Ape tour Matera – Guided tour in ape calessino

If you’re planning to visit Matera, chances are you’ve heard about the incredible Sassi districts and the city’s fascinating transformation from a troubled past to a UNESCO World Heritage site. A popular way to experience this city is through a guided Ape calessino tour, and from what we’ve gathered from countless reviews, it seems to be a pretty delightful way to get a quick, engaging overview.

What stands out about this tour? First, the local guides’ knowledge and friendliness seem to make a real difference. Second, the fun, vintage vibe of riding around in a small, open-air Ape is both charming and practical for navigating the narrow, maze-like streets. That said, it’s worth noting that, with a route lasting just over an hour, this tour offers a quick glimpse rather than an in-depth exploration. If you’re after a deep dive into Matera’s history, you might want to pair it with other experiences.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a light, enjoyable introduction to the city’s highlights without breaking the bank or spending all day on a tour bus. It’s especially suited for those with limited time, those who prefer a bit of adventure, or anyone who simply wants to see Matera from a different perspective.

Key Points

• Unique transportation experience: Riding in an Ape calessino adds a fun, vintage touch.
• Expert local guides: Knowledgeable guides make the tour informative and engaging.
• Beautiful city views: Panoramic stops offer excellent photo opportunities.
• Concise but comprehensive: The hour-long route covers major highlights efficiently.
• Good value for money: With a cost of around $61.54, it offers a memorable experience without overpaying.
• Flexible scheduling: You can enter your preferred departure time, making it adaptable to your plans.

Why You’ll Love This Tour

We appreciate how this tour combines a fun mode of transportation with informative commentary. Riding in an Ape calessino isn’t just about getting from point A to B — it’s a way to feel more connected to Matera’s lively streets and storied neighborhoods. Plus, the local guide’s enthusiasm and deep roots in the city make a difference. Vito, for example, is frequently praised for his knowledge, friendliness, and ability to tailor the tour to what interests you most.

The views of Matera’s Sassi districts are genuinely stunning, and the stops at Piazza San Pietro Caveoso and Piazza Duomo allow you to stretch your legs and get some fantastic photos. The visit to an authentic “casa cave” provides insight into how people lived in these ancient dwellings up until relatively recently, adding a tangible sense of history to your experience.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Start Point and First Stop: Piazza San Pietro Caveoso

Your journey begins at Via del Corso, and very quickly, you find yourself in the heart of Sasso Caveoso, right in Piazza San Pietro Caveoso. This main square is a perfect first impression — centuries-old stone buildings, narrow alleys, and an atmosphere that feels both lively and timeless. The tour usually spends about five minutes here, giving you a snapshot of the area’s charm and history.

Stop Two: Piazza Duomo

Next, you’ll visit the Piazza Duomo, home to Matera’s impressive cathedral. It’s a good chance to admire the exterior architecture — and if you want, you can explore the interior on your own. This stop also lasts around five minutes and offers another chance for photos.

Main Route: Cross the Sassi with Panoramic Stops

The bulk of the tour covers approximately 30 minutes of cruising through Matera’s historic districts. During this time, your guide will point out important sights, share stories, and highlight the city’s transformation from a national shame to a world-renowned attraction. Many reviews mention how this segment helps visitors understand the city’s layout and history in a very accessible way.

Stop Four: Chiesa di Sant’Agostino

This panoramic stop is perfect for taking photos and learning a bit more about the city’s religious sites. It’s a brief pause but gives you a great view of Matera’s rooftops and the surrounding landscape.

Visit to Casa Grotta: Step Inside a Cave Home

A highlight for many travelers is the visit to the Antica Matera Casa Grotta, where you can see how people lived in these caves up until the 1960s. It’s a short visit, about five minutes, but it offers a real peek into the past — no fancy displays, just an authentic, lived-in cave house.

Rock Churches and Final Photo Stops

The tour includes a short visit to the Chiesa rupestre di San Pietro Barisano, one of the grotto churches carved into the rock. While entry isn’t included, the exterior view and the architecture speak volumes about the city’s spiritual and artistic history. The tour concludes back at Piazza Duomo, perfect for a last look or to continue exploring on your own.

What to Expect from the Experience

The Ape calessino itself is a charming, vintage vehicle that fits perfectly with Matera’s historic atmosphere. Reviews repeatedly mention how fun and comfortable it is to ride in — “a very pleasant guide and person,” as one reviewer put it, and “extremely friendly.” The tour’s duration (about an hour) makes it a manageable way to see the highlights without feeling rushed or overly committed.

The small group setting or private arrangement means you’ll get personalized attention, and guides like Vito are praised for their local knowledge and storytelling skills. Many reviews emphasize how this is not just a sightseeing ride but an educational experience, with guides eager to answer questions and share insights.

The Value of the Tour

At roughly $61.54 per person, this tour strikes us as a good deal for what you get — a combination of fun, comfort, and education. It’s a way to cover a lot of ground quickly, especially if your time in Matera is limited. Plus, the inclusion of tickets to most stops, like the cave house and some churches, adds value, although the entrance to San Pietro Barisano church is not included.

However, keep in mind that this is a short overview — for those wanting a deep dive into Matera’s history, architecture, and culture, supplementing with other tours or visits might be necessary.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience really suits first-time visitors who want a fun, efficient way to get their bearings. It’s also ideal for those who prefer a more relaxed, less walking-intensive way to see Matera’s highlights. If you’re traveling with limited time or want a unique photo opportunity, these rides are a great choice.

While it’s very family-friendly given the vehicle’s ease and comfort, those with mobility issues should confirm accessibility. If you’re after a more in-depth exploration with detailed history, consider it as a complement rather than a replacement.

Final Thoughts

The Ape calessino tour in Matera offers a cheerful, memorable way to see Italy’s famous city. With friendly guides, stunning views, and a comfortable ride, it hits that sweet spot between sightseeing and entertainment. The short duration makes it perfect for a quick taste of Matera’s charm, especially if you’re on a tight schedule or want a fun activity that’s different from conventional walking tours.

The reviews consistently highlight how this tour helps travelers get their bearings and leaves them with a great impression of the city’s beauty and history. If you’re looking for a lighthearted, informative experience that’s also genuinely enjoyable, this tour is worth considering.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How long does the tour last?
  About 1 hour to 1 hour and 10 minutes, making it a manageable and fun snapshot of Matera.

• What is included in the tour?
  Stops at key sites like Piazza San Pietro Caveoso, Piazza Duomo, Casa Grotta, and panoramic spots. Tickets for most stops are included, though the church entry is not.

• Can I choose my departure time?
  Yes, you can enter your preferred start time when booking, offering flexibility to fit your schedule.

• Is this a private tour?
  Yes, it’s a private experience — only your group participates, making it more personalized.

• What if the weather is bad?
  The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund.

• Is this tour suitable for children?
  While not explicitly mentioned, the comfortable vehicle and engaging guide make it generally suitable for most ages.

• How far in advance should I book?
  On average, travelers book about 49 days ahead, especially during peak seasons.

• Where does the tour start and end?
  Starts at Via del Corso, 78, and finishes back at the same point.

• Are group discounts available?
  The tour features group discounts, making it more affordable if you’re traveling with friends or family.

• What makes this tour stand out?
  The combination of a fun vintage ride, local guide expertise, and stunning views makes it a memorable way to explore Matera quickly and comfortably.

If you’re after a guided, enjoyable, and picturesque introduction to Matera, this Ape calessino tour is definitely worth considering. It’s a delightful way to see the city’s highlights without the fatigue, and with guides like Vito leading the way, you’re in good hands.