Beyond Matera: Discovering Basilicata’s Untold Stories
Beyond Matera: Discovering Basilicata’s Untold Stories
A field report from Ilaria, See Italy Product Team
What is Basilicata, Italy? Basilicata is a mountainous region in Southern Italy between Puglia and Calabria, known for Matera’s ancient cave dwellings (Sassi), abandoned medieval villages like Craco, Greek archaeological sites at Metaponto, and authentic local traditions preserved far from tourist crowds. It’s Italy’s least visited region and increasingly, its most authentic.
Basilicata probably isn’t a name that comes up often in travel conversations.
For most travelers discovering Basilicata, Italy’s most authentic southern region, the journey begins and ends with Matera. And understandably so. With its iconic Sassi cave dwellings and compelling history as one of Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, Matera is a destination that leaves a lasting impression.
But beyond its famous cliffs lies a region still largely unknown, yet rich in local traditions, ancient villages full of life, and untouched landscapes where beauty reveals itself slowly and without spectacle.
That’s why Ilaria, a cherished member of our Product Team, recently joined an educational journey into the heart of Basilicata. Guided by nothing but her own instinct and curiosity, her path was shaped by a desire to better understand a region with a story all its own, waiting to be shared with the world.
Basilicata is a forge of emotions. The surreal atmosphere of Craco and Matera, the glorious past of Magna Graecia still screaming from the ruins of Metaponto, and the comforting embrace of small historic towns like Bernalda. It all creates a region that feels truly special, a soulful escape from the crowds and the well-worn paths of more familiar places.
What she found was a region that keeps its authenticity. Where every small town has a story to tell. Where people once lived in caves until the 1950s, but whose pride still shines through in noble palaces that rise naturally from the surrounding wilderness.
For travel advisors seeking something different for well-traveled clients, Basilicata offers exactly that: a fresh canvas where stories are waiting to be told, and paths feel genuinely less traveled.
Why Our Product Team Explores Beyond the Highlights
At See Italy, every destination we offer has been walked, tasted, and experienced firsthand by our team.
We inspect personally.
Before a region enters our portfolio, our Product Team spends days on the ground: meeting guides, visiting sites, vetting accommodations, testing logistics. We’re looking for more than operational competence. We’re searching for that rare quality of genuine connection that transforms travel from sightseeing into something that stays with you forever.
This October educational journey took Ilaria through the lesser-known corners of Basilicata, exploring sites that most travelers never reach. Her mission? To discover new partnerships, vet potential experiences, and understand how this emerging region fits into the sophisticated Italy itineraries we create for discerning travelers.
As Ilaria reflected after her return:
“I wanted to explore this region in preparation for product development. We’re still building our network here, and I needed to see it firsthand to understand what we can offer that no one else can.”
Ilaria, See Italy Product Team
Basilicata is still growing into its tourism potential, and perhaps that’s precisely what makes it so exciting. While the region is becoming more accessible each year, it has held onto what matters most: genuine authenticity, compelling stories, and experiences guided by the heartfelt warmth of locals.
This wasn’t about checking boxes. It was about discovering possibilities for clients who have already seen the highlights and are craving something deeper.
Exploring Basilicata Italy: Between Ruins and Reverence
Much of Basilicata feels almost dreamlike.
Mountain ranges stretch wide, forests remain untouched, and ancient villages rise from the stone as if shaped by the land itself.
Craco: Where Time Stopped Still
In Craco, a medieval village abandoned after the devastating Irpinia earthquake, Ilaria wandered through empty homes, forgotten rooms, and secret little corners with a local guide who didn’t just recount its history, but carried it in her voice.
The village clings dramatically to a hillside, its stone buildings slowly reclaimed by nature yet still hauntingly beautiful. Walking through these streets feels like stepping onto a film set, except the emotions are real.
At one moment, the guide looked up at the cracked ceiling of a noble palace and pointed out the faded frescoes still clinging to the plaster. As she spoke, it felt as if the past was gently coming back to life.
Craco has appeared in films like The Passion of the Christ and Quantum of Solace, but its real story goes far deeper. The guide takes visitors into hidden corners most tourists never see, revealing architectural details and personal stories about the families who once called these crumbling buildings home. These charming empty buildings tell the story of the village’s past in a way no museum ever could.
It was one of those rare moments when a place opens itself to you. Not through facts, but through feeling. Not as a destination built for visitors, but as a living, breathing place that has endured generations of joy, struggle, community, and strength.
Metaponto: Where Ancient Greece Still Echoes
From the dramatic hilltop ruins of Craco, the journey continued to Metaponto, a peaceful coastal village with deep historic roots.
