Morning: Begin your day in Matera by visiting the famous Sassi di Matera, ancient cave dwellings carved into the hillside. Enjoy a guided walking tour through this UNESCO World Heritage site to uncover its rich history.
Afternoon: After lunch, hike the scenic Parco della Murgia Materana, which offers spectacular views of the Sassi and the Gravina gorge. This 3-4 hour trail provides both nature and cultural sights, including rupestrian churches hidden in the cliffs.
Evening: Return to Matera’s historic center for dinner and a stroll around Piazza Vittorio Veneto to soak up the lively atmosphere and enjoy local cuisine.
Find HotelsMorning: Drive to Altamura and visit the majestic Altamura Cathedral, an excellent example of Romanesque architecture. Don’t miss tasting the famous Pane di Altamura at a local bakery.
Afternoon: Embark on a nature hike through the Murge Plateau, exploring trails around deep ravines and limestone formations. The hike offers peaceful landscapes and opportunities to spot native wildlife.
Evening: Enjoy dinner in Altamura’s city center, sampling traditional Apulian dishes in a rustic trattoria.
Find HotelsMorning: Explore Gravina in Puglia starting with the impressive Gravina Cathedral and nearby rock-hewn churches. Wander through the charming old town streets bringing history to life.
Afternoon: Take a hike down into the Gravina Gorge for close-up views of the dramatic canyon landscape. Visit some ancient caves and enjoy picnic spots along the way.
Evening: Conclude your trip with a relaxed dinner overlooking the gorge, savoring local wines and specialties in one of Gravina’s scenic restaurants.
Find HotelsTotal estimated cost: €80
If you wish to extend your trip, consider adding an extra day in Matera to explore its museums and underground caves or spend more time hiking in the nature parks. For a shorter itinerary, focus on just two cities—Matera and Gravina—to allow a more relaxed pace while still experiencing the area’s highlights.