13 Cave Hotels in Matera Italy You Have to See to Believe
Matera isn’t just a city—it’s a time machine. Ancient stone alleys, sun-drenched Sassi, and caves carved thousands of years ago make it like nowhere else on Earth. But the real secret? Sleeping in a cave in Matera—a bucket-list experience that turns history into your bedroom.
Picture waking up under vaulted limestone ceilings, candlelight flickering across walls shaped by centuries, and terraces spilling over the honey-colored city below. This is not just a stay—it’s an adventure, a story, a memory that will last forever.
I discovered this magic on my Puglia road trip at La Corte Dei Pastori Luxury Cave Hotel. Visiting Matera is incredible—but spending the night in a cave? Life-changing.
I’ve already written a complete guide to things to do in Matera, but here’s the essential next step: the best cave hotels in Matera, Italy—from lavish spa retreats and romantic hideaways to charming cheap cave hotels Matera Italy and even Matera Italy cave hotels with pools. If you truly want to experience Matera, this is where your journey begins.
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1. Aquatio Cave Luxury Hotel & SPA
Walking into Aquatio Cave Luxury Hotel & SPA feels like entering a secret world carved straight out of limestone. Located in the heart of the Sassi, this hotel is a masterful blend of ancient architecture and contemporary design. The interiors are sleek yet soulful, with soft lighting that accentuates the natural rock textures. The highlight is the underground spa—a serene sanctuary where vaulted stone ceilings echo with tranquility. Here, you can soak in a thermal pool surrounded by candlelit caves, an experience that is as restorative as it is otherworldly.
From the outside, the hotel’s stone façades blend seamlessly into the centuries-old landscape. Step out the door, and you’re already wandering Matera’s ancient labyrinth of alleys and stairways. This is not just a stay, but a complete immersion into the rhythm of the Sassi. Celebrities and design lovers alike are drawn to Aquatio, and it’s no surprise—it’s considered one of the most luxury cave hotels Matera Italy offers. Check out the reviews and the rates.
2. Vetera Matera
Vetera Matera is one of the city’s most stylish Matera Italy cave hotels, where old-world authenticity meets modern elegance. Its interiors preserve the raw character of the stone caves—arched ceilings, textured walls, and nooks that once served as homes centuries ago. Yet the furnishings are minimalist, with warm linens and artisanal touches that make each suite feel like a sanctuary. Many rooms open onto terraces with sweeping views of the ravine, a reminder that Matera is perched between history and nature.
The location is superb, just a short walk from Piazza del Duomo, making it easy to slip between sightseeing and retreating into your cool, cave-carved oasis. The hotel’s wine cellar, set in a centuries-old cave, is a highlight in itself. Sip a glass of Aglianico and you’ll feel as if you’ve traveled back in time. Vetera’s charm is understated but magnetic, the kind of place that convinces you to extend your stay just one more night. Explore the rates.
3. Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita
If there’s one Matera cave hotel that makes international headlines, it’s Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita. This hotel is legendary for its philosophy of preservation: the caves remain as authentic as possible, furnished only with handmade wooden tables, candlelight, and vintage linens. The result is both raw and romantic—a monastic atmosphere that strips away distractions and connects you to Matera’s soul.
One of the most unique experiences here is dining by candlelight in the deconsecrated 13th-century cave church, where vaulted ceilings echo with history. The views over the Murgia plateau, seen in Mel Gibson’s The Passion of the Christ in Matera, are breathtaking, and no two rooms are alike—each has its own story, shaped by centuries of use. It’s not just one of the best cave hotels in Matera—it’s one of the most unique stays in the world. Read the reviews.
4. Sant’Angelo – Small Luxury Hotels
Perched elegantly in the Sassi, Sant’Angelo Luxury Resort captures the essence of luxury cave hotels Matera Italy with a refined touch. Its suites are carved into stone but decorated with plush fabrics, curated artwork, and touches of Baroque elegance. Balconies open onto panoramic views of the dramatic canyon, making sunrise and sunset unforgettable spectacles.
The resort’s restaurant is a highlight, offering traditional Lucanian flavors in a setting that feels half-palace, half-cave. The exterior is just as striking—stone stairways and terraces cascade across the ancient façade, blending seamlessly into Matera’s postcard-perfect scenery. This is a place for dreamers and lovers, the kind of Matera Italy cave hotel that leaves you spellbound. Check out the reviews and rates.
5. La Corte Dei Pastori Luxury
This is the cave hotel where I stayed—and let me tell you, it’s every bit as magical as it sounds. La Corte Dei Pastori Luxury is intimate, with just a few carefully restored cave suites. The interiors are rustic yet refined, with vaulted ceilings and antique furnishings that make you feel part of Matera’s living history. What sets it apart is the sweeping terrace overlooking the Sassi—a view so cinematic that I sat for hours just absorbing it.
