Viggiano
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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 Viggiano
Viggiano, a town in the Province of Potenza, is noted for its Sanctuary of the Black Madonna and views over the Agri Valley. Local stays are mostly smaller residences, so for established hotels it is better to look to nearby towns in the province.
In Grumento Nova, Hotel Park Grumentum offers modern rooms, a restaurant and a pool, regularly praised for its comfort and facilities (€€). In Marsicovetere, Hotel Kiris provides spacious accommodation with a pool and conference facilities, often highlighted for convenience and service (€€). Another option is Hotel Dell’Arpa in Marsicovetere, a smaller hotel with comfortable rooms and consistent guest feedback for value and practicality (€€).
In Grumento Nova, Hotel Park Grumentum offers modern rooms, a restaurant and a pool, regularly praised for its comfort and facilities (€€). In Marsicovetere, Hotel Kiris provides spacious accommodation with a pool and conference facilities, often highlighted for convenience and service (€€). Another option is Hotel Dell’Arpa in Marsicovetere, a smaller hotel with comfortable rooms and consistent guest feedback for value and practicality (€€).
Where is
Where is Viggiano?
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The town of Viggiano is situated within the Province of Potenza and has a population of around 3,367 inhabitants.
Standing at an elevation of 1,023 metres above sea level, it covers a total area of 89 km². There are two hotels in the town centre while nearby places of interest include Marsico Nuovo, Spinoso and Guardia Perticara. |
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Comune di Viggiano
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Province: Potenza
Region: Basilicata Population: 3,201 (in 2024 - source) Size: 89 km² Elevation: 1,023 metres Close by: Marsico Nuovo, Spinoso, Moliterno, Guardia Perticara Recommended hotel: Villa Cosilinum (34 km) |
What People Ask About Viggiano, Basilicata
Is Viggiano worth visiting?
How do I get to Viggiano?
What are the main attractions in Viggiano?
When is the best time to visit Viggiano?
How long should I stay in Viggiano?
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Discover
Discover Viggiano
Set high in the province of Potenza, Viggiano lies within the Appennino Lucano Val d’Agri Lagonegrese National Park, surrounded by mountains, forests, and broad valleys. The town occupies a ridge above the Agri Valley, its terraced streets and stone houses following the contours of the hillside. From its elevated position, at around 1,000 metres above sea level, it offers far-reaching views across the Lucanian landscape, where mountain peaks alternate with wooded slopes and cultivated fields.
Among its main landmarks are the Sanctuary of the Madonna Nera, one of Basilicata’s most important pilgrimage sites, and the Church of San Benedetto, which reflects its medieval heritage. Viggiano is also known for its musical tradition, particularly the harpists who once travelled throughout Europe. Local life remains tied to mountain culture, with festivals, craftwork, and rural cuisine forming part of its identity. The town’s central location between Marsico Nuovo and Grumento Nova makes it an ideal base for exploring the highlands of Basilicata.
Among its main landmarks are the Sanctuary of the Madonna Nera, one of Basilicata’s most important pilgrimage sites, and the Church of San Benedetto, which reflects its medieval heritage. Viggiano is also known for its musical tradition, particularly the harpists who once travelled throughout Europe. Local life remains tied to mountain culture, with festivals, craftwork, and rural cuisine forming part of its identity. The town’s central location between Marsico Nuovo and Grumento Nova makes it an ideal base for exploring the highlands of Basilicata.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Viggiano
- Historic centre of Viggiano is a hillside town known for its narrow streets, stone houses, and traditional architecture that reflect its long history. The layout includes small squares and winding alleys, offering visitors a chance to explore a community shaped by centuries of rural life. Views from the town extend over the surrounding Lucanian hills.
- Santuario di Santa Maria di Viggiano is a significant religious site, attracting pilgrims and visitors alike. The sanctuary features a striking façade and a richly decorated interior, with religious artworks and statues central to local devotion. It is located just outside the town, accessible by a short walk or drive.
- Piazza Umberto I serves as the focal point of daily life in Viggiano, surrounded by cafés and shops where locals meet. The square hosts cultural events and seasonal markets, reflecting the town’s vibrant community spirit. From here, visitors can observe traditional social rhythms and enjoy views of the nearby hills.
- Nearby natural walks and viewpoints provide opportunities to explore the rolling hills and forests around Viggiano. Trails lead through woodland areas and open countryside, offering chances to see local wildlife and enjoy peaceful landscapes. These outdoor routes suit walkers of various abilities.
- Guided cultural and religious tours focus on Viggiano’s rich traditions, including visits to the sanctuary, local artisan workshops, and the historic town centre. Guides share stories about religious festivals, the town’s history, and regional crafts. These tours often feature tastings of traditional Lucanian foods and provide a deep connection with the area’s culture.
Tours and Activities
Viggiano Tours and Activities
Photo Gallery
Viggiano 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 Viggiano
By Rail: Viggiano does not have its own train station, but the nearest one is in Villa d’Agri, around 10 kilometres away, on a regional branch operated by Ferrovie Appulo Lucane. From there, bus and taxi connections are available to reach the town. The main rail links are through Potenza, approximately 55 kilometres north, which connects to national routes towards Naples and Salerno.
By Road: Viggiano is located in central Basilicata, about 55 kilometres south of Potenza. The drive takes around 1 hour via the SS598. From Matera, the distance is approximately 110 kilometres, with a journey time of about 2 hours via the SS407 and SS92. The town is set in a mountainous area and is accessible by scenic regional roads, with parking available near the centre and close to Santuario della Madonna Nera di Viggiano.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: Viggiano is located in central Basilicata, about 55 kilometres south of Potenza. The drive takes around 1 hour via the SS598. From Matera, the distance is approximately 110 kilometres, with a journey time of about 2 hours via the SS407 and SS92. The town is set in a mountainous area and is accessible by scenic regional roads, with parking available near the centre and close to Santuario della Madonna Nera di Viggiano.
Nearest International Airports:
- Naples–Capodichino International Airport: Located about 180 kilometres west of Viggiano, with a drive of approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes via the A3 and SS598. This is the most convenient airport for both domestic and international flights.
- Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport: Situated roughly 180 kilometres northeast, taking about 2 hours and 50 minutes by car via the SS407. It offers frequent flights across Italy and Europe.
- Brindisi Salento Airport: Around 230 kilometres east, with a journey time of about 3 hours and 20 minutes via the SS7. It provides a variety of Italian and European connections.
Private Transfers
Viggiano Private Transfers
A private transfer provides a comfortable and direct way to travel to or from Viggiano, ideal for avoiding car hire or limited local transport options. You’ll be picked up from your chosen location and driven straight to your destination by a professional driver.
Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport and Naples Capodichino Airport are the main travel gateways for this part of Basilicata, with routes passing through the Agri Valley and nearby mountain villages. Transfers can also be arranged to surrounding towns such as Marsico Nuovo, Grumento Nova, and Spinoso, or to destinations across Basilicata and Campania.
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.
Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport and Naples Capodichino Airport are the main travel gateways for this part of Basilicata, with routes passing through the Agri Valley and nearby mountain villages. Transfers can also be arranged to surrounding towns such as Marsico Nuovo, Grumento Nova, and Spinoso, or to destinations across Basilicata and Campania.
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.
