If you’re looking for a sunny getaway that’s also bursting with culture, history and incredible food, Italy is an easy win. The country has headline-grabbing hotspots like Rome and Milan, but for travellers keen to beat the crowds there’s a lesser-known gem worth putting on your list.
Matera, in southern Italy, offers a truly unique break – and a chance to see a side of the country that feels worlds away from the usual tourist trail. This historic city sits in the southern Basilicata region and is renowned for its sprawling cave dwelling quarter, the Sassi, which has been continuously occupied for a minimum of 9,000 years.
The Italian city boasts remarkable heritage, while its Mediterranean climate proves particularly appealing to tourists when autumn rolls around. In October, average maximum temperatures reach 23C, potentially climbing to 27C, allowing visitors to experience the location without contending with peak summer visitor numbers.
Kathy, a travel content creator from New York, posted footage on TikTok offering followers a look at Matera, dubbed the ‘City of Stone’.
Her short video showcases the cave dwellings and a pathway running through the striking stone structures perched on a clifftop. The ancient city looks so beautiful with its cobbled streets and historic buildings that could be ripped from the pages of a storybook.
The TikTok post caption reads: “Matera, a truly magical historical city like no other city. The oldest city in Italy and possibly all of Europe. It’s 9,000 years old! I highly recommend staying at least one night to fully experience the magic. Sunset is stunning, dinner in the cave-like restaurants is memorable, and sunrise is even better.”
The travel enthusiast described Matera as “truly breathtaking” and “easily one of [her] favourite places to visit while traveling through Puglia.”
In the comments section, people were quick to agree. One travel fan gushed: “One of the most beautiful places I have visited, truly amazing.” And another said: “Currently in Matera now, one of my favourite places we [have] visited.”
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
