11 Must Visit Places in Italy’s Basilicata Region

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From captivating ghost towns, ancient sites and cultural wonders, these are the must-see places in the Basilicata region of Italy.

Among Italy’s twenty regions is Basilicata, a tremendously underrated corner of Italy that rightfully deserves its moment in the spotlight. The region is bursting with history, ancient sites, breathtaking landscapes, and above all, a level of authenticity that is frequently lost within Italy’s beloved tourism industry.

The Basilicata region is a tad elusive to get to, receives a fraction of the attention that its neighbors do, and isn’t home to any major cities. From an adventurer’s point of view – it’s the perfect destination.

From filming locations to villages built alongside cliffs, these are the top must-visit places to visit in Basilicata.

We’ve also included recommendations on accommodation based on the places we actually stayed while road tripping through the region.

Quick Guide: Best Places to Visit in Basilicata

• Matera
• Parco Urbano dei Palmenti
• Chiesa Diruta
• Craco
• Rabatana
• Dolomiti Lucane
• Castelmezzano & Pietrapertosa
• Parco Nazionale del Pollino
• Statue of Christ the Redeemer
• Marina di Maratea (Basilicata Coast)
• Basilicata Alpaca

The Essentials for Visiting the Best Places in Basilicata

✈️ Basilicata does not have an international airport. Look into flights to Naples or Bari when planning your trip.

🚘 Getting around by car to explore the best places in Basilicata is a must. The region is not well connected by trains. You can however get by with bus services (like Flixbus) if you are interested in opting for public transportation.

🤫 The region is much quieter and tourist-free compared to other destinations in Italy. If you are interested in stepping off the beaten path for a more genuine experience, Basilicata has a lot in store.

💎 Do not only visit Matera. While Matera is the most well-known and extremely fascinating, there are many other unique places in Basilicata worth your time.

Where Is Basilicata in Italy and How to Get There

The Basilicata region falls under the umbrella of southern Italy. It is bordered by three neighboring regions – Campania (where Naples is located), Calabria (the “toe” of Italy), and the summer hotspot of Puglia.

A majority of the region is situated inland, but Basilicata is not landlocked and, in fact, has a stretch of coastline on both the Ionian and Tyrrhenian Seas.

The two nearest major cities to the Basilicata region that are widely known are Naples and Bari. If you’re figuring out how to get to Basilicata by plane, flying into either Naples or Bari is most convenient.

A huge part of why Basilicata remains an undiscovered destination is its inaccessibility and lack of an international airport, which can be seen as both a blessing and a curse.

Flying into Bari is favoured as the most sensible option. Getting to the famous city of Matera in Basilicata from Bari Airport takes just under one hour by car. If you’re not planning on driving, you can book a one-way ticket from Bari to Matera with Flixbus for under €5. Aside from taking matters into your own hands with a rental car, bus travel is superior to traveling by train in Basilicata, which is practically nonexistent.

Why Visit Basilicata in Italy?

Unspoiled Nature and Beautiful Landscapes

Basilicata boasts two stunning national parks, including the Pollino National Park and the Appennino Lucano Val d’Agri Lagonegrese National Park. Additionally, the region is dotted with numerous protected areas for wildlife and even archaeological sites.

Basilicata’s landscape varies from picturesque meadows, forests, valleys, and cliff sides. In Basilicata, nature is left as intended and in an undisturbed state rather than being overrun with hotel complexes or kitschy tourist attractions. Outdoor lovers will find the entirety of Basilicata to be an adequate playground.

Ancient Towns & History

The Basilicata region is home to one of the oldest cities in the entire world. It would be a huge mistake to assume that impressive historic sites in Italy only exist in major destinations like Rome and Pompeii!

Basilicata is filled with magical villages, some of which are entirely abandoned or only have fewer than 100 residents. It is a magnificently unique experience to visit these ancient towns and walk through centuries of past civilization.

