Day tour by car and on foot among the Apulian beauties of Matera

Thinking about a day trip from Bari that mixes history, culture, and a bit of local flavor? This day tour by car and on foot offers just that, taking you through some of Puglia’s most captivating spots—Matera’s Sassi districts, the ancient city of Altamura, and even an intriguing underground complex**. It’s a popular choice among travelers, and we’ve taken a close look at what makes it tick, along with some honest thoughts on whether it might be right for you.

Two things we really appreciate about this experience are the opportunity to explore iconic sites independently—giving you flexibility—and the inclusion of visits to historic bakeries and local eateries, which adds a genuine taste of local life. However, a potential snag is the fact that it’s not a guided tour in the traditional sense; you’ll be dropped off with some guidance but mostly left to wander on your own. This setup can be perfect if you’re comfortable exploring independently and enjoy discovering at your own pace.

This tour is ideal for those who want a self-guided feel with the comfort of transportation. If you’re keen on seeing Matera’s famous Sassi but prefer to set your own itinerary or simply want to avoid public transport, it could be a good fit. Just keep in mind that if you’re looking for a detailed guided experience, this might not deliver that level of narration.

Key Points

• Flexible exploration: You get dropped off at each site, with some guidance, so you can roam at your own pace.
• Historic highlights: Visit iconic spots like the UNESCO-listed Sassi districts of Matera and ancient bakeries in Altamura.
• Mix of transportation and walking: Comfortable car rides combined with free time on foot allow for relaxed sightseeing.
• Cultural immersion: Tasting local baked goods and exploring underground complexes offers authentic regional flavor.
• Limited guided commentary: The tour isn’t fully guided, so some travelers might miss in-depth stories unless they explore on their own.
• Good for independent travelers: Perfect if you’re comfortable navigating and prefer freedom over a guided tour.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off in Bari at the designated meeting point on Via Nicola de Giosa. From there, you’ll travel comfortably in a private vehicle, with free Wi-Fi onboard to plan your next move or just share your adventure. The drive to Matera is about an hour, which makes for a relaxed start, especially if you’re traveling with a small group—typically no more than eight people.

The key here is the balance between convenience and independence. You won’t be stuck in a large bus or guided by a single guide with a script. Instead, your driver and local hosts like Gianluca and Francesco provide valuable advice and local insights, making the journey smoother and more personable. Reviews consistently praise the drivers for their friendliness and organization, which helps set a positive tone.

The Sassi di Matera

Once in Matera, you’ll be left free to explore the famous Sassi neighborhoods—the ancient cave dwellings that have garnered worldwide attention. This part of the tour, lasting roughly three hours, is a highlight for many. You’ll get a chance to walk through narrow alleyways, peek into open-air churches, and see some of the most picturesque vistas of this rugged cityscape.

What makes the Sassi so compelling is their cinematic quality; they’ve appeared in films like 007, The Passion of the Christ, and Ben Hur. As one reviewer put it, “Matera was unbelievable and much larger than we expected.” The open-air feel combines history with a vibrant community, and even at day’s end, many still say these streets look stunning at night.

However, some reviews note that the lack of a guided narrative means you may miss out on some of the stories behind the buildings—something to consider if you’re a history buff or prefer guided info. For instance, one traveler mentioned they missed a visit to the Rupestre San Giorgio al Paradiso complex because they weren’t aware of it, highlighting that the tour doesn’t include guided commentary for every site.

Visiting Altamura

Next, the group heads toward Altamura, a smaller, less touristy town famed for its bread. You’ll have around 1 hour and 30 minutes to wander its historic streets, which is enough for a quick stroll or a coffee break. The highlight here is the medieval bakeries, some of the oldest in Europe. Visitors rave about sampling freshly baked bread and focaccia, often described as a must-try regional delicacy. One reviewer shared that the bakeries, especially Santa Chiare and Santa Caterina, still produce bread since medieval times, and the smell alone is worth the visit.

The town itself isn’t massive, so don’t expect major attractions, but the local vibe and culinary tradition make it worth the quick stop. If you’re a foodie, this part of the tour really shines.

The Underground Complex: San Giorgio al Paradiso

Another memorable element is the visit to the Complesso Rupestre di San Giorgio al Paradiso. This underground site narrates the evolution of rock civilization—dating back to the earliest cave dwellers and later transformed into a church, oil mill, and wine cellar over centuries. Visitors can explore the water collection channels, cisterns, and underground chambers and read the layers of history etched into the rock.

This complex is described as evocative and mysterious, giving a glimpse into how ancient communities adapted their environment over millennia. The fact that it’s a lesser-known site makes it all the more intriguing—though it’s important to note that this part of the tour is only 40 minutes, so it’s a quick visit but quite rich in atmosphere and history.

Returning to Bari

After a full day of wandering, the driver brings everyone back to Bari, usually around 4:30 or 5 pm, depending on the pace. The return segment provides enough time for you to rest and process the day’s sights, and the bus is equipped with free Wi-Fi—handy if you want to send photos or check in with friends.

The Pros and Cons Based on Reviews

Many travelers commend the tour for the ease of transportation, the friendliness of drivers, and the opportunity to explore at your own pace. Several mentions highlight how good Francesco and Gianluca are at organizing and providing helpful tips. The flexibility seems to suit those who prefer a bit of independence but still want the comfort of a private vehicle.

However, some reviewers express disappointment about the lack of a fully guided experience. For instance, one comment pointed out they didn’t visit the Rupestre complex because they weren’t informed about it. Others felt that three hours in Matera didn’t do the city justice, given its size and depth. A few also found it frustrating that tickets for certain sites, like the caves, were included but not clearly explained or organized, leading to confusion.

Price-wise, at roughly $104 per person, the value hinges on how much you enjoy self-guided exploration. If you’re comfortable wandering without constant commentary and want tailored time in each spot, this is a solid deal. For those expecting an in-depth guided narration, it might feel a bit thin.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is especially well-suited for independent travelers who don’t mind navigating on their own, and those interested in authentic local flavors—think bakeries and regional foods—without a guided script. If you’re excited about exploring UNESCO sites and underground complexes but prefer to do it at your own pace, this setup offers the best of both worlds: comfort, flexibility, and a touch of adventure.

It’s also good for small groups or couples who value personalized attention and don’t need a guide constantly by their side. Since the tour is limited to eight people, you’ll get a more intimate experience, with plenty of room to ask questions and share impressions.

Final Thoughts

This day trip from Bari provides a relaxed, flexible way to experience two of Puglia’s most captivating towns. The combination of transport, free exploration, and local culinary stops makes for a well-rounded day—especially if you enjoy discovering places on your own but with the convenience of private transport and a bit of guided advice.

While it’s not a guided tour in the traditional sense, those who thrive on self-guided adventures will appreciate the freedom to explore Matera’s famous Sassi and Altamura’s historic streets at their own pace. The underground complex adds a special touch, offering a rare look into ancient ways of life.

Overall, if you’re looking for a cost-effective, flexible way to see these historic sites, this tour has plenty to offer. Just keep in mind that some sites require your own initiative to discover, and the experience is best suited for travelers comfortable with independent exploration.

FAQs

Is this tour guided?
Not exactly. It’s a drop-off experience where you explore the sites on your own, but your driver provides useful tips and local insights.

How long do I spend at each location?
You’ll have around three hours in Matera, 1 hour and 30 minutes in Altamura, and about 40 minutes at the underground complex. The times are designed to give you enough space to explore without rushing.

Are tickets included for the sites?
Yes, tickets for the underground complex and, in some cases, cave visits are included. However, some travelers have noted confusion about access, so it’s good to clarify what’s covered before you go.

Is Wi-Fi available during the trip?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is provided on the vehicle, which is handy for planning your exploration or sharing updates.

How many people are in the group?
The maximum is eight travelers, making it a more intimate experience compared to large group tours.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a self-guided experience, you can choose how long to stay at each site within the allocated times, giving you a personalized day.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While it’s not explicitly marketed as family-oriented, the flexible nature and manageable group size make it suitable for travelers comfortable with self-guided exploration. Kids who enjoy wandering and sightseeing should be fine.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking, a hat or sunscreen for sunny days, and a fully charged phone or camera to capture the views. Having some cash for snacks or souvenirs is also advisable.

This tour offers a good mix of autonomy and comfort, perfect for those who want to see key sites without the pressure of a guided group. Whether you’re after cultural highlights, scenic views, or just want to enjoy authentic regional flavors, it’s a day that can be tailored to your pace.