What to See in Basilicata: 7 Places You Shouldn't Miss
Basilicata stayed off the main tourist trail for a long time, and that’s arguably its biggest asset: quiet villages, landscapes that look almost lunar, and a history running through the Greeks, Romans, Normans, and Hohenstaufens. From Nova Siri, many of the region’s best stops are within reach for a day trip. Here are our seven favourites.
Matera and the Sassi
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and European Capital of Culture in 2019, Matera is the region’s icon. The Sasso Barisano and Sasso Caveoso, its two rock-cut districts, are best explored on foot, past cave-houses, rupestrian churches like the Crypt of Original Sin, and viewpoints looking out over the Gravina canyon. From Nova Siri, it’s about a 40-minute drive — the easiest day trip to pair with a stay at our B&B.
The Lucanian Dolomites: Castelmezzano and Pietrapertosa
Two villages perched on rock spires, connected by the famous Volo dell’Angelo (“Flight of the Angel”), a zip-line that lets you glide between the two towns suspended over the valley. For those who’d rather keep their feet on the ground, the Seven Stones Trail winds through equally spectacular rock formations.
Craco, the ghost town
Abandoned after a landslide, Craco is today an empty village frozen in time, open for guided visits. It has served as a film set on several occasions and remains one of the most striking, and melancholy, images of inland Basilicata.
Metaponto and Magna Graecia
On the Ionian coast, a short distance from Nova Siri, Metaponto preserves the Tavole Palatine, the remains of a Doric temple dedicated to Hera. It’s the most visible trace of the Greek presence in this part of the region — the same civilisation that founded Nova Siri itself as the ancient colony of Siris.
Maratea, the Pearl of the Tyrrhenian
On the region’s other coast, Maratea alternates hidden coves, a historic village, and the towering Christ the Redeemer statue on Monte San Biagio. It’s a longer trip from Nova Siri, but a rewarding one for anyone wanting to see both of Basilicata’s seas in a single journey.
Pollino National Park
Italy’s largest natural park, straddling the border with Calabria, is home to an ancient beech forest recognised by UNESCO and the famous loricate pines. There are trails for every level, from casual walkers to experienced hikers.
Aliano and the calanchi
Made famous by writer Carlo Levi, the village of Aliano is surrounded by calanchi — eroded clay badlands that turn almost lunar in colour at sunset. A perfect stop for anyone chasing unusual scenery.
If you’re staying at Terrazzo sullo Ionio, we’re always happy to help you plan your day trips around however much time you have.