Welcome to Basilicata, a little-known region of southern Italy that's nonetheless brimming with hidden treasures and breathtaking natural wonders. With its hilltop villages, rock churches, wild beaches and rugged mountains, Basilicata offers an incredible diversity of landscapes and experiences. In this article, we invite you to discover Basilicata's must-sees. From historical and cultural sites to natural wonders, prepare to be dazzled!
1. Visit Matera: the emblematic city of Basilicata
Although Rome, Venice, Florence and Milan are popular tourist destinations in Italy, there are some lesser-known places that are well worth a visit. Matera, located in southern Italy's Basilicata region, is one such town. This ancient city, nestled among the hills, is famous for its troglodyte dwellings carved into the cliffs, known as "sassi ", which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Don't miss Palombaro Lungo, the city's largest underground water reservoir. The cathedral is also a must-see, as is the mysterious Crypt of Original Sin.
For an unforgettable experience, we recommend finding a vantage point nearby to admire the city and its illuminated windows. And don't forget to book your tour of the Sassi di Matera, including entry to the troglodyte houses, here .
2. Maratea
Maratea is the main town in the Basilicata region. Visible for miles around, the statue of Christ the Redeemer overlooking the town from Mount San Biagio is the town's emblem. Brother to Rio's Cristo Redentor and Lisbon's Cristo Rei, this imposing Christ, who seems to protect the city, is almost as big, but far less well-known! You'll have a spectacular view of the coast from the belvedere. We also recommend a stroll through the old quarter of Il Borgo, Maratea's historic center, where you can still find a number of palaces dating from the 17th and 18th centuries.
3. Craco, an abandoned village
A winding road cuts through a landscape of bare hills and coves to reach the medieval ghost village of Craco. The village has been used as a backdrop for many films, including Mel Gibson's The Passion of the Christ . However, due to the instability of the terrain, the inhabitants were forced to leave the town, leaving it abandoned. With its imposing Norman tower, the village offers spectacular views over the Basilicata region. Jackdaws are now the only inhabitants of the village and access is forbidden, but the view of this scenographically beautiful site is well worth the detour. Craco is one of our selection of abandoned sites that are a must-see !
4. Hiking in the Pollino National Park
The Pollino National Park, Italy's largest, is a veritable jewel of nature. Situated between the mountains and the Ionian and Tyrrhenian Seas, it's the ideal place for hikers and mountain bikers. Mount Pollino, which rises to an altitude of 2,200 metres, is a summit to climb for the most motivated. Pollino is also an exceptional nature reserve, home to rare species of flora and fauna, such as orchids, found nowhere else in Europe. It's also home to golden eagles, vultures, lammergeiers, great horned owls and wild boars. If you're lucky, you may even catch a glimpse of the wolf, of which there are only around 30 specimens left. The waterways are teeming with trout, otters and spectacled salamanders.
5. Visit an unusual place in Basilicata: Metaponto and its archaeological park
Metaponto is an unusual tourist destination in Basilicata. Today, it's a historic seaside resort that attracts visitors. Indeed, among its sandy beaches, you'll find treasures from antiquity such as mythological temples, period artefacts, weapons and shields. Founded in the 7th century, Metaponto quickly became a flourishing city. It was home to Pythagoras, who lived there for several years. It was later destroyed and abandoned. The remains of Metaponto were rediscovered in the 18th century by erudite travelers, then excavated in the following century during the first archaeological campaigns.
Discover our dedicated article "What to do in Italy? 27 must-sees" !
6. Il Mirto Solarium Bar
Located on the Gulf of Policastro, a few kilometers south of Maratea, Il Mirto Solarium Bar is a veritable little corner of paradise on the sea. With direct access to the water, a warm and efficient welcome and on-site catering, it's the ideal place for lovers of lounging, sunbathing and swimming. The turquoise waters and access to the cove, the deckchairs on the white sand and the decor worthy of the Seychelles make this private beach an exceptional place. A solarium and a bar/restaurant with a breathtaking view of the sea top it all off.
