Matera stands out among Italy’s historic cities for its extraordinary rock-cut architecture, winding alleys, and centuries-old cave dwellings. Unlike typical city tours, Matera’s labyrinthine Sassi districts demand a guide who can navigate and interpret their secrets. We particularly like tours that combine storytelling, access to hidden sites, and authentic local insights — like the guided walk through the Sassi with cave church visits, or the immersive two-hour exploration of the city’s meanders. These tours offer a chance to see Matera’s layers of history up close, making your visit both memorable and meaningful.
Attached to this list are three of the best options: a detailed city center walk with cave house visits, an in-depth guided discovery of the entire historic area, and a flexible 2-day pass designed for maximum exploration and value. Whether you’re after a leisurely introduction, a more comprehensive deep dive, or a flexible pass, this guide will help you pick the right experience.
Below, you’ll find a breakdown of each tour, what makes it stand out, and practical tips to help decide which one suits your style and schedule.
1. Matera: Guided City Center Tour with Cave Churches & Houses
This 2-hour guided walk explores the iconic Sassi districts and historic center, with the bonus of visiting rock-cut churches and ancient homes. At around $40 per person, it balances cost and depth effectively. The tour begins at Passi nei Sassi, winding through the scenic alleys with an authorized guide sharing stories and history. One of the biggest draws is the entry to cave churches like the Church of Saint Mary of Idris, and a visit to a typical cave dwelling at Casa Grotta.
What makes this tour unique is its focus on personalized storytelling combined with hands-on entry to sites often closed to the public. The small group size (reviews mention groups as small as 4) ensures intimate conversation and better engagement. Travelers who appreciate a moderate pace and want to understand Matera’s evolution from humble cave dwellings to UNESCO World Heritage status will enjoy this experience.
Rated 4.5/5 based on 24 reviews, many visitors praise the knowledge and enthusiasm of the guide, with one noting, “Our guide was fantastic and the group was small. Really enjoyed the tour.” The tour’s duration and focused itinerary make it perfect for those seeking a timed introduction rather than a full-day commitment.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a compact, insightful look at Matera’s core, ideal for first-timers who want a personal touch and to see key sites with an expert guide.
2. Discover Matera, the ancient city – English tour
For those wanting a more comprehensive and immersive experience, this 2 to 3-hour tour covers the Sasso Caveoso and parts of Sasso Barisano districts. Priced at about $34.58, it’s hard to beat for value, especially considering its excellent reviews — a perfect choice for travelers eager to understand Matera’s transformation from the “Shame of Italy” to a UNESCO jewel.
Led by guides who love Matera and the territory, this tour takes you through narrow alleys, rupestrian churches, and historic homes, but with a focus on storytelling and context rather than just ticking off sites. You’ll learn about the city’s evolution, its architectural secrets, and the philosophy behind its meandering streets. This tour avoids the typical church visits, instead offering a step-by-step narrative of how Matera’s caves and streets developed over the centuries.
Guests praise the rich insights and engaging storytelling. One reviewer called their guide “amazing,” noting the tour is “fascinating and full of stories you wouldn’t notice yourself,” even with many steps involved. The small group setting enhances the experience, making it more personal.
Bottom Line: If you want a deep, story-rich exploration of Matera’s urban fabric and history, this tour is perfect. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy walking and discovering the unseen layers of the city.
3. Matera Tourpass 2 days: single ticket for the City of the Sassi
When you want maximum flexibility and access, the Matera Tourpass offers a 2-day ticket that unlocks entry to museums, churches, underground sites, and offers discounts across many attractions. This pass is ideal if you prefer to self-guide or combine multiple visits without the hassle of booking individual tickets, making it a great option for travelers with a flexible schedule.
This all-in-one ticket simplifies your exploration of Matera’s most iconic sites, including the rock churches, museums, and underground tunnels. The pass not only saves money but also encourages you to explore at your own pace, making it suitable for history enthusiasts or those eager to see more than just the surface stories.
While reviews are less detailed, the value lies in convenience and savings. The pass is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive experience without rushing. It’s especially useful for those with limited time but a desire to see multiple layers of Matera’s past.
Bottom Line: For travelers who prefer a DIY approach and want to visit several sites, the Tourpass offers great value and flexibility. It works well if you’re comfortable navigating independently but want to make sure you don’t miss key attractions.
How to Choose
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, schedule, and interest level. The guided city center tour (Matera: Guided City Center Tour with Cave Churches & Houses) is excellent for a focused, personal introduction. The more extensive Discover Matera tour (Discover Matera, the ancient city) appeals to those who want deeper context and storytelling. Lastly, the Tourpass (Matera Tourpass 2 days) suits travelers seeking maximum flexibility and self-guided exploration.
Think about your interest in caves and churches, your walking endurance, and whether you prefer guided insights or independent visits. Booking early is advisable during peak seasons, especially for tours with limited group sizes or popular attractions.
Final Thoughts
Matera offers a range of excellent options for exploring its famous Sassi districts and cave churches. If you want an intimate, guided experience, the guided walking tours are your best bet. For those eager to dive into the history and architecture in detail, the full-day or multi-site options will suit you well. And if you prefer to craft your own itinerary, the Tourpass provides the flexibility to see more of what makes Matera unique.
No matter which you choose, booking in advance ensures you won’t miss out on these memorable experiences. Matera’s open-air museum of stone and stories awaits—enjoy exploring this incredible city by the best tour for your style.
