Getting Around: Matera

Public Transportation

Matera's historical center, the Sassi, is largely pedestrianized due to its steep, narrow, and uneven streets. No regular public bus service operates directly within the Sassi.

The modern city (Piano) has a local bus network operated by Miccolis. These buses connect different neighborhoods of the Piano and provide access to the perimeter of the Sassi.

Information

Route Maps & Hubs: Routes radiate from Matera Centrale (FAL train station) and Piazza Matteotti. Obtain maps at the tourist information office or Miccolis website.
Ticketing: Purchase tickets ("biglietto") Before boarding at "Tabaccherie" (tobacco shops, blue 'T' sign), newsstands, and some cafes. Fares are around €1.00-€1.50.
Hours & Frequency: Generally 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM/10:00 PM. Reduced service on Sundays and public holidays.
Validation: Validate your ticket immediately upon boarding to avoid fines.

Walk the Sassi

Walking is the most efficient and immersive way to explore Matera's historical core.

Bus for Perimeter

Use buses for travel between the Piano and Sassi entrances.

Accessibility

The Sassi poses significant challenges for mobility issues (steep, uneven paths). Limited accessibility features within ancient core.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Licensed Taxis

Identification: White vehicles with a "TAXI" sign on the roof and a meter inside.
Hailing: Find at designated taxi stands (Matera Centrale, Piazza Vittorio Veneto) or call by phone.
Fares: Metered. Typical ride within Matera is €10-€20. Confirm card acceptance before starting.

Ride-Sharing & Safety

Ride-Sharing: Uber is not widely available in Matera for on-demand rides. Professional car services operate more like pre-booked private transfers.
Safety: Always choose licensed taxis. Do not accept rides from unmarked cars. Ensure the meter is running or confirm fixed fare.
Local taxi apps might exist but are not as prevalent or widely used as in larger cities.

Rental Options

Car Rental

Available at Bari Airport and Matera (modern city). Major international companies. Book in advance. IDP needed for non-EU citizens. See DiscoverCars.com.

Motorcycle & Scooter

Less common in Matera's center. Some specialized shops for regional exploration. Valid motorcycle license needed.

Bicycle Rentals

No city-wide sharing program. Local shops may offer rentals for Murgia Materana Park. Inquire at tourist offices.

Sea/River Travel

Not applicable. Matera is an inland city. Nearest ports are Bari and Brindisi for ferries and cruises.

Self-Driving & Parking

Driving in Matera offers flexibility for regional exploration.

Driving Laws & Conditions

Drive on the right side of the road. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants.
Speed limits are enforced: 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on secondary roads, 110 km/h on major roads, and 130 km/h on highways (Autostrade).
Roads leading to and around Matera are generally in good condition. Autostrade have tolls.
Italian drivers can be assertive. Pay attention to road signs and local driving habits.

ZTLs Limited Traffic Zones & Parking

ZTLs restrict vehicle access to non-residents during specific hours in historic city centers, including parts of Matera.
Driving into a ZTL without a permit results in hefty fines, often sent months later. Matera's Sassi area is largely a ZTL.
Park your rental car outside the ZTL and walk or use local transport.
Parking spaces marked with blue lines are paid parking. White lines are free (rare). Yellow lines are reserved. Always check signs carefully.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas: Matera is exceptionally pedestrian-friendly, especially the Sassi. This is the best way to explore its intricate alleys and viewpoints.
Walking Routes: The experience includes constant changes in elevation, with steps, slopes, and winding paths.
Guided Tours: Numerous guided walking tours are available and highly recommended for understanding the Sassi's complex history. Book tours in advance.

Self-Guided: Possible with a good map or Matera guidebook. Follow well-marked paths and look for informational plaques.
Cycling: Limited dedicated infrastructure in the city center. More suited for recreational purposes in the surrounding Murgia Materana Park or countryside.
No-Go Areas: No specific "no-go" areas. Some Sassi paths can be very steep, uneven, or slippery, especially after rain, requiring caution.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses/Shuttles

Traditional large hop-on-hop-off buses are not practical in the Sassi. Smaller electric shuttles or "ape calessino" (three-wheeled taxi-like vehicles) are available.

Accessibility Services

Matera presents accessibility challenges. Use electric shuttles for specific viewpoints. Consider hiring a private guide who can tailor an experience to specific mobility needs.

Unique Transport

Matera does not have cable cars or funiculars. The city relies on its pedestrian paths and limited road network. No boat or water transportation services.

Matera's Unique Access Points

The way you experience Matera changes based on how you navigate its distinct sections.

Accessing the Sassi

The Sassi is a pedestrian zone; walking is the only true way to explore.
Entry points are from the modern city (Piano) at various points, leading down into the ancient districts.
Main Sassi access points are near Piazza Vittorio Veneto, Via Ridola, and Piazza Duomo.
Look for panoramic viewpoints offering stunning perspectives before descending.

Navigating the Piano Modern City

The Piano is well-served by local Miccolis buses for longer distances between neighborhoods.
Taxis are available at stands or by phone for quick direct travel within the Piano or to Sassi perimeters.
If you have a rental car, parking is located around the perimeter of the Sassi in designated paid lots.
The Piano is flatter and easier to navigate for those with mobility concerns compared to the Sassi.

Connecting Beyond Matera

Bari Train Connection

Use the regional FAL train from Matera Centrale to Bari Centrale to connect to Italy's national train network (Trenitalia).

Travel time: ~1 hour 30 min.

Long-Distance Bus Routes

Direct buses from major Italian cities (Rome, Naples, Florence) arrive at Matera's central bus station.

Companies: MarinoBus, FlixBus, Itabus.

Bari Airport Shuttle

Pugliairbus (BusMiccolis) offers a direct shuttle service between Matera's central bus station and Bari Airport (BRI).

Journey time: ~1 hour.

Walking Tours & Guidance

Guided Tours

Numerous guided walking tours are available.
Local guides offer invaluable insights into the Sassi's history, architecture, and culture.
Guides navigate the labyrinthine paths efficiently.

Self-Guided Exploration

Explore independently with a good map or guidebook.
Follow well-marked paths and look for informational plaques.
Allow ample time, as getting lost is part of the Matera charm and discovery.

Important Accessibility Note

Challenges in the Sassi

Matera, especially the Sassi, poses significant challenges for individuals with mobility issues.
The Sassi features steep inclines, many steps, and uneven cobbled surfaces, making it very difficult for wheelchair users or those with limited walking ability.
Widespread accessibility within the ancient core is not present.

Recommendations

Staying in the flatter Piano area might be a more practical choice for those with mobility concerns.
Utilize small electric shuttles for specific viewpoints or accessible perimeter tours.
Consider hiring a private guide who can tailor an experience to your specific mobility needs.

Local Tip: Parking

Parking within the Sassi is heavily restricted or prohibited due to ZTLs (Limited Traffic Zones). You risk substantial fines if you drive into a ZTL without a permit.

Park your car in designated paid parking lots (blue lines) located around the perimeter of the Sassi or in the modern city.

Getting Around Matera