SS18 Costa di Maratea Scenic Drive
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SS18 Costa di Maratea Scenic Drive

4.7
·404 reviews·, Italy

A breathtaking coastal drive along the SS18, featuring dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and the iconic Maratea Skywalk.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
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SS18 Costa di Maratea Scenic Drive

SS18 Costa di Maratea Scenic Drive

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A breathtaking coastal drive along the SS18, featuring dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and the iconic Maratea Skywalk.

4.7
(404 reviews)

"Simply Amazing! I have never seen a sea view like that! Highly recommended."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Drive with Caution

The SS18 is winding! Take your time, enjoy the views, and be mindful of sharp turns. :car:

📸 Skywalk Photo Ops

The Skywalk offers incredible photo opportunities. The glass-bottomed section is a must-see! :camerawithflash:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Maratea Skywalk

Maratea Skywalk

Cersuta, Maratea

A breathtaking terrace suspended over the sea, offering infinite panoramas and a thrilling experience. Step into the blue!

Cristo Redentore Statue

Cristo Redentore Statue

Monte San Biagio, Maratea

This iconic statue offers a commanding presence and spectacular views of the coastline and village below.

Spiaggia Nera (Black Beach)

Spiaggia Nera (Black Beach)

Maratea

Unique volcanic sand beach offering a striking contrast against the turquoise waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Curves: Drive Smart

The SS18 Costa di Maratea is a winding coastal road. Expect sharp turns and breathtaking drops. Drive cautiously, especially if you're not used to mountain roads. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to avoid traffic and fully soak in the stunning views.

Skywalk Thrills & Views

Don't miss the Maratea Skywalk for unparalleled coastal panoramas. While the main part is accessible, the glass-bottomed section may not be suitable for everyone. Plan your visit to include this unique vantage point for unforgettable photos.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better photos
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour for stunning light
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

This is most underrated part of Italy 🫶 I am so proud to grow up here ❤️ Follow me to discover this corne of italy 🍕🇮🇹 Have you ever been to the region where Matera is? #matera #maratea #italia
@whereyouneedtobe
12.5K likes • 169.5K views

🚗 Drive with Caution

The SS18 is winding! Take your time, enjoy the views, and be mindful of sharp turns. :car:

📸 Skywalk Photo Ops

The Skywalk offers incredible photo opportunities. The glass-bottomed section is a must-see! :camerawithflash:

🖋️La mia è la storia di uno che voleva andarsene dalla #Basilicata, e se n’è andato. Ma che ora vuole tornare. 🎤 L’emozionante appello di #RoccoPapaleo per sostenere #Maratea Capitale italiana della cultura 2026 davanti alla commissione del @Ministero della Cultura #maratea2026 #cultura
@fondazionenitti
10.8K likes • 360K views
A Cersuta di Maratea il cielo incontra il mare. Lo Skywalk, una terrazza sospesa che regala panorami infiniti e brividi d’emozione. Un passo… e sei nel blu. #perte #foruyou #neiperte #travel #valeriaedavideintour #travelblogger #maratea #skywalk
@valeriaedavideintour
4.4K likes • 205.5K views

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing some walking, especially around viewpoints. Wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:

🅿️ Free Parking Available

Parking is available and free at key viewpoints like the Skywalk. :parking:

🚶‍♂️ Skywalk Maratea #skywalk #maratea #basilicata #visitmaratea #cristodimaratea #travelitaly #igersitalia
@jep.tedesco
3.3K likes • 183.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Drive with Caution

The SS18 is winding! Take your time, enjoy the views, and be mindful of sharp turns. :car:

📸 Skywalk Photo Ops

The Skywalk offers incredible photo opportunities. The glass-bottomed section is a must-see! :camerawithflash:

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing some walking, especially around viewpoints. Wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:

🅿️ Free Parking Available

Parking is available and free at key viewpoints like the Skywalk. :parking:

🌊 Embrace the Coast

Explore the various coves and beaches along the drive for a true taste of the Maratea coast. :ocean:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(404 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the absolutely stunning sea views and the unique experience offered by the Maratea Skywalk. The free parking and accessibility of the Skywalk are frequently praised. Some wish for better connectivity between walking paths and mention minor accessibility issues with the glass-bottomed section.

