Where to stay in Matera
Matera is defined by the Sassi—ancient, cavernous districts carved into limestone cliffs. The city is divided into Sasso Caveoso, Sasso Barisano, and the Civita hilltop. Navigating involves endless stone staircases and labyrinthine alleys, meaning luggage accessibility is the primary factor when choosing accommodation. Staying deep within the Sassi offers atmospheric, cave-dwelling experiences, while the Piano area above provides easier access for travelers with heavy bags or limited mobility.
Sasso Caveoso
This is the raw, rugged soul of Matera. It feels ancient and quiet, with houses stacked vertically against the ravine. It is entirely pedestrianized, so you will spend your days walking steep stone steps. Within a short walk, you can reach the Rock Church of San Pietro Caveoso and the winding path leading toward the Murgia plateau.
Sasso Barisano
Barisano is the northern section of the Sassi and has seen more extensive renovation than Caveoso. It feels polished, hosting elegant boutiques and boutique cave hotels. You are within a five-minute walk of the Duomo di Matera and the bustling Via del Corso, which serves as the main artery for cafes and evening strolls.
Piano
Located on the flat plateau above the Sassi, the Piano area offers wide streets and easy vehicle access. It feels like a standard Italian town, lacking the vertical climb of the ravine. It is perfectly walkable to the Sassi entrances and the central Piazza Vittorio Veneto, where you can easily find taxis and local bus lines.
Rent a car in Matera
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Compare car rentals in MateraOne thing to think about
Avoid booking accommodation located too far from the central Sassi entrances if you have heavy luggage. The historic center is strictly off-limits to most vehicles, and dragging suitcases over uneven 1,000-year-old stone steps is exhausting and often necessitates hiring expensive local porters.
Other places to stay in Italy: lastminute.com · UNA Italian Hospitality · Megabon
Once you have a bed
The things that sell out first in Matera are the small-group tours and the skip-the-line tickets.
Top tours & activities in Matera
Common questions
Do I really need to stay inside a cave hotel?
While you can stay in modern hotels on the flat, the cave experience is Matera's defining feature. Staying in a 'Sasso' provides a unique sensory experience—the thick stone walls create perfect silence and a distinct climate. It is the primary reason to visit this specific city, so it is highly recommended at least once.
How much walking should I prepare for daily?
Expect to walk significantly more than in a flat city. Even a short distance between two points can involve hundreds of stone steps and steep gradients. Pack high-traction footwear, as the polished limestone walkways can be slippery even in dry weather. If you have mobility issues, stick exclusively to the Piano district.
Is it easy to visit the Murgia plateau across the ravine?
Yes, the Parco della Murgia Materana is accessible via the Tibetan bridge. You hike down into the ravine from Sasso Caveoso and back up the other side. It takes about 45 to 60 minutes each way depending on your pace. The views back toward the Sassi from the caves on the opposite side are unmatched.
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