The capital of Apulia is, for many people, only the airport. In fact the old town in particular is worth half a day.
Bari lies around 65 kilometres from Matera and is easily reached by bus, train or car. For most travellers it is the point of arrival – a stay is still worth it. See from Bari airport to Matera.
Bari Vecchia
The old town is a tangle of narrow lanes between the harbour and the modern city. Famous is the Strada delle Orecchiette, where women shape and sell the ear-shaped pasta in front of their doors.
Basilica di San Nicola
The Romanesque church holds the bones of Saint Nicholas and is still a destination for pilgrims from the Orthodox world – an unusual place where two confessions meet.
Also
The Lungomare promenade, the castle and the cathedral of San Sabino. For shopping, Via Sparano in the modern city.
Practical
It is better not to drive into the old town. Car parks on the edge, the rest on foot.
Read on
- Day trips around Matera – all the destinations in overview
- Getting to Matera – the route from Bari
