Where to stay in Matera [Most Comprehensive Guide for 2023]

Panoramic view of the ancient town of Matera (Sassi di Matera) in beautiful golden morning light at sunrise, Basilicata, southern Italy

So, you are planning a visit to Europe’s Capital of Culture and need to know where to stay? Lucky you, as Matera Italy is undergoing quite the revival that’s going to put it back on the tourist map. With a history going back 15,000 years, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is sure to wow even the most seasoned travelers.

The town itself is relatively small, meaning you can easily reach most attractions within walking distance of any of the Matera hotels. In Matera Italy, caves are scattered across the hillside, containing homes and even hotels. The rich history and lanscape have allowed the old town of Matera to stand in for the Holy Lands in several films.

We will cover off all types of Matera accommodation options from Hostels to luxury Matera hotels as well as how to decide where to stay in Matera Italy 2023, the best Matera hotels, best places in Matera to visit, the best places to stay in Matera, hotels near Matera attractions, Matera neighborhood guide and many more.

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Table of Contents

Sasso Barisano – Where to stay in Matera for first timers

Sasso Barisano is one of two cave districts in Matera. Sasso translates as stone, and the sassi caves of Matera date back to 7000 BC.

People have lived in the caves for centuries, until in 1950 the government cleared them out due to poverty and disease. It’s only in the last 30 years or so that the Sassi have reopened to allow residents and visitors back in.

Many hotels are tucked away in the caves, budget-friendly to pure luxury, there is something for every type of traveler.

Best places to stay in Sasso Barisano

Cheapest Backpacking Hostels in Sasso Barisano
The Rock Hostel
Ostello dei Sassi Comfort

Budget Hotels in Sasso Barisano
Domus Roma
Albergo Roma
Affittacamere Matera In Vacanza
Le Due Nicchie

Mid range Hotels in Sasso Barisano
Residence Le Vie Del Centro
Hotel San Domenico Al Piano
Piazza Mulino 26
La Casa di Ele

Family Friendly Hotels in Sasso Barisano
Rosella’s rooms
Locanda di San Martino – Hotel e Thermae
Le Volte – Dependance
Giulietta nei Sassi

Affordable Luxury Hotels in Sasso Barisano
Sassi Suite
Palazzo degli Abati
Thymus Residence nei Sassi
Antico Convicino Rooms Suites & SPA
Sextantio Le Grotte Della Civita

Matera, Italy - View of the Sasso Barisano, tower, old town, sassi caves and tourist area from the Convent of San Agostino, in the prehistoric city of Matera, Italy

Sasso Caveoso – Where to stay in Matera for great views

To the south of Sasso Barisano is the other inhabited cave area, called Sasso Caveoso. Together, these areas makes up the “sassi.”

To stay in the sassi is a special experience but there are only two roads allowing cars, so a lot of walking is required.

For this reason, it may not be the best area for tourists who have a lot of luggage or mobility issues. You can still visit the Sassi on a day trip without having to haul luggage up and down winding narrow streets.

However, if you are up for the challenge, you may be shocked at the level of luxury to be found in these ancient caves.

Best places to stay in Sasso Caveoso

Cheapest Backpacking Hostels in Sasso Caveoso
Ostello dei Sassi Comfort

Budget Hotels in Sasso Caveoso
B&B Al Convento
Alle Grotte
Casa del Sole B & B
B&B Lo Straniero

Mid range Hotels in Sasso Caveoso
Corte San Pietro
Le Dimore dell’Idris
Agli Archi

Family Friendly Hotels in Sasso Caveoso
Donna Eleonora Bed & Breakfast
Caveoso Hotel
Casa Diva
Aquatio Cave Luxury Hotel & Spa

Affordable Luxury Hotels in Sasso Caveoso
Hotel La Casa di Lucio
Sant’ Angelo Luxury Resort
Maison d’Ax
Palazzo Del Duca Luxury Hotel

Sassi di Matera panoramic view of historical centre Sasso Caveoso of old ancient town with rock cave houses in front of blue sky and white clouds, UNESCO World Heritage, Basilicata, Southern Italy

Matera City – Where to stay in Matera for Tourists

Modern Matera sits on a plain along the western edge of the caves. If sleeping in a cave, no matter how luxurious, does not sound like your cup of tea, then you can stay in the more modern areas of Matera.

I would suggest this is a more family-friendly place to stay, in particular due to the luggage issues and extensive walking as mentioned above in the sassi.

If you are using Matera is a home base to explore the entire Basilicata region, and will be using a car frequently, then this is the best place to stay in Matera.

You can still visit the sassi quite easily at any time of day or night, so you won’t miss out on any thing except bragging rights that you’ve slept in a 9000 year old dwelling.