"Great views over the Maratea coastline and the Gulf of Policastro. The last part of the Skywalk with the glass bottom is not wheelchair accessible, I recommend the administration to address this issue.
I wish the path apprezzami l'asino would be connected to the one starting in Sapri and ending to the Torre di Mezzanotte. I jogged there from Acquafredda village.
Free car parking is available."

Fabrizio Andreuzzi

"Beautiful place. Definitely recommend"

Manuels Jakovenko

"Simply Amazing! I have never seen a sea view like that! Highly recommended"

lilyroa18

What People Like

Amazing sea views
Incredible Skywalk experience
Free parking

What People Dislike

Glass-bottom accessibility
Path connectivity

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The SS18 is a public road accessible by car. It runs along the coast, connecting towns like Sapri and Maratea. Many visitors start their journey from Sapri to experience the most dramatic coastal views as they head towards Maratea. TikTok

The drive is scenic but can be challenging due to its winding nature and steep drops. It's recommended for drivers comfortable with mountain roads. Take your time and enjoy the breathtaking scenery. TikTok

While the SS18 is best explored by car, Maratea has a train station. From there, local buses or taxis can help you reach specific attractions like the Skywalk or the Christ the Redeemer statue. TikTok

Many travelers begin their SS18 journey from Sapri, heading south towards Maratea, to experience the most dramatic coastal vistas. Others might start from Maratea and explore north. TikTok

Absolutely! The SS18 is a popular route for motorcyclists, offering thrilling curves and spectacular sea views. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The SS18 itself is a public road and does not require an entrance fee. However, some specific attractions along the route, like the Skywalk, may have associated costs or parking fees. Reddit

The Maratea Skywalk experience is generally free, including onsite parking. This makes it an accessible and highly recommended stop along the scenic drive. Reddit

Access to the area around the Christ the Redeemer statue is typically free. You can admire the statue and enjoy the panoramic views without an entrance fee. TikTok

While specific hours can vary, the Skywalk is generally accessible during daylight hours. It's best to check locally or plan your visit during typical tourist operating times. TikTok

Most beaches along the SS18 are public and free to access. Some may have private lidos where you can rent sunbeds and umbrellas for a fee. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The Maratea Skywalk offers incredible vantage points for dramatic coastal shots. The area around the Christ the Redeemer statue also provides sweeping panoramas. Don't forget the charming black sand beaches! TikTok+2

Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers the most magical light for capturing the dramatic coastline and sea. Weekday mornings can also be great for fewer crowds. TikTok+1

Drone usage regulations can vary. While some videos showcase drone footage, it's essential to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying to avoid issues. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is perfect for capturing the expansive coastal landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for details of the coastline or the Christ statue. A polarizing filter can enhance the blues of the sea and sky. :camerawithflash:

The Skywalk is a prime location. Also, look for designated pull-off areas along the SS18 that offer safe spots to stop and capture the stunning scenery. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Maratea offers delicious Southern Italian cuisine, with a focus on fresh seafood, local produce, and traditional Basilicata dishes. Expect pasta, grilled fish, and regional specialties. TikTok

While the SS18 is primarily a scenic route, you'll find excellent dining options in the town of Maratea itself and in smaller coastal villages. Look for trattorias offering sea views. TikTok

Many restaurants offer vegetable-based dishes, and you can often request modifications. Fresh salads, pasta with vegetable sauces, and grilled vegetables are usually available. TikTok

Don't miss fresh grilled fish, 'lagane e ceci' (pasta with chickpeas), and local cheeses. The region also produces excellent olive oil and wines. TikTok

Maratea offers a range of dining experiences, from casual trattorias and pizzerias to more upscale restaurants, catering to various budgets and preferences. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The SS18 Costa di Maratea offers stunning views that can captivate older children, but the winding roads might be challenging for very young ones. The Maratea Skywalk is a unique experience, though the glass-bottomed section might be too intense for some kids. Beaches like Spiaggia Nera offer a fun and accessible spot for families to relax and play. TikTok+1

Consider breaking up the drive with stops at these beaches or enjoying a picnic with a view. The Christ the Redeemer statue offers impressive views, but the climb might be tiring for little legs. Prioritize accessible viewpoints and beaches for a more enjoyable family outing.

