Staying in Italy’s Ancient Cave City
There are places you visit because they’re beautiful.
And then there are places you visit because they simply don’t exist anywhere else in the world.
Matera is one of those places.
Located in the southern region of Basilicata, Matera is famous for its Sassi—ancient cave dwellings carved directly into limestone cliffs. People have lived here for thousands of years, making it one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities.
Today, those same caves have been transformed into boutique hotels, restaurants, museums, wine bars, and artisan workshops, creating one of the most unforgettable travel experiences in Italy.
If you’re looking to experience a side of Italy that’s rich in history, culture, and atmosphere, Matera belongs at the top of your itinerary.
At a Glance
📍 Region: Basilicata
🏛️ Known For: Cave dwellings, UNESCO World Heritage Site, boutique cave hotels
🚗 Best Transportation: Car or train from Bari
🗓️ Ideal Stay: 2–3 nights
👩 Solo Traveler Friendly: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🍷 Local Wine: Aglianico del Vulture DOC
Why Visit Matera?
Walking through Matera feels like stepping into another era.
Stone staircases twist through ancient neighborhoods.
Churches are carved into cliffs.
Hidden courtyards reveal cozy cafés.
At sunset, golden light washes across the limestone buildings, making the city glow.
It’s no surprise Matera has served as the backdrop for films including No Time to Die and The Passion of the Christ.
Step Back in Time
Long before modern cities existed, families were carving homes into these limestone cliffs.
For centuries, the Sassi were considered symbols of poverty, and many residents were relocated during the 1950s because living conditions had become extremely difficult.
Over the following decades, Matera underwent one of Italy’s most remarkable revitalizations. Today, its cave homes have been carefully restored into hotels, restaurants, museums, and cultural spaces while preserving the city’s extraordinary history.
In 1993, Matera became a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and in 2019 it was named a European Capital of Culture.
What to See
Sasso Caveoso
The most recognizable part of Matera, with dramatic cave homes cascading down the hillside.
Sasso Barisano
Filled with boutique hotels, artisan shops, restaurants, and lively piazzas.
Chiese Rupestri
Explore ancient rock churches decorated with centuries-old frescoes.
Belvedere Murgia Timone
One of the most spectacular panoramic viewpoints overlooking the entire city.
Stay in a Cave Hotel
One of Matera’s most unforgettable experiences is spending the night in a restored cave dwelling.
Iconic
Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita
A beautifully restored cave hotel that blends history with understated luxury.
Local Favorite
Cenobio Hotel & SPA
A stylish boutique stay tucked into the historic center with modern comforts.
Hidden Gem
Locanda di San Martino Hotel & Thermae Romanae
Known for its atmospheric cave rooms and relaxing underground spa.
Where to Eat
Iconic
Ristorante Francesca
Regional cuisine served in a historic cave setting.
Local Favorite
Oi Marì
A favorite for traditional Lucanian dishes and warm hospitality.
Hidden Gem
Dedalo – Sensi Sommersi
Creative cuisine in a beautifully restored cave space.
What to Eat
While you’re in Matera, try:
🍝 Orecchiette with local vegetables
🥖 Pane di Matera (the city’s famous bread)
🧀 Caciocavallo cheese
🥩 Lucanian sausages
🍷 Local Aglianico wines
Coffee Stop
Find a café with outdoor seating overlooking the Sassi and enjoy an espresso as the city slowly comes to life in the morning.
It’s one of the simplest—and best—ways to experience Matera.
Best Photo Spots
📍 Belvedere Murgia Timone
📍 Piazza Duomo
📍 Via Fiorentini
📍 Sasso Caveoso at sunset
📍 The winding staircases between the Sassi
Suggested One-Day Walking Route
☀️ Morning
Explore Sasso Barisano before the crowds arrive.
☕ Mid-Morning
Coffee with a view.
🏛️ Afternoon
Visit cave churches and museums.
🍷 Aperitivo
Watch the sunset over the Sassi with a glass of local wine.
🍝 Evening
Dinner inside a cave restaurant.
Slow Down Moment
As dusk falls, find a quiet viewpoint overlooking the Sassi.
Watch the lights gradually illuminate the cave homes.
For a few minutes, simply sit and take it all in.
It’s one of the most magical evenings you’ll experience anywhere in Italy.
Solo Traveler Confidence Meter
🚶 Walkability: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🍽️ Dining Alone: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
📱 Navigation: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
🌙 Evening Comfort: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Sondra’s Tip
Wear sturdy shoes with good grip.
The historic center is beautiful, but the polished limestone streets and staircases can be slippery, especially after rain.
Italian Phrase of the Week
“Che posto incredibile.”
Pronunciation:
kay POHS-toh een-kreh-DEE-bee-leh
Meaning:
“What an incredible place.”
A phrase you’ll likely find yourself saying more than once in Matera.
Wine of the Week
Aglianico del Vulture DOC
Pronunciation:
ahl-YAH-nee-koh dehl vool-TOO-reh
One of Southern Italy’s finest red wines, grown in volcanic soils around Mount Vulture. Expect bold flavors of dark fruit, spice, tobacco, and earthy minerality.
Taste Like a Sommelier
👀 Appearance: Deep ruby with garnet tones
👃 Aroma: Blackberry, black cherry, leather, and spice
👄 Palate: Full-bodied, structured, and age-worthy
❤️ Pairs Perfectly With:
🥩 Grilled lamb
🍝 Rich pasta dishes
🧀 Aged cheeses
🍄 Mushroom-based meals
Order Like a Local
Try saying:
“Vorrei un bicchiere di Aglianico del Vulture, per favore.”
Pronunciation:
vohr-RAY oon bee-KYEH-reh dee ahl-YAH-nee-koh dehl vool-TOO-reh pehr fah-VOH-reh
Meaning:
“I’d like a glass of Aglianico del Vulture, please.”
Continue Exploring Southern Italy
🌿 The Ultimate Puglia Road Trip Guide
🍝 A Food Lover’s Guide to Puglia
🌿 The Ultimate Umbria Wine Guide
Coming Up Next
The Ultimate Le Marche Road Trip Guide
Discover one of Italy’s most underrated regions, where Adriatic beaches, hilltop villages, Renaissance cities, and family-run wineries come together on an unforgettable road trip.
Until Next Time…
Matera reminds us that some of the world’s most extraordinary places aren’t defined by modern skylines or famous landmarks.
They’re shaped by the people who came before us, the stories carved into stone, and the quiet beauty that has endured for centuries.
I hope your time here inspires you to slow down, look a little closer, and appreciate just how many layers of history Italy has to offer.
Ci vediamo in Italia.
XO, Sondra
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