My night here was transformative. The silence was profound, broken only by the distant church bells and whispers of the city below. Waking up in this Matera cave hotel felt like waking up in another era. If you’re looking for authenticity with a touch of indulgence, this is it. Check out the rates.
6. Corte San Pietro
In the heart of the Sasso Caveoso lies Corte San Pietro, a boutique retreat that feels like stepping into an ancient secret. The hotel is set around a cobblestone courtyard where lanterns glow softly at night, casting shadows on centuries-old stone walls. The caves themselves have been restored with astonishing care—arched chambers transformed into warm, inviting suites with natural textures, handcrafted wooden furniture, and linens in earthy tones.
Each room feels like a story, preserving the soul of Matera while adding just enough modern comfort. The atmosphere is hushed, contemplative—perfect for travelers who want their Matera cave hotel to be not only a place to sleep, but a place to reflect. The hotel also organizes guided walks through the Sassi, connecting guests directly to the layered history of the city.
From its doorstep, you’re only steps away from Matera’s churches carved into the rock, including San Pietro Caveoso. And yet, retreating into your cave room here feels like escaping into another time. It’s a serene choice for those who seek beauty in simplicity, and one of the best cave hotels in Matera for travelers who prize authenticity above all else. Check out the rates.
7. Palazzotto Residence & Winery
Palazzotto Residence & Winery brings a unique flavor—literally—to the world of Matera Italy cave hotels. Here, you don’t just sleep in ancient caves; you also sip wine where barrels once rested, in a space that fuses hospitality with oenology. The property is a beautifully restored noble residence, its limestone architecture polished with understated elegance.
The suites are spacious, with exposed stone walls, arched ceilings, and a palette of warm golds and creams that catch the candlelight. Many rooms feature alcoves that hint at their past lives, and the bathrooms are modern sanctuaries set against rustic backdrops. But the real draw is the in-house winery, where tastings of Basilicata wines create a sensory journey as intoxicating as the city itself.
Located near Piazza Duomo, Palazzotto is perfectly positioned for exploring Matera’s highlights. At night, you can return from a day of exploring the Sassi to a glass of local Primitivo enjoyed in the very caves that once held harvests of grapes. For lovers of wine and history, this is more than a hotel—it’s an experience, and without doubt one of the luxury cave hotels Matera Italy is best known for. Read the reviews and explore the rates.
8. Cenobio Hotel & Spa
For travelers dreaming of a Matera cave hotel with a pool, Cenobio Hotel & Spa delivers in style. Its spa and wellness area is tucked into the rock itself, with a heated pool shimmering beneath vaulted ceilings. The effect is almost surreal—swimming under the same stone that has stood for millennia.
The suites at Cenobio are airy and romantic, with pale limestone walls, minimalist furnishings, and carefully designed lighting that brings a modern glow to ancient textures. Some suites open onto terraces overlooking the Gravina canyon, giving you a breathtaking sunrise view right from your bed. The spa offers massages and treatments designed to rejuvenate after a day exploring Matera’s cobbled alleys.
Cenobio is located within easy reach of the Sassi’s central squares, making it both tranquil and convenient. Its exterior merges seamlessly into the cliffside, a reminder that here, human habitation and the natural landscape are one and the same. For couples or solo travelers seeking indulgence and restoration, Cenobio is one of the best cave hotels in Matera—a place where history, hospitality, and wellness converge. Explore the rates.
9. Le Dodici Lune
Tucked into the winding alleys of Sasso Caveoso, Le Dodici Lune is a charming and affordable choice among the cheap cave hotels Matera Italy offers—without ever feeling ordinary. Its name, “The Twelve Moons,” reflects its romantic spirit, and its atmosphere is warm, welcoming, and distinctly local.
Each room is carved into the rock but decorated with thoughtful simplicity—arched ceilings, soft lighting, and wooden accents that nod to Matera’s past. What sets Le Dodici Lune apart is its restaurant, which is located in a vaulted cave dining room. Here, local recipes are served with pride, and evenings are often filled with the aroma of fresh pasta and regional wine.
The hotel is a short stroll from Piazza San Pietro Caveoso, one of Matera’s most photogenic squares. And yet, stepping back into your cave room here feels quiet and intimate, away from the bustle of day-trippers. For travelers who want to balance charm, location, and value, Le Dodici Lune is an excellent Matera cave hotel Italy—proof that you don’t need a huge budget to live the dream of sleeping in Matera’s caves. Find out the rates.
10. Antico Convicino Rooms Suites & SPA
For travelers who crave both intimacy and indulgence, Antico Convicino Rooms Suites & SPA offers one of the most atmospheric stays among Matera cave hotels. Tucked deep in the Sasso Caveoso, the hotel combines the raw authenticity of cave living with the comfort of modern design. Each suite is a cocoon of soft limestone, featuring vaulted ceilings, minimal furnishings, and elegant lighting that highlights the natural stone. Bathrooms are chic and contemporary, a contrast that feels refreshing after a day spent wandering Matera’s ancient alleys.
