Metaponto is a useful base for the lower Basilicata coast. Matera, an hour inland, is the obvious next move — the sassi cave dwellings are unmissable. Closer to hand, Bernalda (15 km north) has the family castle of the Coppolas and a pleasant historic centre. Heading south along the coast, Policoro has another important archaeological museum at the site of ancient Heraclea.