✓ Joining us on our Whatsapp Channel: 💬 Explore and Escape!.
Booking through us:
✓ 🏩 🛌 Handpicked Luxury Stays in Budget: Booking.com | Agoda.com
✓ 🍹⛱️ Deals on Private xfers, SIM Cards, City tours, Day trips : 📍🗺️ GetYourGuide | 🛵🧳 Klook
There are great many things to do in Italy, and so are in Maratea.
Nestled along the sweeping coastline of Southern Italy, Maratea is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
With its stunning beaches, rugged mountains, and ancient architecture, Maratea offers a wealth of experiences for travelers seeking an escape from the bustling cities.
So pack your bags, leave your worries behind, and embark on an unforgettable journey through the picturesque landscapes of Maratea.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Maratea:
1. Statue of Christ the Redeemer
The Statue of Christ the Redeemer is one of the most famous landmarks of the seaside town of Maratea in Southern Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the magnificent 22-meter tall statue located on top of a hill overlooking the town and the Gulf of Policastro.
The panoramic view from the top is breathtaking and well worth the hike up the hill.
Don’t miss: While visiting the statue, don’t miss the charming medieval old town of Maratea with its narrow streets, quaint shops, and delicious local cuisine.
Insider travel tips: To avoid the crowds and the heat, it’s best to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
Wear comfortable shoes as the hike up to the statue can be steep, and bring a camera to capture the stunning views.
Don’t forget to try the local specialty, “fileja,” a type of pasta served with a tasty meat ragout.
2. Black Sand Beach / Spiaggia Nera
A scenic beach in Maratea, Italy, known for its dark-colored sand.
What to see or do: Relax on the beach and take in the stunning views of the coastline and surrounding cliffs. Swim in the crystal-clear waters or rent a kayak and explore the nearby caves and grottos.
Don’t miss: The nearby church of Santa Maria Maggiore and the historic center of Maratea, with its narrow streets, traditional architecture, and panoramic views.
Insider travel tips: Bring sunscreen and water as there is little shade on the beach. Arrive early to find parking as it can be limited during peak season.
Consider visiting during the shoulder season (May-June or September-October) for fewer crowds.
3. Port of Maratea
The Port of Maratea is a small but charming marina located on the coast of Basilicata, in southern Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the colorful boats and yachts moored in the harbor, relax on the nearby beach, or explore the town of Maratea.
Don’t miss: A trip to the nearby cave of Wonders, also known as La Grotta delle Meraviglie, which features stunning stalactites and stalagmites.
Insider travel tips: The best time to visit the Port of Maratea is in the summer, when the weather is warm and sunny. Be sure to bring a camera to capture the picturesque views of the harbor and surrounding coastline.
4. Villa Nitti
Villa Nitti is a stunning historic villa located in the picturesque hilltop town of Maratea in Southern Italy.
What to see or do: Admire the breathtaking panoramic views from the villa’s terrace overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea and the town of Maratea. Take a dip in the private pool or walk around the lush gardens surrounding the villa.
Explore the beautiful town of Maratea with its charming narrow streets and hidden gems, such as the historic churches and the Christ the Redeemer statue.
Don’t miss: The romantic sunset from the villa’s terrace, a magical moment you will never forget. Also, make sure to taste the local cuisine and wine, renowned for its authenticity and delicious flavors.
Insider travel tips: The villa can accommodate up to six guests, making it perfect for a family vacation or a romantic escape. Book in advance, as the villa is in high demand during peak season.
Ask the host for tips on where to find the best local food and wine, and for recommendations on the best beaches nearby.
Don’t forget to bring comfortable shoes, as some of the town’s streets are steep and can be challenging to walk on.
5. Church of Santa Maria Maggiore
A beautiful and historic church located in the hilltop town of Maratea, southern Italy.
What to see or do: Admire the stunning architecture of the church, featuring a striking bell tower and intricate detailing both inside and out.
Take a moment to appreciate the peaceful atmosphere of this religious site and soak up the beauty of the surrounding views.
Don’t miss: The breathtaking view from the church’s terrace. From here you can see the enchanting coastline and lush green hills that surround Maratea.
Insider travel tips: Visit the church during the morning or early afternoon when it tends to be less crowded. Be sure to dress appropriately, as it is a religious site.
When exploring the town of Maratea, be sure to make a stop at the nearby statue of Christ the Redeemer, another famous landmark in the area.
6. Acquafredda Beach
What to see or do:
Don’t miss:
Insider travel tips: Bring your own snacks and drinks as there are no vendors on the beach, wear comfortable shoes for the steep hike down to the beach, and visit during the week to avoid crowds.
7. The Blue Grotto / Grotta Azzurra
The Blue Grotto is a natural sea cave located in Maratea, a beautiful coastal town in Southern Italy.
What to see or do: The main attraction of the Blue Grotto is its stunning electric blue waters that reflect the sunlight and illuminate the cave’s walls.
