One of the oldest cities in the world, Matera is home to an incredible display of rock-hewn houses and churches, showcasing the uprising of modern-day man from our paleolithic ancestors. A hidden gem compared to other ancient destinations, such as Rome or Jordan, Matera is yet to hit the tourist radar, making it the perfect place to explore historic civilizations and primitive architecture.

Day trips to Matera from Bari are a must for history lovers and culture enthusiasts alike. Intriguing for all the family, these excursions allow you to step into the history books.

Here's all you need to know about Matera, one of the most exciting day trips from Bari.

How to get to Matera from Bari?

Matera is a province located in the Basilicata region of Southeastern Italy. Its capital city, also named Matera, is approximately 70 kilometers south of Bari.

From Bari to Matera by car

It takes just under an hour to make the journey to Matera by car. You’ll leave Bari in a southwesterly direction and follow the SS96 as far as Altamura. From there, you’ll join the SS9, which leads you directly to the town.

From Bari to Matera by public transport

Those who don’t have access to a car can make the jaunt to Matera via public transportation instead. While there are trains that run between the two destinations, you’ll find that the journey is quicker by bus. You can catch the bus from Bari Central Train Station, which takes just over an hour to complete the route to Matera and runs several times per day.

Guided tour to Matera from Bari

Alternatively, you can opt for a guided excursion to Matera and allow someone else to arrange all of the transportation details for you. Most tours last around 7 hours and provide a convenient accommodation pickup service, which collects you from your hotel lobby between 9 AM, and 10 AM. Those who choose an evening tour to Matera will be picked up around 5 PM instead.

In some cases, you may be asked to meet your guide at an easy-to-reach location in the city, which you can view ahead of time on the booking page.

What is the typical itinerary?

The itinerary of each Matera day tour differs depending on several factors. However, they usually begin by either meeting your guide in the city or being collected at your hotel. From there, you’ll meet the rest of your tour group — unless you participate in a private excursion — and head toward Matera.

In some cases, you’ll spend a little time exploring the highlights of Bari before starting your journey to the ancient city. Along your route, you may stop at Alberobello, which dates back to the 16th century when it was inhabited by peasants and is now famed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Matera is usually the final destination on any itinerary and, just like the other locations you visit, you’ll embark on a walking tour alongside your guide who will lead you to the most celebrated monuments, and educate you on the history of the city. Depending on the timing of your Matera day trip, you may stop for lunch at your own expense at a restaurant during the middle of the excursion.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Matera?

There are a handful of different Matera day trips to choose from based on your own travel style and any additional sights you wish to see.

Guided tours to Matera from Bari

Journeying inland from Bari, you’ll reach the UNESCO-listed town of Matera, which dates back to the Paleolithic era that ended in 10,000 B.C. Here, you’ll meander through the streets, admiring the historic houses that line the Sasso Barisano neighborhood, which are formed of calcarenite rock and were inhabited until the 1950s.

You’ll also discover the cave dwellings of the Sasso Caveoso area and breathe in the tranquil air of the Murgia Materana Park, which is home to an array of rock-cut churches that were hand-carved by monks between the 8th, and 13th centuries.

Private sunset tour to Matera from Bari

If you want to study the history of Matera without flocks of tourists by your side, consider participating in a sunset tour. Not only will you benefit from a quieter and more charming walk through the city, but you’ll also have the opportunity to see its rock-cut churches, and houses at their most enchanting — during the golden hour.

You’ll also benefit from the attention of your own personal guide who can feed you fascinating tidbits of information about the landmarks you pass and answer all of your burning questions about Matera with ease.

Day trip to Matera plus Bari and Alberobello from Bari

You’ll begin your combination Matera day tour by exploring the coastal city of Bari, including the Basilica of Saint Nicholas, which serves as the holy being’s resting place and attracts Catholic pilgrims from around the world.

Moving on, you’ll visit Alberobello, which is known for its cone-shaped buildings that showcase the architectural style of the Trulli people. Finally, you’ll stroll through the breathtaking remains of the third oldest city in the world — Matera — and discover its wealth of history on foot.

How much does a day trip to Matera from Bari cost?

A basic Matera day trip costs between €140 and €150 per adult while children under the age of 18 cost between €120, and €130 each. These excursions operate in groups with a minimum of three guests. You can upgrade to a private tour if you prefer, which costs €850 per group of up to seven individuals. With the maximum party size, you’ll each pay around €120.

Alternatively, a day trip that incorporates Bari and Alberobello into its itinerary, as well as Matera, costs €200 per person aged 15, and over and operates as a small group of up to eight guests.

If you opt for a private sunset day tour to Matera, you’ll pay €220 per person aged 9 and over. Children between the ages of 3 and 8 benefit from a discounted rate of €100 each, and you are limited to four persons per booking.

What will you see and do?

Matera was named the European Capital of Culture in 2019 and is often referred to as the “Stone City” because of its numerous dwellings carved out of calcarenite rock.

Its two “Sassi” districts make up the old town, which is the location of the majority of these homes, and has provided protection to its inhabitants since the Paleolithic era when hunter-gatherers would pass through nomadically, and found shelter in its caves. Once man settled properly in the region, a variety of huts began to appear, some of which were formed of simple wood and straw, while others were hewn from surrounding rocks, and these are what you see the remnants of today.

The 160+ rock-cut churches that can be found in Matera were mostly carved out by Benedictine monks in the Middle Ages and are decorated with ornate frescoes depicting scenes of the Bible, which have stood the test of time. While many of these can still be visited by those on a day trip to Matera, others were converted to storage units or homes over the centuries.

Matera’s main attractions include the Palombaro Lungo, which is an underground water cistern located directly under the historic Vittorio Veneto Square. You can also discover Matera’s cathedral, which is dedicated both to Saint Eustice and the Virgin Mary, and was constructed in the Apulian Romanesque architectural style in the 13th century.

Other renowned religious monuments include the Church of Saint Mary of Idris, as well as the Church of Saint Peter Barisano and the 18th-century Church of Purgatory, which is decorated with a range of death-related artwork including skeletons, scythes, and bones.

When is the best time to visit Matera?

The best time to take a day trip to Matera is from May to October, when the weather is warm and sunny. You can also visit in winter. However, keep in mind that the climate is cool and the hours of daylight are short.

Most tourists prefer this time of year to visit Matera, as the warmer months have less rainfall. Luckily, this part of Italy doesn't get as many tourists as other parts of the country, so you're unlikely to encounter huge crowds even during peak hours.

Are there any tours to Matera from other cities in Italy?

Yes, there are tours departing from other cities in Italy:

Travel tips

Wear comfortable shoes as you explore Matera. Walking tours are usually part of a Matera day trip, so be prepared. We recommend avoiding high heels and flip flops.
Wear a sun hat and glasses to protect yourself from the sun, especially if you visit in the summer. It's also a good idea to bring sunscreen.
Don't forget your camera to capture memories of your Matera day trip. Historic churches and ancient caves are great places to practice photography.
It is advisable to bring cash as not all shops in Matera accept credit cards.

Matera: Day Trips and Tours from Bari