- 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
$74
Average price
$74
Fastest journey
4 h 21 m
Average duration
4 h 40 m
Trains per day
4
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 $74 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $74.
Of the 4 trains that leave Rome for Matera on Thu, Aug 06, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Aug 06 the direct trains cover the 370 km distance in an average of 4 h 40 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 21 m .
On Thu, Aug 06 the slowest trains will take 4 h 58 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.
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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 prices starting from $12. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 1m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the bus is your best bet as it emits only 0.4 - 0.9kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $12, and a flight costs an average of $21.
Distance: 229 miles (370 km)
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$113 Average price | $25 Average price Cheapest | $133 Average price | $107 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 16m Average total duration 3h 46m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 25m Average total duration 5h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 1m Average total duration Fastest 2h 1m Onboard + 3h 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 $88 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Rome to Matera costing on average $113.
A bus is $109 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Rome to Matera costing on average $133.
Other travel options to Matera take longer:
Train takes on average 3h 46m.
Bus takes on average 5h 55m.
You'll arrive about 46m sooner (3h 46m by train vs 4h 32m by car). Tickets start at around $113 compared to roughly $107 in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Direct services run with Italo, Intercity.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
The table below shows live departures for Rome to Matera trains for today, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
9939 | On time 5:12 PM Rome Tiburtina | 4h39 | 9:51 PM Molfetta station | 0 transfersDirect | |
9939 | On time 5:12 PM Rome Tiburtina | 4h58 | 10:10 PM Bari Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
9939 | On time 5:30 PM Rome Termini | 4h40 | 10:10 PM Bari Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
9939 | On time 5:30 PM Rome Termini | 4h21 | 9:51 PM Molfetta station | 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 2 times per day, taking around 3h 46m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $49 but you can travel from only $12 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:30, the last at 23:44. The fastest train covers the 229 miles (370 km) distance in 4h 40m.
Distance 229 miles (370 km) |
Average train duration 3h 46m |
Cheapest ticket price $49 |
Trains per day 2 |
Fastest train 4h 40m |
First train 12:30 AM |
Last train 11:44 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 35 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 Matera Centrale station pair, with some services arriving at Matera, Via Don Luigi Sturzo / Via Venezia. 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.
Roma Ostiense is 2 km from Rome city centre. Public transport options include:
Roma Ostiense 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 options include: Ramen Bar Akira, Eataly Roma
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Roma Ostiense. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Roma Ostiense. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Roma Ostiense: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Roma Ostiense: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Roma Ostiense: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Nearby hotels include Hotel Abitart, Hotel San Anselmo, Hotel Villa San Pio.
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 options include: Osteria Al Casale, Ristorante Francesca
Free.
Ticket office support is available at Matera Centrale. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Matera Centrale. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Matera Centrale: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Matera Centrale: Bike Parking.
Accessibility facilities are available at Matera Centrale: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Nearby hotels include Hotel San Domenico Al Piano, Hotel Nazionale, Hotel Sassi.
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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