What makes Antico Convicino stand out is its spa. Hidden inside the rock, the wellness area offers massages, a Turkish bath, and treatments designed to melt away the fatigue of travel. The experience of stepping from the sunlit piazzas of Matera into the hushed silence of a subterranean spa is nothing short of magical.
The hotel’s location is unbeatable—just a few minutes’ walk from Piazza San Pietro Caveoso and the city’s most iconic viewpoints. It’s the perfect blend of accessibility and seclusion, ideal for couples seeking romance or solo travelers in search of serenity. For anyone looking to combine history with holistic relaxation, this is without question one of the best cave hotels in Matera. Explore the rates.
11. Le Dimore Dell’Idris
Perched dramatically on the cliffside near the Church of Santa Maria de Idris, Le Dimore Dell’Idris might just offer the most cinematic views of any Matera Italy cave hotel. From its terraces, you can see the Gravina canyon unfurl into the horizon, a view that glows golden at sunset and sparkles with starlight at night.
Inside, the rooms are carved into the rock but designed with comfort in mind. Expect cool limestone walls, vaulted ceilings, and cozy details like wrought-iron beds and warm textiles. Some suites open directly onto the panoramic terrace, where breakfast feels like a feast in the clouds.
Le Dimore Dell’Idris has a history that’s palpable in every corner—its caves were once dwellings, stables, and storerooms, now transformed into spaces of quiet elegance. The location makes it ideal for photographers, dreamers, and anyone who wants to experience Matera at its most poetic. This is not just a Matera cave hotel Italy—it’s a front-row seat to one of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world. Check out the rates.
12. Aque Cave
Last but far from least is Aque Cave, one of the newer gems among Matera Italy cave hotels. This property leans into contemporary design while embracing the natural drama of its limestone setting. The caves here feel sculptural, with modern lighting and sleek furniture accentuating their ancient curves. The result is chic yet soulful, where tradition and innovation coexist beautifully.
One of Aque Cave’s standout features is its wellness focus. With spa treatments, hydrotherapy, and relaxation areas built right into the rock, it offers a retreat-like atmosphere for travelers who want to unwind after days of exploration. Some suites even come with private hot tubs set against stone walls, adding a romantic element that feels straight out of a dream.
Located in the quieter part of the Sassi, Aque Cave offers tranquility while still keeping Matera’s attractions within easy reach. For couples seeking a romantic escape, or for travelers who appreciate design-forward accommodations, Aque Cave is an inspired choice—proof that Matera’s cave hotels are as diverse as they are unforgettable. Explore the rates.
13. Locanda di San Martino Hotel & Thermae Romanae
Few Matera cave hotels capture the balance of history and indulgence as beautifully as Locanda di San Martino. Located in the heart of the Sassi, this hotel preserves the ancient cave structures while offering a level of comfort that feels luxurious yet accessible.
The highlight here is the Thermae Romanae spa, a Roman-inspired wellness complex hidden beneath the hotel. Imagine soaking in thermal pools surrounded by rock walls, steam curling through arched caverns, and the silence broken only by the trickle of water. It’s an experience that takes you back to antiquity while delivering modern relaxation.
The rooms themselves are varied, from intimate cave chambers to more spacious suites. Each has unique features—arched niches, uneven stone walls, and rustic-meets-modern décor that makes every stay feel personalized. Step outside, and you’re in the beating heart of Matera, just minutes from Via Fiorentini and the city’s lively cafés.
For travelers searching for a Matera cave hotel with a pool-like spa experience, this is a dream come true. It’s an immersion into the rhythms of history, paired with all the comforts of a boutique hotel. Explore the rates.
Why You Must Sleep in a Cave Hotel in Matera
Matera is unforgettable—but sleeping in a cave makes it legendary. The city’s golden Sassi, winding alleys, and ancient stone structures are magical by day, but the true wonder is spending the night inside history itself.
Whether you choose a luxury cave hotel Matera Italy, a romantic hideaway, or a cheap cave hotel Matera Italy, the experience is unparalleled. Vaulted ceilings, soft lighting, terraces with panoramic views, and even Matera Italy cave hotels with pools make each stay a story you’ll tell for a lifetime.
When I stayed at La Corte Dei Pastori Luxury Cave Hotel, I realized: it’s not just accommodation—it’s a connection to the soul of Matera. One night in a Matera cave hotel turns a trip into an unforgettable memory.
So, plan your stay, pick your favorite cave hotel, and dive into this unique adventure. Because one day you’ll look back and say: I slept in a cave in Matera, Italy—and it changed the way I travel forever.
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My Go-To Accommodation Platforms:
Booking.com (short stays) and Vrbo (longer stays)
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