Basilicata, Italy Travel Guide

Discover Basilicata, Italy's hidden gem with ancient cave dwellings, stunning landscapes, and rich culinary traditions. Experience the charm and beauty of this unspoiled region.

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Basilicata, a region in southern Italy, is often overlooked by tourists, but it is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty. Nestled between the regions of Campania, Apulia, and Calabria, Basilicata offers a unique blend of ancient towns, pristine coastlines, and stunning landscapes. The region's capital, Potenza, is a charming city with a rich history. Here, you can explore medieval churches, bustling markets, and vibrant squares. Don't miss the historic center, where cobblestone streets lead to centuries-old buildings and quaint cafes. One of Basilicata's crown jewels is Matera, known for its Sassi districts. These ancient cave dwellings, carved into limestone cliffs, have been inhabited since prehistoric times. Matera's unique landscape has earned it a spot on the UNESCO World Heritage list and it was named a European Capital of Culture in 2019. Walking through the Sassi, you will feel like you have stepped back in time. For nature lovers, the Pollino National Park offers breathtaking views and outdoor adventures. As Italy's largest national park, it is home to diverse wildlife, rugged mountains, and scenic trails. Whether you enjoy hiking, bird watching, or simply soaking in the natural beauty, Pollino is a must-visit. The region also boasts beautiful coastline along the Tyrrhenian and Ionian Seas. Maratea, often called the "Pearl of the Tyrrhenian," is famous for its picturesque harbor, crystal-clear waters, and impressive Christ the Redeemer statue. The beaches here are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Basilicata's cuisine is another highlight. The region's culinary traditions are deeply rooted in its agricultural heritage. Local specialties include peperoni cruschi (crunchy peppers), caciocavallo cheese, and the hearty lucanica sausage. Be sure to pair your meal with a glass of Aglianico del Vulture, a robust red wine produced in the volcanic soils of the region. Visiting Basilicata means discovering a part of Italy that remains authentic and unspoiled. Its charm lies in its simplicity and the warmth of its people. Whether you are exploring ancient caves, hiking through national parks, or relaxing on the beach, Basilicata promises an unforgettable experience.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Basilicata.

Visit Matera early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and capture the best light for photography.
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the cobblestone streets of Potenza and the uneven terrain of the Sassi in Matera.
Try the local peperoni cruschi and Aglianico del Vulture wine for an authentic taste of Basilicata.
Rent a car to explore the region at your own pace, as public transportation options are limited.
Check the weather forecast if planning to visit Pollino National Park, as conditions can change quickly in the mountains.

Top City Travel Guides in Basilicata

The cities of Basilicata, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Matera

Bari

Destinations in Basilicata

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Puglia

Explore Basilicata: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Basilicata

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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All Attractions

Statue of Christ the Redeemer

Discover the breathtaking Statue of Christ the Redeemer in Maratea, a stunning landmark offering panoramic views and a deep sense of peace.

4.6

Bridge to the Moon

Discover the breathtaking Bridge to the Moon in Sasso di Castalda, where stunning views and rich culture unite for a memorable adventure.

4.7

Melfi Castle

Discover the majestic Melfi Castle, a captivating historical site in Italy that offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into medieval life.

4.5

Cascate di San Fele

Experience nature's beauty at Cascate di San Fele, a stunning waterfall destination in Italy, perfect for adventure and tranquility seekers.

4.3

Best landmarks in Basilicata

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

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All Landmarks

Sassi di Matera

Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Sassi di Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring ancient cave dwellings and stunning views.

4.8

Statue of Christ the Redeemer

Discover the breathtaking views and rich history at the Statue of Christ the Redeemer in Maratea, a must-visit landmark in Italy's stunning coastline.

4.6

Parco Regionale della Murgia Materana

Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich history at Parco Regionale della Murgia Materana, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Italy.

4.6

Melfi Castle

Discover the enchanting Melfi Castle, a historical gem in Italy, where medieval architecture meets captivating tales of the past.

4.5

Best restaurants in Basilicata

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

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All Restaurants

Trattoria Lucana

Discover authentic Italian flavors at Trattoria Lucana in Matera - where tradition meets taste in every dish.

4.3

Ristorante Soul Kitchen - Cucina per l' Anima

Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Soul Kitchen in Matera - where every dish tells a story.

4.4

Giù a Sud | Bistrot nei Sassi

Savor authentic Italian cuisine at Giù a Sud Bistrot in Matera's historic Sassi district, where tradition meets modern culinary art.

4.6

Ristorante Baccus

Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Baccus in Matera – where tradition meets flavor in an unforgettable dining experience.

4.5

Best bars in Basilicata

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

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All Bars

AREA 8

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Matera at AREA 8, where innovative cocktails and lively atmosphere create unforgettable moments.

4.5

Cream Irish Pub Guinness

Discover the vibrant spirit of Ireland at Cream Irish Pub in Matera, where hearty dishes and live music create an unforgettable experience.

