- 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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The cheapest and fastest trains from Bari to Matera
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 07
Cheapest price on Oct 07
$7
Average ticket price on Oct 07
$7
Fastest journey on Oct 07
1 h 36 m
Average journey duration on Oct 07
1 h 37 m
Trains on Oct 07
14
Distance
54 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Bari to Matera is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Bari to Matera will cost around $7 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $7.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Bari to Matera without transferring at least once.
4:24 AM2h26Bari6:50 AMMatera$71One-way1 transfer- 5:16 AM2h17Bari7:33 AMMatera$71One-way1 transfer
- 6:27 AM1h49Bari8:16 AMMatera$71One-way1 transfer
- 8:01 AM1h36Bari9:37 AMMatera$71One-way1 transfer
- 10:11 AM1h46Bari11:57 AMMatera$71One-way1 transfer
- 8:01 AM1h36Bari9:37 AMMatera$71One-way1 transfer
- 12:56 PM1h36Bari2:32 PMMatera$71One-way1 transfer
- 9:32 PM1h36Bari11:08 PMMatera$71One-way1 transfer
- 8:13 PM1h37Bari9:50 PMMatera$71One-way1 transfer
- 4:12 PM1h38Bari5:50 PMMatera$71One-way1 transfer
Journey information
Overview: Train from Bari to Matera
ItalyItaly
Take a train from Bari to Matera and enjoy the approximately 33 miles (54 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest train runs at 04:00, the last at 23:00.
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
Bus from $4 (€3)
Distance 33 miles (54 km) |
First train 4:00 AM |
Last train 11:00 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Wed |
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
Bus from $4 (€3)
Live departures
Bari to Matera train times
The table below shows live departures for Bari to Matera trains for today, Tuesday, October 6. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:01 AM Bari | 1h36 | 9:37 AM Matera | 1 transfer | |
| 10:11 AM Bari | 1h46 | 11:57 AM Matera | 1 transfer | |
| 11:50 AM Bari | 1h43 | 1:33 PM Matera | 1 transfer | |
| 12:56 PM Bari | 1h36 | 2:32 PM Matera | 1 transfer | |
| 1:51 PM Bari | 2h01 | 3:52 PM Matera | 1 transfer | |
| 2:19 PM Bari | 2h44 | 5:03 PM Matera | 1 transfer | |
| 4:12 PM Bari | 1h38 | 5:50 PM Matera | 1 transfer | |
| 5:54 PM Bari | 1h59 | 7:53 PM Matera | 1 transfer | |
| 7:27 PM Bari | 1h39 | 9:06 PM Matera | 1 transfer | |
| 8:13 PM Bari | 1h37 | 9:50 PM Matera | 1 transfer | |
| 9:32 PM Bari | 1h36 | 11:08 PM Matera | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Bari to Matera by trainTaking the Train from Bari to Matera
By Koen Berghuis
Koen BerghuisTravel Creator and Rail Writer
Koen Berghuis is a rail expert and passionate train traveler who logs about 20,000 kilometers by train each year, exploring routes across Europe and beyond. Koen writes about his travels on his website, Paliparan, where you find dozens of train reviews and trip reports.
Matera, a picturesque city famous for its cave houses, can easily be reached from Bari by train. Although a lot of tourists opt to travel here by bus, I actually think the train makes for a far more comfortable and rewarding experience. Let’s take a closer look at how you can travel from Bari to Matera by train!
The Bari to Matera train
Route overview
Trains from Bari to Matera are operated by Ferrovie Appulo Lucane (FAL), a small railway company running services on the narrow-gauge lines between the Italian regions of Puglia and Basilicata. The distance by rail from Bari to Matera is 74 kilometers (46 miles), with trains taking around 1 hour and 45 minutes.
Transportation experience
I found it very easy to book my Italian train tickets on Omio. If you’re not yet sure how to travel, Omio also allows you to compare trains, buses, and other transport options in a single search, which is another useful feature.
Departure station
Bari Centrale, the city’s main railway station, is where you will start your journey. However, you should know that the narrow-gauge trains to Matera depart from a separate part of Bari Centrale, the Ferrovie Appulo Lucane (FAL) platforms. These are located in a building on the western side of Piazza Aldo Moro, the palm-lined square in front of the station. Make sure you don’t walk to the main part of Bari Centrale on the southern side of the square!
Arrival station
Matera Centrale is the station where you have to get off, as this is closest to the historic center. From this small but modern underground railway station, the old town of Matera is just a couple of hundred meters away.
Schedule & frequency
There is a train from Bari to Matera roughly once every hour. The first service usually departs around 5 in the morning, and the last leaves Bari around 9 in the evening. Some trains run direct from Bari to Matera, while others are one-stop connections requiring a change of trains at Altamura.
