Exploring the historic Sassi district of Matera on a Vespa scooter offers a unique perspective of this enchanting city. The "Matera by Vespa" tour provides a 1.5-hour private experience led by a local expert, allowing visitors to navigate iconic landmarks while gaining insights into the area’s rich cultural heritage. With stunning views and the opportunity to visit a traditional troglodyte dwelling, this tour presents an engaging way to discover the captivating charm of Matera.
Key Points
- A 1.5-hour private group tour of Matera’s historic Sassi district on vintage Vespas, guided by a local expert.
- Tour includes exploration of key landmarks like Sasso Caveoso, Sasso Barisano, Casa Grotta, and Parco della Murgia Materana.
- Available in English, Spanish, and Italian, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- Tour not suitable for pregnant women, inexperienced riders, or individuals without a valid driver’s license.
- Provides an interactive cultural experience focusing on Matera’s UNESCO-listed Sassi district and troglodyte lifestyle.
Tour Overview
The Matera by Vespa tour offers a unique way to explore the historical city of Matera.
The Matera by Vespa tour offers a unique way to explore the historical city of Matera.
Priced from $65.12 per person, the 1.5-hour private group tour is available in English, Spanish, and Italian. Guests will visit key landmarks like the Sasso Caveoso, Sasso Barisano, Casa Grotta, and the Parco della Murgia Materana.
The tour includes a Cathedral stop and optional activities such as scenic views, photo opportunities, and sunset vistas.
Reservations can be made with no upfront payment, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.
The interactive experience focuses on local customs and culture while utilizing a Vespa for transportation.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Matera.
Booking Information
Reservations for the Matera by Vespa tour can be made with no upfront payment required. Customers can simply reserve their spot online or by contacting the tour operator and pay later.
The cancellation policy offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Availability can be checked on the website, which displays the various starting time options.
The tour’s flexible booking system and liberal cancellation policy provide customers with convenience and peace of mind when planning their Matera adventure on a Vespa.
Tour Experience
The Matera by Vespa tour provides an interactive experience focused on the local customs and culture of the city.
Guests explore the historic Sassi district aboard vintage Vespas, led by an expert local guide named Alessandro.
Guided by local expert Alessandro, guests explore Matera’s historic Sassi district aboard vintage Vespas.
The personalized route includes popular landmarks like the Casa Grotta and the Cathedral, as well as scenic vantage points outside the city center.
Participants have the opportunity to enjoy the unique architectural and historical features of Matera, with options for photo stops and capturing the city’s famous sunset views.
The Casa Grotta ticket is included, enhancing the cultural discovery.
Safety and Restrictions
Although the Matera by Vespa tour offers an exhilarating way to explore the city, there are certain safety and restrictions in place to ensure the well-being of participants.
The tour is not suitable for:
-
Pregnant women
-
Inexperienced riders
-
Divers without certification
-
Individuals without a valid driver’s license
Participants are also prohibited from consuming alcohol or drugs during the tour.
Plus, the tour is conducted only in acceptable weather conditions to prioritize the safety of the riders.
These measures ensure a secure and enjoyable experience for all guests.
More Great Tours NearbyExploring the Sassi of Matera
Atop the limestone cliffs of Matera lies the UNESCO-listed Sassi district, a captivating labyrinth of ancient cave dwellings and rock-hewn churches.
This unique setting serves as the focal point of the "Matera by Vespa" tour. Guests explore the historic neighborhoods of Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano, stopping to admire the Casa Grotta, a preserved cave dwelling that offers a glimpse into the region’s traditional troglodyte lifestyle.
The tour also ventures to the Parco della Murgia Materana, providing panoramic views of the city’s iconic skyline.
Throughout, the guide shares insights into Matera’s rich cultural heritage and enduring legacy.
Discovering the Casa Grotta
As visitors traverse the winding lanes of the Sassi district, the Casa Grotta emerges as a captivating highlight of the "Matera by Vespa" tour. This traditional cave dwelling offers a unique glimpse into the city’s historic living conditions:
-
Carved into the rock, the Casa Grotta provides an authentic representation of how locals once resided in these cave-like structures.
-
Visitors can explore the modest furnishings and rustic interiors, gaining an appreciation for the simple yet ingenious way of life in the Sassi.
-
The tour includes admission to the Casa Grotta, allowing guests to enjoy this timeless piece of Matera’s cultural heritage.
-
Through this interactive experience, travelers gain a deeper understanding of the resilience and adaptability of the Materani people.
Panoramic Views of the Parco Della Murgia Materana
Departing the charming Sassi district, the "Matera by Vespa" tour ascends into the Parco della Murgia Materana, a protected natural landscape that offers sweeping panoramic views of the city.
The guided Vespa excursion leads riders to elevated vantage points, showcasing Matera’s unique cave dwellings and rock-hewn churches against the backdrop of the rugged, arid terrain.
Guests have the opportunity to stop for photographs, capturing the stunning contrast between the city’s historic architecture and the dramatic natural scenery surrounding it.
This portion of the tour provides a breathtaking perspective on Matera’s distinctive landscape and UNESCO World Heritage status.
Visiting the Matera Cathedral
Where does the tour next lead visitors?
The tour next leads visitors to the Matera Cathedral, a stunning example of Apulian Romanesque architecture. The Cathedral’s history dates back to the 13th century and features:
-
A striking facade with intricate carvings and a grand rose window.
-
An interior adorned with frescoes, marble columns, and ornate altarpieces.
-
Panoramic views of the Sassi from the Cathedral’s elevated position.
-
An opportunity to learn about the Cathedral’s role in the religious and cultural life of Matera.
Exploring the Matera Cathedral provides a deeper understanding of the city’s rich heritage.
Ask Away
Can I Bring My Own Vespa for the Tour?
The tour does not allow participants to bring their own Vespas. The experience is designed for guests to use the provided Vespas as part of the guided group tour. Personal Vespas are not accommodated as part of this specific tour.
Is There a Discount for Group Bookings?
There is no information provided about discounts for group bookings. The tour details indicate that it is priced on a per person basis, with no mention of group pricing or discounts.
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary With the Guide?
Yes, the tour allows for personalized route planning with the guide. Customers can discuss options and customize the itinerary to include sights and activities outside the city center, according to their interests and preferences.
Do You Provide Safety Gear Like Helmets?
Yes, the tour provider supplies safety gear including helmets for all participants. Proper protective equipment is required and provided to ensure the safety and comfort of guests during the Vespa tour experience.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour Participants?
There are no specific age restrictions for the tour participants. However, the activity is not suitable for pregnant women or young children. Participants must meet the minimum requirement of having experience driving a motor vehicle.
Final Words
The "Matera by Vespa" tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the enchanting Sassi district of Matera on vintage Vespas, guided by a local expert. Guests can enjoy the rich cultural heritage of the region, visit the Casa Grotta to understand traditional troglodyte living, and enjoy breathtaking views from the Parco della Murgia Materana, all within a 1.5-hour private experience.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Motorbike & Scooter Rentals in Matera
More Scooter Rentals in 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