From Matera: Sassi di Matera Tour with Entry to Cave Houses

Traveling to Italy, especially regions like Basilicata, often means encountering spectacular landscapes and historic sites. For many, Matera’s Sassi—the ancient cave dwellings carved into limestone—are a must-see. This particular tour, offered by Martulli Viaggi, promises an engaging two-hour adventure through these storied neighborhoods, complete with entry to a cave house museum and a rupestrian church.

What we love about this experience is its balance of informative storytelling and visual discovery. Guides are renowned for their knowledge, making even the narrow, winding streets feel alive with history. Plus, the price point—around $32—feels fair for what’s included: a guided walkthrough, cave house entry, and some added perks like a discount coupon for local food and drink.

However, one point to consider is the pace and physicality of the tour. Since it involves walking through uneven, often narrow streets, it’s not ideal for everyone—especially those with mobility issues or pregnant travelers. Still, if you’re eager to see Matera’s underground worlds and appreciate authentic local culture, this tour is a strong contender.

This experience suits travelers who are curious about history, love authentic cultural spots, and want a well-structured tour with knowledgeable guides. It’s also perfect if you’re on a budget but want an enriching taste of Matera’s most famous sights.

Key Points

• Expert-guided experience ensures you learn about Matera’s history in a friendly, approachable way.
• Entry to a cave house museum offers a rare glimpse into how ancient inhabitants lived.
• The scenic views and narrow streets give you the feel of stepping back in time.
• At just $32 per person, it’s a very reasonable way to explore the Sassi.
• The tour’s duration of 2 hours makes it manageable even on a tight schedule.
• It’s available in multiple languages, including English, Italian, German, Spanish, and French.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

When considering a tour of Matera’s Sassi, what truly sets this apart is the detailed itinerary and the quality of guides. Starting from one of four meeting points in the city, the tour’s flexibility makes it accessible for travelers staying in different locations. The journey begins with a visit to the Church of San Francesco, where you’ll start to get a sense of the deep spiritual and cultural roots of the area.

From there, the guide takes you along narrow, winding streets—these alleys are the essence of Matera’s charm. You’ll pass through the Sasso Barisano and Sasso Caveoso, two main districts distinguished by their unique layouts and architecture. It’s here that you’ll notice the grottoes carved directly into the limestone, which are the remains of ancient cave dwellings.

One of the highlights is visiting the Casa Grotta di C’era Una Volta, a cave house museum that offers insight into how residents once lived in these underground spaces. These home-like setups give a tangible sense of daily life in Matera centuries ago. Visitors often comment on how much they appreciate this peek into authentic, local life—something you might not get from a standard sightseeing walk.

The tour also includes stops at historical churches like the Sant’Antonio Abate Rupestrian Church, which features stunning artwork and architecture carved into the rock. As one reviewer notes, “Giusy was very knowledgeable, great storyteller and the overall tour gave a deeper understanding of Matera’s origin and history.” Expect your guide to share stories, fun facts, and anecdotes that make the stones come alive.

Plus, the panoramic views from certain viewpoints offer perfect photo opportunities and a fresh perspective on how the city is built into the landscape. The final stops include Via Madonna delle Virtù and Porta Pistoia, which serve as fitting bookends to your exploration.

The Details That Matter

The group size and duration are carefully managed—most reviews mention the tour being at a comfortable, unhurried pace, often with only a handful of fellow travelers. This makes it easier to ask questions and really connect with your guide.

Regarding cost, at $32, you’re getting a fair price for the depth of insight, the entry tickets, and the overall experience. The included admission to a cave house museum and the rock church are notable additions that would cost more if purchased separately. Plus, the 10% discount coupon for local food and drinks can add a delightful touch, especially if you want to unwind with some authentic Matera tapas afterward.

The duration of 2 hours is perfect for those who want a quick yet rundown. If you’re a history buff or travel enthusiast, this brisk pace keeps the tour engaging without feeling rushed.

Real Experiences from Travelers

Based on the glowing reviews, guides like Angela, Giuseppe, and Marie tend to get high praise for their knowledge, friendliness, and storytelling skills. One reviewer mentions, “Our guide Giuseppe was very knowledgeable and we learned a lot of interesting facts and details about Matera while also having a lot of fun.” It’s clear that the guides make a big difference—their ability to combine facts with humor or personal stories really elevates the tour.

Many travelers also appreciate the visual aspect—the views, the streets, and the caves—saying “the walk was easy at a relaxed pace,” and “the tour was amazing.” Several mention that the experience is a highlight of their trip, especially noting how it provided context that made the rest of their stay more meaningful.

On the flip side, some mention lots of stairs and uneven pathways, so if you have mobility issues, it’s worth considering. The tour doesn’t seem to include transportation or hotel pickup, so plan accordingly—most travelers find walking from their accommodation manageable.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This guided exploration is perfect if you want a well-rounded introduction to Matera without spending all day on it. It’s especially good for people who appreciate history, architecture, and authentic local culture. The inclusion of cave house entry is a nice touch for those curious about underground dwellings and traditional ways of life.

It’s also suitable for those on a budget who want a comprehensive, guided experience rather than wandering on their own. If you’re traveling with a group or family that enjoys gentle walks and storytelling, this tour can be a memorable part of your trip.

However, if you prefer more leisurely, private, or customized experiences, or if mobility is a concern, you might want to consider other options or look for tours that offer more flexibility.

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FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
While the tour is generally family-friendly, it involves walking through narrow, uneven streets and stairs, which might not suit very young children or those with mobility issues.

What languages is the tour offered in?
The tour is available in several languages, including Italian, English, German, Spanish, and French.

How much walking is involved?
The tour covers many different sites within the Sassi, with some walking on uneven or narrow streets. Expect some stairs and slopes, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there’s a 10% discount coupon at a local bar, which you might find useful after the tour.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is transportation provided?
No, the tour starts at a designated meeting point and ends there; transportation is not included.

How long does the tour last?
The guided experience runs for about 2 hours.

What do I need to bring?
Comfortable shoes are essential; it’s best to wear clothing suitable for walking and exploring outdoor and uneven surfaces.

Is this a private tour?
It can be booked as a private or small group experience, depending on availability.

Final Thoughts

If you’re headed to Matera and want a comprehensive, engaging introduction to its iconic Sassi, this tour offers genuine value. You’ll learn about the city’s ancient architecture, underground homes, and religious sites from passionate guides who make the history come alive. The combination of visual sights, storytelling, and entry to a cave house makes it an experience well worth the modest price.

While it’s not the most leisurely or private experience out there, it’s ideal for curious travelers, history enthusiasts, and those eager to get a solid overview of Matera’s fascinating past. Expect a day filled with stunning views, intriguing stories, and a taste of local culture—all wrapped into a manageable two-hour walk.

If you’re ready for a meaningful adventure into one of Italy’s most extraordinary towns, this tour is likely to be a highlight of your trip. Just pack good shoes, keep your camera handy, and prepare to step into a world where history is carved into every stone.

You can check availability for your dates here: