- 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 and train for Bari to Matera
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Bari to Matera among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from kr40. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 1h 8m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of kr40, and a train costs an average of kr70.
Distance: 33 miles (54 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus |
|---|---|
kr70 Average price | kr56 Average price Cheapest |
2h 19m Average total duration 1h 49m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 38m Average total duration Fastest 1h 8m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Bari to Matera is a bus with an average price of kr56.
This is compared to other travel options from Bari to Matera:
A bus is kr14 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Bari to Matera costing on average kr70.
The fastest way to travel from Bari to Matera is by bus with an average journey time of 1h 8m.
Other travel options to Matera take longer:
Train takes on average 1h 49m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Bari and Matera including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Bari to Matera among Omio's users.
Compare prices and tickets Bari to Matera by bus or train
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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
Journey information
Overview: Train from Bari to Matera
ItalyItaly
Trains from Bari to Matera run on average 1 times per day, taking around 1h 49m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at kr70 but you can travel from only kr40 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 04:00, the last at 23:00. The fastest train covers the 33 miles (54 km) distance in 1h 36m.
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 kr40
Distance 33 miles (54 km) |
Average train duration 1h 49m |
Cheapest ticket price kr70 |
Trains per day 1 |
Fastest train 1h 36m |
First train 4:00 AM |
Last train 11:00 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 49 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
Bus from kr40
Train companies: Regionale, Ferrovie Appulo Lucane from Bari to Matera trainsRegionale, Ferrovie Appulo Lucane trains will get you between Bari and Matera from kr40. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Regionale
About
Regionale is the regional train service of national carrier Trenitalia connecting all of Italy. It is the most convinient way to travel to both big cities and the smallest villages all over the Italian country. The regional trains have different names depending on the region they serve, such as Treno Regionale Veloce (TRV) and Treno Regionale Lento (TRL). Treno Rock and Treno pop are the two new trains part of Trenitalia regionale fleet. Trenitalia Regionale offers a variety of ticket types, including single tickets (economy and standard), return tickets, and season tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and power sockets. The most popular routes for Regionale are between Rome and Milan, Naples and Florence, and Turin and Venice.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Regionale frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
Free hand luggage allowance included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas between seats
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Bar service available on some trains with snacks and beverages
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price for most services
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and assistance available for passengers with reduced mobility
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle
Quiet zone
Ferrovie Appulo Lucane
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 36m
Cheapest Price
kr70
Ferrovie Appulo Lucane frequency
12 a day
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.
Train ticket prices from Bari to Matera can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at kr70, while the average price is around kr70.
The train from Bari to Matera runs once a day and takes approximately 1h 36m.
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.
There is no high speed train available from Bari to Matera.
There is no direct train service currently available from Bari to Matera.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Bari to Matera.
The train station in Bari that goes to Matera is Bari Centrale, which connects to Matera Villa Longo.
The cheapest way to get from Bari to Matera is by bus, with a cost of around kr40.
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.
A day trip from Bari to Matera is not feasible as the journey takes 1h 36m with a train frequency of 1 per day, covering a distance of 33 miles (54 km).
In Matera, explore the ancient streets of the Sassi, a UNESCO World Heritage site with prehistoric cave dwellings. Visit the Matera Cathedral for stunning frescoes and city views, and Casa Noha for insights into local history. Discover the impressive engineering of the Palombaro Lungo underground cistern and enjoy modern art at MUSMA. Savor traditional Lucanian cuisine at local trattorias, join guided tours to learn about the city's cultural transformation, attend vibrant festivals, and take scenic walks along the Gravina River.
Two to three days are ideal to explore Matera's historic Sassi, rock churches, and local cuisine.
Yes, you can take the train from Bari to Matera.
Since both Bari 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.
Popular day trips by train from Matera include Taranto, Mola di Bari, Gravina in Puglia.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Bari to Matera among Omio's users.
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 Centrale to Matera Villa Longo station pair, with some services arriving at Matera Centrale. 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 Centrale. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Bari city centre at Piazza Aldo Moro, 70123 Bari BA, Italy.
Bari CentralePiazza Aldo Moro, 70123 Bari BA, Italy+39 080 521 5411
City-centre transport
Getting to Bari Centrale from Bari city centre
Bari Centrale is 1 km from Bari city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus22, 325 · 13m · kr12 · every ~4 min
Bari Centrale train station facilities and services
Bari Centrale has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Ristorante Pizzeria Piccinni, La Tana Del Polpo
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Bari Centrale. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Bari Centrale. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bari Centrale: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Bari Centrale: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bari Centrale: Ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Excelsior Bari, Grand Hotel Leon d'Oro, Hotel Adria.
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 · kr12 · every ~3 min
Fr1 · 23m · kr58 · every ~2 min
Bus01 · 37m · kr12 · every ~5 min
01 · 45m · kr12 · 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.
Bari AeroportoViale Enzo Ferrari, 70128 Bari BA, Italy+39 080 580 0200
City-centre transport
Getting to Bari Aeroporto from Bari city centre
Bari Aeroporto is 7 km from Bari city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainEt 91338, Et 91334 · 18m · kr58 · every ~1 min
Fr2 · 22m · kr58 · every ~4 min
Bus1586 · 25m · kr12
16 · 27m · kr12 · every ~2 min
16 · 34m · kr12 · every ~2 min
SubwayFm2 · 23m · kr58
Shuttle14m · kr47 · every ~2 min
Bari Aeroporto train station facilities and services
Bari Aeroporto has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Ristorante Bacco, Ristorante Il Poeta Contadino
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Bari Aeroporto. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Bari Aeroporto. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bari Aeroporto: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Bari Aeroporto: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bari Aeroporto: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Parco Dei Principi Hotel Congress & SPA, Hotel Palumbo Masseria Sant'Anna, Vittoria Parc Hotel.
Which Matera station do trains from Bari arrive at?
Trains from Bari to Matera most often arrive at Matera Villa Longo. Some services arrive at Matera Centrale, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Matera arrival station.
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 · kr12 · 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
Matera CentralePiazza Matteotti, 75100 Matera MT, Italy+39 0835 331817
City-centre transport
Getting to Matera Centrale from Matera city centre
BusSeveral local bus lines available
TrainConnections to Bari via Ferrovie Appulo Lucane
Matera Centrale train station facilities and services
Matera Centrale has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Osteria Al Casale, Ristorante Francesca
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Matera Centrale. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Matera Centrale. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Matera Centrale: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Matera Centrale: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Matera Centrale: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel San Domenico Al Piano, Hotel Nazionale, Hotel Sassi.
Matera Sud75100 Matera, Province of Matera, Italy
City-centre transport
Getting to Matera Sud from Matera city centre
Train2m · kr12
Most popular train connections from Bari
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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