SASSI DI MATERA: Guided Tour by Ape Calessino

If you’re heading to Italy’s Basilicata region, chances are you’ve heard about the Sassi di Matera—a mesmerizing landscape of ancient cave dwellings carved into limestone cliffs. While walking tours are popular, this guided tour on board an Ape Calessino offers a charming, relaxed way to explore the city’s highlights without the fatigue of pounding pavements.

What drew us to this experience? First, the vintage Ape Calessino itself — a quirky, open-air vehicle that adds a dash of nostalgia to your sightseeing. Second, the personalized guided approach ensures you get insightful commentary while enjoying the breezy ride through narrow streets.

One thing to keep in mind: at just 1.5 hours, this tour is quick, so if you’re craving a deep dive into Matera’s history, you might want to supplement it with a longer visit. Still, for those who appreciate a laid-back, scenic overview with authentic charm, this tour hits the spot.

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a convenient, fun, and intimate way to see the highlights of Matera’s Sassi, especially if mobility or fatigue is a concern. It’s also ideal for couples, small families, or anyone who loves vintage vehicles and picturesque scenery.

Key Points

• Comfortable and stylish transportation aboard a vintage Ape Calessino
• Expert local guide providing historical context and cultural insights
• Stunning views and photo opportunities of Matera’s iconic rock complexes
• Visit to important sites like cave churches and traditional cave houses
• Flexible, private experience tailored to your schedule
• Great for photo lovers and those wanting a relaxed exploration

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Matera’s Unique Landscape in Style

The Ape Calessino tour offers a refreshing twist on exploring Matera’s famous Sassi districts. Instead of walking along uneven cobblestone streets for hours, you’ll glide comfortably through narrow alleys and panoramic viewpoints, all while your guide shares stories about the city’s history and culture.

The combination of vintage charm and local expertise creates a more engaging experience. As you cruise through the labyrinth of the Sassi, you’ll appreciate the relaxed pace, which allows you to truly soak in the scenery without rushing.

What’s Included and How It Adds Value

For $113.29 per person, this tour includes the Ape Calessino ride, a licensed guide, and entry tickets to key sites such as the cave complex and cave house. Plus, you’ll receive a map of the Sassi, helping you connect the dots after the tour. The inclusion of entrance tickets to significant sites means you won’t need to pay additional entrance fees, making this a good value for a half-hour immersion into Matera’s historic core.

The private group aspect enhances the experience’s intimacy, allowing your guide to tailor comments or answer specific questions. The flexibility to reserve now and pay later adds convenience, especially for travelers with fluid schedules.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Starting Point: Info Matera

Your adventure begins at the Info Matera agency, a logical spot close to the city’s main sights. Here, you’ll meet your guide and hop into your Ape Calessino, ready to start the scenic journey.

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Photo Stops and Scenic Views

The tour takes you on a tour of the Sassi, with photo stops to capture the stunning rock formations and picturesque alleyways. Matera’s unique landscape, with its cave dwellings and ancient churches, offers ample opportunities for memorable photos.

Visit to Madonna de Idris and San Giovanni Monterrone

One of the highlighted stops includes the rock complex Madonna de Idris and San Giovanni Monterrone. Here, you’ll see frescoes dating from the 12th to the 17th century, giving a glimpse into the religious art that adorns these caves. The guide’s commentary helps bring these frescoes and their stories to life.

Cave House Experience

A visit to a cave house—furnished with period furniture and tools—allows you to understand the peasant civilization that once thrived here. This site helps contextualize how people lived, worked, and maintained their traditions within these underground homes.

Pass through the Archaeological Zone

Finally, passing through the archaeological zone—used as a film set for movies like Mel Gibson’s The Passion of the Christ—adds a cinematic element to your visit. The area’s authenticity and visual drama make it a favorite for many travelers.

Ending at the Meeting Point

Your tour concludes back at the Info Matera agency, leaving you with a clear sense of the city’s layout and key sights.

Why This Tour Works Well

We loved the way the Ape Calessino adds a layer of fun and novelty to an already fascinating city. The scenic ride makes it easy to see more in less time, especially for those with limited mobility or who simply prefer a relaxed pace.

The local guide offers a wealth of knowledge, making history accessible and engaging. The stops at iconic sites—like the cave churches and the cave house—are thoughtfully chosen to give a well-rounded taste of what makes Matera special.

The viewpoints and photo opportunities were frequently praised in reviews, with travelers remarking on the stunning vistas and the chance to capture the city’s unique architecture from perfect angles.

The Real Value of This Experience

While $113.29 per person might seem steep for a 1.5-hour tour, it includes entrance tickets and a private guide, which can add up if you try to visit these sites independently. The comfort and convenience of having a dedicated guide and transportation mean your time is maximized without the hassle of navigation or parking.

Reviews highlight that the private group setting makes the tour intimate and personalized. Many travelers appreciated the unhurried pace and the chance to ask questions freely. It’s a great way to orient yourself in Matera, especially if you’re short on time or prefer a more curated experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour suits travelers who want a comfortable, engaging overview of Matera’s Sassi with minimal walking. It’s perfect for those with mobility challenges, families with young children, or anyone who loves vintage vehicles and scenic views.

History buffs and photography enthusiasts will find the stops and viewpoints particularly rewarding. On the other hand, if you seek an in-depth, multi-hour exploration, this might be better as a supplement rather than the sole activity.

The Sum Up

The Sassi di Matera guided tour by Ape Calessino is a delightful way to experience the city’s most photogenic and historically significant spots in a relaxed, fun setting. The combination of vintage vehicle charm, expert guidance, and stunning scenery makes it stand out among options for exploring Matera’s iconic cave districts.

It’s most valuable for travelers looking for a short, memorable, and personalized introduction to Matera’s storied landscape. The inclusion of entry tickets, the private nature of the tour, and the scenic ride make it a good deal for those wanting convenience without sacrificing authenticity.

If you’re after a light yet meaningful taste of one of Italy’s most unique cities, this tour offers a perfectly balanced experience—beautiful views, fascinating sites, and a touch of vintage elegance.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it ideal for a quick but rundown of Matera.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at the Info Matera agency, with the option for different pick-up points if you contact the provider.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, it’s a private tour with a relaxed pace. However, pregnant women might want to consider other options, as it’s not specifically recommended for them.

What’s included in the price?
You get the Ape Calessino ride, a local licensed guide, tickets to the cave complex and cave house, and a map of the Sassi.

Can I see the cave churches and frescoes?
Absolutely. The tour includes visits to the Church of Saint Mary of Idris and frescoed cave complexes, which are highlights of Matera.

Is this a group or private experience?
It is a private group, allowing for a more personalized experience and the chance to ask specific questions.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and a camera are recommended to enjoy the views and capture memories.

Are there any additional costs?
Not included are other inputs not mentioned; everything listed above is covered.

Is the tour available in multiple languages?
The live guide speaks Italian, with no mention of other languages, so check with the provider if you need a different language.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your travel plans.

Would I recommend this tour?
Yes, especially for those seeking a fun, scenic, and insightful introduction to Matera’s Sassi, with a dash of vintage style.

You can check availability for your dates here: