Matera stands out as a destination for travelers who want to combine stunning ancient landscapes with authentic food experiences. Its unique landscape of cave dwellings and the rich flavors of Lucanian cuisine make it a natural choice for culinary tours. We particularly love experiences like the Food and Wine Tour between the Patriarchs Olives and the Oil Temples because it blends scenic walks, hands-on cooking, and local storytelling. Imagine tasting bread baked in an old wood-fired oven under ancient olive trees or learning how to make the traditional “la cialledda” salad in a rustic laboratory setting. These moments capture the essence of Matera’s culinary soul and leave a lasting impression.
If you’re curious about Matera’s wine scene, the Matera: Intimate Wine Tasting Experience with Food Pairings offers a focused, expert-led exploration of regional wines paired with local bites, perfect for a short, enriching session. For those who prefer to cook and dine in a cozy, home-like atmosphere, the Home Restaurant Made In Slow Food Matera lets you step into a family kitchen, reliving the flavors and rituals of maternal cooking traditions. And for a comprehensive day combining history, cave dwellings, and local flavors, the Full Day Matera Tour with Cave Homes and Local Food Tasting brings it all together, including visits to UNESCO-listed sites and cave museums.
Below, you’ll find a detailed look at each of the four top-rated food tours to help you decide which fits your travel style best. Whether you’re after a quick wine tasting or a full-day immersion into Matera’s caves and kitchens, there’s something here for every culinary adventurer.
1. Food and Wine Tour between the Patriarchs Olives and the Oil Temples
At number 1 on our list, this tour offers a hands-on culinary experience combined with scenic walks through the Parco della Murgia Materana. The tour begins with a small breakfast beneath the patriarch olive tree in an old countryside setting, setting the tone for a journey into Matera’s natural and culinary heritage. You will explore the caverns of an ancient farmhouse and taste Matera bread baked in a traditional wood-fired oven, seasoned with extra virgin olive oil from century-old olive groves. The highlight is learning how to prepare “la cialledda”, a simple but flavorful dish that combines stale bread with seasonal vegetables—a true taste of local tradition.
This tour is especially special because it combines culinary craft with cultural insights. You’ll stroll through the Murgia countryside, visiting historic olive groves and ancient farm buildings, all while learning about the region’s olive oil production. The experience culminates in sharing your homemade meal, just as local olive pickers have done for generations. With a duration of roughly 2 to 3 hours and a friendly price point (~$49.79), it’s an excellent option for those wanting a short but meaningful taste of Matera. The guide’s storytelling and local atmosphere make this a memorable experience for food lovers.
Bottom Line: If you want a combination of scenic walks, authentic cooking, and a chance to taste Matera’s bread and olive oil, this tour delivers in an intimate, relaxed setting—perfect for a half-day adventure.
2. Matera: Intimate Wine Tasting Experience with Food Pairings
At number 2, this one-hour experience is designed for wine enthusiasts eager to explore Matera’s viticultural heritage. Led by an expert sommelier, the tasting dives into regional wines, showcasing tradition, innovation, and the region’s unique terroir. The session includes carefully selected wines, each paired with thoughtfully curated local foods. The goal is to deepen your understanding of Grape varietals, aging techniques, and regional wine styles—all within a cozy setting.
What makes this experience stand out is the personalized approach. You’ll receive tailored insights from the sommelier, making it ideal for those who want an intimate, educational wine journey without a lengthy commitment. The focus on food pairings enhances the sensory experience, offering bites that complement each wine, transforming a simple tasting into a full-flavored exploration. The reviews reflect a 4.8/5 rating, with visitors praising the expert guidance and high-quality wines.
This tour suits travelers who want a short, refined introduction to Matera’s wine scene. It’s perfect for a quick evening activity or a relaxing afternoon after sightseeing. The price is competitive, delivering excellent value for such a personalized experience.
Bottom Line: For a focused, expert-led wine tasting that includes food pairings, this tour provides a flavorful glimpse into Matera’s wine culture—ideal for wine fans and curious explorers.
3. Home Restaurant Made In Slow Food Matera – Cook with us!
Coming in at number 3, this four-hour home-cooking experience offers a rare chance to step into a local family’s kitchen. Hosted in a cozy home, the tour emphasizes authenticity, sharing recipes and traditions that the host learned from her grandparents and parents. Expect to smell familiar aromas from boiling pots, and see family rituals that have been passed down through generations, such as preparing local bread, sauces, or traditional desserts.
The host’s narrative emphasizes the serene, informal atmosphere, creating a convivial environment for learning and tasting. You’ll participate in cooking, often making regional dishes like pasta, bread, or seasonal specialties, then sit down to enjoy your creations along with stories of family life. The intimate setting and personalized approach make this a delightful experience for those who appreciate home-cooked food and cultural exchange.
While the price (~$63.98) is higher than some short tastings, it offers longer, immersive engagement with Matera’s culinary traditions. With only 4 reviews, the experience is still gaining popularity, but the reviews mention the warm hospitality and authentic flavors as highlights.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a personalized cooking and dining experience that feels like visiting a family member’s home, this tour offers genuine connection and delicious food in a relaxed setting.
4. Full Day Matera Tour with Cave Homes and Local Food Tasting
On our list, the full-day tour hits the mark for travelers who want a comprehensive experience. Starting with a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Matera, this tour covers 5,000 years of history within the cave dwellings and ancient neighborhoods. The guided walk through the Sassi di Matera, including Sasso Barisano and Sasso Caveoso, offers insights into how people have lived in these troglodyte homes for centuries.
The tour includes visits to the Romanic Cathedral, cave house museums, and rupestrian churches, providing a thorough look at Matera’s historic significance. Food comes into play with local Basilicata dishes and wine, sampled during the visit to a cave house museum. The experience is rounded out by options to explore additional sites, making it perfect for history and food lovers alike.
Rated 3.5/5 with some reviews noting the intensive walking and many steps involved, this is not for everyone. But if you’re prepared for a full day, you’ll get a well-rounded taste of Matera’s ancient dwellings combined with local culinary delights. The price (~$118.53) reflects the extensive itinerary and inclusions.
Bottom Line: For those wanting a deep dive into Matera’s caves along with a taste of Basilicata cuisine, this full-day tour offers great value. It’s especially suitable for history buffs and active travelers.
How to Choose the Right Food Tour in Matera
Choosing the best food tour depends on your interests, schedule, and budget. If you prefer a short, scenic tasting combined with olive oil and bread, the Food and Wine Tour is perfect. For a quick, educational introduction to local wines, the wine tasting experience offers expert insights in a short time. Want to cook and dine in a cozy, family setting? The Home Restaurant experience gives you that authentic, relaxed atmosphere. Finally, if you want an all-in-one day with history, cave dwellings, and food, the full-day tour delivers a comprehensive taste of Matera.
Remember to book early, especially during peak seasons, as tours can fill quickly. Consider your fitness level—some tours involve walking on uneven terrain or climbing stairs—and think about how much time you want to dedicate to your culinary adventure.
Final Thoughts
Matera’s food tours offer a wonderful way to connect with the city’s culinary traditions, whether through hands-on cooking, wine tastings, or exploring ancient cave dwellings. For a quick but meaningful experience, the Food and Wine Tour or the wine tasting are excellent choices. If you’re after a more personal, home-cooked meal, the Home Restaurant provides an authentic touch. And for those with plenty of time and curiosity about history and culture, the full-day tour provides a well-rounded, immersive experience.
To make the most of your visit, consider combining a couple of these experiences. Booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these memorable culinary adventures in Matera.
