✓ Updated February 2026

Weather data and travel information verified current

Best Time to Visit Matera, Italy: Mar or Apr 2026

Matera, Italy travel destination - scenic view of Sunrise Over the Sassi di Matera during ideal visiting season — Image: Matera - View from Sant'Agostino.jpg viaWikimedia Commons

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Quick Answer:

For a truly breathtaking experience in Matera, Italy, aim for the late spring months of May and June. During this time, the ancient Sassi glow under a gentle sun, perfect for exploring the labyrinthine alleys without the intense summer heat. Imagine the soft morning mist rising from the ravines, revealing the honey-colored stone city, followed by evenings where golden sunsets paint the sky. Alternatively, the early autumn, specifically September and October, offers a similar comfortable climate, with the added charm of local harvest festivals and a more subdued, reflective atmosphere as the days shorten.

Best Months to Visit:

MarAprMayJunSepOctNov

Airport Code

BRI

Coordinates

40.65°, 16.61°

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Top Things to Do

Sunrise Over the Sassi di Matera

Wake before dawn and find a vantage point in the Parco della Murgia Materana across the ravine. Witness the ancient cave dwellings of the Sassi slowly illuminate as the sun crests the horizon, casting a magical, golden glow over this UNESCO World Heritage site. It's a truly spiritual experience, best enjoyed with a thermos of hot coffee.

Explore the Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario

Step back in time by visiting a recreated cave dwelling, furnished as it would have been in the 18th century. This intimate glimpse into the daily lives of Matera's past inhabitants, complete with their animals and simple tools, offers a profound understanding of the Sassi's history. Look for the ingenious water collection systems.

Culinary Journey Through a Local Trattoria

Ditch the tourist menus and seek out a small, family-run trattoria tucked away in the Sassi. Indulge in regional specialties like 'cucù' (a whistle-shaped ceramic bird often filled with wine) and 'orecchiette con cime di rapa'. Ask your server for their grandmother's favorite dish for an authentic taste of Basilicata.

Hike the Gravina Canyon Trails

Venture into the rugged natural beauty of the Gravina Canyon, accessible from the Parco della Murgia Materana. Discover ancient rock-hewn churches (chiese rupestri) adorned with faded frescoes and enjoy panoramic views of the Sassi from a different perspective. Wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water, especially during summer.

See all 7 things to do →

💡 Travel Tip: For the best value on hotels during this season, check current rates on Trip.com.

Essential Travel Tips

transport

Embrace walking! Matera's Sassi districts are a labyrinth of staircases and narrow alleys, and the best way to explore is on foot. Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of climbing and descending on uneven stone paths. Parking is also extremely limited and expensive within the historic center, so leave your car at your accommodation or a designated parking lot outside the Sassi.

packing

Pack light and smart, especially if you're staying in a cave hotel. Many of these unique accommodations involve steep climbs and narrow passages, so lugging heavy suitcases can be a real challenge. Think layers, as Matera can get surprisingly cool in the evenings, even during summer. Don't forget a reusable water bottle – there are public fountains scattered throughout the city where you can refill.

food

Seek out 'pane di Matera' – the local bread is legendary! This durum wheat bread has a distinctive horn shape and a thick, crunchy crust, perfect for dipping in local olive oil or accompanying regional dishes like 'crapiata' (a hearty legume soup). Look for bakeries (forni) with the 'Pane di Matera IGP' label for the authentic experience.

culture

Respect the quiet hours, especially in the Sassi. Matera is a living city, and many residents still reside in these ancient cave dwellings. Avoid loud noises or disturbances, particularly in the early mornings and late evenings, to be considerate of your neighbors. It's a place to savor the tranquility and history, not to party loudly.

money

Carry some cash for smaller trattorias and artisan shops. While most places accept cards, some of the smaller, more traditional eateries or souvenir stalls might prefer cash, especially in the more remote parts of the Sassi. ATMs are available, but it's always good to have a bit of local currency on hand for spontaneous purchases.

safety

Be mindful of your footing, especially after dark or if it rains. The ancient stone streets and staircases can become slippery. While Matera is generally very safe, a twisted ankle is an easy way to ruin your trip. Stick to well-lit paths and use your phone's flashlight if you're exploring less-trafficked areas at night.

💡 Travel Tip: If you're planning your trip, it's worth checking flight prices on Trip.com before you decide.

