Ferrandina​

Latest page update: 16 May 2025
By: Dion Protani

  Where to Stay

Where to Stay in Ferrandina
Ferrandina, a hill town in the Province of Matera, is known for its historic centre and panoramic setting overlooking the Basento valley. Accommodation here is mainly small residences, so for established hotels the best choices are found in Matera.
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In Matera, Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita provides unique cave-style rooms with refined facilities, often praised for their distinctive character (€€€). Also in the city, Palazzo Gattini Luxury Hotel combines elegant rooms, a spa and rooftop views over the Sassi, consistently highlighted for comfort and high standards (€€€). Another option is Hotel San Domenico al Piano, offering modern accommodation in a central location, regularly noted for convenience and value (€€).

Where is

Where is Ferrandina?
​The town of Ferrandina is situated within the Province of Matera in the region of Basilicata and has a population of 2,859 inhabitants. Standing at an elevation of 420 metres above sea level, it covers a total area of 218 km². 

The town has two hotels while nearby places of interest include Miglionico, Pisticci, Craco, Matera and Bernalda.
Comune di Ferrandina
Province: Matera

Region: Basilicata

Population: 7,921​ (in 2024 - source)

​​​​​Size: 218 km²

Elevation: 420 metres

Close by: Miglionico, Pisticci, Craco, Matera, Bernalda, Metaponto​

Recommended hotel: ​Il Belvedere (36 km)

What People Ask About Ferrandina, Basilicata

Is Ferrandina worth visiting?
Yes, Ferrandina is worth visiting for its striking whitewashed houses, historic churches, and hilltop views over the Basento valley. It is also known for olive oil production and has been recognised among the most beautiful villages in Italy.
How do I get to Ferrandina?
Ferrandina is about 30 kilometres from Matera and can be reached by car via the SS407 Basentana road. The nearest railway station is Ferrandina-Pomarico-Miglionico, located in the valley below the town, with train connections to Naples, Bari, and Taranto.
What are the main attractions in Ferrandina?
Highlights include the Mother Church of Santa Maria della Croce, the convent of San Domenico, and noble palaces throughout the centre. The town’s panoramic setting and olive groves add to its distinctive character.
When is the best time to visit Ferrandina?
The best times to visit are spring and autumn, when the weather is comfortable for walking through the historic centre. Summer offers lively events and festivals, while winter is quieter and more local.
How long should I stay in Ferrandina?
A half-day is enough to explore the main churches, walk through the streets, and enjoy the views. A full day allows more time to visit surrounding areas and sample local olive oil and cuisine.
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Discover

Discover Ferrandina
Ferrandina is situated in the province of Matera, in southern Basilicata, set on a ridge overlooking the Basento Valley. The town’s elevated position, at around 500 metres above sea level, provides sweeping views of olive groves and rolling hills stretching towards the Ionian coast. Its layout follows the contours of the hillside, with tightly packed houses, winding streets, and several historic buildings reflecting its medieval origins.
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Among its most notable landmarks are the Church of Santa Maria della Croce, known for its imposing bell tower, and the Convent of San Domenico, which houses valuable artworks. Ferrandina is also recognised for its long tradition of olive oil production, particularly the Maiatica olive, celebrated across Basilicata. The town’s location offers easy access to both Matera and Metaponto, making it a convenient stop for visitors exploring the region’s cultural and rural landscapes.

Things to Do

Things to Do in Ferrandina
  • Historic centre of Ferrandina is characterised by narrow streets, stone houses, and historic churches that reflect its medieval origins. The town’s layout includes small piazzas and quiet corners that invite exploration. Its position on a hill provides views across the surrounding Basilicata countryside, highlighting the agricultural landscape.
  • Chiesa Madre di San Bernardino da Siena is a central religious site in Ferrandina, featuring a simple stone façade and an interior adorned with traditional artworks and altarpieces. The church remains important to the local community and hosts religious festivals throughout the year.
  • Piazza Vittorio Veneto serves as the social centre of Ferrandina, surrounded by cafés and shops where residents gather. The square hosts markets and community events, reflecting the town’s active social life. It offers a place to observe local daily rhythms amid historic surroundings.
  • Olive groves and countryside walks around Ferrandina provide routes through gently rolling hills and farmland. These paths offer visitors a chance to experience the rural environment that defines much of the area, with opportunities to see traditional farming in practice.
  • Guided tours combining local history and agriculture explore Ferrandina’s past alongside visits to nearby farms and olive oil producers. Guides share stories about traditional farming methods, local festivals, and the region’s culinary heritage. These tours often include tastings of olive oil, cheeses, and other Basilicata specialities.

Tours and Activities

Ferrandina Tours and Activities

Photo Gallery

Basilicata Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations in Basilicata

1. ​Matera
2. Craco
3. ​Maratea
4. Melfi 
5. Pietrapertosa 
6. ​Sant'Angelo Le Fratte
7. Venosa
8. Pollino National Park
9. ​Satriano di Lucania
10. Castelmezzano ​

​👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Basilicata

How to Get to [Place Name]

How to Get to Ferrandina
By Rail: Ferrandina has its own train station, Ferrandina-Pomarico-Miglionico, on the Battipaglia–Metaponto line operated by Trenitalia. Regional trains connect the town to Matera by bus link in about 40 minutes and to Taranto in around 1 hour and 15 minutes. The station is located about 10 kilometres from the town centre, with local buses and taxis providing regular connections.

By Road: Ferrandina is situated in the province of Matera, about 35 kilometres south of Matera. The drive takes approximately 40 minutes via the SS7. From Potenza, the distance is about 80 kilometres, with a journey time of around 1 hour and 30 minutes via the SS407. The town is well connected by major regional roads, and parking is available near the historic centre and the lower town.

Nearest International Airports:
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  • Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport: Located around 120 kilometres northwest of Ferrandina, with a drive of about 1 hour and 50 minutes via the SS7. This is the most convenient airport, offering numerous domestic and international flights.
  • Brindisi Salento Airport: Situated roughly 140 kilometres east, taking about 2 hours by car via the SS106. It provides several Italian and European connections.
  • Naples–Capodichino International Airport: Approximately 210 kilometres west, with a journey time of about 2 hours and 50 minutes via the A16 motorway. It offers a wide range of national and international routes.

Private Transfers

Ferrandina Private Transfers
A private transfer offers a reliable and comfortable way to travel to or from Ferrandina, making it easy to reach nearby towns or continue your journey through the region. You’ll be picked up from your chosen location and driven directly to your destination by a professional driver.

Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport and Brindisi Salento Airport both serve this part of Basilicata, with routes passing through Matera province and the Bradano Valley. Transfers can also be arranged to nearby destinations such as Matera, Bernalda, and Pisticci, or to locations throughout Basilicata and Puglia.
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To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.

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