Quiet Coastlines

There are two areas in Basilicata which you can visit for its beaches. The Ionian coastline on the southern end of Basilicata is comprised of one immensely long stretch of beach. It is sandy, spacious, and includes a mix of paid beach clubs (lido) and free beach areas (spiaggia libera).

Along the Tyrrhenian Sea, the coastline is a bit smaller but arguably more picture perfect. The backdrop consists of a mountainous landscape which towers over the charming coves and inlet-style beaches. Marina di Maratea and Porto di Maratea are two of the most admired destinations along this part of Basilicata’s dreamy coastline.

Comparatively, both of Basilicata’s coastlines are much more relaxed than the jam-packed Amalfi Coast which sits just north of Basilicata.

Friendly People, Authentic Cuisine & Experience

It takes about five minutes in a touristy destination like Venice to notice that many of the “locals” seem bothered by visitors bombarding the streets of their home. And we don’t blame them!

In Basilicata, many areas receive a fraction of the tourists and foreigners that other popular places in Italy do. The result? People are much more welcoming, curious, and genuinely interested in sharing their hometown, food and culture with travellers.

As mass tourism continues to ruin many beloved destinations, these types of interactions become increasingly rare. Therefore, the opportunity to share conversations, authentic food (that’s not modified for tourists) and real moments becomes so valuable that this alone is worth visiting Basilicata for.

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It’s Affordable

There’s a common misconception that traveling in Italy is expensive. While this can be very true in major cities like Milan, Italy is a massive place with many diverse corners. Basilicata, along with a majority of southern Italy, is pleasantly affordable.

Everything from groceries, accommodation, and activities costs much less than if you were to visit a destination that everyone talks about.

Economics aside, one of the reasons that Basilicata can be cost-effective is the absence of crazed tourism. Non-touristy places will simply cost less in every aspect for visitors.

✍🏼 You May Like: How to Plan a Budget Trip to Italy

MAP of the Best Places to Visit in Basilicata

11 Must Visit Places in Basilicata, Italy

1. Matera

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the old centre of Matera (also known as the Sassi of Matera) is undoubtedly the most famous place to visit in Basilicata. Matera’s history spans over the course of over 9,000 years, thus making it the third oldest continuously inhabited city in the world.

Most notably known for its cave and rock dwellings, Matera is one of the most unique places you’ll find in Europe. Matera has been occupied since the Old Stone Age which makes it quite easy to enchant any visitor with its atmosphere of a distant era.

Ancient churches, underground tunnel systems, and preserved cave homes in their original condition are just some of the reasons to witness the pure wonder that is Matera.

2. Parco Urbano dei Palmenti

Just below the town of Pietragalla lies a collection of petite stone homes, nestled into the hillside and overgrown by grass. The scene is largely reminiscent of something you’d see in Lord of the Rings and can be easily referred to as The Shire (aka Hobbit Land).

The small structures were built cohesively around one another in the style of a small apartment complex. Originally constructed out of stones which were excavated to form both the exterior and structure of the huts, each house is built in the same style. There is a small entryway, loft, and stairs that lead below ground level.

Their purpose? To provide a place to make and store wine, of course!

While the rustic tiny homes are adorable to look at, they were actually built for pure function. Inside, you’ll find a system of stone tanks and specifically designed areas, all with the purpose to press, ferment, and store vino.

3. Chiesa Diruta

Located in the quiet town of Grottole is Chiesa Diruta, a church originally built in the first half of the 16th century. At the peak of its existence, the church was a decorated masterpiece and included nine altars with various statues. Following the unfortunate slow destruction caused by time and then a massive earthquake in 1694, the church’s constant renovations came to a halt in the 18th century.

Today, it is an extraordinary ruin that’s effortlessly photogenic. Chiesa Diruta is particularly beautiful at sunrise and sunset when drenched in a golden filter.

