistant mentioned that exploring the entire city of Matera typically takes 2-3 hours. To pass the time and explore, we opted to take a leisurely walk around the city.
Noon
For lunch, we visited a cozy café for focaccia and water, relaxing on a shaded bench while admiring the views. The midday heat encouraged us to take our time exploring the city. Post-lunch, we casually strolled in a random direction with our water bottles in hand. Matera offers a variety of museums delving into its history, including a bread museum, as well as spa options. When the weather gets too warm, grab an aperitivo in one of the squares. Remember, this destination is all about unwinding and relaxation. Following a sun-filled day, we eventually checked into our hotel, capturing moments around the property before indulging in a spa session.
Evening
After indulging in a wonderful bath and nap at our cave hotel, we strolled to the Belvedere di Piazza Giovanni Pascoli viewpoint. This spot provided the perfect backdrop for stunning Instagram photos, especially at sunset. Following our photo session, we visited Zuppa, a bar and lounge situated near the rock church, Church of Saint Mary of Idris. We savored the scenic views and cool weather before making our way to La Lopa for dinner. At La Lopa, we relished traditional Matera cuisine and then enjoyed their movie room, featuring films shot in Matera (more than you’d imagine). Reluctant for the night to end, I returned to the rock church to soak in the nighttime views before heading back to Sextinatio.
The next day
The following day, we indulged in sleeping in and then made our way to the historic church for a delightful breakfast buffet. We savored an array of fruits, cheeses, and local delicacies, finding it hard to say goodbye. Before leaving, we captured our final moments at Sextinatio, and our taxi arrived promptly to escort us to the bus station.
Personal Reflections & Tips:
- Regrettably, we only had a day here, but if I had known how much I would adore this city, I would have extended my stay.
- It’s crucial to check bus schedules in Matera before planning your day as they are extremely limited, mainly operating in the morning (with the latest bus departing at 5 pm).
- If you visit in the summer, ensure you are prepared for the heat and numerous stairs throughout the city.
- Matera doesn’t offer a wide range of attractions, so spontaneous exploration is ideal. Simply appreciate the city’s beauty and unwind in this incredibly unique place.
In general, this is a must-visit if you have a passion for history, and Italy, or seek a beautiful destination away from the crowds. For a virtual experience, watch my YouTube video. If you’ve been to Matera, feel free to share your favorite aspects and recommendations from your visit.
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