7. Admire the scenery at Monticchio Lakes
The Lago Piccolo and Lago Grande lakes, covering 16 and 38 hectares respectively, are natural wonders in Italy's Vulture region. These volcanic lakes are located in the ancient craters of the Vulture and are surrounded by lush vegetation, giving them a special, almost Swiss charm. Near the lakes is a wastewater treatment plant that produces some of the best water in the country, Gaudianello. The area is a true haven of peace and nature, with tourist attractions such as boats for hire to navigate the lakes and stalls selling local products, such as delicious chestnut honey.
8. Visit the small village of Melfi, a must-see in Basilicata
According to a 1906 Italian parliamentary decree, Melfi is considered an "oasis in the Basilicata desert". The town has a prestigious past, having been the center of Lucanian culture in the 7th and 6th centuries BC, the capital of the county of Apulia in Norman times and the residence of Frederick II, whose castle is the most famous in the region. Although Melfi was damaged by an earthquake in 1980, it has retained its unique character and is today a medieval town rich in history, which can be explored on foot, as well as a peaceful modern town, which derives its livelihood from its wine, olives and wood. It's an ideal place to escape the crowds in Italy.
Click here to book your guided walking tour of the city.
9. Potenza
Situated high above the Basento plain, at an altitude of over 819 meters, Potenza is Italy's highest regional capital. The city's ancient core lies on the left bank of the Basento River. The city is characterized by its many ascents and descents, which can make access to the city center a little time-consuming. Potenza offers an atmosphere typical of mountain towns: fresh, young and dynamic. Via Pretoria is the city's lively main shopping street, crossing the town from west to east. This is where locals and tourists alike gather forthe traditional passeggiata, the ancient art of Italian strolling.
10. Getting to Irsina
Located in the north of the province of Matera, Irsina is an ancient agricultural and craft town. It was once a stronghold on the borders of the principality of Salerno, facing the Byzantine world, before being conquered by the Normans. Two churches in Irsina are well worth a visit: the cathedral and the church of San Francesco. The latter was built in an 11th/12th-century Norman fortress, then renovated by Frederick II in 1228. Particularly noteworthy are the 14th-century frescoes in the crypt, by the school of Giotto. Near the church of San Francesco, the artificial lake of San Giuliano is protected by the WWF for the diversity of aquatic species that live there.
11. Pietrapertosa, one of Basilicata's most beautiful spots
We know Basilicata for Matera and its sassi, but Pietrapertosa and its remarkable landscape are also well worth a visit. At over 1,000 meters above sea level, it is the highest village in the region and one of the most beautiful places to visit in the Dolomites. The Arabata district at the top is the most fascinating part of the village, with its rock houses and winding lanes. Pietrapertosa faces the village of Castelmezzano, accessible by il volo dell'angelo, a zip-line above the mountains for thrill-seekers. And if you're planning a getaway to the Dolomites, we suggest you read our article Top 11 of the most beautiful hikes to do in the Dolomites.
We recommend that you book this guided tour of Pietrapertosa , where you can learn about the history of this village and admire the breathtaking views of the "Dolomiti Lucane" mountains.
12. Castelmezzano
One of Italy's most beautiful villages, Castelmezzano is an ancient Lombard fortress built into the Dolomite mountainside opposite Pietrapertosa, beyond the valley. The panorama is breathtaking. Today, Castelmezzano is a small, peaceful and welcoming mountain village, where an atmosphere of solidarity reigns. The many B&B owners in the village don't see themselves as competitors, and don't hesitate to recommend their neighbor's place. It's an ideal place to relax and enjoy the dolce vita in an enchanting setting, and avoid mass tourism.
Book your private tour of Castelmezzano here.
13. Venosa
Located to the east of Melfi on state road 168, Venosa is one of the region's most important archaeological sites dating back to Roman times. It houses the imposing remains of the Latin colony of Venusia, founded in 291 B.C., dating from the Republican to the Medieval periods. There are large public buildings, such as the thermal power station built in the first century AD and renovated up to the third century, as well as residential quarters, including a domus adorned with mosaics and an islet bounded by two paved roads.
