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Matera Travel Checklist

Matera Travel Checklist

Matera Basilicata, Italy Travel Guide

Preparations

Ensure a smooth journey with these essential steps.

Chronological Planning Timeline

Steps spread across various timeframes to optimize your trip.

3

Months Out

Passport Validity

Ensure 6+ months validity, issued in thet 10 years.

Visa Requirements

Determine if Schengen visa needed, begin application.

International Flights

Book flights to Bari Karol Wojtyłan Airport (BRI).

1

Month Out

Itinerary Details

Refine daily itinerary, attractions, day trips.

Specific Tours

Reserve guided tours requiring advance booking.

Rental Car

Reserve if regional travel planned, consider IDP.

1

Week Out

Confirm Bookings

Reconfirm flights, hotels, plus tour reservations.

Health & Wellness

Assemble travel first aid kit, pack prescriptions.

Offline Resources

Download offline maps, translation apps.

Bookings & Reservations

Secure aspects of your Matera trip in advance.

Mandatory Reservations

  • Flights (International to Bari)
  • Accommodation (especially Sassi cave hotels)
  • Rental Car (if planning regional travel)
  • Specific Tours (e.g., Crypt of the Original Sin)

Research & Learning

Insights before you arrive enhance the experience.

Informational Review

  • Matera's history and Sassi structure
  • Local transportation options
  • Basic Italian phrases
  • Review local attractions and historical sites

Home Checklist

Secure your home before departing for Matera.

Security Measures

  • Lock windows and doors
  • Set home alarms
  • Unplug unnecessary electronics
  • Dispose of perishable food

Mail & Contacts

  • Manage mail and deliveries
  • Arrange for pet or house sitting
  • Inform close contacts of travel
  • Provide itinerary and emergency contacts

Document Backup

  • Make digital copies of passport
  • Copy visa and insurance policy
  • Store copies separately from originals
  • Physical copies also available

Document Backup

Make digital and physical copies of your passport, visa (if applicable), travel insurance policy, and other important documents. Store them in a different place than the originals.

Arrival Checklist

Smooth your arrival in Matera with these immediate steps.

Initial Steps

  • Clear Immigration

    Proceed through passport control at your beginning Schengen port of entry.

  • Collect Luggage

    Retrieve your checked bags from the carousel.

  • Activate Mobile Services

    Activate local SIM card if purchased.

Getting Settled

  • Locate Tourist Information

    Find the nearest office for maps and local advice.

  • Orient Yourself

    Take a moment to get your bearings upon leaving the station.

  • Withdraw Euros

    Get cash from a BANK machine at the airport or Matera train station.

Transportation & Purchases

Airport Transport

Take the Pugliairbus directly from Bari Airport to Matera.

This is the primary economical and direct option, costing €5-€8.

Local Transit

From Matera Centrale (FAL station), walk or get a short taxi ride.

This applies to your accommodation, specifically if in the Sassi having luggage.

Initial Buys

If no SIM card buy at the airport, find a mobile store in Matera's Piano.

Purchase a bus ticket (if needed) from a Tabaccheria.

Arrival Tip

Always have some Euro currency on hand for initial purchases or bus tickets upon arrival in Matera.

Departure Preparations

Plan a relaxed departure from Matera.

Souvenirs & Shipping

  • Allow time for last-minute souvenir shopping
  • Consider safe transport for fragile items (e.g., pottery)
  • Research customs regulations for food/alcohol for your house country
  • Buy authentic local crafts from artisans

VAT Refund if applicable

  • Non-EU citizens may claim VAT refund
  • Purchase goods from participating "Tax Free" shops
  • Ask the store for a "Without Tax" form
  • Present form, passport, goods at customs at final EU the airport you leave from

Timing & Travel

Ensure ample time for airport processes and transit.

Departure Timelines

  • Arrive at Bari Airport (BRI)2 hours before Schengen flight
  • Arrive at Bari Airport (BRI)3 hours before non-Schengen international flight
  • Travel from Matera to Bari AirportApprox. ONE hour by direct bus
  • Before departure dayCheck bus schedules

Final Checks

  • Confirm return flight details 24-48 hours prior
  • Repack luggage efficiently
  • Keep liquids or restricted items in checked bags
  • Weigh luggage to avoid excess baggage fees

Digital Documents

Create a digital folder on your phone or cloud drive with copies of all your important documents: passport, visa, flight tickets, booking a hotel, and travel insurance details.

This provides a backup if physical copies are lost.