A guide to Matera's traffic for getting around by car.
Famous for its Sassi, ancient districts carved into the rock, Matera is a place where history, nature, and spirituality intertwine in a striking way. A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1993, Matera was also named European Capital of Culture in 2019, a recognition that further cemented its international appeal. Visiting Matera means taking a journey through time: walking among cave dwellings, rock-hewn churches, and grottos transformed into hotels, restaurants, and museums.
But Matera isn’t just about history—it’s also a vibrant city where you can enjoy authentic cuisine, cultural events, and spectacular sunsets over the gravina (ravine). The pace of life is slow and relaxed, perfect for those looking to escape the frenzy of urban life. Additionally, the generally mild climate makes it a great destination year-round, with activities ranging from hikes in the surrounding canyons to tours of film sets (movies such as The Passion of the Christ and 007 – No Time to Die were shot here). In this article, you'll find useful information on where to park in Matera, ZTL hours, and how to get around this unique city.
How to get to Matera
Getting to Matera is relatively easy, though it requires a bit of planning. The city doesn’t have a railway station directly connected to the national rail network, but it can be reached by bus or car.
If you're departing from Naples, Matera is about 250 km away (roughly a 3.5-hour drive) via Potenza. If you're arriving by plane, the nearest airport is Bari-Palese, about 65 km away. From there, you can take a direct bus, rent a car, or catch a train operated by Ferrovie Appulo-Lucane, which connects Bari to Matera in about 1 hour and 45 minutes.
By car, Matera is easily accessible via the A14 (exit at Bari Nord, then follow SS96 and SS99) or the A3 (exit at Sicignano – Potenza). For all these reasons, Matera is an ideal destination for a road trip in southern Italy.
Getting around Matera: ZTL and parking
Driving through the historic center of Matera is not recommended. The entire Sassi area is subject to a Limited Traffic Zone (ZTL) that is active year-round, with variable hours that tend to be extended on weekends and during peak tourist seasons. Access is permitted only to residents, authorized vehicles, or guests of accommodations who have made specific requests. For up-to-date ZTL hours in Matera, always refer to the official website of the Municipality.
Due to these traffic restrictions, it's advisable to leave your car in one of the parking areas outside the historic center. The most commonly used include:
- Via Saragat Parking: free, spacious, and connected to the center by a shuttle bus
- Villa Comunale Parking: paid, but conveniently located near the city center
- Parking along Via Lucana and Via Lanera: paid during the day (blue lines), free in the evenings and on holidays
Alternatively, you can choose accommodations that include parking or arrange for a private shuttle service. Urban public transportation is adequate for short trips, but the real beauty of Matera is discovered on foot—by getting lost among alleys, stairways, and breathtaking views.
Planning ahead where to leave your vehicle and then exploring on foot or by shuttle is the smartest choice. In return, the city serves as an excellent starting point for road trips around Basilicata: from the Lucanian Dolomites to ghost towns, from the beaches of Metaponto to the Murgia Materana, the region offers plenty of opportunities for those traveling by car. For rental vehicles, you can contact our Matera car rental service.