Weather Details

Jan

7 days

Feb

7 days

Mar

8 days

Apr

8 days

May

6 days

Jun

4 days

Jul

2 days

Aug

3 days

Sep

6 days

Oct

8 days

Nov

9 days

Dec

8 days

Monthly Weather Data Table

Month	High (°C)	Low (°C)	High (°F)	Low (°F)	Rainfall (mm)	Rain Days	Daylight (h)
Jan	11°C	3°C	52°F	37°F	50mm	7 days	9.7h
Feb	12°C	4°C	54°F	39°F	55mm	7 days	10.7h
Mar	15°C	6°C	59°F	43°F	50mm	8 days	12h
Apr	19°C	9°C	66°F	48°F	60mm	8 days	13.4h
May	24°C	13°C	75°F	55°F	40mm	6 days	14.4h
Jun	28°C	17°C	82°F	63°F	30mm	4 days	15h
Jul	31°C	20°C	88°F	68°F	20mm	2 days	14.8h
Aug	31°C	20°C	88°F	68°F	30mm	3 days	13.9h
Sep	27°C	17°C	81°F	63°F	60mm	6 days	12.6h
Oct	22°C	13°C	72°F	55°F	75mm	8 days	11.4h
Nov	16°C	8°C	61°F	46°F	70mm	9 days	10.2h
Dec	12°C	4°C	54°F	39°F	55mm	8 days	9.5h

Matera, Italy Month by Month: Complete Guide

Planning your trip to Matera, Italy? Here's what to expect each month:

Jan in Matera, Italy

Weather

11°C°C / 52°F°F

7 days rainy days • 50mmmm

What to Expect

Winter season with cooler temperatures. Fewer tourists but some attractions may have limited hours.

Crowd Level

🟢 Low - Quiet season, easy to find accommodation

Quick Tip: Jan offers a quieter experience with fewer tourists.

Weather

31°C°C / 88°F°F

2 days rainy days • 20mmmm

What to Expect

Peak summer season. Hot weather and highest tourist crowds. Most expensive time.

Crowd Level

🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early

Quick Tip: Jul can be quite hot. Stay hydrated and plan indoor activities.

Weather

12°C°C / 54°F°F

8 days rainy days • 55mmmm

What to Expect

Winter season, holiday atmosphere. Festive but can be cold. Mixed crowds.

Crowd Level

🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early

Quick Tip: Dec offers a quieter experience with fewer tourists.

All Things to Do in Matera, Italy

Sunrise Over the Sassi di Matera

attraction

Best time: Apr-Oct

Explore the Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario

cultural

Best time: Year-round

Culinary Journey Through a Local Trattoria

food

Best time: Year-round

Hike the Gravina Canyon Trails

nature

Best time: Mar-Jun, Sep-Oct

Artisan Ceramic Shopping in the Sassi

shopping

Wander through the labyrinthine alleys and discover small artisan workshops crafting traditional Materan ceramics. Look for the distinctive 'cucù' whistles, often painted with vibrant folk art. Purchasing directly from the artisan supports local traditions and ensures you take home a unique souvenir.

Evening Aperitivo with a View

activity

As dusk settles, find a bar or cafe with a terrace overlooking the Sassi. Order a spritz or a local Aglianico wine and savor the moment as the cave dwellings begin to twinkle with lights. It's the perfect way to unwind and soak in the magical atmosphere of Matera at night.

Best time: May-Oct

Discover the Crypt of the Original Sin

cultural

Venture slightly outside the city to find this extraordinary 'Sistine Chapel of rupestrian art'. The 9th-century frescoes adorning the cave walls are remarkably preserved, depicting biblical scenes with a raw, powerful beauty. Booking in advance is highly recommended, and consider a guided tour to fully appreciate the historical and artistic significance.

Best time: Year-round

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Getting Around Matera, Italy

Walking (the Sassi)

Matera's historic Sassi districts are best explored on foot. The labyrinthine alleys, steep staircases, and hidden courtyards are not accessible by any vehicle, making walking the only true way to discover its magic.

Cost:Free

Tip:Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes with good grip – those ancient cobblestones and stairs are no joke! Avoid trying to rush; allow ample time to get lost and found again. Many travelers underestimate the inclines and the sheer number of steps, leading to exhaustion. Start early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday sun and crowds.

Local Buses (AMAP)

AMAP operates buses within Matera, connecting the modern city (Piano) with the Sassi and surrounding areas. They are useful for reaching the Sassi from the train station or your accommodation if it's located outside the immediate Sassi core.

Cost:€1.20 per ticket (can be purchased at tabaccherie or newsstands)

Tip:Tickets must be purchased *before* boarding from authorized vendors (tabaccherie, edicole). Do not expect to buy them from the driver. Check the AMAP website or local tourist information for routes and schedules, as they can be infrequent, especially on Sundays. A common mistake is waiting for a bus that doesn't run on a holiday or expecting to pay onboard.

