Matera, the ancient Italian city nestled in the Basilicata region, comes alive with festive cheer during the Christmas season. The Christmas Exploration of Matera Walking Tour offers visitors a chance to enjoy the city’s rich cultural heritage, from the historic Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista to the vibrant Piazza San Pietro Caveoso, where a bustling Christmas market sets the mood. As the tour winds through the charming streets, guests are treated to a glimpse of the stunning nativity scene in Piazzetta San Biagio, a highlight that leaves a lasting impression. But what truly sets this experience apart is the opportunity to uncover the unique blend of tradition and modernity that defines Matera’s enchanting Christmas spirit.
This experience made our list of the 20 Best Walking Tours In Matera.
Key Points
- This private 3-hour walking tour of Matera explores the city’s historic sites and festive Christmas highlights, including the Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista and Piazza San Pietro Caveoso.
- Visitors can marvel at the vibrant Christmas market in Piazza San Pietro Caveoso and the charming nativity scene in Piazzetta San Biagio.
- The tour is available in both English and Italian and can accommodate groups of up to 4 people, offering a cost-effective way to explore Matera’s festive attractions.
- The tour features a flexible booking process, with the option to reserve now and pay later, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- The carefully curated itinerary ensures that guests experience the best of Matera’s rich cultural heritage and festive atmosphere during the Christmas season.
Activity Details
This Christmas walking tour of Matera offers a private group experience, lasting approximately 3 hours and available in both English and Italian.
The tour will start at the historic Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista, where guests will spend around 30 minutes exploring this steeped-in-history church.
Next, the group will visit Piazza San Pietro Barisano and the Church of Saint Peter Barisano, each for about 20 minutes.
The tour continues to Piazza San Pietro Caveoso, home to a festive Christmas market, and then on to the charming Piazzetta San Biagio, where a beautiful nativity scene and festive atmosphere await.
This immersive holiday experience is priced from £416.34 per group of up to 4 people.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Matera.
Tour Itinerary
The walking tour of Matera commences at the Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista, where visitors will spend around half an hour exploring the history-steeped church.
Next, the group will visit Piazza San Pietro Barisano for 20 minutes, followed by the Church of Saint Peter Barisano.
The tour then moves on to Piazza San Pietro Caveoso, where visitors can marvel at the festive Christmas market for 30 minutes.
The final stop is the charming Piazzetta San Biagio, where a beautiful nativity scene and festive atmosphere await for around 20 minutes.
The walking tour offers a delightful exploration of Matera’s rich cultural heritage and festive Christmas spirit.
Highlights of the Tour
Among the highlights of the Matera walking tour is the Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista, a church steeped in history that captivates visitors.
The festive Christmas market in Piazza San Pietro Caveoso enchants with its vibrant atmosphere, while the beautiful nativity scene and festive ambiance in Piazzetta San Biagio offer a delightful finale to the tour.
Wandering through these charming plazas and churches, travelers are immersed in the rich cultural heritage of Matera, a city that seamlessly blends its ancient past with the Christmas spirit.
The tour’s carefully curated itinerary ensures that guests experience the best of Matera’s festive highlights, leaving them with lasting memories of this enchanting wintertime adventure.
Pricing Information
The Matera walking tour is priced from £416.34 per group of up to 4 people, offering a cost-effective way for small groups to explore the city’s highlights.
This private group experience lasts 3 hours and is available in both English and Italian, catering to a range of travelers.
The tour covers key landmarks like the Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista, Piazza San Pietro Barisano, and the charming Piazzetta San Biagio, where visitors can soak up the festive atmosphere and admire the beautiful nativity scene.
Booking is simple, with the option to reserve now and pay later, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for visitors.
More Great Tours NearbyBooking Process
To book the Matera walking tour, visitors can reserve their spot now and pay later, offering a convenient and flexible booking process.
The tour also provides free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing travelers to adjust their plans if needed. This makes it easy for people to secure their place on the tour without committing to full payment upfront.
The tour’s booking system is designed to provide a hassle-free experience, so visitors can focus on enjoying the Christmas exploration of Matera’s historic sites and festive atmosphere.
Whether booking for a private group or individual, the tour’s flexible booking options cater to the needs of various travelers.
Start at Chiesa Di San Giovanni Battista
The walking tour kicks off at the historic Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista, where guests explore the captivating past of this ancient structure for around 30 minutes.
Adorned with intricate architectural details and steeped in centuries-old traditions, this church sets the stage for the rest of the immersive Matera exploration. Visitors will marvel at the church’s striking facade, absorbing the rich history and cultural significance that permeates every inch of the building.
The guide provides in-depth commentary, bringing the structure to life and highlighting its pivotal role in the city’s storied past. This introductory stop lays the foundation for the subsequent stops, whetting guests’ appetites for the delights that lie ahead on the Matera walking tour.
