Matera Holidays

Holidays to Matera, situated in the southern region of Basilicata, transport you back to ancient times. One of the oldest cities in Italy, this enchanting place is best known for its UNESCO honoured Sassi where you will find stone houses and caves, believed to be home to Italy’s earliest settlers. Today, tucked into the caves of the Sassi are cafés, hotels, dwellings and even art galleries, all waiting to be discovered.

Perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in history, Matera is filled with piazzas, Benedictine churches and museums all waiting to be explored. And beyond the Sassi, the hills of Basilicata are home to old rock churches which were cut into the hillside many years ago. The adventurous will revel in exploring the caves and the many streets, with so many treasures waiting to be discovered. If culture is what you seek then Matera is for you. Still relatively unknown to Italy’s visitors, this unique area has retained its traditional charm and character, offering you a real Italian experience.

For a true Matera experience, stay at the Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita, a unique property of 18 cave dwellings located in the oldest area of the Sassi di Matera. Enjoy a romantic candlelit dinner in the 8th Century cave church before retiring to your carefully restored cave for the night. A truly unique and unusual experience that is not to be missed.

Explore Matera like no other

To get a flavour of the culture, visit the Chiese rupestri Madonna delle Virtu e San Nicola dei Greci, a wonderful example of a cave church adorned with stunning frescoes and much more. Take a guided tour and discover the history as well as some hidden gems passers-by might miss.

In the evening, head to Piazza San Pietro Caveoso for a great choice of restaurants and bars with a buzzing Italian atmosphere. While you’re there, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the older parts of the city with its astounding architecture and fascinating caves, in particular the view of the ravine is spectacular.

Handpicked Hotels in Matera

Discover the real Matera while staying in one of our carefully selected hotels
Tour Inspiration

Authentic Puglia Small Group Escorted Tour - Hotel Monte Sarago


At a glance
  • Enjoy a guided trip of Matera
  • Explore Alberobello
  • Learn how to make pasta
  • Visit Ostuni, Bari and Lecce
  • Visit the caves of Castellana
  • Maximum group size: 18
  • Exclusive to Citalia
8 days from £2235 per person
ATOL Protected

Find out more about Authentic Puglia Tour

Flight Information

Flights to Basilicata arrive into Bari (BRI) from London Gatwick and London Stansted or Brindisi (BDS) from London Gatwick, London Stansted and Manchester and take approximately 3 hours. Please call our Italy Experts in order to book flights to Brindisi.

When to go

Situated in southern Italy, Basilicata has a typically Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot, dry summers. The region enjoys around 300 days of sunshine a year, making May to September a popular time to visit, when temperatures often peak at 30 degrees. However, the cooler shoulder seasons are ideal if you’re planning on hiking, cycling and other active pursuits. 

Visa Information

At the current time, British citizens do not require a visa to visit Italy.

Tipping

You don’t have to leave a tip in Italy – most Italians don’t tip for restaurant meals, bar drinks, taxi rides or hair and beauty treatments. However if you do leave a tip, you might receive quicker service.

Introduction to languages

 

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What our customers think

We have been helping our customers discover the real Italy for 90 years now. Our experience and expertise, together with our attention to detail and personal touch, really does make us the leading Italian holiday specialist

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