Frequently asked questions
Matera: when is the best time to go?
The best season for a holiday is April-June, September-October (mild weather, fewer crowds). At this time of year the weather is the most comfortable: minimal chance of rain, moderate humidity and optimal air temperature. This is also when the tourist infrastructure runs at full capacity — all hotels, restaurants and entertainment are open. If you want to save money, consider the period right after the high season ends: accommodation prices are lower, and the weather is still pleasant. You can check the temperature by month in the match-by-month tool.
Matera: what is the weather like in summer?
In summer, the air warms up to an average of +33.0°C, during the day — up to +30.0°C. This is a great time for beach holidays and long walks. Sunscreen is recommended during the peak hours from 11:00 to 16:00.
Matera: what is the weather like in winter?
In winter, the air temperature stays around +2.0°C, during the day — up to +10.0°C. For the winter period these are very comfortable figures that allow swimming and sunbathing. Evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket will not go amiss.
Matera: when is the rainy season?
The rainy season falls on autumn-winter (October-December). During this period rainfall is more frequent, but usually short — the rain lasts 1-2 hours, after which the sun comes out again. Humidity is higher, so being outside may be less comfortable. At the same time, accommodation and flight prices during the rainy season are significantly lower — an excellent option for a budget holiday.
Matera: how much does a holiday cost?
A holiday for one person will cost around $135.00 (≈ 11 329 ₽ · ≈ 121 EUR) per day. The daily budget includes: a 3-star hotel, lunch at a cafe, dinner at a restaurant, drinking water, two public transport trips. Flights are not included in the calculation. You can calculate the cost of your holiday in more detail in the
trip planning calculator across all 70 parameters.
Matera: how much does accommodation cost?
Accommodation is available for every budget: a hostel dorm bed — $30.00 per night, a 3-star hotel room — $85.00 per night, a 4-star hotel — $130.00 per night, a five-star hotel — $200.00 per night, an apartment — $80.00 per night, a villa — $150.00 per night. In high season prices can be 20-30% higher, and in low season — lower.
Matera: how much does food cost?
Food is one of the main expense items: lunch at an affordable cafe — $15.00, dinner at a restaurant — $30.00, a cup of cappuccino — $1.50, a 0.5L beer — $4.00, a 1.5L bottle of water — $1.50. You can eat significantly cheaper at markets and street cafes.
Matera: how much does transport cost?
a taxi from the airport — $35.00, a single public transport ticket — $1.50, a short taxi ride — $10.00, car rental — $40.00 per day. Public transport is the most budget-friendly way to get around.
Matera: what is there to see?
Among the main attractions are: Sassi di Matera — Ancient cave dwellings carved into limestone, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the city's symbol.; Matera Cathedral (Duomo di Matera) — 13th-century Romanesque cathedral on the hilltop with panoramic views of the Sassi.; Church of Santa Maria de Idris — Rock-hewn church with 13th-century frescoes.; Park of the Rock Churches (Parco delle Chiese Rupestri) — Complex of cave churches with ancient frescoes and history.; Piazza Vittorio Veneto — Main square with a fountain and views of the Sassi.. These places are worth visiting first to get a full impression of the destination.
Matera: what local food should I try?
Be sure to try the local cuisine: Pasta con peperoni cruschi — Pasta with dried sweet peppers, breadcrumbs and olive oil.; Becchi — Baked lamb or kid offal with herbs in clay.; Crostata di marmellata — Shortcrust tart with quince or other fruit jam.; Casatella — Fresh soft sheep's milk cheese.; Panzarotti — Fried pastries with ricotta or meat filling.. Local dishes are an important part of the travel experience.
Matera: what are the best areas to stay?
For accommodation you can consider the following areas: Sasso Barisano — One of the two Sassi districts with cave dwellings and workshops.; Sasso Caveoso — The second Sassi district with steeper terrain and churches.; Piano — The new town on top with the cathedral and squares.. The choice of area depends on your preferences: active or relaxing holiday.
Matera: is a visa required?
Visa: Schengen visa for non-EU citizens. Before your trip, be sure to check the current requirements with official sources, as the rules may change.
Matera: how do I get from the airport?
The nearest airport — Аэропорт Бари имени Кароля Войтылы (code BRI). You can get from the airport to the centre by taxi, the average cost is $35.00. Public transport is also available — a more budget-friendly option.
Matera: what is the currency and how much money should I take?
Currency — EUR. It is recommended to have cash for small expenses and a bank card for larger purchases. The approximate daily budget is $135.00 (≈ 11 329 ₽ · ≈ 121 EUR). Check the current exchange rate before your trip.
Matera: is it suitable for a holiday with children?
Yes, the destination is excellent for a family holiday with children. It has all the necessary infrastructure: well-maintained beaches, cafes and restaurants with children's menus, and entertainment for all ages.
Matera: what is the nightlife like?
Nightlife is rated as moderate. There is not much nightlife, but the basics are available.
Matera: where can I go nearby?
Nearby you can visit: Altamura — City with a cathedral and famous bread, ~20 km.; Gravina di Puglia — City with a ravine and ancient caves, ~30 km.; Castel del Monte — Famous castle of Frederick II, ~60 km.. These places are convenient to visit on a day trip.
