01904 521 936
Tour Search



Italy

Matera

Situated in a deep ravine in Basilicata, Matera is known internationally for its 'Sassi' - ancient troglodyte caves cut into the limestone rock face, and used as dwellings and churches since the Palaeolithic era. Historically, this position made the town easy to defend but much more difficult to supply with water. Much of the town began to develop outside the canyon, and the Sassi was inhabited but largely ignored for centuries. By the early 20th century, many of the Sassi's inhabitants were living in appalling conditions, and the area was rife with disease.

Fortunately, the town cleaned this up, and set to restoring the ancient area. The project was a great success, and resulted in the town being declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1993. Over the last decade many of the Sassi have been adapted into fantastic houses, hotels and restaurants - making this truly unique area even more fascinating to discover. Another major attraction in the town is the collection of cave churches, carved out by monks and often decorated with Byzantine murals painted directly onto the rocks.

Excellent5 stars17,210 reviews on

Find out more with a free brochure and enjoy weekly travel inspiration and offers in our e-newsletter.

4 results matching: Escorted Rail Tours to Matera

Filters
Any
Reset
Any
Reset
Any
Reset
Any
Reset
Any
Reset
Any
Reset
Any
Reset
Any
Reset
DiscoveriesDiscoveries
BariBariBariBariBari
GRJ All Inclusive Puglia: Bari, Matera & Alberobello
4.2 stars(601 reviews)
2025SepOct
2026AprMayJunAugSepOct

Arriving by plane, enjoy our scenic base in a hotel overlooking the coast of Monopoli. From here, experience the incredible sights and traditions of Puglia, a place untouched by the hands of time. Rich with UNESCO World Heritage sites, discover the spectacular trulli homes of Alberobello and the sassi cave dwellings in the cliffside town of...

View map

8 days from
£1,299 pp
per person
View Details
ClassicClassic
Puglia & BasilicataPuglia & BasilicataPuglia & BasilicataPuglia & BasilicataPuglia & Basilicata
Save £100pp
Best of Puglia: Lecce, Alberobello & Matera
2025SepOct
2026AprMayJunSepOct

Embark on an extraordinary holiday which combines history, fascinating culture and coastal relaxation - starting with a tour of the iconic sites of ancient Rome before exploring less-visited Puglia and Basilicata in Italy's southern heel. On guided excursions we are introduced to unique architecture, including the UNESCO-listed cave dwellings of...

View map

Save £100pp
11-12 days from
£2,599 pp £2,499 pp
per person
View Details
LuxuryLuxury
MateraMateraMateraMateraMatera
La Dolce Vita, Rome, Abruzzo and Matera; Italy’s magical city of stone

Embark on a luxurious journey aboard La Dolce Vita Orient Express, departing from Rome. Indulge in the exceptional culinary creations of 3-Michelin starred Chef Heinz Beck, featuring Italian-inspired dishes crafted from seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. Awake to the allure of an Italian breakfast as you prepare to explore the UNESCO World...

7 days from
£7,395 pp
per person
View Details
ClassicClassic
Highlights of Southern Italy & SicilyHighlights of Southern Italy & SicilyHighlights of Southern Italy & SicilyHighlights of Southern Italy & SicilyHighlights of Southern Italy & Sicily
Highlights of Southern Italy & Sicily
2026JunSep

Delve into the diverse culture of Southern Italy and glorious Sicily, immersing yourself in its rich history, landscapes, and idyllic coastlines, and indulging in local cuisine. Each stop reveals layers of history, beauty, and local charm - from the unique houses of Matera and Alberobello to Sicily's magnificent Greek temples, the Palatine...

12 days from
£3,799 pp
per person
View Details
Our customers love our Matera tours
GRJ All Inclusive Puglia: Bari, Matera & Alberobello
15/Jul
TW Davies
5 stars
“Wonderful holiday. The itinerary achieves a balanced mix of activities / visits by rail and coach to different locations within and outside the Puglia region, with sufficient time given to each, with personal downtime to relax. Brenda Stephenson our Tour Manager made the experience better through her insightful knowledge of...
Collected by Trustpilot
Latest articles from our journey blog