Top Things to Do in Matera: A Guide to Unique Experiences

Welcome to Matera, where cave houses, ancient alleys, and unforgettable views come together to create one of Italy’s most magical destinations. Nestled in the sun-drenched hills of Basilicata, this place isn’t just old, it’s prehistoric. Think 9,000 years of stories tucked into limestone walls. But don’t let the age fool you, Matera is buzzing with soul, flavors, and experiences you won’t find anywhere else. Wander through the maze-like Sassi, catch golden hour from a rooftop terrace, and pair it all with a local red on one of the Basilicata wineries offered in and around the city. If you’re here for a romantic escape, a cultural deep dive, or just a delicious glass of wine with a view, Matera is ready to surprise you.

What are the best things to do in Matera?

Walk through the Sassi di Matera

Kick off your Matera wineries adventure by getting lost in the Sassi, those iconic ancient cave neighborhoods that make this city unlike anywhere else on the planet. These winding stone alleys, carved homes, hidden staircases, and rooftop views feel straight out of a movie (and, yes, several have been filmed here). Split into Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano, each side tells its own chapter of Matera’s wild journey from prehistoric roots to stylish revival.

Visit Sassi di Matera for a complete experience and dive into centuries of traditions!

Explore the Rock Churches of San Pietro Caveoso

One of the most breathtaking spots in Matera, the Church of San Pietro Caveoso clings dramatically to the edge of the ravine, as if daring gravity to try something. With its baroque face and ancient cave chapels carved into the rock, this place whispers stories of resilience and devotion. Step inside (or better yet, take a guided tour) to uncover centuries-old frescoes and crypts hidden beneath your feet. It’s not just a church, it’s an adventure into Matera’s soulful past.

Descend into history at Palombaro Lungo

Right beneath Matera’s bustling main square lies one of its most unexpected treasures, Palombaro Lungo, a gigantic underground cistern carved entirely by hand. Once the city’s main water reservoir, this cathedral-like space is part of the hidden heart of the Sassi and showcases Matera’s incredible ingenuity when it came to surviving in a rocky, arid landscape. Walking through its cool, echoing chambers feels like entering another world, one shaped by centuries of necessity, craftsmanship, and quiet brilliance.

Admire the best panoramic views

For the ultimate “wow” moment, make your way to the Belvedere di Murgia Timone. This scenic overlook dishes out a jaw-dropping view of Matera’s famous Sassi spilling down the hillside like a stone waterfall. Across the gorge carved by the Gravina River, you’ll see why this spot is a photographer’s dream, especially at golden hour, when the whole city glows like it’s straight out of a movie.

Taste the town with its iconic bread

Matera’s bread is the kind of bite that instantly tells a story of tradition, of simplicity, and of serious flavor. Shaped in its signature form and made with ancient grains and wood-fired ovens, Pane di Matera has earned its place at every local table. Grab a loaf from a neighborhood bakery, rip into it while it’s still warm, and enjoy it with local olive oil or cured meats. It’s rustic, real, and ridiculously good.

See Matera at Night

As the sun dips behind the canyon, Matera transforms. The stone houses of the Sassi begin to glow with soft golden lights, and the whole city feels like it’s stepped into a fairytale. Wandering the quiet alleys after dark, with shadows dancing on ancient walls and warm air carrying the scent of dinner from tiny trattorias, is pure magic. If you thought Matera was beautiful by day, just wait until it sparkles at night.

What are the best things to do around Matera?

Wander through the vineyards of the region

Just outside Matera, the hills of Basilicata roll into a wine lover’s dream. Here, sun-drenched vineyards stretch across the landscape, producing bold Aglianico reds and crisp local whites that pair perfectly with regional dishes. Spend a lazy afternoon tasting wines straight from the source, chatting with passionate winemakers, and soaking in the views. It’s not just a sip of wine, it’s a sip of southern Italy’s soul.

Take a deep breath at Parco della Murgia Materana

Just across the ravine from the Sassi, 30 minutes from Matera, Parco della Murgia Materana is where Matera’s wild side comes to life. Picture rolling hills, hidden cave churches carved into limestone cliffs, and sweeping views over the ancient city, this is the perfect spot to trade cobbled streets for dusty trails. Along the way, you’ll stumble upon centuries-old frescoes and the quiet kind of beauty that makes you want to stay a little longer.

Discover Gravina Matera’s cave-loving sister

Looking to keep the cave adventure going? Just 30 minutes from Matera, Gravina in Puglia is your next stop. This lesser-known town shares the same dramatic ravine setting and love for rock-carved homes and churches, but with fewer crowds and more rugged charm. Walk across its striking stone bridge, explore ancient sanctuaries like San Michele delle Grotte, and soak in sweeping views from the cliffs. It’s a natural extension of the Sassi experience, perfect for those wanting to dig even deeper into Southern Italy’s cave culture.

It’s time to learn more about italian caves, discover our guide on the best things to do in Gravina Puglia!

Walk to the hilltop views of Castelmezzano

Looking for something unforgettable beyond Matera? 1 hour away by car, the fairytale village of Castelmezzano rises from the craggy peaks of the Lucanian Dolomites. Tucked into the Basilicata mountains, this place feels like it was carved straight out of a fantasy. The town’s stone houses cling to the cliffs, the hiking trails are steep and stunning, and the views? Out of this world. Whether you’re craving a quiet escape or ready to zipline between mountaintops (yes, you can), Castelmezzano makes for a wildly scenic day trip from Matera.

Visit Castelmezzano Italy to complete your trip and discover our best tips!

Good to know before visiting Matera in Italy