🚗 Road Trip Enthusiasts

For those who love a good drive, the SS18 Costa di Maratea is a dream. The winding coastal road offers constant, dramatic scenery, making every turn a photo opportunity. It's a route that rewards careful driving with unparalleled views of the Tyrrhenian Sea. TikTok

Plan for plenty of stops to truly absorb the beauty. Key highlights include the Maratea Skywalk for its unique perspective and the Christ the Redeemer statue for its commanding presence and panoramic vistas. Don't forget to explore the charming black sand beaches like Spiaggia Nera for a different coastal experience. TikTok+2

📸 Photography Buffs

The SS18 Costa di Maratea is a photographer's paradise. The dramatic cliffs meeting the sea, the vibrant blue waters, and the charming villages create endless visual opportunities. The Maratea Skywalk is a prime spot for capturing unique perspectives, especially with its glass-bottomed section. TikTok+2

Aim for golden hour for the most dramatic lighting on the coastline and the Christ the Redeemer statue. The Spiaggia Nera offers a striking contrast for unique beach photography. Remember to bring a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive landscapes and a polarizing filter to enhance the sea and sky colors. TikTok+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Thrill of the Maratea Skywalk

The Maratea Skywalk is a modern architectural marvel that has quickly become a must-visit attraction. Suspended precariously over the cliffs, this unique viewpoint offers an exhilarating experience and unparalleled vistas of the Tyrrhenian Sea and the rugged Maratea coastline. Visitors describe it as stepping into the blue, with the sea stretching out infinitely below. TikTok+2

While the main platform provides stunning views, the section with a glass bottom adds an extra layer of thrill for those brave enough to walk on it. It's an incredible spot for photography, capturing the dramatic landscape and the feeling of being suspended between sky and sea. Remember to wear non-slip shoes for safety and to fully enjoy the experience. TikTokReddit

It's important to note that the glass-bottomed section may not be accessible for everyone, including those with mobility issues or in wheelchairs. Despite this, the overall experience of the Skywalk is highly recommended for its unique perspective and breathtaking beauty. Reddit

Driving the SS18: A Coastal Adventure

The SS18 Costa di Maratea is more than just a road; it's an experience. This scenic drive hugs the coastline, revealing dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and sparkling turquoise waters. It's a journey that demands attention, with its numerous hairpin turns and steep ascents and descents, but the rewards are immense. TikTok

Travelers often describe the drive as breathtaking and exhilarating. It's a route best savored, with plenty of opportunities to pull over at designated viewpoints to admire the Gulf of Policastro and the charming villages clinging to the hillsides. The road connects key attractions, making it the perfect way to explore the region's natural beauty. TikTok+1

For the best experience, consider driving during daylight hours and avoiding peak times if possible to fully appreciate the scenery without the stress of heavy traffic. Motorcyclists particularly enjoy this route for its challenging curves and stunning panoramas. TikTok

Maratea's Iconic Christ the Redeemer

Perched atop Monte San Biagio, the Christ the Redeemer statue (Cristo Redentore) is a prominent landmark overlooking Maratea and the surrounding coastline. This colossal statue, similar to its famous counterpart in Rio de Janeiro, offers a sense of awe and provides a magnificent backdrop for the town. TikTok

Visitors can ascend to the statue to admire its grandeur up close and, more importantly, to take in the spectacular panoramic views. From this vantage point, you can see the entire Gulf of Policastro, the picturesque town of Maratea, and the vast expanse of the Tyrrhenian Sea. It's a truly unforgettable sight. TikTok

While the statue itself is a significant draw, the journey to reach it and the views it commands are equally impressive. It's a place that combines religious significance with breathtaking natural beauty, making it a key stop for anyone visiting the area. TikTok

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