Matera makes a fine base, because some of southern Italy's most memorable landscapes lie within a drive. Whether you want an eerie ghost town, mountain villages or a quiet olive grove, a day trip adds variety to a stay that would otherwise be all stone and steps. This guide covers the best options and how to plan them.
Craco
The abandoned hill town of Craco is the standout. Landslides and subsidence emptied it in the twentieth century, leaving a cluster of silent stone houses and towers on a bare ridge. Access to the abandoned area is normally by guided visit with safety equipment, so a tour is the practical way to go. Photographers love the light in early morning and late afternoon. Some day trips combine Craco with a stop at a liqueur company, which adds a tasting. Plan for a full or long half day, bring sturdy shoes and a layer, and respect the safety rules.
The Lucanian Dolomites
An hour or two inland, the landscape turns mountainous. The villages of Castelmezzano and Pietrapertosa cling to jagged rock walls, and a footpath links them through dramatic scenery. A guided hike is a good way to see the area, with a village lunch of local sausage, cheese and bread. The Flight of the Angel zipline between the villages is a separate activity with its own rules. This is a long day, so start early, wear hiking shoes and bring a rain layer, since mountain weather can change quickly.
The Murgia Materana Park
You do not need to leave the city to reach wild landscapes. The park on the plateau opposite the Sassi has rock churches, shepherd tracks and the classic view of the old town. Options include a guided hike across the Tibetan bridge, a rock-church trail, an e-bike ride or a horse ride. These are half-day outings and can be combined with a sunset belvedere trip.
The painted cave
The Crypt of the Original Sin, in the countryside outside Matera, is a short trip to a cave with a cycle of early medieval frescoes. It is one of the best sights in the region for lovers of art and history, and it fits into a morning or afternoon.
Olive groves and food
Countryside food experiences include an olive grove tour with oil tasting, a visit to a cheesemaker and meals at farms. These are gentle outings for slow travel, and they give a taste of the agricultural life that feeds the city. They also pair well with a morning in town.
Balloons over the plateau
A hot air balloon flight is a different way to see the landscape. It depends on the weather, so book early in your stay to leave room for rescheduling.
Vineyards and the Vulture
North of Matera, the slopes of an extinct volcano produce Aglianico del Vulture. Wine tours from Matera visit cellars and towns such as Venosa. If wine is a priority, ask operators about itineraries and check what is included. Some private options are costly, so compare before you book.
Puglia
Alberobello, Polignano a Mare and Bari are within reach, and they are covered separately in our Puglia guide. A day trip from Matera to those places is possible by tour or car, but it makes for a long day, so consider whether you would rather spend your time in Basilicata.
Transport and timing
Public transport to many rural sites is limited, so guided tours with transfers or a rental car are the practical options. If you drive, note that roads are good but can be slow, parking in villages is limited and satnav sometimes sends you down narrow tracks. Start early, carry water and snacks, and fill the tank before leaving.
Choosing a day trip
For atmosphere and photography, pick Craco. For mountains and walking, pick the Lucanian Dolomites. For food, pick an olive grove or cooking experience. For a short outing, pick the canyon and the park. You do not need to do everything, and a mix of one day trip, one half-day outing and several days in the old town makes a balanced stay.
Seasonal notes
Spring and autumn are the best seasons for outdoor trips. Summer needs early starts and sun protection. Winter can be wet, and mountain roads may be cold, so check forecasts before you go.
