Basiliani Hotel

We stayed at Basiliani Hotel in Matera last September, and it was an extremely disappointing experience. For over $300 a night, we expected basic cleanliness, privacy, working utilities and respectful service. Later we found that similar rooms typically go for closer to $100. At check-in, our bathroom and shower were completely open to the bedroom, with no door or frosted glass for privacy. Paint and white dust covered the floor, so anything we put down picked up residue on our clothes and belongings. The air felt full of particles, and by morning I was struggling to breathe, almost like an asthma attack. We couldn’t reach anyone that night because the front desk staff leave at 10 PM. The next morning we asked to move rooms, and staff said it would be handled while we were out. When we got back around 11 PM, the room had been changed, but things were worse: no hot water, filthy bathroom curtains, peeling paint on the bathtub, and a tub spout coming out of the wall. Again, no staff were there to help. We called at 7 AM and were told they knew about the hot water problem and were “working on it.” We checked out that morning after taking freezing cold showers. The service also felt shockingly unprofessional. At check-in, we asked for a simple box of tissues and were laughed at and told none were available. At checkout, we asked for help with our luggage and were told they don’t help with bags. The man at the front desk was rude and dismissive, even putting his hand in my face when I tried to speak. The only good parts were the kind woman serving breakfast each morning and the gentleman who drove us between the parking lot and hotel. Both were courteous and professional. The hotel never even acknowledged that I hoped for some compensation. We left feeling disrespected, disappointed and physically unwell. I’d recommend staying elsewhere in Matera. If zero stars were an option, that’s what I’d give.

Having breakfast while looking out over this ancient city was unforgettable. I had a wonderful stay, and especially want to thank Lucia for her warm welcome and excellent service.

The views just outside the hotel are stunning. We only spent one night, but we’ll definitely return, it’s an amazing place and I’d highly recommend it. Staying in an old cave dwelling with modern comforts is a must in Matera. If you’re arriving by car, the hotel offers a free outdoor car park or secure paid parking for €25 per 24 hours. Giuseppe picked us up and drove us to the hotel, sharing little bits about Matera and places worth seeing and eating along the way.

This was the best hotel we stayed at on our two-week trip around Italy. It’s away from the bustle of the Main Street, but still really close to everything. The owner/manager was so helpful, gave us a map and helped us work out where to go. Our room was huge, and so was the shower. Just be aware that the shower is glass and uncovered if you’re travelling with friends and want some privacy. Breakfast was epic, with so much to choose from. If you’re driving, you can leave the car in a car park on the outskirts and they’ll pick you up and drop you back later. We’ll definitely return!