Ancient Matera’s best tours cut right to the heart of this remarkable UNESCO city carved into rock. My favorite is the Ancient City Guided Tour – it’s intimate and gets you up-close with the fascinating Sassi cave districts. The City Center and Murgia Park Tuk-Tuk Tour offers a fun overview, while the Underground City and Sassi Tour reveals hidden corners most visitors miss. For serious history buffs, the Sassi, Rock Churches, and City Ramparts Tour delivers incredible insights into Matera’s religious heritage. Let’s look at these must-do tours in detail.
Key Points
- Comprehensive guided tours of the Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano districts, highlighting Matera’s transformation from “Shame of Italy” to UNESCO treasure.
- Private tuk-tuk tours with audio-guided commentary, offering a unique perspective of the city center and Murgia Park.
- In-depth walking tours exploring the underground city and the Sassi district, providing exclusive access to historical sites.
- Guided tours combining visits to the Sassi, rock churches, and city ramparts for a holistic understanding of Matera’s architectural and historical significance.
- High traveler ratings, flexible booking options, and multilingual guides ensure an engaging and informative cultural experience in Matera.
Discover Matera, the Ancient City – Tour in Italian or English Tour
Matera’s ancient city is a captivating destination, and this guided tour offers an immersive experience to discover its unique history and architecture. Covering the Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano districts, the tour showcases the city’s remarkable evolution from the “Shame of Italy” to a UNESCO-listed treasure.
Participants will explore the rupestrian structures, narrow lanes, and gain insights into Matera’s transformation. The small-group experience, limited to 18 travelers, ensures personalized attention and a relaxed pace.
With the assistance of radio transmitters, guests can clearly hear the guide’s informative explanations. The tour is priced at $30.03 per person, with a lowest price guarantee and flexible booking options.
Highly rated by previous travelers, the tour is praised for its knowledgeable and engaging guides, who share personal stories and historical context to enhance the experience.
Whether you’re seeking an educational or culture, this tour offers an opportunity to connect with Matera’s vibrant atmosphere and rich heritage.
Read our full review: Discover Matera, the Ancient City – Tour in Italian or English Tour Review
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Matera: City Center and Murgia Park Porter Tuk-Tuk Tour
Exploring Matera’s vibrant city center and the breathtaking Murgia Park can be an unforgettable experience.
The Matera: City Center and Murgia Park Porter Tuk-Tuk Tour offers a comprehensive 1.5-hour journey through the city’s highlights. Priced at $264.19 for up to 5 participants, this tour allows you to explore the area in a private Porter tuk-tuk with audio-guided commentary available in Italian, English, and French.
The tour takes you to the Church of the Purgatorio, the Cathedral of Matera, the Chiesa di San Giovanni, and provides panoramic views from the Sasso Barisano and Murgia Park. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to stop for photos.
The tour includes a private driver, the audio-guide, and a 10% discount coupon at MòVado Food & Drink. Travelers have praised the tour’s organization, the knowledgeable tuk-tuk driver, and the comprehensive experience it offers.
With flexible booking and the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, this tour is an excellent choice for those seeking an extensive exploration of Matera’s captivating sights.
Read our full review: Matera: City Center and Murgia Park Porter Tuk-Tuk Tour Review
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Matera: Underground City and Sassi Tour
The Matera: Underground City and Sassi Tour offers an immersive exploration of the city’s captivating Sassi district, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1993. Priced at $51.78 per person, this 2-hour walking tour with a licensed local guide promises a fascinating insight into the historic rock dwellings and underground sites of Matera.
Limited to just 15 people, the tour takes visitors through the Sasso Barisano and Sasso Caveoso neighborhoods, showcasing the iconic cave churches, cisterns, and rock-cut dwellings that have stood the test of time. Highlights include a visit to an exclusive 500-square-meter underground site dating back to the 16th-17th century.
Guests can also expect to learn about the area’s rich history and architecture through the guide’s engaging cultural storytelling.
With no upfront payment required and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the Matera: Underground City and Sassi Tour offers a convenient and flexible way to discover the unique wonders of this captivating Italian city.
Read our full review: Matera: Underground City and Sassi Tour Review
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Matera: Sassi, Rock Churches, and City Ramparts Tour
Situated in the captivating region of Basilicata, the Matera: Sassi, Rock Churches, and City Ramparts Tour invites visitors to delve deeper into the rich history and architectural wonders of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Priced at €160.00 per person, this 2-hour guided walking tour is offered in multiple languages, including English, French, Italian, German, and Spanish.
Guests will start at the iconic Caffè Centrale, before embarking on a journey through the Sassi, the ancient cave dwellings that have defined Matera’s skyline for centuries.
Along the way, they’ll visit the rock churches of San Pietro Barisano and Santa Lucia alle Malve, marveling at the intricate frescoes and unique architectural features.
The tour also provides panoramic views of the Sassi and the surrounding countryside, allowing visitors to capture the essence of Matera through their camera lenses.
With a knowledgeable local guide at the helm, this tour promises to offer an immersive and unforgettable experience, perfect for those seeking to uncover the hidden gems of this remarkable Italian destination.
Read our full review: Matera: Sassi, Rock Churches, and City Ramparts Tour Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Best Viewpoints to See Matera’s Sassi?
The best viewpoints to see Matera’s Sassi are the Belvedere di Matera, which offers panoramic views of the historic city, and the Parco Archeologico Naturalistico delle Chiese Rupestri, which provides stunning vistas of the ancient cave dwellings and rock-cut churches.
Are There Any Guided Tours That Include a Wine Tasting?
Yes, there are guided tours that include a wine tasting. Many tour companies offer walking tours that showcase Matera’s famous Sassi district and conclude with a tasting of local wines and regional specialties.
How Accessible Are the Rock Churches for Visitors With Disabilities?
The rock churches in Matera can be quite challenging for visitors with disabilities as they often involve navigating steep, uneven terrain and narrow passageways. However, some tour operators offer specialized accessible tours with modified routes and assistance.
Can I Visit the Sassi at Night for a Unique Experience?
Yes, visitors can explore the Sassi at night for a unique experience. Many guided tours offer evening tours to showcase the historic district’s atmospheric lighting and avoid the crowds of daytime. However, some areas may not be as accessible at night.
Are There Any Recommended Local Dishes to Try on the Tours?
Absolutely! Local tours often include tastings of traditional Materan dishes like the savory bread dumpling called ‘Cavatelli’ and the hearty bean and pasta soup known as ‘Crapiata’. Trying these regional specialties is a must for an authentic culinary experience.
The Sum Up
Matera’s historic charm and unique architecture make it a captivating destination. Visitors can explore the city’s ancient quarters, rock churches, and underground passages on a variety of guided tours. Whether you prefer a walking tour, tuk-tuk ride, or underground experience, there’s an option to suit your interests and reveal Matera’s rich cultural heritage. With so many excellent tour choices, travelers can enjoy this remarkable Italian city.