- 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.
Trains from Naples to Matera run on average 1 times per day, taking around 3h 33m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $21 (€18) but you can travel from only $6 (€5) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 04:00, the last at 23:46. The fastest train covers the 123 miles (199 km) distance in 3h 30m.
Distance 123 miles (199 km) |
Average train duration 3h 33m |
Cheapest ticket price $21 (€18) |
Trains per day 1 |
Fastest train 3h 30m |
First train 4:00 AM |
Last train 11:46 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 21 days |
Discover the best of Matera — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Matera trip today.
The city’s leading museum preserves archaeology from prehistoric to classical times, giving essential context before exploring the Sassi.
Contemporary sculpture museum inside Palazzo Pomarici, showcasing works by Italian artist Pietro Consagra in a striking historic setting.
Historic cave dwelling furnished to show daily family life in the Sassi before the 1950s relocation, simple and very evocative.
Matera’s most iconic ancient quarter, a dense landscape of caves, lanes, and stone houses that defines the city’s UNESCO fame.
Historic district of cave homes and churches with dramatic urban layers, excellent walking routes, and classic postcard views.
Main central square and transport hub above the Sassi, ideal for orienting yourself and accessing the underground cistern area.
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.
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.
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.
Refined Michelin-starred dining in the Sassi, focused on Basilicata ingredients with creative tasting menus in an elegant cave setting.
Established restaurant in the Sassi with polished regional cuisine, strong wine selection, and panoramic ambiance suited to a leisurely dinner.
Historic cave restaurant serving traditional Lucanian dishes, local wines, and regional specialties in one of Matera's most atmospheric dining rooms.
Moderate for Italy: dining is fair, cave hotels can be pricey, and local transit is limited, so walking or taxis may add costs.
Service is often included or modest. Round up at cafes and taxis; leave 5-10% at restaurants only for very good service.
Official public transport app
Matera Centrale -> Piazza Vittorio Veneto, Matera
Traveling between Naples and Matera is a delightful experience, thanks to the efficient train connections provided by Regionale and Intercity services. The journey offers scenic views of the Italian countryside as you traverse approximately 250 km (155 miles) from the bustling streets of Naples to the charming historic town of Matera. With multiple departures throughout the day, passengers can enjoy comfortable seating and convenient travel times that make exploring these two captivating cities easy and enjoyable.
Traveling from Naples to Matera takes approximately 3 hours and 1 minute. There are 2 direct connections available each day, making it a convenient option for travelers looking to explore the beautiful region of Basilicata.
The first daily train from Naples to Matera departs at 08:45, providing an early start for travelers eager to explore the beautiful landscapes and rich culture of southern Italy. The last journey of the day leaves at 19:45, allowing visitors ample time to enjoy their adventures before returning in the evening.
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection between Naples and Matera is €23. The average ticket price typically hovers around €39, making it a convenient option for travelers looking to explore these beautiful Italian cities.
Welcome to the Sassi di Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site that dates back to prehistoric times and is one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities. Its significance lies in its unique cave dwellings carved into limestone cliffs, showcasing an extraordinary example of human adaptation to natural landscapes over millennia. As you wander through these ancient streets, you'll be captivated by their charm and history, with each corner revealing stories from centuries past.
Next on our journey is the Cathedral of Matera, or Cattedrale di Santa Maria della Bruna, which was built in the 13th century atop a hill overlooking the Sassi. This stunning Romanesque structure not only serves as a spiritual center for locals but also symbolizes resilience and faith throughout turbulent historical periods. Be sure to admire its intricate façade and breathtaking interior frescoes that reflect both artistic mastery and deep cultural heritage.
Finally, we arrive at Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario—a remarkable representation of traditional cave living in Matera during the mid-20th century. This preserved dwelling offers visitors an intimate glimpse into daily life as it once was for families who called these caves home; every object tells a story about survival amidst challenging conditions. Exploring this unique space will deepen your appreciation for how far this city has come while honoring its rich traditions.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Naples 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.

Most Naples to Matera trains use the Napoli Afragola to Matera, Via Don Luigi Sturzo / Via Venezia station pair, with some services arriving at Matera Villa Longo. Use this guide to compare Naples and Matera train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Napoli Centrale is 2 km from Naples city centre. Public transport options include:
Napoli Centrale has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food options include: Tentazioni Cafe, Burger King, VyTA Boulangerie, Time Cafè, Caffè Toraldo, Chalet Ciro, Cibiamo, Chef Express, Eccellenze Della Costiera, 100 Montaditos, & more
Free WiFi throughout the station. ATMs are located at various points in the station.
The ticket office is open Mon - Sun: 05:50 - 21:10. Information desks are located on the ground floor in the main concourse.
Luggage storage is kiPoint luggage storage is located close to Platform 2, open daily from 06:00 to 23:00. .
Available at Napoli Centrale: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Napoli Centrale: Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Napoli Centrale: The station is fully accessible. The Sala Blu office provides services and assists customers with disabilities. .
Nearby hotels include Grand Hotel Europa, Starhotels Terminus, B&B Hotel Napoli.
Matera Villa Longo is 1 km from Matera city centre. Public transport options include:
Matera Villa Longo has practical services for this route, including Dining and Hotel.
Food options include: Monkey Drink House
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