4.0

Bar Caffè Tripoli

Discover the charm of Bar Caffè Tripoli in Matera, where exquisite coffee and delectable pastries meet a warm Italian atmosphere.

4.3

Bar delle Arti

Experience the charm of Bar delle Arti in Matera, where local flavors and warm hospitality come together for a delightful break.

4.3

Best nightclubs in Basilicata

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

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All Nightclubs

Club New York

Discover the enchanting nightlife of Muro Lucano at Club New York, where thrilling performances and vibrant social scenes await every evening.

4.9

River Drink Club

Discover the electric nightlife of Potenza at River Drink Club, where vibrant music and refreshing drinks create unforgettable memories.

3.8

CYCAS HAVE FUN

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Tito at CYCAS HAVE FUN, a lively night club where music, dancing, and new friendships come together.

3.7

MoonlightDisco

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Vaglio Basilicata at MoonlightDisco, where music and dance unite for an unforgettable evening.

3.6

Best shops in Basilicata

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

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All Shops

Basilicatalpaca Di Manuela E Canio Caruso Snc

Experience the charm of Basilicatalpaca, a unique animal park in Acerenza, where you can connect with alpacas and embrace nature's beauty.

5.0

Old Rustic Filled Houses (Palmenti)

Explore the enchanting Old Rustic Filled Houses (Palmenti) in Pietragalla, a hidden gem of Italian architecture and culture.

4.4

Centro Commerciale City Iper

Explore the vibrant Centro Commerciale City Iper in Lauria, Italy, where shopping, dining, and entertainment come together for an unforgettable experience.

4.1

L'Antica Credenza

Experience the authentic taste of Italy at L'Antica Credenza, Matera's premier sandwich shop and grocery store.

4.5

Explore Basilicata on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Basilicata, mapped for you.

Basilicata Essentials

Basilicata is located in southern Italy and is well-connected by various modes of transportation. The nearest major airport is Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport (BRI), which is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours away by car. Alternatively, you can also fly into Naples International Airport (NAP), which is roughly 2 to 2.5 hours away. From either airport, you can rent a car, take a bus, or hop on a train to reach Basilicata. The region is also accessible via the Italian railway system, with major stations in Potenza and Matera.
Public transportation in Basilicata includes buses and trains, though services may be less frequent in rural areas. Renting a car is highly recommended for greater flexibility and to explore off-the-beaten-path locations. Taxis are available but can be costly for longer trips. In cities like Matera and Potenza, walking is a great way to explore, as many of the main attractions are within walking distance of each other.
The official currency in Italy is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it's advisable to carry some cash, especially when visiting smaller towns and rural areas. ATMs are readily available in larger towns and cities. Be sure to inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with card usage.
Basilicata is generally a safe region for tourists. However, like anywhere, it's important to take standard precautions. Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded places. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it's always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. The region has local police stations and medical facilities available in major towns. It's highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available in most towns for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always cover your shoulders and knees when entering churches. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Buongiorno' (Good morning) or 'Buonasera' (Good evening). A handshake is also common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Basilicata like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the region's history and culture. Don't miss exploring Matera's Sassi cave dwellings, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For a unique experience, visit the Aliano Badlands and the Pollino National Park. Make sure to try local dishes such as 'Pasta alla Materana' and 'Pane di Matera'.

When is the best time to visit Basilicata?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Basilicata

