How to get to Matera: the complete guide

Located in southern Italy, specifically in Basilicata, Matera is one of the oldest cities in the world and captivates visitors from all over the globe with its extraordinary historical and cultural heritage. Best known for its "Sassi", ancient districts carved into the limestone rock, Matera has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was named European Capital of Culture in 2019. Walking through its streets means immersing oneself in a timeless atmosphere, among caves, cave churches, and breathtaking scenery.

The beauty of Matera does not only lie in its millenary architecture, but also in the unique experience it offers: a journey through history, art, and nature. For those who wish to visit, it is recommended to dedicate at least two days to thoroughly explore the Sassi and the main points of interest. The ideal way to get around is on foot, as many of the attractions are located in the historic center.

We let you discover Matera through quotes from important figures in the Italian and international scene, who we believe grasp the beauty of this fascinating place, to understand how to get to Matera, not only physically but also with the mind and heart.

"The uniqueness of Matera, a miracle of time, a happy harmony between history and modernity." (a quote from the Bolognese singer-songwriter Lucio Dalla)

We now come to the American actor Mel Gibson who describes it as: "Matera: the first time I saw it, I was blown away, because it was simply perfect."

Matera is easily reachable from various Italian cities, thanks to numerous transportation options. If you are traveling by car, you can enjoy picturesque landscapes along the highways of southern Italy, with direct connections from cities such as Naples and Bari.

If you prefer to fly, the nearest airport is in Bari, from where you can take a bus or rent a car to reach Matera in about an hour. Trains also offer practical solutions: you can arrive in Bari and continue by bus or with the Ferrovie Appulo Lucane. For those choosing the bus, there are direct connections from major Italian cities with companies such as FlixBus and MarinoBus, making the journey comfortable and accessible.

The Capital is one of the main starting points to reach Matera, thanks to the numerous connections available. The journey is simple and varied, with several options to choose from.

By bus: If you prefer to travel without changes, various companies like FlixBus and MarinoBus offer direct connections between Rome and Matera. The journey takes about 5-6 hours, depending on traffic and the company, and tickets start at €21.99. This is one of the most economical options for those who want to reach Matera directly from Rome.

By train and bus: Another solution is to take a train from Rome to Salerno or Potenza. The train journey takes about 2 hours and prices vary between 20/50€. From there, you can continue by bus to Matera, with a journey that lasts about 2 hours. This option allows you to break up the journey and maybe make a short stop to discover other places.

Whichever mode of transportation you choose, Rome and Matera are well connected, making it easy for you to explore one of Italy's most iconic cities.

Naples, a city of great history and culture, is well connected to Matera thanks to numerous transportation options.

By bus: If you are looking for an economical option without changes, direct buses represent the ideal solution. FlixBus and MarinoBus operate daily connections between Naples and Matera. The journey takes about 2 hours and 45 minutes and the ticket price starts at €10.49. This allows you to reach Matera directly, without stress, and to enjoy the landscape that changes from the lively Campania to the gentle Lucanian hills.

By car: If you prefer to have more autonomy, you can rent a car in Naples and reach Matera in about 3 hours, the cost for tolls is €2.1. The route via the A16 motorway and SS407 Basentana is quite smooth, and it crosses spectacular landscapes between hills and valleys. The cost of the highway from Naples to Matera is €35.11 (€2.1 toll, €33.01 gasoline cost).

How to get to Matera from Naples becomes an adventurous travel experience, allowing you to explore the surroundings and stop to discover other hidden wonders along the way.

Bari is the main gateway for those wishing to visit Matera, whether you arrive by plane, train, or bus.

By bus: Several companies, including MarinoBus and FlixBus, offer frequent rides between Bari and Matera. The journey takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes, with tickets starting from €8.97.

By car: If you prefer the freedom of a car, you can rent a car at Bari airport or in the city and drive for about 1hour along the SS96.

How to get to Matera from Bari is particularly easy, thanks to the short distance and frequency of available connections.

Starting from the fashion capital of Italy, there are several options that will allow you to discover Matera, a city very different from the urban and dynamic Milan, but equally fascinating.

