- Must visit
Museo Archeologico Nazionale Domenico Ridola
The city’s leading museum preserves archaeology from prehistoric to classical times, giving essential context before exploring the Sassi.
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Travel Information
Compare bus, flight, and train for Palermo to Matera
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 flight with prices starting from $21. 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 flight costs an average of $21, and a train costs an average of $238.
Distance: 247 miles (398 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Flight | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$88 Average price | $80 Average price Cheapest | $245 Average price | $61 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
18h 7m Average total duration 17h 37m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 18m Average total duration Fastest 2h 18m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 23h 29m Average total duration 22h 59m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 27m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Palermo to Matera is a flight with an average price of $80.
This is compared to other travel options from Palermo to Matera:
A flight is $8 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Palermo to Matera costing on average $88.
A flight is $164 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Palermo to Matera costing on average $245.
The fastest way to travel from Palermo to Matera is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 18m.
Other travel options to Matera take longer:
Bus takes on average 17h 37m.
Train takes on average 22h 59m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Palermo and Matera including taking a bus, flight, and train.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Palermo to Matera among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.
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.
Palermo to Matera Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:10AM | Arrival Time 12:30AM | Duration 15h20 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $67 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:15PM | Arrival Time 11:10AM | Duration 16h55 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $58 |
Live departures
Palermo to Matera bus times
The table below shows live departures for Palermo to Matera buses for today, Monday, August 24. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 FlixBus · FlixBus | 6:15 PM Palermo, Via Tommaso Fazello (Terminal Bus) | 16h55 | 11:10 AM Matera, Terminal Bus Via Don Luigi Sturzo | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Palermo to Matera by bus, flight, or train
Compare bus, flight, 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.
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Why should you book Palermo to Matera buses with Omio?
FlixBus operates all buses services from Palermo to Matera.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Palermo to Matera.
Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare FlixBus with all available travel options, which are bus, flight and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Palermo to Matera.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, flight and train to find the ideal travel option from Palermo to Matera.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Palermo to Matera
ItalyItaly
Buses from Palermo to Matera run on average 2 times per day, taking around 17h 37m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $49 but you can travel from only $21 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 14h 19m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $21
Distance 247 miles (398 km) |
Average bus duration 17h 37m |
Cheapest ticket price $49 |
Buses per day 2 |
Fastest bus 14h 19m |
First bus 4:00 AM |
Last bus 8:25 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 84 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $21
Bus providers: FlixBus from Palermo to MateraYou can travel by bus between Palermo to Matera with FlixBus for as low as $21. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
FlixBus
About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
14h 19m
Cheapest Price
$49
FlixBus frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
Complete guide to Matera
Things to do in Matera
Discover the best of Matera — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Matera trip today.
- Must visit
Museo Nazionale d'Arte Medievale e Moderna della Basilicata - Palazzo Lanfranchi
Contemporary sculpture museum inside Palazzo Pomarici, showcasing works by Italian artist Pietro Consagra in a striking historic setting.
- Must visit
Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario
Historic cave dwelling furnished to show daily family life in the Sassi before the 1950s relocation, simple and very evocative.
- Must visit
Sasso Caveoso
Matera’s most iconic ancient quarter, a dense landscape of caves, lanes, and stone houses that defines the city’s UNESCO fame.
- Must visit
Sasso Barisano
Historic district of cave homes and churches with dramatic urban layers, excellent walking routes, and classic postcard views.
- Must visit
Piazza Vittorio Veneto
Main central square and transport hub above the Sassi, ideal for orienting yourself and accessing the underground cistern area.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Pecorino Di Filiano
Oven-baked sheep's milk cheese from Matera's Murgia area. Its intense flavor reflects local pastoral tradition and it is a classic table cheese in Basilicata.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Pane Di Matera IGP
Rustic semolina bread with a dark crust and long shelf life. It is one of Matera's signature foods and a symbol of the city's baking heritage.
- Vegetarian
Cavatelli Lucani
Fresh handmade pasta with breadcrumbs, peppers, or tomato-based sauces. It is a staple of Basilicata home cooking and often served on Sundays and feast days.
Vitantonio Lombardo
Refined Michelin-starred dining in the Sassi, focused on Basilicata ingredients with creative tasting menus in an elegant cave setting.
Baccanti
Established restaurant in the Sassi with polished regional cuisine, strong wine selection, and panoramic ambiance suited to a leisurely dinner.
Ristorante Francesca
Historic cave restaurant serving traditional Lucanian dishes, local wines, and regional specialties in one of Matera's most atmospheric dining rooms.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Italy: dining is fair, cave hotels can be pricey, and local transit is limited, so walking or taxis may add costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for pizza, panini, or fast food.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €1.20-2.50 for espresso or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is often included or modest. Round up at cafes and taxis; leave 5-10% at restaurants only for very good service.