Festive Atmosphere in Piazza San Pietro Caveoso
Nestled in the heart of Matera’s historic center, Piazza San Pietro Caveoso comes alive with the festive cheer of a bustling Christmas market, where locals and visitors alike bask in the warm glow of twinkling lights and the aroma of roasted chestnuts.
Stalls offering a tantalizing array of handmade crafts, regional delicacies, and artisanal gifts invite you to explore the rich cultural tapestry of this ancient city.
The rhythmic beat of traditional music and the laughter of children playing in the square add to the contagious spirit of celebration, creating a truly immersive experience that captures the essence of a Matera Christmas.
Whether you’re browsing the festive wares or simply soaking in the festive atmosphere, Piazza San Pietro Caveoso promises a memorable adventure.
Beautiful Nativity Scene in Piazzetta San Biagio
Amidst the festive charm of Piazzetta San Biagio, a breathtaking nativity scene captivates visitors, meticulously crafted to evoke the timeless wonder of the Christmas story.
Intricate figurines depict the Holy Family, angels, and shepherds, all nestled in a rustic setting that transports onlookers to the biblical scene. The attention to detail is remarkable, with each figure exuding a sense of reverence and authenticity.
As carols fill the air and the aroma of mulled wine wafts through the square, the nativity scene becomes the centerpiece of the festive atmosphere, reminding all who witness it of the true meaning of the holiday. It’s a must-see highlight that truly embodies the spirit of Christmas in Matera.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Covid-19 Safety Measures in Place for the Tour?
The tour agency has implemented several COVID-19 safety measures, including requiring masks, limiting group sizes, and providing hand sanitizer. They also follow local guidelines to ensure the health and safety of all participants.
Is the Tour Suitable for People With Mobility Issues?
The tour may not be suitable for those with significant mobility issues, as it involves navigating uneven terrain and multiple stops that require walking. Visitors with mild mobility concerns could potentially participate with assistance.
Can the Tour Be Customized to Include Specific Locations?
Yes, the tour can be customized to include specific locations. The tour provider is flexible and happy to accommodate requests from guests to modify the itinerary to suit their interests and needs.
Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Tour?
Yes, the tour duration can be extended. Customers can speak with the tour operator to customize the itinerary and extend the tour time as desired to explore Matera further.
What Is the Dress Code Recommended for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and walking shoes are recommended. Layers may be helpful as the weather can be unpredictable during the tour.
Recap
Discover the enchanting Christmas spirit of Matera on this captivating 3-hour walking tour. Explore the city’s historic landmarks, immerse in the vibrant Christmas market, and marvel at the beautiful nativity scene – all for a cost-effective price.
Whether you’re a history buff or a lover of festive celebrations, this tour promises an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of Matera’s rich cultural heritage.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Walking Tours in Matera
- Matera: Suite La Stalla Night Stay w/ 2 Meals & Walking Tour
- Matera: Walking tour with entries in Cave House and Church
- Sassi di Matera: Guided Walking Tour with Cave House/Church
- Matera: Private or Group Walking Tour & Cave House Admission
- Matera: Sunset Walking Tour on the Murgia Park
- Matera_Belvedere Walking Tour
More Tours in Matera
- Matera: Suite La Stalla Night Stay w/ 2 Meals & Walking Tour
- Matera: sunset horseback riding tour on Murgia
- Matera & Alberobello: Private UNESCO Heritage Tour
- MATERA: COMPLETE TOUR OF THE ROCK CHURCHES
- Matera: Private Half-Day Tour from Bari
- TRANI AND CASTEL DEL MONTE: guided tours and transfers from Matera
More Tour Reviews in Matera
- Matera: Suite La Stalla Night Stay w/ 2 Meals & Walking Tour
- Matera: sunset horseback riding tour on Murgia
- Matera & Alberobello: Private UNESCO Heritage Tour
- Matera by Night lingua italiana.Casa Grotta e Chiesa incluse
- Matera: Aperitif Truffles and Champagne under the olive tree
- Matera: Pasta Cooking Class Old Farmer Style in Sassi Cellar
Not for you? Here's more nearby things to do in Matera we have reviewed
- Matera: Suite La Stalla Night Stay w/ 2 Meals & Walking Tour
- Matera: sunset horseback riding tour on Murgia
- Matera & Alberobello: Private UNESCO Heritage Tour
- Matera by Night lingua italiana.Casa Grotta e Chiesa incluse
- Matera: Aperitif Truffles and Champagne under the olive tree
- Matera: Pasta Cooking Class Old Farmer Style in Sassi Cellar
- MATERA: COMPLETE TOUR OF THE ROCK CHURCHES
- Matera: Private Half-Day Tour from Bari
- TRANI AND CASTEL DEL MONTE: guided tours and transfers from Matera
- Matera: Yoga session in a Sassi cave with Breakfast
- Matera: local pastry experience
- Matera Evening Tour in English