Tips for visiting Chiesa Diruta: There is a gate around the main entrance, which implies that the church is not officially open. However, there is a very distinct hole in the chain-link fence that has clearly been used by visitors passing through.

It is completely free, but you should enter at your own risk. Additionally, if you’re into drone photography, this is one place to visit in Basilicata you cannot miss!

4. Craco

Largely recognized as one of the most picturesque ghost towns in the world, Craco hasn’t been inhabited since 1963. Following a devastating landslide, the town was deemed unsafe, which forced its original residents to relocate into the valley below.

The first hints of settlements in Craco date back to the 8th century BC but it wasn’t more popularly recognized until the 10th century when it was the home to Italo-Byzantine monks.

Today, Craco is renowned as a successful ghost town because it was not merely left to rot. Instead, it has been turned into a destination which allows visitors to experience its magic with a guided tour along a safe route of the village. Noble palaces, a 13th-century tower, and intricate details like carved marble and wooden doors still stand in the abandoned town.

Given its ancient look and feel, Craco has even been used in movie sets and is most famously known as a filming location in The Passion of the Christ movie.

How to Visit Craco

You can buy a “Complete Ticket” upon arriving in Craco at the tourism office (or online). This includes a guided tour of the ghost town and entrance to the curated museum. The site is open every day from 10 am to 6 pm from April to October 31st.

You cannot walk through Craco without the guided tour. We highly recommend not planning a visit during June to August because temperatures are just too hot.

5. Rabatana

With a population of under 50 people, Rabatana can be referred to as an open-air museum rather than a ghost town. The village perches on the cliff above the well-inhabited town of Tursi below.

Rabatana’s name originates from the Arab word rabad, which translates to village. The elevated village was historically known as an Arab settlement in the 9th century, which initially sparked an Arab-Byzantine influence over the area. Even today, there are slight reminders of Arab presence in the form of dialect and food.

Thanks to a couple of hotels, a visit to Rabatana can be the ultimate escape to a quaint village for those looking for brief isolation.

There is even a restaurant tucked away in one of the maze-like paths, which is owned by a family who also runs a small local museum. If you are visiting Rabatana, you must eat at Osteria La Tana degli Arabi and experience an incredible meal and hospitality. This chance encounter was the highlight of our time in Basilicata!

6. Dolomiti Lucane

Hence the name, the mountain shapes of the Dolomiti Lucane resemble the real Dolomites in northern Italy. But, the Dolomiti Lucane are located in the midst of the Apennines mountain range which runs through central Italy.

The most notable characteristics of this small cluster of mountains are their sharp spires and various whimsical rock formations that seem as if they’re piercing through the earth.

The Lucanian Dolomites are a hidden gem for outdoor lovers who enjoy the thrill of adventure sports such as climbing via ferrata, mountain biking, and even zip-lining over the valley. There is no shortage of hikes that reach mountain tops or that squeeze through ravines flowing with rivers.

7. Castelmezzano & Pietrapertosa

Castelmezzano and Pietrapertosa primarily have two things in common – they’re both nestled at the base of mountain peaks in the Lucanian Dolomites and they’re enlisted under Italy’s Most Beautiful Villages. Thankfully, it doesn’t take much effort to visit both while you’re in the area.

Both destinations are drenched in quintessential village charm with cobblestone streets, historic houses, and churches on every corner. Castelmezzano and Pietrapertosa are both unique in that they consist of many buildings that include the actual stone of the mountainside in the structural integrity of the home.

Surprisingly, these quaint mountain towns also have a lot in store for adrenaline junkies. In Castelmezzano, you can embark on the flight of a lifetime called The Angel’s Flight. This zip line thrill ride hangs 800 meters for a duration of one and a half minutes while travelling at 120 km per hour.

Alternatively, you can set out to cross the Nepalese Bridge, a suspension bridge floating over 600 meters above sea level.

