How to get to Matera from Genoa

Matera, located in the region of Basilicata in southern Italy, is a unique city famous for its ancient cave dwellings known as “sassi.” Known as one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in the world, Matera became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993. If you are planning a trip to Matera from Genoa, there are several transportation options available to get you to this fascinating destination.

By Train:
One of the most convenient ways to travel from Genoa to Matera is by train. Begin your journey at Genoa’s main station, Genova Piazza Principe. From there, take a regional train to Taranto, which is approximately a 6-hour journey. Once in Taranto, transfer to a regional train to Ferrandina-Scalo, which takes around 2 hours. Finally, take a short bus ride from Ferrandina-Scalo to Matera, which will take approximately 30 minutes. It is advisable to check the train schedules in advance to plan your journey accordingly.

By Car:
Another option to reach Matera from Genoa is by car. The distance between the two cities is approximately 824 kilometers (512 miles), and the journey takes around 8-9 hours, depending on traffic and the chosen route. The most direct route is to drive south on the A7 highway towards Milan, then continue on the A1 highway towards Bologna. From there, take the A14 and eventually the A16 towards Bari. Exit the highway at Altamura, and from there, it’s a short drive to Matera. Renting a car gives you the convenience of exploring the surrounding areas and allows you to visit nearby attractions.

By Bus:
If you prefer a more economical option, traveling by bus is a viable choice. Start your journey at Genoa’s main bus station, Genova Piazza della Vittoria. There are no direct buses from Genoa to Matera, so you will need to transfer in another city like Rome or Naples. Various bus companies, such as FlixBus and MarinoBus, offer connections from Genoa to these cities. Once you reach Rome or Naples, take a connecting bus to Matera, which takes around 4-5 hours. It is advisable to book your bus tickets in advance to secure your seat.

By Plane:
While there are no direct flights from Genoa to Matera, you have the option of flying to Bari or Brindisi, which are the nearest airports to Matera. From Genoa, you can take a flight to either Bari Karol Wojtyla Airport or Brindisi Airport. Several airlines, such as Alitalia and Ryanair, offer flights to these destinations. From Bari or Brindisi, you can then take a train or bus to Matera, which will take approximately 1-2 hours.

Regardless of the transportation mode you choose, a trip to Matera from Genoa promises to be a unique and enriching experience. As you explore the ancient streets and caves of Matera, you will be transported back in time and witness the rich of this remarkable city. Make sure to plan your journey in advance, considering your preferences, budget, and available time, to ensure a smooth and memorable trip.