- Must visit
Casa Noha
Immersive multimedia house museum run by FAI, ideal as an introduction to Matera’s history, Sassi districts, and urban transformation.
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from San Cesario di Lecce to Matera among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $31. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 5h 42m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $31, and a train costs an average of $25.
Distance: 85 miles (138 km)
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$32 Average price Cheapest | $39 Average price | $33 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
10h 30m Average total duration 10h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 12m Average total duration Fastest 5h 42m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 16m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from San Cesario di Lecce to Matera:
A bus is $7 (€6) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from San Cesario di Lecce to Matera costing on average $39 (€31).
Other travel options to Matera take longer:
Bus takes on average 10h 0m.
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 Elios Autoservizi | Departure Time 05:40AM | Arrival Time 03:50PM | Duration 10h10 | Departure days Mon, Thu | Cheapest price $32 |
Operator Elios Autoservizi | Departure Time 06:10AM | Arrival Time 03:50PM | Duration 9h40 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $31 |
Compare train and bus 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 San Cesario di Lecce to Matera run on average 3 times per day, taking around 10h 0m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $31 (€25) but you can travel from only $25 (€20) by train.
There are 2 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 05:40, the last at 06:10. The fastest bus covers the 85 miles (138 km) distance in 9h 40m.
Distance 85 miles (138 km) |
Average bus duration 10h 0m |
Cheapest ticket price $31 (€25) |
Buses per day 3 |
Direct buses 2 |
Fastest bus 9h 40m |
First bus 5:40 AM |
Last bus 6:10 AM |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Discover the best of Matera — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Matera trip today.
Immersive multimedia house museum run by FAI, ideal as an introduction to Matera’s history, Sassi districts, and urban transformation.
Contemporary sculpture museum set inside cave spaces of Palazzo Pomarici, blending modern art with Matera’s rock-hewn architecture.
National museum with medieval and modern art collections, best known for Carlo Levi works and its prominent Baroque palace setting.
Scenic terrace beside Palazzo Lanfranchi offering one of the classic panoramas across the Sassi and canyon edge.
Small but iconic square with sweeping views, popular at sunset and frequently featured in photography and influencer content.
The more dramatic of the two Sassi districts, known for cave dwellings, steep lanes, and postcard-famous Matera scenes.
Traditional durum wheat bread with a crisp dark crust and airy crumb, baked in distinctive horned shapes. It is one of Matera's most iconic foods and reflects the city's long baking tradition.
A rustic peasant dish made with stale Matera bread, tomatoes, onion, olive oil, and sometimes cucumber or oregano. It is a classic local summer preparation tied to bread culture.
A hearty Matera soup of mixed legumes and cereals, traditionally prepared for communal celebrations. It represents the agricultural heritage of Basilicata.
Fine dining destination led by a Michelin-starred chef, featuring creative interpretations of Basilicata ingredients in a contemporary style.
Well-known cave restaurant serving polished regional dishes with strong atmosphere, local wines, and a romantic setting in the historic center.
Refined restaurant in the Sassi area known for elegant Lucanian cuisine, tasting menus, and a dramatic historic setting.
Moderate by Italian standards. Cave-hotel stays can be pricey, but food, coffee, and local transport are usually reasonable.
Service is often included or not expected. Round up the bill or leave EUR 1-2 at cafes; 5-10% is appreciated at restaurants for good service. Taxis can be rounded up.
Official public transport app
Matera, Via Don Luigi Sturzo, Matera -> Matera Centrale
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Cesario di Lecce 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.

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need