Maratea Travel Guide
Everything you need to plan your trip to the historic coastal town in Basilicata
Table of Contents
Maratea
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Latest page update: 16 May 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The town of Maratea is situated on the Tyrrhenian Coast in the Province of Potenza. It has a population of 5,045 inhabitants and is located around 127 kilometres south of Potenza, the regional capital of Basilicata.
Maratea offers a quite unique range of sites; the main residential area is a hill town, a few kilometres in from the coast, while it can also boast a beautiful port area as well as one of the most iconic sights in the region, the Statue of Christ the Redeemer which sits on a hill top overlooking the town. |
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What People Ask About Maratea, Basilicata
Is Maratea worth visiting?
What are the main attractions in Maratea?
How do I get to Maratea?
What is Maratea known for?
When is the best time to visit Maratea?
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Discover
Discover Maratea
The centrepiece of the colourful centro storico (historic centre) is Piazza Buraglia with its open-air cafes, restaurants and gelaterias, while the remainder of the hill town area consists of narrow streets concealing fascinating churches and a good variety of shops.
Fans of contemporary Italian cinema should keep an eye out for the 2010 film Basilicata Coast to Coast; the story follows a rag-tag group of friends who decide to traverse the region from the Tyrrhenian Coast to the Ionian Coast, and their starting point is indeed Piazza Buraglia which appears in numerous of the film's scenes.
Fans of contemporary Italian cinema should keep an eye out for the 2010 film Basilicata Coast to Coast; the story follows a rag-tag group of friends who decide to traverse the region from the Tyrrhenian Coast to the Ionian Coast, and their starting point is indeed Piazza Buraglia which appears in numerous of the film's scenes.
Statua del Redentore
The most instantly-recognisable sight in Maratea is La Statua del Cristo Redentore, ("Statue of Christ the Redeemer" in English). It's more than a mere statue however; it's located around a 6 kilometre drive from the historic centre, a journey which takes around 13 minutes climbing the numerous hairpin bends that lead to the mountain-top.
The final stretch of road is not for the faint-hearted; a modern structure of curving road that seems almost suspended in mid-air but is obviously more than up to the task. Once you scale this final part of the road you reach a car parking area from which it's a 5 minute walk to the statue itself; passing a mini-village area with a church, souvenir shops and refreshment vendors.
The views once you reach the statue are some of the best you can find in Basilicata; looking down on to the picturesque coastline on one side and to the rugged interior on the other.
The final stretch of road is not for the faint-hearted; a modern structure of curving road that seems almost suspended in mid-air but is obviously more than up to the task. Once you scale this final part of the road you reach a car parking area from which it's a 5 minute walk to the statue itself; passing a mini-village area with a church, souvenir shops and refreshment vendors.
The views once you reach the statue are some of the best you can find in Basilicata; looking down on to the picturesque coastline on one side and to the rugged interior on the other.
Maratea port
Another important part of Maratea is its port area. This is roughly the same distance and journey time from the hill town as it is to the statue area: 6 kilometres and 13 minutes by car. The port area glistens with azure water in its marina which is full of elegant yachts.
The area is home to a number of great restaurants which all enjoy the beautiful seaside views. A good amount of car-parking spaces are available at the port although charges can be quite high and spaces are at a premium during the summer.
The area is home to a number of great restaurants which all enjoy the beautiful seaside views. A good amount of car-parking spaces are available at the port although charges can be quite high and spaces are at a premium during the summer.
The beaches of Maratea
Aside from the hill town, the port and the area around La Statua del Cristo Redentore, Maratea is home to a number of beaches. The beaches are to be found either side of the hill town and include one area called Marina di Maratea which has its own train station, and is not to be confused with the port which is slightly further north along the coastal road. The main train station for the town, simply called "Stazione di Maratea", occupies the area between Maratea Port and the hill town.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Maratea
- Statua del Redentore stands atop Monte San Biagio and is one of the tallest statues of Christ in Europe, measuring over 20 metres. It was built in the 1960s and offers panoramic views over the Tyrrhenian coast and surrounding mountains. The summit can be reached by car or on foot, with a chapel and archaeological remains nearby.
- Centro Storico (Historic Centre) lies inland from the coast and is characterised by narrow alleys, stone houses, and small piazzas. Highlights include elegant palazzi, artisan shops, and the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore. The town is often called the “City of 44 Churches” due to its rich religious heritage.
- Porto di Maratea is a scenic harbour set against cliffs and pine-covered slopes, with mooring for boats, seafood restaurants, and access to pebble beaches. It serves as a base for boat trips along the coast and is popular for summer evening walks and dining by the water.
- Grotta delle Meraviglie is a small but impressive show cave near the coast road, discovered in the 1920s. It features stalactites, stalagmites, and underground chambers accessible by guided tour. The cave is open seasonally and lies close to the railway station and main road.
- Spiagge e Calette (Beaches and Coves) around Maratea include well-known spots like Fiumicello, Santa Teresa, and the black-sand beach of Cala Jannita. Many are surrounded by cliffs and are accessible via steps or boat. The coastline forms part of a marine reserve and is known for its clear water and natural rock formations.
Maratea Tours and Activities
Comune di Maratea
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Province: Potenza
Region: Basilicata Population: 4,642 (in 2024 - source) Size: 67 km² Elevation: 0-300 metres Highlights: Redentore, Maratea Port, hill town Water quality: Blue Flag Beach 2024-2025 Connected to the Italian High Speed Train Network Close by: Acquafredda, Rivello, Lagonegro, Lauria, Latronico Recommended accommodation: Hotel Murmann |
Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Maratea
- Santavenere Hotel is a 5-star hotel located along the beautiful coast of Maratea, offering stunning sea views. The hotel features luxurious rooms with modern amenities, an outdoor pool, a private beach, and a gourmet restaurant serving Mediterranean dishes. Its location makes it ideal for those looking to relax by the sea while exploring the surrounding attractions. Price Guide: €€€€ (High-end).
- La Locanda delle Donne Monache is a boutique hotel located in the historic centre of Maratea, housed in a renovated convent. The hotel offers stylish rooms, a peaceful garden, and an acclaimed restaurant serving local specialties. Its central location allows guests to easily explore Maratea’s cultural and historical sites. Price Guide: €€€€ (High-end).
- Hotel Murmann is a 4-star hotel located on the Gulf of Policastro, offering beautiful sea views. The hotel features modern rooms, a restaurant serving traditional Lucanian cuisine, an outdoor pool, and a wellness centre. Its peaceful location is perfect for guests looking to unwind while being close to Maratea’s beaches. Price Guide: €€€ (Mid-range).
- Hotel Villa delle Meraviglie is a charming hotel situated near the beach in Maratea. The property offers elegant rooms with classic furnishings, beautiful gardens, and a serene atmosphere. The hotel’s location allows guests to enjoy the surrounding natural beauty and nearby beaches. Price Guide: €€ (Affordable).
- Hotel Club San Diego is a 3-star hotel located near Maratea’s coast, offering simple yet comfortable rooms with sea views, a restaurant, and an outdoor pool. It’s a great option for visitors looking for an affordable and relaxed stay with easy access to the beach. Price Guide: €€ (Affordable).
Photo Gallery
Maratea 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