Cotrab
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €1.50
- Day pass
- :null
To the city center
Terminal Bus Via Don Luigi Sturzo -> Matera Centrale, Matera
- Distance
- 1.2 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Buy tickets before boarding when possible; validate immediately after boarding to avoid fines.
- Contactless payment on board is not reliably documented for Matera city buses, so carry a paper or pre-purchased ticket.
FAQs: Bus from Palermo to 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.
Cheap bus tickets from Palermo to Matera can start from as little as $49 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Palermo to Matera is $88 ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Palermo to Matera is 14h 19m to travel the 247 miles (398 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Palermo to Matera leaves at 4:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Palermo to Matera leaves at 8:25 PM.
There are 2 buses a day from Palermo to Matera which require at least one change with FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Palermo to Matera, you can count on FlixBus for the best way to get you to Matera. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Palermo and Matera and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Palermo , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Palermo, Via Tommaso Fazello (Terminal Bus) . When arriving in Matera , you can end your journey in bus stations like Matera, Terminal Bus Via Don Luigi Sturzo, Altamura, Via Manzoni difronte n°164, Gravina in Puglia, Corso Giuseppe di Vittorio (Gravina in Puglia) .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Palermo, Via Tommaso Fazello (Terminal Bus), which is located around 0 miles (1 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Matera, Terminal Bus Via Don Luigi Sturzo, located 1 away from the city centre.
A trip to Matera from Palermo is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 14h 19m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Palermo to Matera is November.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Palermo and Matera including taking a bus, flight, and train.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Palermo to Matera for bus company FlixBus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Palermo to Matera:
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Matera are:
- Sassi di Matera, ancient cave dwellings and a UNESCO World Heritage site offering a glimpse into prehistoric human settlements
- Matera Cathedral, a 13th-century church with stunning frescoes and panoramic views of the city
- Casa Noha, a multimedia museum providing insights into Matera's history and culture
- Palombaro Lungo, an underground cistern showcasing impressive engineering from the 16th century
- MUSMA, a contemporary sculpture museum housed in a historic cave dwelling.
The best things to do in Matera include:
- Explore the ancient streets of the Sassi and discover hidden corners and local crafts
- Join a guided tour to learn about Matera's transformation from a forgotten city to a cultural hub
- Enjoy a traditional Lucanian meal at a local trattoria
- Attend a cultural event or festival to experience Matera's vibrant community spirit
- Take a scenic walk along the Gravina River for breathtaking views of the cityscape.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Palermo to Matera depends on the bus companies:
- FlixBus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company FlixBus.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Palermo to Matera.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Palermo to Matera:
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Palermo to Matera:
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Palermo to Matera. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Palermo to Matera with the following bus company: FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Palermo to Matera with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Palermo to Matera with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Since both Palermo and Matera are in the Schengen Area, a passport is not required for European Union (EU) or Schengen-associated country citizens. A national ID card is sufficient.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Palermo to Matera among Omio's users.
Italy uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards for most payments, especially in cities and larger establishments, but carrying some cash is advisable for small shops, markets, and rural areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In Matera, travelers should be cautious of petty theft such as pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the Sassi district and popular tourist sites. It is advisable to stay vigilant when using public transportation or taxis, as unlicensed drivers may overcharge. Travelers should also be wary of unofficial guides offering tours at inflated prices. Overall, Matera is considered safe, but standard precautions against scams and theft are recommended.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Palermo to Matera
Most Palermo to Matera buses use the Palermo, Via Tommaso Fazello (Terminal Bus) to Matera, Via Don Luigi Sturzo station pair. Use this guide to compare Palermo and Matera bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Palermo
Arrival bus stations in Matera
Which Matera station do buses from Palermo arrive at?
Buses from Palermo to Matera most often arrive at Matera, Via Don Luigi Sturzo. Some services arrive at Altamura, Via Manzoni difronte n°164, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Matera arrival station.
Matera, Via Don Luigi SturzoVia Don Luigi Sturzo, Matera
City-centre transport
Getting to Matera, Via Don Luigi Sturzo from Matera city centre
Matera, Via Don Luigi Sturzo is 1 km from Matera city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus7, 14, 15
Matera, Via Don Luigi Sturzo bus station facilities and services
Matera, Via Don Luigi Sturzo has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Ristorante Il Terrazzino (0.5 km), Osteria Al Casale (0.6 km), Caffè Tripoli (0.7 km).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located inside the station for cash withdrawals.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Matera, Via Don Luigi Sturzo.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Matera, Via Don Luigi Sturzo: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Matera, Via Don Luigi Sturzo: Elevators, ramps.
More options for your journey from Palermo to Matera
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Matera and Palermo
Most popular bus connections to Matera
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