8. Parco Nazionale del Pollino

The Pollino National Park belongs to both the Basilicata and Calabria regions. It also happens to be Italy’s largest national park, covering nearly 2,000 square kilometers.Its landscape consists of multiple mountain massifs, the treasured and rare Bosnian pine tree, as well as a large collection of animal wildlife. Given its size, the Pollino National Park is diverse in everything from geography, flora, activities, and even culture.

The national park is the original center of the Arberesh community, which arrived between the 15th and 17th centuries from what is now modern-day Albania.

A mix of outdoor sports draws visitors to Pollino National Park throughout the whole year, including horseback riding, trekking, rafting, cross-country skiing, and mountain biking.

9. Statue of Christ the Redeemer

Many people know of the Christ statue located in Rio de Janeiro, but interestingly enough, there is a similar one in the Basilicata region. Positioned at the top of Monte San Biagio along the coast, Italy installed their very own version of Christ the Redeemer in 1965. Measuring at 21 metres (70 feet) high and with an arm span of 19 metres (63 feet), it’s the tallest statue in Italy but slightly smaller than Brazil’s.

Whether you’re a believer or not, this site is one of the best places to visit in Basilicata for the overall experience and gorgeous panoramic views.

How to Visit Statua del Cristo Redentore

As a visitor, you cannot drive all the way to the top where the statue is located unless you arrive really early in the morning. You must leave your car here, which is the last public parking lot.

Then, you will purchase a shuttle bus ticket for €1, which takes you to the top and back down. The shuttle bus runs quite regularly, so you aren’t waiting around for too long. Alternatively, you can hike from either town (Maratea or Santa Caterina) on each side of the hill.

10. Marina di Maratea (Basilicata Coast)

Basilicata isn’t blessed with a large coastline, but the 17 km (11 miles) it does have can easily rival the best of the Amalfi Coast. There are a handful of coastal towns to settle into for a relaxed beach vacation with a fraction of the crowds, including Acquafredda, Cersuta, Porto di Maratea, Castrocucco, and Marina di Maratea.

Given the rocky landscape of this coastline, do not expect to find long stretches of fine sand. Instead, much of the Maratea Coast consists of small coves and enchanting inlets filled with turquoise water.

There is also a good chance of finding a hidden piece of paradise because many beaches require a short hike to get to.

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11. Basilicata Alpaca

If you’re planning a trip with kids, this is one place to visit in Basilicata that guarantees a memorable experience for the whole family. Located in the middle of olive groves is an animal park, entirely focused on alpacas. Instead of a traditional petting zoo, this alpaca farm is accessible with a guided tour of the property and living quarters of the animals.

You get to pet the alpacas, take photos with them, and even take the furry creatures out on a walk. Honestly, it’s an entertaining hour whether you do or don’t have kids with you!

Additionally, Basilicata Alpaca offers alpaca fleece, which they cultivate on site. There’s no better souvenir than a roll of soft and fluffy alpaca fiber to knit your next sweater out of.

How to Visit Basilicata Alpaca

Make a reservation online for your visit to the alpaca farm. You will be able to choose a date and time slot for your visit, which will likely need to be at least one day in advance. Tickets are around €12 per adult, and kids under 5 are free!

Basilicata, Italy Travel Resources

☔️ TRAVEL INSURANCE: EKTA or VisitorsCoverage

✈️ FLIGHTS: Skyscanner, CheapOair or Kiwi.com

🚙 CAR RENTALS: Discover Cars or Rentalcars.com

🚊 TRAINS & BUSES: Busbud, Trainline or Omio

🛳 FERRIES: Direct Ferries

🛌 ACCOMMODATION: Booking.com, Agoda or Trivago

☎️ ESIM / CELL PHONE DATA: Airalo

📸 TOURS & ACTIVITIES: GetYourGuide or Viator

Affiliate Disclaimer: Please note that some links found in our posts are affiliate links. Should you choose to purchase through these links, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.