Maratea, Basilicata: Things to Do & Guide to Christ the Redeemer Statue
Discover Maratea, Basilicata, including Christ the Redeemer, Monte San Biagio, beaches, historic churches, boat tours, food, and things to do.
9/21/20269 min read
(A lovely piazza in the heart of Maratea)
*A little disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you use these links to buy something, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks!
There are some places in Italy that seem to get all the attention: Rome. Florence. Venice. The Amalfi Coast. Even here in southern Italy, places like Tropea and the towns along the Calabria coast tend to steal the spotlight.
But just across the border in Basilicata is a little coastal town that deserves a spot on your Italy itinerary: Maratea.
Sitting along the Tyrrhenian coast, Maratea is a mix of mountains, sea, beaches, winding roads, little streets, old churches, and some seriously beautiful views. And then there is the thing you can't really miss...
The enormous Christ the Redeemer Statue sitting high above the town with views you'll never forget! But once you get there, you'll quickly realize that the statue isn't the only reason to visit Maratea.
Here's what to know before you go, including what to see, things to do, and how to visit the famous Christ the Redeemer of Maratea. And trust me, this place should not be missed!
Where is Maratea?
Maratea is in the region of Basilicata, in the province of Potenza.
If you're looking at a map of southern Italy, Basilicata is the region tucked between Campania, Puglia, and Calabria. Maratea sits on Basilicata's small stretch of Tyrrhenian coastline, overlooking the Gulf of Policastro.
And that location is a big part of what makes Maratea so pretty. The town is surrounded by mountains but sits right beside the sea, so you get those beautiful southern Italian views where the landscape seems to drop straight toward the turquoise water.
Maratea is also close enough to Calabria that it can make a great addition to a southern Italy road trip.
The Christ the Redeemer of Maratea
Let's start with the most famous sight in town: the Christ the Redeemer Statue, or Cristo Redentore, sits on top of Monte San Biagio, overlooking Maratea. And yes, if you're thinking of the famous Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro, you're making the right connection.
The idea for Maratea's statue came from entrepreneur Stefano Rivetti, who was inspired by the enormous statue of Christ in Rio. The Maratea version was designed by Florentine sculptor Bruno Innocenti and construction took place between 1963 and 1965.
But here's something I found especially interesting about it. The statue isn't actually facing the sea. It faces the nearby Basilica of San Biagio. The way the statue was designed creates an optical illusion from a distance that makes it appear as though Christ is looking out over the sea.
The statue stands a little over 21 meters tall, with arms stretching almost 20 meters across. It's made from concrete mixed with Carrara marble and rises directly from the rock without a traditional pedestal.
And when you're standing near it, it is BIG. Pictures really don't give you the same sense of scale. You cannot skip going up to the statue when you're in the area. It's an incredible experience, and the views alone will make the trip worth it.
The Statue of Christ the Redeemer in Maratea
How to Visit Christ the Redeemer in Maratea
The statue is located at the top of Monte San Biagio, near the Basilica of San Biagio.
You can reach the area by road, and there is also a walking route for those who want to make the climb on foot.
The road itself is part of the experience. As you make your way up the mountain, you'll get glimpses of the coastline and surrounding landscape along the way.
During busy periods, access and parking arrangements can change, so it's worth checking the current local information before you go. Seasonal shuttle services may also operate when vehicle access is limited.
Once you arrive near the basilica, it's a relatively short walk to the statue. There are stairs and some uphill walking, so comfortable shoes are a good idea.
And don't rush this part. The whole point of going up Monte San Biagio isn't just to snap a picture of the statue and leave.
Take some time to look around. The views are absolutely breathtaking!
The View from Christ the Redeemer
Honestly, this may be one of the best reasons to visit the statue. From the top of Monte San Biagio, you can look out over Maratea, the surrounding mountains, and the luminous blue waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea.
Because you're so high above everything, you get a completely different perspective of the coastline.
I would especially try to visit earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon when the light is softer, and the temperatures aren't as intense.
The breathtaking views from the Statue of Christ the Redeemer
Visit the Basilica of San Biagio
While you're at the top of Monte San Biagio, don't skip the Basilica of San Biagio.
The basilica is dedicated to Saint Blaise, the patron saint of Maratea, and is an important religious site for the town.
The statue and basilica are right beside each other, so it makes sense to see both during the same visit.
The setting is also pretty special. You're surrounded by the mountain, old stone, religious history, and those incredible views over the coast.
It's one of those places where the setting is almost as memorable as the building itself.
Basilica San Biagio
Explore Maratea's Historic Center
After visiting Monte San Biagio, head down into Maratea's centro storico. This is where you can slow things down a little and just wander.
Maratea is known as the City of 44 Churches, so you'll find churches and small religious sites tucked throughout the town. You'll also find narrow lanes, stone buildings, little piazzas, shops, cafés, and restaurants.
This is the part of Maratea where I'd recommend putting the map away for a while. Get lost in the streets. Stop for a coffee. Buy some souvenirs in a little shop.
Sit in a piazza and have lunch or just watch people go about their day. That's one of my favorite ways to experience Italy anyway.