Here, among the ruins of what was once a thriving Greek colony founded in the 7th century BC, another passionate local guide brought the ancient world to life with such vibrant storytelling that it felt as if travelers were living those very moments themselves.
The archaeological park preserves the remains of temples, theaters, and homes from Magna Graecia, the name given to the Greek colonies that once dotted Southern Italy’s coastline.
Visit Metaponto in the late afternoon when the light turns golden and the site is nearly empty. The ruins take on an ethereal quality at this hour, and you’ll often have the ancient columns and temples entirely to yourselves. It’s a photographer’s dream and a contemplative traveler’s paradise.
To see it through the guide’s eyes was to understand not just what a place is, but how it has forged its identity over the centuries. She recounted local stories and revealed tiny yet significant details that would otherwise be missed, the very fragments that hold the true story of its past.
This is the glorious past of Magna Graecia still screaming from the ruins, as Ilaria described it. History here doesn’t sit behind glass in a museum. It surrounds you, invites you in, and speaks through people who truly care.
The Villages That Hold Basilicata’s Soul
From Metaponto, the journey continued to Bernalda, a charming hilltop town where narrow streets wind between historic buildings and local life unfolds at its own unhurried pace. Francis Ford Coppola, whose family hails from Bernalda, has maintained a residence on the town’s main street, drawn back to the quiet authenticity of his ancestral home.
Then to Rocca Imperiale in nearby Calabria, a medieval village crowned by an imposing fortress that overlooks terraced lemon groves stretching down to the Ionian Sea.
And of course, Matera, where Ilaria explored not just the famous Sassi cave dwellings but also discovered a family-run olive oil mill nestled near the ancient stones. Here, she shared olive oil with locals who have been pressing olives for generations, learning about traditions that stretch back centuries.
After touring Matera’s iconic Sassi, many visitors miss the chance to experience the region’s agricultural heritage. An olive oil tasting at a local mill near Matera adds a sensory dimension to the visit, where you can taste the terroir in every drop and learn about production methods passed down through families. It’s an intimate, authentic experience that complements the historical exploration beautifully.
Along the way, Ilaria uncovered a range of new experiences just waiting to be shared with travelers seeking something deeper. She met artisans, guides, and local hosts eager to share their world with warmth and pride.
Why Basilicata Italy Feels So Authentically Italian
What struck Ilaria most powerfully about Basilicata, Italy’s hidden gem in the south, wasn’t just the beauty or the history.
It was the authenticity.
This is a region where people are deeply connected to their land. Where traditions aren’t performed for tourists but lived every day. Where the scent of peperoni cruschi (crispy fried peppers, a local delicacy) hangs in the air of small food shops, and the earth mixed with the salty breeze creates an aroma you won’t find anywhere else.
Ilaria described feeling as if she had stepped into a part of Italy that “is not very crowded with tourists and keeps its authenticity.” A place where you can lose yourself, where every little town has a story to tell.
For clients who have already done Rome, Florence, and the Amalfi Coast, this is precisely what they’re seeking: a region that still beats to its own drum, where discovery feels genuine rather than curated.
What Travel Advisors Should Know About Basilicata
Basilicata represents a unique opportunity in today’s luxury travel landscape.
It offers the depth, beauty, and cultural richness that sophisticated travelers crave, but without the crowds, the Instagram hordes, or the feeling of being on a well-worn tourist trail.
Who This Region Is For
✓ Repeat Italy travelers who have already experienced the classic destinations and want to discover something genuinely different while maintaining quality and comfort.
✓ Culture-focused travelers drawn to archaeology, history, and ancient civilizations, particularly those fascinated by Greek and Roman heritage in lesser-known contexts.
✓ Off-the-beaten-path seekers who value authentic local connections over luxury brand names, and who find beauty in places that reveal themselves slowly.
✓ Thoughtful explorers who want to feel like they’re ahead of the curve, discovering a region before it becomes “the next big thing” but while infrastructure and quality are already in place.
Client fit checklist: Basilicata works beautifully for clients who appreciate slow travel, value emotional resonance over luxury amenities, have already “done” the Italian highlights, and want to support emerging destinations with authentic character. Perfect for milestone trips seeking meaning, honeymoons wanting intimacy, or sophisticated repeaters looking to go deeper into Italy’s soul.
How Basilicata Fits Into Broader Itineraries
One of Basilicata’s greatest advantages is its flexibility within larger Southern Italy journeys.
The region pairs naturally with Puglia to the east, Calabria to the south, and even coastal Campania to the west, creating itineraries that showcase Southern Italy beyond the typical Amalfi Coast focus.
