Lauria
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Latest page update: 16 May 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Lauria
Lauria, in the Province of Potenza, is a hillside town overlooking the Valle del Noce and surrounded by the Pollino mountains. While the town has a mix of smaller residences, there are also some established hotels that serve as a good base for exploring the area.
Hotel Isola di Lauria offers modern rooms, a restaurant and convenient access to the town, regularly praised for service and practicality (€€). Hotel San Francesco provides straightforward accommodation with a bar and restaurant, often noted for hospitality and value (€€). Another option is Happy Moments Resort just outside Lauria, featuring spacious rooms, a pool and leisure facilities, consistently highlighted for comfort and family-friendly services (€€).
Hotel Isola di Lauria offers modern rooms, a restaurant and convenient access to the town, regularly praised for service and practicality (€€). Hotel San Francesco provides straightforward accommodation with a bar and restaurant, often noted for hospitality and value (€€). Another option is Happy Moments Resort just outside Lauria, featuring spacious rooms, a pool and leisure facilities, consistently highlighted for comfort and family-friendly services (€€).
Where is
Where is Lauria?
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The town of Lauria is situated within the Province of Potenza and has a population of 12,558 inhabitants. Covering an area of 176 km², it stands 430 metres above sea level and is located 118 km from Potenza, the capital city of Basilicata.
The town is split into upper (superiore) and lower (inferiore) halves with main sights including the Chiesa Madre San Nicola di Bari. |
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Comune di Lauria
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Province: Potenza
Region: Basilicata Population: 11,755 (in 2024 - source) Size: 177 km² Elevation: 430 metres Highlights: Chiesa Madre San Nicola di Bari Close by: Rivello, Lagonegro, Maratea, Acquafredda, Latronico Recommended accommodation: Palia's Hotel (21 km) |
What People Ask About Lauria, Basilicata
Is Lauria worth visiting?
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Related links
Discover
Discover Lauria
Lauria is a historic town in the province of Potenza, set among the wooded valleys and ridges of the Appennino Lucano in southern Basilicata. The town is divided into two districts — Lauria Superiore and Lauria Inferiore — which spread across the slopes of a hill overlooking the Sinni Valley. Its location at the edge of the Pollino National Park gives it a dramatic mountain setting surrounded by forests, rivers, and winding roads that connect it with nearby towns and the Tyrrhenian coast.
The upper district is dominated by the remains of the Ruggero Castle, a medieval fortress that once guarded the valley below. Within the town, notable landmarks include the Church of San Nicola, the Carmelite Convent, and various noble residences reflecting Lauria’s long history of trade and governance. Local traditions are strong, with religious festivals and mountain cuisine forming an important part of community life. Its position on the route between Maratea and Lagonegro makes Lauria an ideal base for exploring southern Basilicata’s inland and coastal areas.
The upper district is dominated by the remains of the Ruggero Castle, a medieval fortress that once guarded the valley below. Within the town, notable landmarks include the Church of San Nicola, the Carmelite Convent, and various noble residences reflecting Lauria’s long history of trade and governance. Local traditions are strong, with religious festivals and mountain cuisine forming an important part of community life. Its position on the route between Maratea and Lagonegro makes Lauria an ideal base for exploring southern Basilicata’s inland and coastal areas.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Lauria
- Lauria is a hillside town overlooking the Sinni River valley, its streets weaving through medieval stone buildings, narrow alleys, and small piazzas. The town offers views across forested hills and farmland. Walking here provides insight into a community shaped by history and natural surroundings.
- Castello di Lauria stands as a medieval fortress with thick walls and towers. The castle offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and river valley. Visitors can explore its ruins and learn about Lauria’s defensive past. It remains a key historic site.
- Chiesa Madre di San Giacomo Maggiore is located in the town centre, featuring a traditional façade and an interior adorned with religious artworks and frescoes. The church remains central to Lauria’s spiritual life and cultural traditions.
- Piazza San Giacomo serves as Lauria’s social hub, bordered by cafés, shops, and municipal buildings. The square hosts markets, festivals, and community events throughout the year. Its cobblestones and views create a welcoming atmosphere. It’s an ideal place to experience village life.
- Guided cultural and nature tours in Lauria lead visitors through historic streets, castle grounds, and nearby hiking trails. Local guides share stories of ancient customs, architectural heritage, and regional history. Tours often include tastings of local cheeses, wines, and traditional Basilicata dishes. Exploring reveals Lauria’s blend of heritage and countryside charm.
Tours and Activities
Lauria Tours and Activities
Photo Gallery
Lauria 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
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 Lauria
By Rail: Lauria does not have its own train station, but the nearest one is in Sapri, about 35 kilometres away, on the Salerno–Reggio Calabria line operated by Trenitalia. Regional and intercity trains connect Sapri to Salerno in approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes and to Reggio Calabria in around 2 hours and 30 minutes. From Sapri, buses and taxis run regularly to Lauria.
By Road: Lauria is located in southern Basilicata, about 110 kilometres south of Potenza. The drive takes roughly 1 hour and 40 minutes via the SS585 and SS653. From Maratea, the distance is about 30 kilometres, with a journey time of around 40 minutes via the SS585. The town is conveniently situated near the A2 motorway, with easy access to surrounding areas and parking available near the historic centre and the Castello di Lauria.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: Lauria is located in southern Basilicata, about 110 kilometres south of Potenza. The drive takes roughly 1 hour and 40 minutes via the SS585 and SS653. From Maratea, the distance is about 30 kilometres, with a journey time of around 40 minutes via the SS585. The town is conveniently situated near the A2 motorway, with easy access to surrounding areas and parking available near the historic centre and the Castello di Lauria.
Nearest International Airports:
- Lamezia Terme International Airport: Situated about 160 kilometres southwest of Lauria, with a drive of around 2 hours and 30 minutes via the A2 motorway. This is the most convenient airport, offering a wide range of domestic and international flights.
- Naples–Capodichino International Airport: Located approximately 190 kilometres west, taking about 2 hours and 50 minutes by car via the A3 motorway. It provides frequent national and European connections.
- Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport: Around 220 kilometres northeast, with a journey time of roughly 3 hours via the SS407. It offers numerous routes across Italy and Europe.
Private Transfers
Lauria Private Transfers
A private transfer provides a comfortable and reliable way to travel to or from Lauria, offering a direct journey without the need to drive or rely on public transport. You’ll be collected from your chosen location and taken directly to your destination by a professional local driver.
Naples Capodichino Airport is the most practical choice for arrivals and departures, with convenient access via major routes through southern Basilicata. Transfers can also be arranged to nearby destinations such as Lagonegro, Trecchina, and Latronico, or to other towns and villages within the Pollino and Lucanian Apennines area.
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.
Naples Capodichino Airport is the most practical choice for arrivals and departures, with convenient access via major routes through southern Basilicata. Transfers can also be arranged to nearby destinations such as Lagonegro, Trecchina, and Latronico, or to other towns and villages within the Pollino and Lucanian Apennines area.
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.
