Basilicata is a region in southern Italy, set between Apulia to the east and Calabria to the south. It is a place of rugged landscapes and a traditional rural way of life, and for many visitors it feels far removed from the better-known cities of the country.
What to expect
- Rugged scenery: The land is hilly and mountainous in many parts, shaped by long rural traditions rather than heavy tourism.
- Matera: The region's most famous town, known for its ancient cave dwellings carved into the rock. Walking its old quarter gives a clear sense of how people once lived in this landscape.
- Rural culture: Village life, local food and traditional customs are central to the region, and a slower pace suits visitors who want to see more than the main sights.
Planning a visit
Basilicata suits travellers who enjoy exploring on foot, by car or by local transport, and who want to combine historic towns with open country. Because it sits between Apulia and Calabria, it can work well as part of a wider trip through southern Italy. Plan your route around the towns and landscapes that interest you most, and allow time to move between them, since the region is large and not densely connected.