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Basilicata. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloCiao
  [chow]
- GoodbyeArrivederci
  [ah-ree-veh-DER-chee]
- YesSì
  [see]
- NoNo
  [noh]
- Please/You're welcomePer favore
  [pehr fah-VOH-reh]
- Thank youGrazie
  [GRAHT-see-eh]
- Excuse me/SorryMi scusi
  [mee SKOO-zee]
- How are you?Come stai?
  [KOH-meh stah-ee]
- Fine. And you?Bene. E tu?
  [BEH-neh eh too]
- Do you speak English?Parli inglese?
  [PAR-lee een-GLEH-seh]
- I don't understandNon capisco
  [non kah-PEE-skoh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseVorrei vedere il menù, per favore
  [vohr-RAY veh-DEH-reh eel meh-NOO pehr fah-VOH-reh]
- I don't eat meatNon mangio carne
  [non MAHN-joh KAR-neh]
- Cheers!Salute!
  [sah-LOO-teh]
- I would like to pay, pleaseVorrei pagare, per favore
  [vohr-RAY pah-GAH-reh pehr fah-VOH-reh]
- Help!Aiuto!
  [ah-YOO-toh]
- Go away!Vai via!
  [vye VEE-ah]
- Call the Police!Chiama la polizia!
  [KYAH-mah lah poh-lee-TSEE-ah]
- Call a doctor!Chiama un dottore!
  [KYAH-mah oon doht-TOH-reh]
- I'm lostMi sono perso
  [mee SOH-noh PEHR-soh]
- I'm illSono malato
  [SOH-noh mah-LAH-toh]
- I'd like to buy...Vorrei comprare...
  [vohr-RAY kom-PRAH-reh]
- I'm just lookingSto solo guardando
  [sto SOH-loh gwahr-DAHN-doh]
- How much is it?Quanto costa?
  [KWAN-toh KOH-stah]
- That's too expensiveÈ troppo caro
  [eh TROH-poh KAH-roh]
- Can you lower the price?Puoi abbassare il prezzo?
  [pwoy ahb-BAH-sah-reh eel PRET-soh]
- What time is it?Che ore sono?
  [keh OH-reh SOH-noh]
- It's one o'clockÈ l'una
  [eh LOO-nah]
- Half past (10)Dieci e mezzo
  [DYEH-chee eh MEH-tsoh]
- MorningMattina
  [maht-TEE-nah]
- AfternoonPomeriggio
  [poh-meh-REEJ-joh]
- EveningSera
  [SEH-rah]
- YesterdayIeri
  [YAY-ree]
- TodayOggi
  [OH-gee]
- TomorrowDomani
  [doh-MAH-nee]
- 1Uno
  [OO-noh]
- 2Due
  [DOO-eh]
- 3Tre
  [TREH]
- 4Quattro
  [KWAT-troh]
- 5Cinque
  [CHEEN-kweh]
- 6Sei
  [SEH-ee]
- 7Sette
  [SEHT-teh]
- 8Otto
  [OT-toh]
- 9Nove
  [NOH-veh]
- 10Dieci
  [DYEH-chee]
- Where's a/the...?Dove si trova...?
  [DOH-veh see TROW-vah]
- What's the address?Qual è l'indirizzo?
  [KWAL eh leen-DEE-reet-soh]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Puoi mostrarmi (sulla mappa)?
  [pwoy mohs-TRAHR-mee sool-lah MAH-pah]
- When's the next (bus)?Quando passa il prossimo (autobus)?
  [KWAN-doh PAH-sah eel PROSS-ee-mo (OW-toh-boos)]
- A ticket (to ....)Un biglietto (per ....)
  [oon bee-LYET-toh pehr]

History of Basilicata

The region of Basilicata, historically known as Lucania, has its roots in antiquity. The name Lucania is believed to have been derived from the Latin word 'lucus', meaning 'sacred wood'. This region was inhabited by the Lucani, an ancient Italic tribe, whose influence was strong during the 5th and 4th centuries BCE. They were known for their fierce independence and warrior culture, which played a significant role in resisting Greek colonization efforts.
Basilicata came under Roman control in the 3rd century BCE after the Samnite Wars. The Romans integrated the region into their empire, and it became known as Lucania. The construction of the Via Appia, one of the earliest Roman roads, facilitated the movement of troops and trade, connecting Rome to the southern parts of Italy, including Basilicata. Roman rule brought urbanization, the establishment of towns, and the spread of Roman culture, law, and architecture.
After the fall of the Western Roman Empire, Basilicata experienced a tumultuous period marked by invasions and shifting control. In the 6th century, the region fell under Byzantine control, which was later contested by the Lombards. The Lombards established the Duchy of Benevento, and Basilicata became a borderland between the Byzantine and Lombard territories. This era saw the construction of fortified towns and castles, some of which still stand today.
In the 11th century, the Normans invaded southern Italy, including Basilicata. Under the leadership of Robert Guiscard and his descendants, the Normans established control over the region, integrating it into the Kingdom of Sicily. The Normans introduced feudalism, built impressive castles, and fostered the growth of towns such as Melfi and Matera. The region flourished under Norman rule, becoming a significant part of the medieval Kingdom of Sicily.
Basilicata, like much of southern Italy, experienced significant changes during the Enlightenment and the subsequent unification of Italy in the 19th century. The region was part of the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies until it was annexed by the Kingdom of Italy in 1861. This period was marked by social and economic upheaval, including the rise of brigandage as a form of resistance against the new Italian state. The unification brought infrastructural development and modernization, but also significant challenges for the local population.
One of the most notable historical sites in Basilicata is the ancient city of Matera. Known for its 'Sassi', a complex of cave dwellings that have been inhabited since the Paleolithic era, Matera offers a unique glimpse into human history. In 1993, the Sassi of Matera were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing their cultural and historical significance. Matera has since become a symbol of resilience and transformation, evolving from a forgotten area of poverty to a celebrated cultural destination.
After the devastation of World War II, Basilicata underwent significant reconstruction and development. The Italian government implemented land reforms and infrastructural projects aimed at revitalizing the rural economy. The discovery of oil in the Val d'Agri in the 1950s provided an economic boost, attracting investment and fostering industrial growth. Despite these developments, Basilicata has maintained its rich cultural heritage and continues to be a region of historical and natural beauty.