Both are UNESCO. Both are unique stone architecture. 1 hour apart by car.
Plan your trip →Cave city (sassi). 9,000 years of habitation. Evacuated 1950s as a disgrace, now a luxury destination. European Capital of Culture 2019. Stay: €70–150/night in a sassi room. 1–2 days.
1,500 conical trulli. UNESCO since 1996. Smaller, quicker to see (2–3 hours). Stay: €50–100 in a trullo room. A bit more touristy-commercial.
Matera: deeper experience, overnight essential. Alberobello: half-day visit, fun but thinner. Do both — they’re 1 hour apart.