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Province of Potenza

Maratea

Basilicata's pearl on the Tyrrhenian Sea

Discover Maratea

Maratea is Basilicata’s only stretch of Tyrrhenian coast: some thirty kilometres of cliffs, coves, sea caves and dark-sand beaches, with mountains running straight down to the sea.

On top of Monte San Biagio the great statue of Christ the Redeemer looks over the Gulf of Policastro; next to it stand the basilica of San Biagio and the remains of the ancient village. The old town below is a maze of lanes, small squares and churches, while the harbour, Fiumicello and Acquafredda are the starting points for boat trips along the coast.

It’s worth visiting in summer for the sea and in the other seasons for its trails and views.

What to see in a day

Maratea is the only town in Basilicata on the Tyrrhenian Sea, with about thirty kilometres of coast made of cliffs, coves and dark-sand beaches.

  • The statue of Christ the Redeemer on Monte San Biagio, over 20 metres tall, overlooking the whole Gulf of Policastro
  • The Basilica of San Biagio, next to the statue
  • The compact old town of lanes and small squares, known as "the town of 44 churches"
  • The harbour and the villages of Fiumicello, Acquafredda and Marina di Maratea
  • The Marina di Maratea cave, with stalactites and stalagmites

When to go

June to September for the sea; May and October are ideal for walking the trails and seeing the old town without crowds. In May the town celebrates its patron saint, San Biagio, with a procession up the mountain.

Getting there

By train: Maratea station is on the Tyrrhenian line between Salerno and Reggio Calabria. By car, take the SS18 coast road or the A2 motorway, exit Lagonegro. A scenic road climbs from Maratea to the Redeemer statue.

What to eat

Fresh fish and anchovies from the gulf, hand-made fusilli, crunchy dried peppers and cheeses from the mountains behind the town.

Frequently asked questions

Which are the best beaches in Maratea?

Among the best known are Spiaggia Nera, Macarro, Cersuta and the beaches of Acquafredda and Fiumicello. Many coves can only be reached on foot or by boat.

How do I get to the Christ the Redeemer statue?

A scenic road climbs Monte San Biagio; from the last car park it is a short walk.

Can I reach Maratea by train?

Yes, Maratea station is on the Tyrrhenian railway between Salerno and Reggio Calabria.

Is Maratea worth visiting out of season?

Yes: in spring and autumn there are fewer people, the trails are pleasant and the old town is quiet.

On the map

  • Things to see

Things to see in Maratea

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