If you've explored Matera's cave dwellings and are ready to hit the beaches of Isola di Capo Rizzuto, there are a limited number of ways to make the 159-mile (256 km) journey from the Basilicata region's landmark city to the town on the Ionian Sea. Driving is the most practical method, with much of the ride passing along the iconic coastline. A combination of trains and buses can also get you there, but it's a slow, convoluted journey.
By Rental Car or Private Transfer
Duration: Appx. 3.5 hrs
While navigating a car in the historic Sassi di Matera section of that city can be tricky, once you're outside of Matera, you'll find good roads to take you all the way to Isola di Capo Rizzuto.
The first leg of the journey is on the SP380/SP3, a two-lane provincial road. At Metaponto, you'll pick up the E90, the roadway that runs all the way to Isola di Capo Rizzuto. Some sections of the E90 are two-lane while others consist of a four-lane, divided roadway. Large sections of the E90 run right along the coastline, meaning you'll enjoy beautiful views for most of the 3-hour, 15-minute drive.
If your budget allows, hiring a private driver is a more comfortable option for getting between the two cities.
By Bus & Train
Duration: 6 hours
By public transportation, the shortest route from Matera to Isola di Capo Rizzuto involves a bus, a train, and another bus, with some distances to walk between bus stops and train stations—not practical with a lot of luggage. Because there are only a few buses and trains each day, you need to time your journey carefully.
The SITASud bus from Matera runs three times a day to Metaponto. From there, a Trenitalia Intercity train to Crotone makes the 2-hour, 30-minute journey twice a day—once in the morning and once in the early afternoon. From Crotone, regional Autolinee Romano buses make the 30-minute trip to Isola di Capo Rizzuto several times a day.
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