Visitors can take a boat tour of the cave and marvel at the breathtaking blue hues. Additionally, the surrounding coastline offers picturesque views of the clear turquoise waters and rugged cliffs.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to swim in the crystal-clear waters outside the cave entrance.
The Piazzetta, Maratea’s main square, is also worth a visit to soak in the local charm and enjoy delicious Italian cuisine.
Insider travel tips: – The best time to visit the Blue Grotto is during the early morning or late afternoon when the sunlight streams into the cave creating the striking blue glow.
8. Cersuta di Maratea
A secluded beach located in the Basilicata region of Southern Italy.
What to see or do: Enjoy the crystal-clear waters, soft sand, and stunning rock formations. Take a relaxing swim or sunbathe on the shore.
Don’t miss: Exploring the nearby caves that can only be reached by sea.
Insider travel tips: The beach is best accessed by boat, but there is also a steep trail to reach it by foot. Arrive early to secure a good spot on the beach as it can become crowded in peak season.
Bring your own snacks and drinks as there are limited facilities.
9. St Biagio’s Crypt / Cripta di San Biagio
St Biagio’s Crypt or Cripta di San Biagio is an underground church in Maratea, Italy.
What to see or do: The crypt is filled with stunning frescoes that date back to the 9th century. It is a unique and fascinating place to explore and learn about the history of the area.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to see the beautiful frescoes that cover the walls and ceiling of the crypt. They depict scenes from the Bible and early Christian history, and are still in remarkably good condition.
Insider travel tips: – Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as the crypt is accessed via a steep staircase leading down from the main church.
10. La Secca di Castrocucco
La Secca di Castrocucco is a breathtaking coastal area in Maratea, located in the Basilicata region of Southern Italy.
What to see or do: The crystal-clear waters of La Secca di Castrocucco are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving. The rugged coastline boasts stunning natural rock formations that can be explored through hiking or boating tours.
Don’t miss: The view from the top of the cliffs overlooking the sea is simply stunning. The scenery is especially beautiful during sunset, when the sky turns orange and pink.
Insider travel tips: Bring water and sunscreen, as the area can get very hot during the day.
To fully appreciate the beauty of La Secca di Castrocucco, consider taking a boat tour that can take you to hidden bays and caves that are not accessible by land.
11. Belvedere di San Biagio
Belvedere di San Biagio is a scenic viewpoint located in Maratea, a picturesque town in the Basilicata region of southern Italy.
What to see or do: From the viewpoint, visitors can enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the Tyrrhenian Sea and the Maratea coastline. The scenery is particularly spectacular during sunset, when the sky is painted with warm colors.
Don’t miss: Make sure to bring a camera to capture the amazing views from the Belvedere di San Biagio. The viewpoint also features a small church, the Church of San Biagio, which is a beautiful example of Baroque architecture.
Insider travel tips: The Belvedere di San Biagio is accessible by car or foot.
Visitors can park their car near the viewpoint or follow a short hiking trail from the town center to reach the location.
It is recommended to visit during weekdays, as it tends to get crowded on weekends. Also, wear comfortable shoes as the path can be steep in some sections.
12. Torre di Santavenere
Torre di Santavenere is a historical tower built in the 16th century located in the picturesque town of Maratea, Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the stunning panoramic views of the Gulf of Policastro and explore the tower’s archaeological museum, which houses an impressive collection of ancient artifacts.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to climb to the top of the tower and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Insider travel tips: Consider visiting during the off-season to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
Also, bring comfortable shoes as there are several steps to climb to reach the museum and the top of the tower.
13. Monte San Biagio
Monte San Biagio is a small town located on a hill overlooking the Gulf of Policastro in Basilicata, Italy.
What to see or do: – Explore the historic center, which is home to narrow streets, old houses, a castle, and several churches.
Don’t miss: – The annual feast of Saint Biagio on February 3, which is celebrated with a procession, fireworks, and traditional food.
Insider travel tips: – Wear comfortable shoes as the streets can be steep and narrow.
14. Cala d’Efimia
Cala d’Efimia is a picturesque coastal village in the Basilicata region of southern Italy, situated on the picturesque Tyrrhenian coast near the town of Maratea.
What to see or do: The village is divided into two parts by the port, with cafes, restaurants, and souvenir shops lining the harbor front.
From here, you can take a boat tour to explore the breathtaking coastline and nearby beaches, including the famous Black Sand Beach.
Don’t miss: Visiting the Church of Saint Nicholas, with its beautiful frescoes and ancient stone walls. Take a stroll to the top of the village for incredible panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and sea.
Insider travel tips: For a unique experience, hike along the coast to discover secluded coves and swimming areas. Be sure to try the local cuisine, including fresh seafood dishes and traditional homemade pasta.
Visit during the low season for fewer crowds and lower prices.