Taxis

Taxis are available for direct transport to and from the airport (Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport is the closest major one), train stations, or for getting around the modern part of Matera. They can be a convenient option for luggage or if mobility is a concern.

Cost:Approximately €50-€70 from Bari Airport to Matera; within Matera, meter rates apply (expect €10-€20 for most trips).

Tip:Pre-booking is highly recommended, especially for airport transfers. Ensure the taxi meter is running or agree on a price beforehand for longer journeys. Don't assume taxis can navigate directly into the Sassi; they will drop you at the nearest accessible point.

Rental Car (with caution)

While a rental car offers flexibility for exploring the wider Basilicata region, it's largely impractical and often impossible for navigating *within* Matera, especially the Sassi.

Cost:Varies by rental company and duration.

Tip:If you rent a car, park it in designated parking lots outside the Sassi (e.g., Parcheggio Lumbi, Parcheggio Via Pasolini) and walk or take a bus into the historic center. Driving into the Sassi is restricted and can result in hefty fines. Many travelers make the mistake of thinking they can drive to their Sassi hotel, only to find themselves in a ZTL (Limited Traffic Zone) or facing impassable routes.

Intercity Buses (to/from other cities)

Buses connect Matera to major Italian cities like Rome, Naples, and Florence, often serving as a more affordable alternative to trains. Companies like FlixBus and SAIS Autolinee operate these routes.

Cost:Prices vary widely depending on the route and booking time, from €15 to €50+.

Tip:Book tickets online in advance through the respective company websites or apps (e.g., FlixBus, Omio). The main bus station is usually near the train station in the modern part of Matera. Be aware that bus journeys can be longer than train journeys, and schedules might be less frequent. Always check the exact drop-off location, as some smaller towns might have multiple stops.

💡 Travel Tip: This season usually means better deals — check what's available on Trip.com.

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Frequently Asked Questions

When is the absolute best time to visit Matera, and what should I expect weather-wise?

For that magical golden hour light and pleasant temperatures, I always recommend visiting in late spring (May-June) or early autumn (September-October). The summer months can be scorching hot, making those cave dwellings feel even warmer, and the winter, while atmospheric, can be quite chilly and damp. You'll find fewer crowds during these shoulder seasons, allowing you to truly soak in the Sassi's unique ambiance.

Navigating the Sassi looks challenging! What's the best way to get around without getting lost?

Honestly, getting a little lost is part of the Matera experience, but here's my insider tip: download an offline map of the Sassi area before you go. The staircases and winding alleys can be disorienting, but most of the main attractions are well-signposted. Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes – you'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven stone surfaces, and heels are a definite no-go!

Are there any 'must-do' experiences in Matera that aren't in every guidebook?

Beyond the famous cave churches, seek out a visit to a 'casa grotta' that's still furnished as it would have been historically – it offers a poignant glimpse into past life. Also, consider attending a local 'sagra' (food festival) if your timing aligns; these are fantastic opportunities to taste regional specialties and experience genuine local culture. Keep an eye on local event listings once you're there.

What's the deal with eating in Matera? Any advice on finding authentic local food?

Matera's cuisine is rustic and delicious, focusing on simple, high-quality ingredients. Don't miss trying 'pane di Matera,' the local sourdough bread, and dishes featuring 'peperoni cruschi' (crispy dried peppers). For a truly local meal, look for trattorias slightly away from the main viewpoints, often found in the newer parts of town or down less-trafficked alleys within the Sassi. Ask your accommodation for their personal favorites – they usually know the best spots.

Is it safe to explore Matera, especially at night?

Matera is generally a very safe city, and exploring the Sassi at night is incredibly magical with the lights twinkling. Of course, always exercise common sense as you would anywhere – be aware of your surroundings and stick to well-lit paths, especially if you've been enjoying some local wine. The main tourist areas are well-patrolled, and locals are friendly and helpful.

How many days do you need in Matera, Italy?

We recommend spending 3-5 days in Matera, Italy to see the main attractions without feeling rushed. This gives you time to explore the top sights, experience local culture, and take a day trip if desired. Budget travelers might do 2-3 days, while those wanting a deeper experience should plan for a week.

Is Matera, Italy expensive to visit?

Matera, Italy can be enjoyed on various budgets. Daily costs typically range from $50-80 for budget travelers, $100-200 for mid-range visitors, and $250+ for luxury experiences. Prices are highest during Mar and lowest during off-season months. Book accommodations early to secure better rates.

What is Matera, Italy famous for?

Matera, Italy is famous for its unique attractions, rich culture, and memorable experiences. The destination is best known for its architectural landmarks, local cuisine, and vibrant atmosphere. Visit during Mar or Apr for the best experience.

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