La casa di Francesca

The apartment is basic and furnished simply, but it works and has what you need. There's a living area with a sofa, table and chairs, wall-mounted TV, efficient fridge and air conditioning, plus a pod coffee machine, bottled water and a welcome croissant. No kitchen, though there are a few things for putting together a quick meal if you bring food in. It suited us well without special expectations, and the value for the price is hard to beat. The owner was very helpful, with excellent communication even over WhatsApp. On arrival he gave detailed information about the accommodation and stay, as well as a list of places to eat, from good restaurants to cheaper self-service spots. The location is outside the historic center but close enough to walk there in about 10 minutes. Parking is in a reserved spot right by the entrance, and we could leave the car there for several hours after checkout.

The bed was tucked into something like a 4-square-meter closet, and there were ants in the house. The vending machine was broken, so there was no coffee, cookies, or especially water. The host hadn't told me, and since it was Sunday, nearby bars and supermarkets were closed. Check-in was meant to be at 4 PM. He told me to come whenever, then asked for my ID around 1 PM, which I sent. But he never provided the entry code. I had to ask neighbors for his number, then message repeatedly on Airbnb and WhatsApp and call without getting a response. He finally sent the code at 6 PM, two hours after the agreed time. €42 inconvenience. Zero professionalism. Highly not recommended.

Friendly staff and really good rustici. The bar is close to Matera's center, just a short walk from the pedestrian area, and the panzerotti are excellent. If you want to try them, I'd book ahead.

The place was run-down, with no real welcome, just a phone check-in instead of meeting anyone in person. It was also listed on Booking with false information. The living room shutters were broken, so we couldn't get out to the terrace. The bathroom ceiling was badly cracked, the shower flooded, and the shower cabin had months of dirt built up. On top of that, the property is in an IACP public housing building. I don't think that's legal, though I don't know what the law says.