Onboard experience & services
The train from Bari to Matera is a modern regional service with second-class seating only, arranged in a 2+2 configuration. As it runs on a narrow-gauge line, it may feel slightly more cramped than the standard-gauge trains on Italy’s main railway network. However, I do think these trains are still perfectly comfortable. I booked my seat on the day of travel and luckily enjoyed a window seat with plenty of legroom. There was no food service on board, but I did enjoy a nice breakfast at home.
Ticketing advice & budget breakdown
Trains from Bari to Matera have a fixed ticket price and cannot sell out, so it doesn’t matter whether you book weeks in advance or buy your ticket on the day of travel. I paid €6.20 for the ticket on the day of departure.
| Item | Cost (eur) |
|---|---|
| Ticket price | €6.2 |
| Food & drinks | €0 |
| Travel to departure station | €0 |
| Travel from arrival station | €0 |
| Total | € 6.2 |
Top tips & recommendations
- Make sure you go to the Ferrovie Appulo Lucane platforms at Bari Centrale, located in the separate side building on the western side of the station square.
- Bring your own food and drinks with you for the ride, as you can’t buy anything on the train.
- Arrive a bit early, as the correct departure area is separate from the main station and can take time to find.
Conclusion
Taking the train is the most comfortable and scenic way to travel from Bari to Matera. The tricky part is finding the correct departure platform, as it is not in the main part of Bari Centrale. Instead, you must make your way around the corner on the western side of the station square. Once on board, you can relax and enjoy the ride!
Matera Centrale exterior view
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.
COTRAP Basilicata
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €1.50
- Day pass
- : null
To the city center
Matera Centrale -> Piazza Vittorio Veneto, Matera
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Buy bus tickets before boarding; onboard sales are not reliably available on Matera urban buses.
- Contactless bank card payment on board is not consistently available, so carry a valid paper or mobile ticket.
FAQs: Trains from Bari to Matera
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bari to Matera by train. 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 train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Matera, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The first train from Bari to Matera leaves at 4:00 AM.
The distance by train from Bari to Matera is 33 miles (54 km).
The last train from Bari to Matera leaves at 11:00 PM.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Bari to Matera.
The train station in Bari that goes to Matera is Bari Palese-Macchie, which connects to Matera Villa Longo.
The train journey from Bari to Matera is not particularly scenic, as it primarily passes through urban and suburban areas with limited views of the countryside.
No, you cannot take the train from Bari to Matera.
Popular day trips by train from Matera include Taranto, Mola di Bari, Gravina in Puglia.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Yes, rail passes such as the Eurail Italy Pass and Interrail Italy Pass are valid on most trains operated by Trenitalia and Italo within Italy, including regional, intercity, and high-speed trains, though some restrictions and seat reservation fees may apply.
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 train stations
Popular train stations from Bari to Matera
Most Bari to Matera trains use the Bari Palese-Macchie to Matera Villa Longo station pair. Use this guide to compare Bari and Matera train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Bari
Arrival train stations in Matera
Which Bari station do trains to Matera leave from?
Trains from Bari to Matera leave from Bari Palese-Macchie. The station is 4 miles (8 km) from Bari city centre at Via Macchie, 70128 Bari BA, Italy.
Bari Palese-MacchieVia Macchie, 70128 Bari BA, Italy
City-centre transport
Getting to Bari Palese-Macchie from Bari city centre
Bari Palese-Macchie is 7 km from Bari city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRe, 4318 · 11m · $1 · every ~3 min
Fr1 · 23m · $6 · every ~2 min
Bus01 · 37m · $1 · every ~5 min
01 · 45m · $1 · every ~5 min
Bari Palese-Macchie train station facilities and services
Bari Palese-Macchie has practical services for this route, including Parking, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Bike Parking.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bari Palese-Macchie: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Bari Palese-Macchie: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bari Palese-Macchie: Ramps, restrooms.
Which Matera station do trains from Bari arrive at?
Trains from Bari to Matera arrive at Matera Villa Longo. Matera Villa Longo is 1 miles (2 km) from Matera city centre.
Matera Villa LongoVia Nazionale, 75100, Matera, Italy+39 800 050 500
City-centre transport
Getting to Matera Villa Longo from Matera city centre
Matera Villa Longo is 1 km from Matera city centre. Public transport options include:
Train5m · $1 · every ~2 min
Matera Villa Longo train station facilities and services
Matera Villa Longo has practical services for this route, including Dining and Hotel.
Food and drink
Food options include: Monkey Drink House
More options for your journey from Bari to Matera
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Matera and Bari
Most popular train connections to Matera
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