Basilicata

Discover Basilicata — Ancient Landscapes, Stone Cities & Timeless Silence

Remote, raw, and profoundly moving, Basilicata is one of Italy’s most soulful regions. Framed by rugged mountains and quiet countryside, this land feels carved from history itself — cave dwellings, rock churches, and villages clinging to cliffs. Best known for Matera’s extraordinary stone city, Basilicata rewards travelers seeking depth, authenticity, and places that still whisper rather than shout.

Main Towns

Matera — UNESCO-listed city of cave dwellings (Sassi) and one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited settlements.

Potenza — Mountain capital with sweeping views and a modern-meets-historic feel.

Melfi — Norman castle town rich in medieval history.

Maratea — Coastal gem with dramatic cliffs and Tyrrhenian Sea views.

Craco — Abandoned hill town, haunting and unforgettable

Why You’ll Love It

One of Italy’s most atmospheric and least-touristed regions

Ancient history woven directly into the landscape

Stone villages, silence, and cinematic scenery

Deep authenticity and powerful sense of place

Things To Do

Cities & Heritage

Explore Matera’s Sassi districts, churches, and cave homes

Visit rock-hewn chapels and frescoed rupestrian churches

Walk Melfi’s Norman castle and historic center

Nature & Outdoors

Hike Pollino National Park’s wild trails

Explore mountain forests, gorges, and high plateaus

Scenic drives through remote valleys and ridgelines

Coast & Sea

Swim along Maratea’s rocky Tyrrhenian coastline

Boat beneath cliffs and hidden coves

Sunset views from the Christ the Redeemer statue

Unique Basilicata Experiences

Stay in a restored cave hotel in Matera

Visit the ghost town of Craco

Experience silence, stars, and slow evenings in hill villages

Eat & Drink

Signature Flavors

Hearty, rustic cooking shaped by land and tradition

Peppers, grains, legumes, and sheep’s milk cheeses

Local Dishes

Peperoni cruschi — crispy dried red peppers

Orecchiette with sausage or vegetables

Lagane e ceci — ancient pasta with chickpeas

Lamb and pork stews cooked slowly

Cheeses & Specialties

Canestrato di Moliterno IGP

Pecorino and caciocavallo cheeses

Pane di Matera — ancient bread tradition

Wines To Sip

Aglianico del Vulture — powerful volcanic red

Grottino di Roccanova — elegant local wine

Basilicata IGT whites and rosés

Where To Taste

Cave restaurants, village trattorie, agriturismi, and family kitchens

Where To Stay

Boutique & Character Stays

Sextantio Le Grotte ella Civita

Sant' Angelo Matera

Villa Cheta Hotel & Restaurant

Charming Bases

Matera for culture and atmosphere

Vulture area for wine-focused stays

Maratea for coast and relaxation

History & Culture of Basilicata — Stone, Faith & Survival

Cultural Legacy

Prehistoric cave settlements

Greek, Roman, Norman, and Byzantine influences

A history shaped by hardship, resilience, and faith

Sacred & Scenic Sites

Sassi di Matera (UNESCO)

Rupestrian churches and frescoed caves

Norman castles and abandoned villages

Travel Info & Tips

Getting There

Bari → Matera: ~1 hour by car

Naples → Basilicata: ~2.5–3 hours

Nearest major airports: Bari, Naples

Best Time To Visit

April–June & Sept–Oct — ideal weather, fewer crowds

Summer — hot days, cooler evenings in hills

Winter — quiet, atmospheric Matera

Getting Around

Car essential for villages and countryside

Limited rail connections outside major towns

Practical Tips

Expect slower travel and fewer services — that’s part of the charm

Wear sturdy shoes for stone streets and caves

Stay overnight in Matera to experience its magic after dark