Despite its small size, Basilicata is a region bursting with cultural richness and stunning natural beauty. The deep blue of the Ionian coast melts into the green of its mountainous valleys, painting the landscape with a vivid, kaleidoscopic palette. Castles, museums, literary parks, and art galleries dot the Lucanian territory. Whether you're planning a cultural tour, dreaming of relaxing by the sea, or eager to explore parks and mountains, Basilicata is the perfect destination for an outdoor holiday—welcoming you with options from tents and campers to luxurious glamping spots.
Between Policoro and the Ionian Sea: Camping Just Steps from the Shore
Nestled in the fertile plains of Metaponto, near the banks of the Agri River, lies a coastal town with ancient roots and a long stretch of beach: Policoro. A gem on the Ionian Sea, Policoro is the perfect gateway to some of the region's most fascinating treasures.
Just outside the modern town are the ruins of ancient Heraclea, a significant city in Magna Graecia, testifying to the area's long and storied past. But beyond its cultural charm, Policoro is best known for its gorgeous stretch along the Gulf of Taranto. You can set up your tent just ten minutes from the sea and soak in the crystal-clear waters—which earned their eighth consecutive Blue Flag award in 2024—and enjoy sandy beaches, both free and fully equipped with all the amenities you might need.
Policoro isn’t just about the beach, though. It's a hub of natural beauty, so much so that the WWF has placed part of its landscape under protection. Park your camper or caravan near the Bosco Pantano Nature Reserve, a rich ecosystem home to diverse flora and fauna that’s well worth exploring.
Experience the Charm of Matera While Staying in the Countryside
One of the most captivating places to visit in Basilicata is undoubtedly Matera, world-famous for its ancient cave districts, the "Sassi," which make it one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities on the planet. Matera has been charming visitors for centuries with its unique and dramatic scenery.
While the underground city is a well-known treasure, the surrounding countryside has just as much to offer. The rolling hills around Matera are scattered with scenic campgrounds and rest areas. Pitch your tent among olive trees in Tricarico, a town known for its Moorish-inspired neighborhoods, and wake up to breathtaking views of the Mantenera Forest, a haven for hikers. Whether you're in a tent, camper, or caravan, Ferrandina—located near the Basento River—is a great spot surrounded by olive groves and characterized by quaint white houses connected by staircases. Not far off, you'll find another beautiful stop in Irsina, once known as Montepeloso, a town steeped in history and culture.
And if you don’t have a tent or camper but still want to enjoy life outdoors, no worries: near Matera, in the peaceful rural village of Grottole, there’s a cozy caravan waiting for you on a local farm.
Off the Beaten Track: Camping in Northern Basilicata
Northern Basilicata is all about peaceful countryside landscapes—an ever-changing mix of plateaus, valleys, and charming villages.
If you're searching for a quiet spot to unwind in nature, Baragiano might be just what you need. Located in the heart of the Marmo Melandro area—so beautiful it almost feels enchanted—it’s perfect for long walks through forests full of wild strawberries, mushrooms, and butcher's broom.
A short drive away, you’ll find another campsite in a place with a fitting name: Bella ("Beautiful"). Tucked among the peaks of the Lucanian Apennines, Bella lives up to its name with sweeping views over the Melandro Valley and postcard-perfect sunsets.
Finally, not far from the regional capital of Potenza, you’ll find Pignola, a wonderfully convenient and scenic spot where we recommend camping in a lush garden setting. This charming village, perched on the mountainside, is an architectural gem and serves as a natural gateway connecting the Pantano di Pignola Nature Reserve, the Riffredo Forest, and the Sellata-Pierfaone mountain pass. Pignola is also famously known as the “Village of a Hundred Portals,” thanks to the decorative stone archways that adorn the façades of churches and historic buildings throughout the old town. Think you can spot them all?