Sample integration ideas:
- Puglia + Basilicata deep dive: After exploring Lecce, Ostuni, and the trulli of Alberobello, continue west into Basilicata for 3 nights based in Matera. Day trips to Craco and Metaponto add layers of history while maintaining the authentic Southern Italy feel.
- Amalfi Coast alternative route: For clients who’ve already done the Amalfi Coast, approach Southern Italy from the opposite direction. Fly into Bari, spend time in Puglia, then cross into Basilicata before continuing to lesser-known Calabria. It’s a completely different perspective on the Italian South.
- Archaeological enthusiast itinerary: Combine Basilicata’s Greek ruins with Paestum in Campania and Sicily’s Valley of the Temples for a journey through Magna Graecia. Perfect for history buffs and classical civilization enthusiasts.
- Basilicata-Calabria explorer: Use Rocca Imperiale as a natural bridge into Calabria’s lesser-known treasures, continuing to Rossano’s Byzantine heritage and Cosenza’s historic center. Perfect for clients seeking extended Southern Italy immersion beyond the typical routes.
- Multi-generational groups: Basilicata’s blend of outdoor exploration (Craco’s dramatic landscapes), cultural depth (Matera’s Sassi and museums), and hands-on experiences (olive oil tastings, local food traditions) engages different ages and interests naturally.
Matera makes an ideal base for exploring Basilicata, with most sites within 30-60 minutes by private car. We recommend 3-4 nights in Matera with day trips to surrounding areas. For clients continuing to Puglia, it’s a smooth 1.5-hour drive to Alberobello or Ostuni. Bari airport (1.5 hours) provides the easiest international access.
Accommodations That Match the Region’s Character
Basilicata’s accommodations reflect the region’s unique character and history.
In Matera, boutique hotels carved into the ancient Sassi offer an unforgettable experience: sleeping in restored cave dwellings that blend historic architecture with modern comfort. These aren’t rustic caves but sophisticated retreats where centuries-old stone meets contemporary design.
Throughout the region, you’ll find family-run hotels and agriturismi where hospitality feels genuinely warm, breakfast features local specialties like peperoni cruschi and caciocavallo cheese, and the owners are passionate ambassadors for their homeland.
Accommodation positioning: Basilicata sits comfortably in the $400-700/person/day tier, slightly lower than our typical Tuscan offerings but reflecting the region’s emerging status and authentic character. Think boutique rather than grand luxury, with the uniqueness of staying in cave hotels in Matera adding significant experiential value that clients can’t replicate elsewhere.
Basilicata Travel: A Region on the Rise
Basilicata is just beginning to reveal itself to the world.
Matera’s designation as a European Capital of Culture in 2019 put the region on the map, but much of Basilicata remains refreshingly undiscovered. Infrastructure is improving, new partnerships are forming, and quality experiences are becoming more accessible, all while the region maintains its authentic soul.
For travel advisors, this timing is ideal. You can offer clients something genuinely off the beaten path while having confidence in the quality and logistics.
I would say that Basilicata is the perfect place to lose yourself. Every little town has a story to tell. It’s a region that was once overlooked, where people lived in caves until the 1950s, but whose pride still shines through in noble palaces that rise naturally from the surrounding wilderness.
At See Italy, our Product Team is constantly visiting new sites, testing new experiences, and connecting with new artisans, hosts, and guides. We’re always refining and adjusting our offerings, so whether your clients want classic destinations or hidden gems, we’ll have just the right experience waiting.
With everything personally vetted, you can offer these journeys with full confidence, knowing you’re giving your clients access to something truly rare, backed by See Italy’s signature quality.
What We’re Building in Basilicata
Following Ilaria’s site inspection, we’re expanding our network of trusted partners throughout Basilicata.
Experiences currently available or in development:
- Guided explorations of Craco’s abandoned village with local experts who reveal hidden corners and architectural details most visitors never see
- Private tours of Metaponto’s archaeological park with passionate guides who bring Magna Graecia’s history to life through compelling storytelling
- Olive oil experiences near Matera, including mill visits, tastings, and insights into traditional production methods passed down through generations
- Curated explorations of Matera’s Sassi that go beyond the tourist circuit to reveal the cave dwellings’ complex history and modern revitalization
- Day trips to authentic hilltop villages like Bernalda and coastal gems like Rocca Imperiale that showcase Southern Italy’s diverse landscapes
- Boutique accommodations in Matera’s distinctive cave hotels, personally vetted for quality, character, and service
Every experience listed above was personally evaluated by Ilaria during this October journey. We’ve met the guides, explored the sites, tasted the olive oil, and assessed the accommodation options. Nothing enters our portfolio without this level of hands-on vetting. This is the See Italy difference: we don’t just book tours, we build relationships and curate transformative experiences based on firsthand knowledge.
