BariExperience.com | From Bari to Matera: how to get to the City of Stones. Travel to Matera by car, bus, or train from Bari, Puglia. Transportation prices.

How to get from Bari to Matera: train, bus, or car? All the options for discovering the City of Sassi

Matera is one of the most evocative destinations in Southern Italy , a place that seems to have come from another era, where time has stood still among thousand-year-old caves, houses carved into the rock and breathtaking views.

Its fame has crossed national borders thanks to the famous Sassi di Matera , a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of the resilience and beauty of Southern Italy. Located in the heart of Basilicata , Matera is about 65 km from Bari , making it a perfect stop for a day trip during a stay in Puglia . Visiting Matera from Bari means treating yourself to an exciting journey through history, culture, and unique landscapes.

Getting to Matera from Bari is easy, thanks to the numerous transportation options available. Whether you prefer to travel by car , train, or bus , the city will welcome you with its magical atmosphere and timeless views.

Freedom and unique landscapes: from Bari to Matera by car

Traveling from Bari to Matera by car is the ideal choice for those who love freedom and want to enjoy the journey immersed in the Lucanian landscape. The distance isn't long, and the journey winds through hills, small villages, and olive groves that herald the entrance to the land of the Sassi.

The route by car is direct and well-marked: just follow the SS96 towards Altamura and then continue on the SS99 to Matera. You'll reach your destination in just under an hour, with the option of stopping along the way to discover other authentic corners of Puglia and Basilicata .

Once in Matera , you can park near the city center (in some paid areas) and begin your exploration on foot: the historic center, with its quiet alleys and panoramic views, is completely pedestrian and waiting to be discovered.

Convenience and simplicity: from Bari to Matera by bus

If you don't have a car or prefer a comfortable and hassle-free journey, bus is an efficient way to reach Matera from Bari . Several companies offer daily connections between the two cities, with frequent services departing from both Bari Central Station and directly from the airport.

Traveling by bus allows you to relax during the ride and enjoy the hilly scenery that extends to the entrance of the Sassi . The buses are modern, comfortable, and air-conditioned, making the journey pleasant even in the hottest months.

Among the most popular companies are Miccolis , FlixBus , and Marozzi , which offer daily departures with travel times ranging from 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 40 minutes. The price? Generally between 6 and 10 euros, but it can vary depending on the season and how far in advance you book.

A slow and authentic journey: from Bari to Matera by train

Another option for reaching Matera is by train , which offers a slower but more authentic travel experience, perfect for those who want to make the journey part of the adventure. Trains connecting Bari to Matera are operated by Ferrovie Appulo Lucane (FAL) FAL station adjacent to Bari Central Station.

The train journey passes through inland villages and rural areas, offering an authentic glimpse into life in Puglia and Basilicata. Travel times vary from 1.5 to about 2 hours, with intermediate stops and scenic stretches that add to the journey's charm.

The ticket is very cheap, generally around 5-6 euros, and can be purchased directly at the station or online via the FAL : www.ferrovieappulolucane.it .

Once you arrive at Matera Centrale , you'll be just a few steps from the historic center and can begin your visit directly on foot.

Matera not to be missed!

Regardless of your chosen means of transportation, reaching Matera from Bari is simple and accessible to everyone. Whether you want to explore it in a day or stay overnight, the city will amaze you with its authentic beauty, its millennia-old history, and its breathtaking views.

Matera is much more than a tourist destination: it's a place of roots, culture, and wonder. A must-see for anyone visiting Puglia who wants to enrich their itinerary with an experience slightly beyond the region's borders, yet still within easy reach.