What are the most beautiful villages to visit in Basilicata?
Basilicata is a region rich in history and culture, with many picturesque villages to discover. Here's a selection of the most beautiful villages to visit on your road trip in Basilicata:
- Matera - famous for its Sassi, troglodytic dwellings carved into the limestone rock, Matera is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-see stop on your trip to Basilicata.
- Irsina - set on a hill, this medieval village offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area. Don't miss the cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and the archaeological museum.
- Craco - this abandoned village is perched on a rock and offers spectacular views over the valley below. Although Craco is no longer inhabited, it is possible to visit the ruins and discover the fascinating history of this place.
- Senise - this village is famous for its production of dried red peppers, known as "peperoni cruschi". Don't miss the Senise Ethnographic Museum.
- Maratea - this coastal village is famous for its statue of Christ the Redeemer, which dominates the bay from the top of a mountain. Maratea is also an excellent base for exploring the beaches and coves of the Tyrrhenian coast.
- Pietrapertosa - this rock-perched village is famous for its stone houses and narrow streets. Don't miss the Norman castle and the belvedere, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
What itinerary for a road trip in Basilicata?
Basilicata, a little-known region in southern Italy, is full of hidden treasures and breathtaking landscapes. To discover them, there's nothing like a road trip through the region's winding roads and hilltop villages. In this section, we propose a multi-day itinerary that will enable you to discover the wonders of this unique region:
- Day 1: Start your journey with a visit to the charming town of Melfi, located in the province of Potenza. This medieval town is famous for its Norman castle, which offers breathtaking views over the surrounding valley. Don't miss Melfi Cathedral, with its magnificent Byzantine frescoes.
- Day 2: Drive to Irsina, a small town in the province of Matera. Irsina is famous for its historic center, full of ancient buildings and cobblestone streets. Don't miss a visit to the church of Santa Maria Maggiore, home to a magnificent wooden statue of the Virgin Mary.
- Day 3: Matera is one of Basilicata's most emblematic towns, and well worth a full day's visit. This troglodytic town is famous for its Sassi, districts carved out of the limestone rock. Don't miss a visit to the Crypt of Original Sin, a cave church adorned with magnificent medieval frescoes. The Palombaro Lungo, an 18th-century underground cistern, is also a must-see.
- Day 4: After exploring Matera's hidden treasures, set off for the Ionian coast, stopping off at Metaponto. This coastal town is famous for its sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. Don't miss a visit to the Metaponto archaeological park, home to the ruins of an ancient Greek colony.
- Day 5: The next day, head inland to Craco, an abandoned medieval village in the province of Matera. This ghost town is perched on a hill and offers breathtaking views over the surrounding valley. Don't miss a visit to the church of San Vincenzo, home to magnificent medieval frescoes.
- Day 6: The next day, drive to Senise, a small town in the province of Potenza. Senise is famous for its Museum of Lucanian Culture, which houses an impressive collection of objects and artifacts dating from prehistoric times to the present day.
- Day 7: Drive to the Tyrrhenian coast and stop in Maratea, a coastal town in the province of Potenza. This town is famous for its sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, as well as for its historic center, packed with ancient buildings and cobbled streets.
- Day 8: End your trip in style with a stop at the Mirto Solarium bar, located on Maratea beach. This beach bar is the ideal place to relax and enjoy the sea view while sipping a refreshing cocktail.
This road trip itinerary in Basilicata will enable you to discover the hidden treasures of this little-known region, from its medieval towns to its sandy beaches. So don't wait any longer, pack your bags and set off on your adventure!
And to help you prepare for your stay, take a look at our article on What to eat in Italy? 20 culinary specialities to discover.
Did you like this selection? Also check out our article What to do and see on the Amalfi Coast? The 15 must-sees.
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