Sep 25, 2024 | Willis-Manson
Matera, a charming city in southern Italy, is renowned for its ancient cave dwellings, called Sassi. With its fascinating history and picturesque landscapes, Matera offers an extraordinary blend of romance and education, making it an ideal destination for honeymooners seeking a culturally rich and eco-friendly experience.
Matera boasts a history that dates back to the Paleolithic era. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world.
Matera's culture is deeply rooted in its ancient cave dwellings and religious heritage. The economy is bolstered by tourism, agriculture, and crafts.
December in Matera sees cool to mild temperatures, averaging between 5°C to 13°C (41°F to 55°F). Rainfall is moderate, and the city is often wrapped in a mystical fog in the mornings, adding to its romantic charm.
The best time to visit Matera is from April to June and September to October. However, December offers a unique, cozy atmosphere perfect for a romantic winter getaway.
20 December, 2024
Matera, Italy
Embark on a guided tour of the Sassi di Matera, exploring the ancient cave dwellings and learning about their history.
€20 per person
Wear comfortable walking shoes.
2 hours
Enjoy an authentic Italian lunch at a local restaurant, savoring traditional regional dishes.
€30 per person
Try the Orecchiette pasta.
1 hour
Explore the impressive Matera Cathedral, noted for its stunning frescoes and panoramic views of the city.
€5 per person
Dress modestly for the cathedral visit.
1 hour
Sample local wines at a nearby vineyard, learning about the region's winemaking traditions.
€25 per person
Book in advance.
1.5 hours
21 December, 2024
Matera, Italy
Discover the stunning frescoes in the Crypt of the Original Sin, known as the 'Sistine Chapel of Rupestrian Art'.
€15 per person
Guided tours are recommended.
1.5 hours
Take a scenic hike in the Murgia National Park, exploring the natural landscape and ancient caves.
Free
Wear appropriate hiking gear.
3 hours
Picnic lunch in the park, enjoying local cheeses, bread, and wine.
€20 per person
Pack biodegradable waste bags.
1 hour
Explore the Church of Santa Maria de Idris, carved into the rock and offering stunning artistic and architectural details.
€5 per person
Check opening hours in advance.
1 hour
Watch the sunset from the Belvedere, enjoying the breathtaking views of Matera's ancient landscape.
Free
Bring a camera for photos.
1 hour
22 December, 2024
Matera, Italy
Participate in a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Italian dishes.
€60 per person
Book in advance.
3 hours
Enjoy the dishes you made during the cooking class.
Included in cooking class
Relax and savor your meal.
1 hour
Tour the Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario to see a reconstruction of a traditional cave dwelling.
€3 per person
Arrive early to avoid crowds.
1 hour
Explore contemporary works at Matera's modern art gallery, Musei of Contemporary Art.
€10 per person
Check current exhibitions online.
1.5 hours
23 December, 2024
Matera, Italy
Indulge in a couple's spa treatment, opting for massages and relaxation therapies.
€120 per couple
Book services ahead of time.
2 hours
Enjoy a leisurely brunch at a local cafe.
€25 per person
Try local pastries and coffee.
1 hour
Visit local shops for souvenirs and artisan crafts.
Variable
Keep track of spending.
2 hours
Take a stroll around the grounds of Tramontano Castle, a historical fortress with beautiful gardens.
Free
Wear comfortable walking shoes.
1 hour
Travel Requirement
Ensure your passport is valid for at least 3 months. Keep a copy of all important documents. Learn basic Italian phrases to help communication.
Local Sayings
Matera boasts ancient history and unique culture, making it known as 'La città dei sassi' or 'The City of Stones'.
Connectivity Info
Matera is accessible by train, bus, and car from major cities like Bari and Naples. The nearest airport is Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport.
Accept Currency + Payment Type
The currency in Matera is the Euro (€). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but carry some cash for small purchases.
Nearby Shopping
Local markets and shops in Matera offer pottery, textiles, and food products unique to the region. Visit Via Fiorentini for a variety of options.
Safety Tips
Keep an eye on personal belongings, especially in crowded areas. Avoid wandering into dark or unfamiliar areas at night. Emergency numbers: 112, 113.
Health & Medical Facilities
Matera has several hospitals and clinics. Pharmacies are widespread and can provide medications for minor ailments.
Other Facilities
Free WiFi is available in most hotels and cafes. Tap water is safe to drink. Public transportation is reliable and covers most tourist areas.
1 : Arrival and Initial Exploration 11 February, 2025 Shobak Castle, Shobak, Jordan 08:00 AM Arrival Arrive at Shobak and check into your luxury eco-friendly accommodation. Freshen up and prepare for a day of light exploration. $100 Ensure all travel documents are in order and check your accommodation amenities. 2 hours 10:00 AM Welcome Tour […]
Day 1 : Arrival and Initial Exploration 25 September, 2024 Château de Chambord, Chambord, France 08:00 AM Arrival and Check-in Arrive at your accommodation near Château de Chambord. Check-in and rest before starting your journey. €100 Ensure all check-in formalities are completed. 1 hour 09:00 AM Introductory Castle Tour Begin with a guided tour of […]
Day 1 : Arrival and introduction to Qaqortoq 18 December, 2024 Kalaallit Forsikring, Anders Olsensvej, Qaqortoq, Greenland 9:00 AM Arrival and check-in Arrive at Qaqortoq and transfer to your accommodation. Check in, settle down, and get ready for your Arctic adventure. $50 Ensure you have all your travel documents in order. Dress warmly as temperatures […]
1 : Arrival and Exploring the City 16 December, 2024 Tromsø, Norway 10:00 Arrive in Tromsø Check into your hotel and freshen up. Tromsø welcomes you with its crisp Arctic air and stunning snowy landscapes. Make sure to dress warmly, as the temperatures can be quite cold. Varies Ensure you have your winter gear ready. […]
Day 1 : Exploring the Ancient Rome 23 October, 2024 Rome, Italy 08:00 AM Colosseum Tour Start your exploration with a guided tour of the Colosseum. Learn about the history and significance of this ancient amphitheater. $20 Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking. Arrive early to avoid long queues. 2 hours […]
Day 1 : Arrival and Cultural Introduction 28 January, 2025 Teppanyaki Hikari, 1 Chome-4-4 Namba, Chuo Ward, Osaka, Japan 09:00 AM Arrival and Check-in Arrive at your accommodation in the heart of Namba, Osaka. Check-in and rest for a while before heading out to explore. $50 Ensure you carry all necessary travel documents and note […]