Matera Sassi

Discovering Matera, the city of the Sassi which has the title of European Capital of Culture for 2019 and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The ancient stony districts are characterized by houses carved into the limestone rock and rock churches that make it unique in the world. This natural conformation, which evokes biblical scenarios, has always made them ideal sets for important films, most recently the film by Ben Hur.

The thing that makes the Ape Calessino Tour special is the ease of getting to know and admire an extraordinary city, in an exclusive way (not in a group), optimizing times, without getting tired, especially in the summer, having fun. To be able to take photos, selfies and videos, alone or with your family, taking advantage of breathtaking views and unique views, which will remain in your heart.

Our guide will accompany you to discover the oldest and most fascinating area of the city of Matera: the historic Rioni Sassi. Along this pleasant walk, which winds through the alleys and panoramic views of Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano, there are many stops for historical, architectural and cultural insights. In particular, it will be possible to visit a 12th century rock church from the inside, one of the most representative carved into the rock, both for its still recognizable architectural structure and for the excellent state of conservation of the period wall paintings medieval.

The panoramic tour "Private Tour in Ape Calessino" – the Sassi in Ape "will allow you to have an exclusive experience to visit the city of Matera comfortably aboard the vintage and iconic ape calessino. The tour winds through the most beautiful alleys and squares, between Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano. During the tour you will make some panoramic stops in the central squares and you will be able to admire the main attractions of the city. An excellent opportunity to learn about the stories and curiosities of this heritage of humanity.

Explore Matera aboard a picturesque tuk tuk "Ape Calessino" and embark on a unique and captivating adventure. This tour will lead you through the charming streets of the city, allowing you to admire the famous Sassi di Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Book your Ape Calessino tour now and discover Matera in an exclusive way!  On top: • Cultural tour • Ape Calessino • Scenic tour with stops to take photos

English Guided tour in the Sasso Caveoso, Sasso Barisano and City Center During our guided tour we are going to see the amazing old city of Matera. We are going to visit Matera Underground. It is an underground complex in the historical center of Matera, dug into the rock. An underground tour, through different trade activities from the Middle Ages. The last part of the tour includes the entrance in the original cave house that will show you how the poor people lived in the past in the Sassi of Matera with original furniture of that time.

Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply someone who appreciates a remarkable dining experience, our Farmer's Lunch promises to enchant. Come join us on this extraordinary gastronomic journey! Imagine yourself in a captivating cave, surrounded by ancient stone walls that whisper stories of generations past. As you step into this unique setting, you'll feel the excitement building. And here's the best part: we're going to dive deep into the art of making Strascinate al tegamino, a traditional dish that has been perfected by local farmers for ages. As you indulge in the fruits of your labor, surrounded by the cave's enchanting atmosphere, you'll revel in a sense of accomplishment and pure satisfaction. The flavors will dance on your palate, reminding you of the rich heritage and culinary traditions that have shaped this incredible region.

Join this fascinating 2-hour private tour of the Matera Sassi. Meet your expert guide in Piazzetta Pascoli, a viewpoint with a breathtaking panorama over the stones of Matera. Make your way down narrow stairways into the heart of Sasso Caveoso, one of the two Civita' districts, towards the baroque style church, San Pietro Caveoso. Venture inside a rupestrian church (carved into the rock), visit Santa Maria di Idris, set into a large, limestone rock and the ancient monastery, Santa Lucia alle Malve that has remarkable 1000 year old frescoes. Head up a stairway to see a cave house and get an understanding how people once lived. In the Sasso Barisano district you can admire the churches of Saint Francis of Assisi, Saint Clare and the stunning Romanesque Cathedral. Marvel at this UNESCO World Heritage site and chosen location for numerous Hollywood movies. Together with your guide you'll discover the magic, history, architecture and stories of the exquisite Matera.

You will love Matera at the first sight. At first glance, Matera looks like any small Italian town, but in few steps from Baroque Churches and boutiques, you will discover a very special place called Sassi, where the people lived from the Neolithic Period until the 50th of the last century, and it is today the World Heritage Site and the stage for many films.

Emotional experience on board a Sightseeing to comfortably visit the modern and ancient districts of the city of Matera and to enjoy the beauty of both the Sassi, Caveoso and Barisano districts. The experiential tour ends on the Murgia Park of Matera where you can attend an unrepeatable natural spectacle of caves and ravines. It will therefore be possible to immortalize an unforgettable panorama offered by the Belvedere on the Sassi.

The Smart Card offers visitors the opportunity to visit unique and suggestive places within the Città dei Sassi: • Madonna delle Grazie Rock Church • Casa Grotta Narrante • Rock Church of Sant’Antonio Abate • Casa Cava • Stone Tales Museum • Immersive Museum of the Bruna

Trekking Through the Sassi and the Murgia: History, Nature, and Adventure Explore Matera on a breathtaking hike through stunning landscapes and ancient history! Start from the heart of the Sassi, guided by an expert guide, and follow the itinerary n. 406, leading you deep into the canyon of the Regional Park of Rupestrian Churches. Cross the thrilling Tibetan Bridge, suspended between sky, stream, and rock, and climb up to reach the Murgia plateau, where wild nature meets the charm of rock-hewn sites, and ancient testimonies carved into the stone. After an unforgettable journey through canyons, caves, and breathtaking views, a shuttle will take you back to Matera, leaving you with lasting memories of this incredible experience in the heart of Basilicata. A light trek, but full of emotions! Are you ready to go?

