Take a Walking Tour of the Sassi

I began my adventures in Matera with a guided walking tour of the sassi, or cave, district. The historical center is built on a steep hill and is filled with a maze of stairs and alleys. A guided tour is a great way to grasp the history of the area while following a logical route without too much backtracking uphill.

Our tour commenced in the modern city center and took us to panoramic lookout points before descending into the sassi. Along the way, we learned about the intricacies of life in these cave communities and the journey of the sassi from homes to abandoned spaces and eventually into popular tourist attractions. The tour included entry to a cave house museum and the ruins of a cave church, lasting just under three hours.

Pick Up the Cave Church Pass

An essential purchase for anyone visiting Matera is the Cave Church Pass, which provides access to three cave churches, a cave house museum, and an underground water cistern for around €25. Don’t make the mistake I did by assuming you only need to see one cave church—visit them all for a richer experience!

The first cave church I visited was Santa Lucia alle Malve, famous for its well-preserved frescoes dating back to the 700s. I also highly recommend San Pietro Barisano, the largest cave church, featuring stunning altars and a haunting subterranean sepulchre.

Go Inside Chiesa San Pietro Cavoso

Not all remarkable churches in Matera are located in caves. San Pietro Cavoso, a Baroque church from the 14th century, is perched on the edge of the canyon and offers breathtaking views along with an interior that provides a cool respite from the summer heat.

Enjoy the Panoramic Lookouts

Matera’s famous caves are situated downhill from the modern town center, allowing for spectacular viewpoints. I recommend visiting Belvedere di Piazza Giovanni Pascoli and Belvedere Luigi Guerricchio for amazing panoramic photos of the sassi district.

Shop for Typical Products

Food is my top souvenir from Italy, and Matera has gourmet shops for local produce, such as Crusco (dried sweet bell peppers), Taralli (Southern Italian snacks), and Dried pasta. Don’t forget to pick up a handmade cuccù, a charming ceramic whistle shaped like a rooster, believed to be a lucky charm.

Go Underground in a Cistern

Explore Matera’s history through its underground cisterns. The Palombaro Lungo is a massive cavernous underground well worth visiting, showcasing the city’s former sophisticated water system.

Taste Some Pane de Matera

No visit to Matera is complete without sampling pane de Matera, the locally produced bread with a rich history. You can even visit the Museum of Bread for more insights into this iconic staple.

Go for a Hike in the Canyon

If you’re up for an adventure, the Gravina River canyon offers amazing hiking opportunities. Just keep in mind that what goes down must come up, so pace yourself!

Understand a Typical Cave House

Experience the traditional lifestyle of cave dwellers by visiting one of the cave house museums. You’ll gain insights into daily life, food storage, and community among residents.

Relax at a Cave Spa

For something truly unique, unwind at one of Matera’s cave spas. The Ancient Termae Romanae, located within the Locanda di San Martino hotel, offers a special relaxation experience amidst ancient stones.

Take a Tuk Tuk Tour

If mobility is a concern, explore Matera with a guided tuk-tuk tour. It’s an efficient way to experience the city’s sights while learning about its history.

Wonder at Matera by Night

The city transforms at night, with breathtaking views from the lookout points as the lights come on. It’s the perfect time for a drink and to enjoy the magic of Matera.

Eat in a Cave Restaurant

What better way to experience Matera’s culinary delights than dining in one of the cave restaurants? Be sure to make a reservation and try local specialties like Cialledda and Fave e Cicorie.

Stay in a Cave Hotel

Finally, consider staying in one of Matera’s unique cave hotels for a truly immersive experience. Many have been renovated to combine modern luxury with ancient charm.