Europe's Oldest City: Matera, Italy

Guided TukTuk Tour: This experience was one of my favorite things to do in Matera, as you'll get to Explore the city's charm with an expert guide while riding the infamous TukTuk!

Hike in Parco Regionale della Murgia Materana: If you have the time, you absolutely must make this hike where you'll experience the city ina whole new perspective, and explore the paleolithic caves that surround the city, which date back more than 7,000 years.

Chiesa San Pietro Caveoso: An ancient cave church with remarkable frescoes and unique architecture.

Cattedrale di Matera: Immerse yourself in history at a stunning cathedral that boasts original 13th-century Romanesque-Puglian architecture.

Fontana dell’Amore Statue: A symbol of love and a picturesque spot to relax in Matera.

Chiesa Rupestre di Santa Maria dell’Idris: A rock-hewn church that offers some incredible panoramic views.

Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario (Museum): Step back in time at the Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario, a museum showcasing traditional cave-dwelling life.

Panoramic Walk along Via Madonna delle Virtu: Take a scenic stroll along Matera's main road, Via Madonna delle Virtu for panoramic views of the sassi.

Try the Famous Bread of Matera: Matera is known for its delicious bread, a local delicacy celebrated for its unique taste, shape, and traditional preparation.

MUSMA Contemporary Art Museum: Modern museum featuring a diverse collection in a captivating cave setting.

Spa Among the Caves: Relax and rejuvenate at Sextantio Le Grotte Della Civita Spa, a truly unique spa experience where you can enjoy massages and whirlpools nestled inside the caves.

Casa Noha: An ancient cave dwelling that offers a 25-minute multimedia exhibit that narrates the poignant history of the city, providing an incredible opportunity to gain deeper insight into the Sassi and its locals.

Day Trips:

Polignano a Mare: Perched atop limestone cliffs overlooking the azure waters of the Adriatic, is a picturesque town famed for its dramatic coastal panoramas, charming historic center, the enchanting Grotta Palazzese restaurant, and a Redbull cliffdiving location!

Monopoli: A captivating coastal town, Monopoli is celebrated for its labyrinthine streets, historic harbor adorned with colorful fishing boats, and a wealth of cultural treasures, including the imposing Monopoli Cathedral and the centuries-old Castle of Charles V, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in its timeless allure.

Trani: A coastal local gem nestled along the Adriatic Sea, boasts a captivating blend of medieval architecture, including the stunning Trani Cathedral, and a vibrant seaside atmosphere, inviting travelers to soak in its timeless beauty.

Altamura: Renowned for its ancient charm and rich history, Altamura is a picturesque town celebrated for its distinctive medieval architecture and the legendary Altamura bread, cherished by food enthusiasts worldwide.

Aperitivo:

Crialoss: My personal favorite, Crialoss is a bar with delicious aperitivo snacks and cocktails. The bar offers stunning views of the city, and I recommend going around sundown to see the city light up!

Zipa Cafe: Another personal favorite of mine, this bar is literally in the rocks of Matera and offers an ambiance unlike anything you've seen before.

Area 8: A cozy cocktail bar with indoor and terrace seating, and delicious local snacks.

Caffe Lanfranchi: A cozy coffee bar with a small balcony overlooking the sassi, and 5€ spritz!

Restaurants with Panoramic Views:

Regiacorte: An upscale restaurant that offers a lounge terrace with magnificent views and delicious high-end local cuisine.

Dimora Ulmo: A Michelin-starred restaurant with fine cuisine and breathtaking views.

La Nicchia nel Sasso: The perfect stop for a tranquil lunch or aperitivo at a reasonable price.

5 Lire Matera: A casual pizzeria perfect for a quick bite on the go.

La Grotta nei Sassi: Offering refined local cuisine of both meat and fish, you can choose to dine within a medieval cave, or enjoy a panoramic terrace. I enjoyed a delicious plate of paccheri pasta with mussels.

Palazzo del Duc

A four-star hotel restaurant, Palazzo del Duca offers a lovely outdoor terrace to enjoy a romantic dinner. I ordered a delicious pasta with lobster!