Compare prices and check availability to find the cheapest car hire in Matera and save on your trip today.
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Do You Need a Car in Matera
Matera’s Sassi historic area is compact and best explored on foot. The streets are cobbled and often very narrow.
A car becomes useful for family trips, visiting the Alta Murgia National Park, and exploring nearby towns. The park lies about 30 to 40 minutes drive from Matera centre, so a car saves time and makes day trips easier.
Where to Find Car Hire at Matera
Local agencies operate in the city and near the main bus station. Many international brands also list city pickup points that meet customers near central parking areas.
For more choice and sometimes lower rates, travellers often compare rental options from Bari or Brindisi airports. Picking up at these airports can add driving time but increase vehicle availability.
Driving in Matera – What to Expect
Expect narrow lanes, steep rises and one-way streets around the old town. Drivers must be cautious on cobbles and on steep descents.
Traffic is lighter than in major Italian cities, but tourist seasons bring busy periods. Summer afternoons and evenings see more pedestrian traffic near viewpoints.
Parking and ZTL Rules in Matera
Matera enforces Zona a Traffico Limitato zones in and around the Sassi and the cathedral area. Cameras monitor access at many entry points.
Most visitors park in public lots at the Sassi perimeter. Blue-marked spaces require payment at machines. White spaces are usually free but can be limited near viewpoints.
Picking Up Your Rental Car at Matera
Bring a valid driving licence, passport and the credit card used for the deposit. Non-EU licences sometimes require an International Driving Permit. Check with your supplier.
Inspect the car with the agent and photograph any damage. Request a written note of existing scratches. This reduces disputes at return.
How to Get the Cheapest Car Hire at Matera
Book early and compare weekday and weekend rates. Long hires often reduce the daily rate.
A compact or economy car is the cheapest option for narrow streets. Manual cars are more common and usually cost less than automatics.
Car Hire Cost by Vehicle Type
Typical daily rates vary with season and vehicle size. The table below gives a realistic range for planning.
| Car Type | Typical Daily Cost (Low Season) | Typical Daily Cost (High Season) |
|---|---|---|
| Economy / City | €25–€40 | €40–€70 |
| Compact / Family | €35–€55 | €55–€90 |
| SUV / Crossover | €45–€75 | €75–€120 |
| 7 Seater / 8 Seater | €70–€100 | €100–€160 |
Smaller cars cut costs and ease parking in the Sassi. Larger vehicles suit groups and luggage but cost more and are harder to park.
Hidden Fees to Watch Out For
Watch for extras that raise the final price. Ask for a full cost breakdown before you sign the rental agreement.
| Extra | Typical Cost | Can It Be Avoided? |
|---|---|---|
| Young driver fee | €10–€30 per day | Sometimes, by choosing suppliers with lower age limits |
| Airport supplement | €15–€40 one-off | Yes, by collecting in town |
| Additional driver | €5–€15 per day | Often waived with loyalty programmes |
| Fuel service charge | €40–€80 | Yes, by refuelling before return |
| Cross-border fee | €25–€100 | Yes, by avoiding international travel |
Refuel before returning to avoid high refuelling charges. Ask about peak season supplements and local taxes.
What to Know Before You Hire a Car at Matera
Insurance options vary. Collision Damage Waiver reduces liability but read the excess amount carefully. European Green Card may be required for some non-EU drivers.
Choose a small car for the Sassi and a larger vehicle for longer drives. Check tyre condition if you plan to visit higher elevations in winter. Keep documents and rental contact numbers with you.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is a car necessary in Matera? A car helps for day trips and families. Not required to visit the Sassi.
- Can I drive into the Sassi? Access is restricted by ZTL zones. Most visitors park outside and walk in.
- Where is the best place to park? Use the public car parks at the Sassi perimeter. These give easy walking access to viewpoints.
- Are automatic cars available? Yes, but they cost more. Book early if you need an automatic.
- Do I need an International Driving Permit? Non-EU licences may require one. Check your country rules before travel.
- How far is Matera from Bari airport? About 1 hour by car. Compare prices at both locations before booking.
- Are there toll roads nearby? Yes. Motorways to Bari and other regions have tolls. Carry a card or cash.
- What if I get a fine for entering a ZTL? Fines are issued to the vehicle owner. Contact your rental company promptly if that happens.