By plane: The direct flight from Milan to Bari is undoubtedly the fastest option. Various airlines, including Ryanair, EasyJet, and Alitalia, connect Milan to the airports of Bari and Brindisi daily. The flight lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, with prices starting from 30/40€ if booked well in advance. Once in Bari, you can follow the directions already mentioned to reach Matera by bus or train.

By train: If you prefer a journey by land, high-speed trains such as Frecciarossa or Italo will take you from Milan to Bari in about 10 hours. The cost of the ticket varies starting from 50€ depending on the time, class chosen, and day. From Bari, you can easily reach Matera using the options already described.

The contrast between modern Milan and ancient Matera will make this journey even more exciting, allowing you to appreciate the diverse beauties of Italy.

Starting from Venice, one of the most touristy cities in Italy, you can reach Matera thanks to various transportation options that combine convenience and comfort. Although there is no direct connection, Venice is well served and allows you to easily reach Matera. Let's see in detail how to get to Matera from Venice.

By plane: The quickest solution is to take a flight from Venice's Marco Polo Airport to Bari. Various airlines, such as Ryanair and Volotea, offer direct flights with a duration of about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Prices vary depending on the season and how far in advance you book, but generally start from 50€. Once you land in Bari, you can choose from numerous options to get to Matera, such as the bus (about 1 hour and 15 minutes, starting from €8.97) or renting a car, which will allow you to reach Matera in just over an hour along the SS96;

By train: Another option is to travel by train from Venice to Bari with Trenitalia or Italo. The journey, using high-speed lines, takes about 7 hours and 30 minutes, with a mandatory change in Bologna or Rome. Ticket prices range from 60€ to 120€, depending on the class and departure time. Once you arrive in Bari, you can take a bus or a local train to Matera, as described above;

By car: If you enjoy driving, you can rent a car in Venice and travel through Italy to Matera. The journey takes about 8 hours and passes through the A14 highway, crossing fascinating places like Bologna, Ancona, and Pescara. This route offers you the freedom to stop along the way and visit other Italian cities. Although it is a longer journey, reaching Matera from Venice by car allows you to experience a road trip immersed in the beauty of the Italian landscapes.

Regardless of the mode of transportation you choose, getting to Matera from Venice is a journey that will lead you to discover the authentic heart of Italy, crossing fascinating regions and landscapes until you reach the ancient city of the Sassi.

Turin, with its elegance and royal history, may seem distant from Basilicata, but with proper planning, the journey to Matera can be comfortable and enjoyable.

By plane: The fastest way to cover the distance between Turin and Matera is to take a flight to Bari. Several airlines, such as Ryanair and Alitalia, offer direct flights with a duration of about 1 hour and 45 minutes. Prices start from 50€  if booked in advance. Once in Bari, you can easily find direct connections to Matera.

By train: Another option is to travel by train from Turin to Bari. The journey with high-speed trains Frecciarossa or Italo takes about 11 hours and prices range from 50€ to 120€, with 1 or more changes. Although the journey is longer, it allows you to cross almost the entire Boot and admire the different Italian regions from the window. This way, getting to Matera from Turin can become a true journey into the heart of Italy, through breathtaking landscapes.

Starting from Bologna, there are several options to reach Matera, a city that will surprise you with its ancient and mysterious charm.

By plane: The fastest option is to take a direct flight to Bari. Several airlines, including Ryanair, offer direct flights with prices starting at around 50€, especially if booked in advance. The flight takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Once landed in Bari, you can take a direct bus to Matera. The transfer takes about 1h/1.15h with Itabus, with prices starting from €8.97.

By train: If you prefer to travel by land, you can opt for a Frecciarossa or Frecciargento train from Bologna to Bari. The journey takes about 7 hours and tickets range from 45€ to 100€. Once in Bari, you can use convenient bus or local train connections to Matera.

This journey will allow you to go from the lively landscapes of Emilia-Romagna to the magical atmosphere of Basilicata, making you appreciate even more the discovery of the beautiful Matera.

Now that you know exactly how to get to Matera, all you have to do is organize your trip and let yourself be enchanted by the timeless beauty of this incredible city.

Whether you depart from the north or the south of Italy, the options are numerous and designed for all travelers who wish to visit Matera.