Rooted in Mission, Reaching Forward
Our mission has always been to bring travelers into contact with Italy’s soul and create meaningful, personal experiences that are impossible to replicate.
In Basilicata, Italy’s most soulful region, we found exactly that.
We found people deeply connected to their land, eager to share their world with warmth and pride. We found places still off the map, and unique, enriching activities that aren’t widely available, yet are now accessible through our new partnerships and genuine connections in the region.
We believe the most unforgettable experiences in life begin and end with connection. That’s why we travel. That’s why we listen. And that’s why we’re so excited to share what we’re building here.
I am in love with Basilicata. It’s a region that was once overlooked, but it carries something rare: the authenticity that many places have lost, and a pride in local traditions that shines through every interaction.
Planning Your Basilicata Italy Journey: Essential Information
When is the best time to visit Basilicata?
Spring (April-June) and fall (September-October) offer ideal weather for exploring Basilicata’s archaeological sites and hilltop villages. Summer brings warmth perfect for Metaponto’s beaches, while winter reveals Matera’s Sassi in dramatic, crowd-free solitude. For the most comfortable Basilicata travel experience, aim for May or September when temperatures are pleasant and tourist numbers remain low.
What are the must-see things to do in Basilicata beyond Matera?
Craco’s abandoned village offers hauntingly beautiful photo opportunities and insights into rural Italian life before modernization. Metaponto’s Greek ruins transport you back to Magna Graecia, while Bernalda’s historic center reveals authentic small-town Italian life. Rocca Imperiale’s fortress provides stunning coastal views. An olive oil tasting near Matera connects you to the region’s agricultural heritage. These experiences showcase the best of Basilicata travel beyond the famous Sassi.
How many days should I spend on a Basilicata itinerary?
A minimum 3-4 night Basilicata itinerary based in Matera allows time for the Sassi, day trips to Craco and Metaponto, and immersive experiences like olive oil tastings. Week-long Basilicata travel itineraries can include coastal explorations, deeper cultural immersion in hilltop villages, and combination with nearby Puglia or Calabria. For first-time visitors to Southern Italy, we recommend at least 4 nights to truly appreciate the region’s authenticity.
What is Basilicata food and wine like?
Basilicata cuisine centers on hand-rolled pasta (cavatelli, orecchiette), peperoni cruschi (crispy fried peppers that appear on nearly every table), locally-pressed olive oil with robust, peppery notes, and pecorino cheese aged in caves. The region’s wines, particularly Aglianico del Vulture, are gaining international recognition. Basilicata food is rustic, authentic, and deeply connected to agricultural traditions, less refined than Tuscan cuisine, more soulful than Emilian classics.
Is Basilicata tourism developed enough for luxury travelers?
Basilicata tourism has matured significantly since Matera’s 2019 designation as European Capital of Culture. Boutique cave hotels in Matera offer sophisticated accommodations blending ancient architecture with modern comfort. Private transfers, English-speaking guides, and quality restaurants are readily available. The region delivers authentic luxury focused on experiential depth rather than branded amenities. Infrastructure is solid, crowds are minimal, and the “emerging destination” status adds discovery appeal without sacrificing comfort.
A Secret Worth Keeping (and Sharing)
Imagine standing in Craco at sunset, golden light painting those abandoned walls, feeling like you’ve discovered something precious that few others know exists.
Picture yourself running your fingers along ancient columns at Metaponto as your guide brings 2,500-year-old stories to life with such passion that the past feels present.
Envision tasting olive oil pressed by hands that have worked this land for generations, the peppery notes lingering on your tongue, connecting you to centuries of tradition.
That’s the gift of Basilicata. Not just a destination, but a secret you’ll carry with you. A story you’ll tell for years. A place that changes how you see Italy itself.
This is why we do what we do. This is what travel should feel like.
Ready to Dream Beyond the Usual?
For Travel Advisors: Whether your travelers are dreaming of the next hidden gem or returning to Italy for something less ordinary, our team is here to help you craft journeys that feel personal, original, and full of soul. Every experience is personally vetted by our Product Team, ensuring your clients discover authentic Italy backed by See Italy’s signature quality.
For Travelers: Discover regions that still beat to their own drum. Work with a team who personally explores every destination, meets every guide, and validates every experience before sharing it with you. This is Italy as it’s meant to be experienced: deeply, authentically, and memorably.
The See Italy family
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