Bari to Matera Travel Guide: How to Get There + What to Do
Bari to Matera is one of southern Italy’s most rewarding short trips. Just over an hour apart, these two cities offer a perfect contrast: Bari with its coastal energy, and Matera with its surreal cave dwellings and ancient stone pathways. Whether planning a day trip from Bari or staying overnight, this guide will show you exactly how to get from Bari to Matera and what to do once you’re there.
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How to Get from Bari to Matera (Train, Bus, Car + Tips)
Traveling from Bari to Matera is surprisingly easy. These two southern Italian gems are only 65 km apart, making Matera an ideal destination for a quick visit. Here are your best options:
By Train: Bari to Matera by Rail
One of the most affordable and scenic ways to get from Bari to Matera is by regional train via Ferrovie Appulo Lucane (FAL). These trains depart from a separate station near Bari Centrale, so look out for FAL signage.
Route: Bari to Matera with a change at Altamura
Travel Time: ~1.5 hours
Cost: Around €6 one way
Tip: Trains run frequently, but schedules vary on weekends and holidays. Buy tickets in advance at the station or online.
By Bus: Direct Buses from Bari to Matera
Buses are a fast, direct option for reaching Matera. FlixBus and MarinoBus operate routes from Via Giuseppe Capruzzi in Bari to Matera Centrale.
Travel Time: ~1 hour 15 minutes
Cost: €8–10 one way
Tip: Great option for travelers who prefer a no-transfer journey from Bari to Matera.
By Car: Driving from Bari to Matera
Renting a car gives you full flexibility and the chance to explore the countryside between Bari and Matera.
Travel Time: ~1 hour
Distance: 65 km via SS96 and SS7
Tip: Avoid driving into Matera’s historic center (ZTL zones). Park in designated areas outside the Sassi di Matera.
By Guided Tour
Consider a guided day tour from Bari to Matera if you prefer a stress-free trip with local insights. It’s perfect for those who enjoy curated experiences and don’t want to worry about schedules.
Suggested tours: tour 1, tour 2, or tour 3.
I chose to travel by train. The ticket costs €6 each way, with one change in Altamura. While most travelers get off at Matera Centrale, we stayed on one more stop to Matera Sud. From there, we walked back toward the center alongside the caves, which gave us a more scenic and unique perspective of the city.
Is Matera Worth Visiting on a Day Trip from Bari?
Absolutely—Matera is a compelling destination for a day trip from Bari. Set in the rugged landscape of Basilicata, this extraordinary city is among the oldest continuously inhabited places on Earth. The iconic Sassi districts, with their labyrinth of stone homes and narrow alleys, tell a fascinating story of adaptation and endurance.
As you wander through Matera’s timeworn streets, you’ll discover ancient cave dwellings, dramatic ravine views, and an atmosphere unlike anywhere else in Italy. For travelers drawn to culture, history, or scenic walks, Matera delivers an unforgettable experience, just a short journey from Bari.
Best Things to Do in Matera
1. Church of Saint Mary of Idris
Carved into the rock and perched above the Sassi, this striking church offers one of the most iconic views of Matera. Inside, you’ll find beautiful frescoes and a spiritual atmosphere that reflects the city’s deep historical roots.
2. San Pietro Caveoso
Located on the edge of the Sassi district, this 13th-century church has a dramatic setting overlooking a gorge. The stone facade and interior blend harmoniously with Matera’s cave architecture.
3. Belvedere di Piazza Giovanni Pascoli
One of the most scenic viewpoints in the city. From here, you can admire the full expanse of the Sassi di Matera and truly appreciate the city’s unique topography.
4. Palombaro Lungo
An impressive underground cistern beneath Piazza Vittorio Veneto, Palombaro Lungo, gives visitors a glimpse into the city’s ingenious water management system dating back centuries.
5. Piazza San Francesco & Piazza Vittorio Veneto
Both piazzas are lively open-air stages where history and architecture come together. Piazza San Francesco, with its elegant Baroque church, exudes timeless charm.
6. Stroll Through the Sassi District
Wandering the narrow alleys and stairways of Matera is an experience in itself. Every corner offers postcard-worthy views, charming cafés, artisan shops, and a deep sense of history.
7. Visit a Cave Dwelling
To better understand how people once lived in the caves, step inside a preserved cave house or museum. Some even function as cafés or shops. I also spotted a few abandoned caves, but most were closed or not well-maintained.
8. Belvedere Murgia Timone & Hiking in Murgia Materana Park
Although I didn’t have time for the hike, the views from Belvedere Murgia Timone are said to be among the best. If you’re staying longer, it’s worth it for panoramic vistas across the ravine.
The hiking path to the Belvedere Murgia Timone viewpoint
Final Tips for Visiting Matera
Before you head off on your day trip from Bari to Matera, here are a few practical tips:
- Wear sturdy shoes – Uneven stones and staircases abound.
- Visit in shoulder season – Spring and fall offer great weather and fewer crowds. October is especially pleasant.
- Bring a camera – The golden stone and dramatic light make Matera a photographer’s dream.
- Join a guided walking tour – Local guides can unlock stories hidden in the stones.
- Stay overnight if you can – The city after dark is quieter, more magical, and full of ambiance.
More Italy Travel Guides and Inspiration
Planning more adventures in Italy? Check out these travel guides to help you explore Puglia and beyond!
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