- Must visit
Casa Noha
Multimedia house museum that explains Matera’s history and the evolution of the Sassi. An excellent first stop for understanding the city.
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Palermo to Matera among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $43. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 18m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $43, and a train costs an average of $223.
Distance: 247 miles (398 km)
| Bus | Most popular Flight | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$80 Average price Cheapest | $121 Average price | $224 Average price | $60 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
16h 39m Average total duration 16h 9m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 18m Average total duration Fastest 2h 18m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 21h 34m Average total duration 21h 4m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 27m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from Palermo to Matera:
A bus is $41 (€33) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Palermo to Matera costing on average $121 (€97).
A bus is $145 (€117) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Palermo to Matera costing on average $224 (€181).
Other travel options to Matera take longer:
Bus takes on average 16h 9m.
Train takes on average 21h 4m.
You'll arrive about {timeSavings} sooner ({durationInMinutes} by bus vs {drivingDurationInMinutes} by car) and save roughly {savingsAmount} compared to fuel and tolls ({cheapestPrice} vs {drivingPriceInCents}). You also skip the drive itself — no traffic stress, no parking, and you can use the time to work, nap, or catch up on a series with the onboard Wi-Fi.
Direct coaches are operated by {directProviders}.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:10PM | Arrival Time 04:05PM | Duration 23h55 | Departure days Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $54 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:20PM | Arrival Time 04:05PM | Duration 23h45 | Departure days Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $69 |
Compare flight, bus, and train prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Buses from Palermo to Matera run on average 1 times per day, taking around 16h 9m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $43 (€35) but you can travel from only $21 (€17) by flight.
The earliest bus runs at 04:00, the last at 20:25. The fastest bus covers the 247 miles (398 km) distance in 22h 45m.
Distance 247 miles (398 km) |
Average bus duration 16h 9m |
Cheapest ticket price $43 (€35) |
Buses per day 1 |
Fastest bus 22h 45m |
First bus 4:00 AM |
Last bus 8:25 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 84 days |
Discover the best of Matera — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Matera trip today.
Multimedia house museum that explains Matera’s history and the evolution of the Sassi. An excellent first stop for understanding the city.
Contemporary sculpture museum set inside the Sassi caves and historic Palazzo Pomarici. It is one of Matera’s most distinctive museum experiences.
Major museum for regional art and archaeology, best known for Carlo Levi works and exhibitions on Basilicata’s cultural heritage.
The more dramatic and photogenic of the two main Sassi districts, known for cave homes, rock churches, and sweeping ravine views.
The livelier Sassi district near the upper town, with restored cave architecture, lanes, viewpoints, and many classic Matera scenes.
Historic square around the cathedral, offering one of the best panoramic viewpoints over the Sassi and the surrounding rock landscape.
Traditional sourdough bread made with local durum wheat semolina, famous for its tall shape, thick crust, and long shelf life.
A rustic peasant dish of stale Matera bread with tomatoes, onion, cucumber, oregano, and olive oil, especially popular in summer.
A hearty ancient soup of mixed legumes and grains, linked to Matera farming traditions and still celebrated at local festivals.
Established upscale venue in the Sassi, known for atmospheric stone interiors, regional dishes, and a strong wine selection.
Well-known Matera restaurant serving refined Basilicata cuisine in an elegant cave setting in the Sassi.
Casual, well-regarded spot focused on local cuisine and regional ingredients, with a friendly atmosphere popular with visitors.
Prices are moderate by Italian standards: dining is reasonable, but cave hotels and peak-season stays cost more.
Service is often included or covered by coperto. Tipping is not mandatory; round up or leave 5-10% for very good service. Small change for cafes and taxis is appreciated.
Official public transport app
Matera, Via Don Luigi Sturzo, Matera -> Matera Centrale, Matera
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Palermo to Matera by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Matera, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

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