Things to do in Matera
Hints for unique experiences in the city!
Matera is one of the oldest cities on earth and seems to be a place suspended between the past and the future. It is surrounded by a canyon that is ideal for trekking, cycling, mountain biking, horse riding and much more.
The Sassi district, the historical centre of the city, is a unique place to learn about the history of the local community and admire incredible architecture. In addition, the city is 1 hour (by car) from the Itria Valley and the Lucanian Dolomites Park (where you can experience the Flight of the Angel), and 30 minutes from the beautiful beaches of the Ionian Sea.
Lastly, just only 30 minutes away, you can visit the village of Grottole, where thanks to our Wonder Grottole partners you can enjoy many authentic experiences with the community such as beekeeping and honey tasting, terracotta workshops, and wine tasting.
Visit the Sassi of Matera
The Sassi district in Matera is an ancient settlement carved into the limestone rock. Divided into Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano, it offers a unique experience of walking through alleys and rupestrian houses, some of which have been converted into museums, restaurants and hotels.
Explore the Murgia Park
This natural park offers trails leading to breathtaking views of the city of Matera and the surrounding countryside. You can visit ancient rock churches and enjoy the unspoilt nature.
Wonder Grottole experience
In the village of Grottole, it is possible to enjoy truly unique experiences with the local community. For example, learning to work with ceramics guided by Nisio Lopergolo, the village's last master of pottery, tasting wine in the cellars of local families, and becoming a beekeeper for a day together with the expert Rocco.
Craco, the ghost town
Explore the ghost town in the heart of the “Calanchi”, clay mountains that are created by weathering and, over time, take on incredible shapes with pinnacles and spires.
Travelling among the stars
Basilicata offers the possibility of admiring clear starry skies thanks to its low light pollution and the presence of various astronomical observatories such as the "Anzi Planetarium" and the "Castelgrande Astronomical Observatory".
Admire the beauty of the Ionian Sea
Dive into nature and explore a protected area where flora and fauna are preserved. Meet the Caretta caretta turtles that each year lay their eggs in this corner of paradise and the Mediterranean dolphins under the expert guidance of the friends of the WWF Bosco Pantano Oasis and the Jonian Dolphin Conservation team.
Angel flight
Fly from mountaintop to mountaintop between two villages nestled in the magical Lucanian Dolomites: Pietrapertosa and Castelmezzano.