The lovely cobblestone streets and architecture of Maratea
Some of the churches I visited in Maratea
Spend some time at the beach
Maratea isn't just about mountains and churches. It has some beautiful little beaches and coves scattered along its coastline.
One of the most famous is Spiaggia Nera, also known as Cala Jannita. As the name suggests, the beach is known for its dark volcanic-looking shoreline, surrounded by the rocky coastline and clear water.
And because of Maratea's geography, many of the beaches feel tucked away between cliffs and greenery rather than stretched out like a huge resort beach. That's part of the charm.
Just keep in mind that getting down to some of these beaches can involve stairs or steep paths. So if you're planning a beach day, wear shoes you can actually walk in.
Take a boat tour along the coast
If you have time for another activity, consider seeing Maratea from the water.
The coastline is full of little coves, caves, rocky formations and beaches that are difficult to appreciate from the road. A boat tour gives you a completely different view of Maratea.
You can find excursions departing from the area around the port, with some tours including stops for swimming and exploring the coastline.
You could also be even more adventurous and book a kayaking tour through the caves of Maratea.
The incredible coastline near Maratea
Visit Porto di Maratea
Maratea also has a small harbor area that's worth visiting. Porto di Maratea is a nice place to wander around, especially if you want a break from sightseeing.
You can watch the boats, grab something to eat, or have a drink while enjoying the waterfront. It's also a good starting point for boat excursions along the coast.
If you're staying overnight, the port area gives you a completely different feel from the historic center. The old town feels more traditional and tucked into the hills, while the port has that relaxed coastal atmosphere.
Eat Your Way Through Basilicata
You can't visit a new region of Italy without eating your way through it. And Basilicata has plenty worth trying.
Look for local dishes featuring pasta, cheeses, vegetables, meats, and seafood, depending on where you are along the coast.
One ingredient you'll see throughout Basilicata is peperoni cruschi, a dried red pepper that's become one of the region's signature foods.
It's crunchy, flavorful and used in everything from pasta dishes to appetizers. It's my favorite snack, and I eat them often in Calabria.
And don't forget dessert. If you see bocconotto di Maratea on a menu or in a bakery, give it a try. It's a traditional sweet associated with the area.
But really, traveling in Italy is basically just an excuse to eat dessert in every town. And don't forget to grab a gelato during your evening passeggiata!
Where to Eat in Maratea
You'll find restaurants throughout the historic center, around the port, and in the surrounding countryside.
For something in the historic center, Divino Enoteca e Specialità Regionali is a small wine shop and restaurant where you can try regional specialties.
For a more traditional meal, there are family-run restaurants serving local dishes, homemade pasta, and seafood.
And if you're staying near the coast, the restaurants around Porto di Maratea are a great option for seafood and a meal with a view.
One thing I love about eating in smaller Italian towns is that you don't necessarily need a famous restaurant. Sometimes the best meal is the little place you just happen to find while wandering around.
Where to stay in Maratea
If you want to really experience Maratea, I'd stay at least one night rather than trying to squeeze everything into a few hours.
Maratea historic center:
Staying in Maratea's historic center this is a good choice if you want to be surrounded by old streets, restaurants, cafés and the traditional side of town.
I would recommend staying at La Locanda Delle Donne Monache. The views from the pool and terrace are phenomenal, and it includes breakfast.
How Much Time Do You Need in Maratea?
You can definitely see the highlights of Maratea in a day. If you only have one day, I'd prioritize:
Christ the Redeemer
Basilica of San Biagio
Maratea historic center
A beach or coastal viewpoint
Dinner in town
But if you have two days, even better. That gives you time to explore without feeling like you're racing from one attraction to the next.
You could spend one day exploring the historic center and Monte San Biagio and another day enjoying the coast, taking a boat tour, and relaxing at the beach.
Panoramic view from Maratea
Why Maratea is Worth Visiting
I think Maratea is one of those places that works especially well if you're looking for a different side of Italy.
It offers mountain views, the sea, tiny beaches and caves, old churches, a beautiful historic center, good food, and nice people. And, of course, a giant Christ statue looking out from the top of the mountain.
Maratea also gives you a chance to experience Basilicata, a region that doesn't always make it onto the first-time Italy itinerary.
A Few Tips Before Visiting Maratea
Wear comfortable shoes. There are hills, stairs, and uneven streets.
Bring water. Especially if you're visiting Monte San Biagio or walking around during the warmer months.
Don't underestimate the drive. The roads around Maratea are beautiful, but they're mountainous and winding.
Give yourself more time than you think you'll need. You'll probably want to stop for photos. A lot!
Check seasonal access information before heading to Christ the Redeemer. Parking and vehicle access can vary depending on the time of year and how busy the area is.
Don't just visit the statue. The historic center, beaches, and coastline are a huge part of what makes Maratea special.
Maratea is More Than the Statue
The Christ the Redeemer statue may be the thing that first puts Maratea on your radar, but it shouldn't be the only reason you go.
For me, the appeal of Maratea is really the whole picture. The town reminds me of the idyllic little cobblestone villages you see in the movies. It's just gorgeous! So don't skip this one. You won't regret it.
