Matera: Multi-day Trips and Tours from Rome

A day trip to Matera from Rome is the perfect way to explore this unique and ancient city, known for its cave dwellings, called the Sassi, which have been inhabited since the Paleolithic era.

It has also featured prominently in several major Hollywood films, including "The Passion of the Christ" and "Ben-Hur."

A Matera excursion from Rome is a chance to step back in time and explore a part of Italy that relatively few tourists get to see.

Here's everything you need to know about Matera, one of the most exciting multi-day trips from Rome.

How to get to Matera from Rome?

Matera is situated in the Basilicata region of Italy, about four hours and 40 minutes southeast of Rome.

From Rome to Matera by car

The fastest and most convenient way to get from Rome to Matera is by car. The journey takes just under five hours. You can either drive yourself or book a private transfer.

If you choose to drive, the fastest route is via the A1/E45 motorway. Note that there is a toll fee of €15.80 per vehicle on this road.

From Rome to Matera by bus

It's possible to take an overnight bus from Rome to Matera. The N575 Flixbus takes 6.5 hours, and tickets cost €24 to €29 each way.

Guided tour to Matera from Rome

If you want to make the Rome to Matera journey as easy as possible, consider booking a guided tour. This takes all the hassle out of planning your trip and means you'll have a knowledgeable local guide to show you around, Matera.

What is the typical itinerary of a day tour to Matera from Rome?

On a Matera day tour, you will be picked up from your hotel around 6 AM. Then, you will begin your journey to Matera in an air-conditioned vehicle, which takes approximately four hours and 40 minutes.

Upon arrival in Matera, you will explore the Sassi, the ancient cave dwellings and visit important religious sites around the city, such as the Matera Cathedral.

As you explore the narrow streets of Matera, you will learn all about the city's history, both ancient and recent. In the latter half of the 20th century, the city transformed from an impoverished and underdeveloped backwater to a UNESCO World Heritage site. Your guide will share stories and bring Matera's past to life.

On your Matera jaunt, you'll also have the chance to visit a traditional cave home. Until the 1950s, many people in Matera still lived in these caverns.

After a day of exploring, your Matera journey will end back in Rome, where you'll be dropped off at your hotel.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Matera?

Private tour to Matera from Rome

On a private Matera day trip, you'll have your own personal guide to show you around the city. This is a great option if you want a more personalized experience or if you have specific interests that you want to focus on.

You will travel between the two cities in a luxury vehicle and enjoy a walking tour with a local guide. The price of the tour also includes entry to a traditional cave house and the Rupestrian Churches.

Private tour to Matera plus Alberobello from Rome

On this tour, you'll explore Matera and town of Alberobello in the Puglia region. Alberobello is famous for its UNESCO-listed Trulli houses. With their conical roofs and whitewashed walls, these houses are a unique sight.

Your tour includes a guided tour of Matera and free time to explore Alberobello. This is a great way to explore two of Italy's most unique towns in one day.

Both of these towns are relatively unknown compared to other Italian destinations. Therefore, this tour is ideal for those who want to get off the beaten path.

2-day tour to Matera plus Pompeii from Rome

Explore two of Italy's most important historical destinations on this 2-day tour from Rome.

This tour includes entry to Pompeii, which will be your first stop. Here, you will discover the ruins of this ancient city, which was destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D.

Later, you will continue on to Matera, where you will stay overnight. On your Matera excursion, you will explore the city's ancient caves and explore interesting religious sites.

3-day tour to Matera plus Pompeii and Alberobello from Rome

On this 3-day excursion from Rome, you'll explore the historical towns of Matera, Pompeii and Alberobello.

This tour includes entry to Pompeii, where you will learn about the city's history and see the ruins of this ancient city.

Next, you will continue on to Matera and explore the city's ancient caves and churches. Finally, you will head to Alberobello, where you will see the unique Trulli houses.

This tour also includes breakfast each morning and accommodation in Matera and Alberobello.

5-day tour to Matera plus Puglia and Benevento from Rome

Explore the best of southern Italy on a 5-day tour from Rome.

Your first stop will be Lecce, which is known as the "Florence of the South" because of its baroque architecture. You will also visit the scenic coastal towns of Gallipoli, Otranto and Santa Maria di Leuca.

Next, you will head inland to the town of Alberobello, where you will see the unique Trulli houses. You will also visit Bari, the capital of Puglia, before continuing on to Matera.

How much does a tour to Matera from Rome cost?

The price of a jaunt to Matera varies depending on the duration of the trip. A private transfer from Rome to Matera starts at €390 per person, while a Matera day tour costs €800 per person. For a Matera day trip plus a stop to Alberobello, you can expect to pay around €950 per person.

Tours that stop in several different towns and cities are more expensive. A 2-day tour costs around €1,000 per person, while a five-day tour costs close to €1,400 per person.

What will you see and do?

Sassi di Matera

The Sassi di Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site, consists of two districts that are celebrated for their ancient caves. These caves served as dwellings for much of the city's population until the mid-20th century.

Today, many of the caves have been converted into hotels, bars and restaurants, which you can visit on your Matera day tour.

Rupestrian Churches

The Rupestrian Churches are a series of ancient churches that were carved into the rocks. These churches are some of the oldest in the world and date back to the 10th century. Exploring these churches is an essential part of any Matera day trip and a fantastic activity for those who love history.

Traditional restaurants

Matera is home to several great restaurants which offer excellent views of the city. These restaurants serve traditional dishes and the famous Matera bread, which is a must-try when you're on a day trip. You also have the option to go on a food tour in Matera.

Convento di Sant’Agostino

This ancient convent is worth visiting not only for its historical significance but also for its panoramic views of the Sassi caves. The convent is located on a hilltop and can be reached by taking a short hike from the center of town.

Matera Cathedral

The Matera Cathedral is located in the center of town and is one of the most important religious sites in the city. The cathedral dates back to the 13th century and is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and Saint Eustace.

When is the best time to visit Matera?

The best time for a Matera day trip is between May and October when the weather is warm and sunny. You can also visit in the winter, but be aware that the weather is much cooler and daylight hours are shorter.

There is less rainfall during the warmer months and most visitors prefer this time of the year when it comes to visiting Matera. Luckily, this part of Italy is not as touristy as other regions, meaning you most likely won’t encounter big crowds even during busy times.

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

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

• Day trips to Matera from Bari
• Matera day tours from Lecce

Travel tips

• Wear comfortable shoes when exploring Matera. A walking tour is usually part of a Matera day trip, so you'll want to be prepared. It’s recommended to avoid high heels or flip flops.
• Wear a sunhat and glasses to protect you from the sun, especially if you're visiting during the summer months. Packing sunscreen is also a good idea.
• Don't forget your camera to capture memories of your Matera day trip. The historic churches and ancient caves are great for practicing your photography.
• It's best to bring some cash with you, as not all businesses in Matera accept credit cards.