We’ll meet at Tramontano Castle, where I’ll explain the rules of the game and give you a map with riddles linked to the places you’ll need to discover. You’ll have 2 hours to solve them, using both your brain and your legs — but the reward will be worth it! Along the way, you’ll explore hidden corners and discover what I consider to be the true gems of the city. I’ll stay at the starting point to assist you or give you hints, if needed. At the end of the adventure, you’ll return to me to decipher the key and unlock the treasure chest together, while I share stories and fun facts about the places you’ve visited. Everyone will receive a certificate, but only the winner will take home the treasure! It’s the perfect activity to explore Matera in an original way, to give someone a special gift, or simply to enjoy a fun and unique experience! On request, small gifts or notes provided by you can be placed in the chest to make the experience even more personal.

Get ready to experience something extraordinary: an authentic journey between emotions and culture. Every detail of our experience is designed to give you the most: breathtaking places and fascinating stories that will make you feel part of the place. It's not just about visiting, it's about immersing yourself: you'll meet locals, discover stories you don't find in guidebooks, and bring home true memories, full of energy and inspiration. Book now and be surprised: every moment will be a new chapter of your journey to tell!

Embark on an exclusive private walking tour through Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage city. Your adventure begins in Piazza Vittorio Veneto, where your expert guide will greet you and introduce you to the unique charm of this historic city. Start by visiting the Church of San Giovanni Battista, a stunning example of Apulian Romanesque architecture. Then, head underground to explore Casa Cava, a former tuff quarry that has been transformed into an impressive cultural center. Next, in the Sasso Barisano district, visit the rock-hewn Church of Sant'Antonio Abate, an ancient place of worship carved into the stone, before discovering a traditional Casa Grotta in the Sasso Caveoso. Take a scenic stroll along Via Madonna delle Virtù and stop at Piazza San Pietro Caveoso, where you’ll be treated to breathtaking views. The tour continues with a visit to the Church of Purgatory and wraps up at the iconic Matera Cathedral, a true symbol of the city.

Explore the ancient city built into the rock, discover "Sassi di Matera" in a 2 hours walking tour, with a licensed local guide and visit an exclusive Underground site, run by our team: you will have the chance to observe the city through the eyes of a historian, who will show you not only the artistic beauty, but also the social, cultural and political value of a truly magical place. During the cultural tour, it will be possible to visit cisterns, rock churches or cave dwellings, also walking on movie locations. This will allow to experience history of the city, its internal dynamics and the global influences that have affected Matera over the centuries. We offer an enveloping tale that will enthrall young and old alike in our culture. The tour is a continuous discovery and is ideal, as well, for people interested in history and curious tourists who want to enjoy the beauty and uniqueness of the place, beyond the postcard image. Tour is limited to small groups of up to 15 people.

Discover the magic of Matera with the panoramic bus tour! A comfortable and engaging experience that will take you to discover the Sassi of Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, while crossing streets rich in history and charm. During the tour you will admire the ancient houses carved into the rock and enjoy beautiful views of the Murgia Park. The tour also includes the entrance to a typical cave house, to get to know the lifestyle of the Sassi inhabitants up close, and a free 40-minute stop in Piazza San Pietro Caveoso, one of the most suggestive of the city. On board, an experienced tour leader will accompany you with explanations in Italian and English, to make your trip even more interesting and complete.

This experience will allow you to admire Matera from a perspective comparable only to that of a hot air balloon or hang glider but at a negligible cost, with no risk and in a short booking and implementation time. It is a very exciting poetic, immersive experience. Weather conditions are irrelevant to experience this virtual journey in all conditions.

Organize with us your Private Tour in the Sassi and Murgia Materana. On board a comfortable Mercedes van 8 seats you can discover comfortably, all there is to see in the city. From Sasso Caveoso to Sasso Barisano, we will cross the Old Town until we reach the Belvedere with its breathtaking view! Bottles of water will be available to our Guests. We offer customers a “private tour” service that allows you to visit the length and breadth of Matera Everything is set up to allow you as much as possible to enjoy every single moment of your trip, and all in value for money! During the Van Tour an audio guide service will be provided in Italian/English/Spanish. Entrance to all listed sites is included during the Tour. We are open to all changes to make the customer feel comfortable. In short, only with US you can visit EVERYTHING!

A unique experience, the data speak for themselves in the last 5 years the city of Matera has recorded a tourist increase of 400%. Thus standing at the top of the most visited cities in the world for its international tourism. Matera with its ten thousand years of history for culture, tradition and hospitality stands at an increasingly important growth. Matera is included in the top ten of the most beautiful Italian cities, "to be visited absolutely at least once in a lifetime". Seeing is believing!