The pretty Italian town just two hours from the Amalfi Coast with hardly any tourists
Whether you are exploring its historic sites, enjoying the local cuisine, or simply soaking up the sun on its beautiful beaches, Maratea offers a unique and unforgettable experience in one of Italy's lesser-known gems.
A pretty Italian town as stunning as the Amalfi Coast is a perfect place for those who are looking to spend some quality time without a large number of tourists. .
The hidden gem of Maratea, known as 'the pearl of the Tyrrhenian', is located in the Basilicata region just north of Campania.
One can easily reach it with a quick direct train from Salerno. The journey takes just an hour, allowing you to relax in the cool air-conditioned comfort.
Known for its stunning coastal scenery, Maratea is nestled between the mountains and the sea, offering breathtaking views of rugged cliffs, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters.
One of Maratea's most iconic landmarks is the towering Christ the Redeemer statue, known as "Cristo Redentore," which stands 21 metres tall on top of Monte San Biagio.
This statue is one of the tallest in Europe and provides panoramic views of the surrounding area.
The town itself is a charming blend of historic architecture and Mediterranean charm, with narrow winding streets, ancient churches, and traditional Italian restaurants.
Maratea's old town, or "Centro Storico," is particularly enchanting, with its medieval buildings and quaint squares.
Not only this, the town is also known for its caves, particularly the Grotta delle Meraviglie, a stunning cave system with impressive stalactites and stalagmites.
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Its coastline is dotted with numerous beaches and coves, some accessible only by boat, making it a popular destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.
A direct flight from London to Maratea on October 17 comes to around £53.
The town is also popular among tourists who have been to the unexplored destination.
A user wrote on the TripAdvisor forum: "Maratea, for me, was one of those wonderful little finds in Italy. It is very small and quaint. There is only one little piazza with a few stores and restaurants and really not much to do except take the bus down to the harbour.
"At the harbour there is a small restaurant and a lot of nice boats docked and you can walk to the beach. The water is beautiful aqua blue, but, like most beaches in Italy, the beach is covered in stones, not sand.
"It is very small, and there are sure to be a few locals there especially since there are some homes right along the road leading to the beach.
"The reason I loved Maratea is that there wasn't anything commercial or touristy about it. Each of the three days I was there I saw the same locals, I had my macchiato at the same bar where I bought my gelato at night.
"They had a wonderful creamy coffee drink there that was "to die" for. This little town does boast a 'Statue of the Redeemer' on top of a hill."
Another user wrote: "A mountain village....overlooking the sea!!!! This place contains parts of peasant tradition....mountain life....and everything that concerns the sea and life near it.
"What can I say, the mix of all these characteristics inspires a visit to this beautiful village, slipping into its old alleys where artisan art workshops, restaurants, and churches appear as if by magic......a place with a sea and mountain flavour."
