- 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.
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$73
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$73
Fastest journey on Sep 20
4 h 22 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
4 h 32 m
Trains on Sep 20
2
Distance
370 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Rome to Matera is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Rome to Matera will cost around $73 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $73.
On Sun, Sep 20, we found 2 trains from Rome to Matera, including 2 direct services.
On Sun, Sep 20 the direct trains cover the 370 km distance in an average of 4 h 32 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 22 m .
On Sun, Sep 20 the slowest trains will take 4 h 41 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
9939
9939
9939
9939Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Rome to Matera among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $38 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 4h 17m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the bus is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.4 - 0.9kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $38, while a flight costs an average of $398.
Distance: 229 miles (370 km)
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$57 Average price | $38 Average price Cheapest | $398 Average price | $107 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 16m Average total duration 4h 46m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 9m Average total duration 6h 39m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 17m Average total duration Fastest 2h 17m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 4h 32m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
- CO2 emissions | 0.4 - 0.9kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.1 - 2.2kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
This is compared to other travel options from Rome to Matera:
A bus is $20 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Rome to Matera costing on average $57.
A bus is $360 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Rome to Matera costing on average $398.
Other travel options to Matera take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 46m.
Bus takes on average 6h 39m.
Tickets start at around $57 compared to roughly $107 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $50. The journey takes 4h 46m versus 4h 32m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Direct services run with Italo, Intercity.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
The table below shows live departures for Rome to Matera trains for tomorrow, Sunday, September 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
9939 | 5:29 PM Rome Termini | 4h22 | 9:51 PM Molfetta station | 0 transfersDirect | |
9939 | 5:29 PM Rome Termini | 4h41 | 10:10 PM Bari Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare bus, train, and flight 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.
Trains from Rome to Matera run on average 4 times per day, taking around 4h 46m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $16 but you can travel from only $10 by bus.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:30, the last at 23:44. The fastest train covers the 229 miles (370 km) distance in 4h 14m.
Distance 229 miles (370 km) |
Average train duration 4h 46m |
Cheapest ticket price $16 |
Trains per day 4 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 4h 14m |
First train 12:30 AM |
Last train 11:44 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 63 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
The train connection between Rome and Matera offers a convenient way to explore these two captivating cities in Italy. Travelers can choose from several providers, including Frecciarossa, Italo, and Regionale. With frequent services available throughout the day, you can enjoy a comfortable journey while taking in the beautiful Italian landscapes along the route. Whether you're heading to Rome's historic sites or Matera's stunning cave dwellings, this rail link makes it easy to experience both destinations seamlessly.
Traveling from Rome to Matera takes approximately 5 hours and 20 minutes, with a total of 3 connections available each day. The trains on this route are direct, making it convenient for travelers.
The first daily journey from Rome to Matera departs at 06:45, providing an early start for travelers eager to explore the beautiful landscapes and rich history of southern Italy. The last train leaves at 10:45, allowing visitors ample time throughout the day to enjoy their adventures in Matera before returning.
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection from Rome to Matera is €15. The average ticket price typically hovers around €29, making it a budget-friendly 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 oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Its significance lies not only in its ancient cave dwellings but also in how it reflects human ingenuity and adaptation over millennia, showcasing a unique blend of history and culture. As we explore these fascinating stone structures carved into limestone cliffs, you'll notice their intricate architecture and stunning views that have inspired artists and filmmakers alike.
Next on our journey is the Cathedral of Matera, or Cattedrale di Santa Maria della Bruna, which was built between 1230 and 1270 atop a hill overlooking the Sassi. This magnificent Romanesque church holds great significance as both a spiritual center for locals and an architectural marvel featuring exquisite frescoes depicting biblical scenes. Be sure to admire its striking façade adorned with sculptures while taking in panoramic vistas of this enchanting city from its elevated position.
Finally, we arrive at Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario—a remarkable example of traditional cave dwelling life preserved within Matera's historic landscape. This unique attraction offers insight into how families lived centuries ago amidst humble yet resourceful surroundings filled with everyday artifacts reflecting local customs. As you step inside this atmospheric home carved directly from rock, you'll feel transported back in time—an experience that truly connects you with Matera’s rich heritage.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Rome 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 Rome to Matera trains use the Roma Termini to Bari Centrale station pair, with some services arriving at Molfetta. Use this guide to compare Rome and Matera train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Roma Termini is 1 km from Rome city centre. Public transport options include:
Roma Termini has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food options include: Acafe, Moka Café, Roadhouse Grill, McDonald's, Gusto, Chef Express, Coop Minimarket, Mercato Centrale
Free WiFi in the station. ATMs are there are ATMs in various locations around the station.
The ticket office is open Mon - Sun: 06:30 - 22:00. Information desks are located near Platform 24.
Luggage storage is provided by KiPoint and located on Platform 24. Open every day from 06:00 to 23:00.
Available at Roma Termini: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Roma Termini: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Roma Termini: The Sala Blu, Trenitalia's office of assistance for disabled travelers, is located next to Platform 1.
Nearby hotels include Archi di Roma Guest House, Gemma di Roma, The Liberty Boutique Hotel.
Roma Tiburtina is 4 km from Rome city centre. Public transport options include:
Roma Tiburtina has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food options include: Rock n’ Coffee Roma, Arabian Kebab, Ingredienti, McDonald’s, Numb's Bakery Café
Free, limited Wi-Fi available in the station for 15 minutes. ATMs are located on the ground floor level.
The ticket office is open Mon - Sun: 06:35 - 20:20. Information desks are located inside the main terminal. .
Luggage storage is luggage lockers are located in the station lobby.
Available at Roma Tiburtina: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Roma Tiburtina: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Roma Tiburtina: Accessible facilities include elevators and escalators.
Nearby hotels include B&B Rome Tiburtina, B&B Alba Domus Roma, Hotel delle Province.
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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