<!–
The 15 Best Tours in Matera
Exploring Matera is like stepping into a living museum, where every alley and stone tells a story. Thanks to its UNESCO World Heritage Site status, the city offers a wide array of tours that go far beyond typical sightseeing. From walking through ancient cave dwellings to panoramic rides in vintage calessino scooters, Matera’s tours are a feast for the senses. We particularly love the From Matera: Sassi di Matera Tour with Entry to Cave Houses for its engaging deep dive into the Sassi’s labyrinthine streets and authentic cave homes, and the Ape Tour Matera for a quick, fun overview of the city’s highlights in a charming tuk-tuk.
What makes Matera special for tours is its unique rock architecture, the cinematic quality of its streets, and the variety of ways you can experience its history and charm. Whether you prefer a guided walking tour, a private excursion, or a scenic ride in an Ape calessino or tuk-tuk, there’s something to suit every style and schedule. The list below covers tours that range from two-hour strolls to multi-day experiences, ensuring you find the perfect way to connect with this extraordinary city.
1. From Matera: Sassi di Matera Tour with Entry to Cave Houses
This highly-rated 2-hour guided tour takes you deep into the heart of the Sassi, Matera’s ancient cave complexes. Starting at one of four convenient locations, the tour explores both Sasso Barisano and Sasso Caveoso, unveiling hidden caves, churches, and traditional dwellings. The highlight is the visit to a Casa Grotta, where you’ll see how families lived in these caves until recent decades. The guide is praised for their friendly demeanor and knowledge, making complex history accessible and engaging. For around $32, this tour offers a rich overview with multiple photo stops, including panoramic views and historic sites like the Chiesa del Purgatorio. Guests love the relaxed pace and the fascinating stories, such as the mention of cinematic scenes filmed here.
Bottom Line: Perfect for first-timers who want a comprehensive, friendly introduction to Matera’s unique cave city.
2. Full Private 3h Excursion to the Sassi di Matera
For a more personalized experience, this 3-hour private tour is hard to beat. Led by a certified guide, you’ll visit both Sasso Barisano and Sasso Caveoso, exploring cave churches, underground dwellings, and panoramic viewpoints. What sets this tour apart is the customized attention—the guide tailors the walk based on your interests, whether that’s architecture, history, or local legends. The tour includes a visit to Casa Cava, a restored underground space, and stops at key sites like Piazza Vittorio Veneto. The small group size (up to 6 people) ensures an intimate experience, and reviews highlight the guide’s engaging storytelling and in-depth knowledge.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking a flexible, in-depth exploration with a private guide, especially if you want to cover a lot in a short time.
3. Sassi Walking Tour: between history and culture
This 5-star rated 2-hour walk provides a more relaxed, culturally rich stroll through Matera’s ancient neighborhoods. The guide escorts you through alleyways, panoramic viewpoints, and inside a 12th-century rock church—offering an inside look at rock architecture and monastic history. The highlight is the inside visit to the rock church, which offers a tangible connection to centuries of monastic life. The tour is praised for its excellent pacing and storytelling, making it great for travelers who want a deep dive without feeling rushed. It’s suitable for all fitness levels, but be prepared for some stairs.
Bottom Line: Perfect for history enthusiasts who want a comprehensive yet manageable walk that reveals Matera’s most fascinating sites.
4. Guided Tour, Historic Center Sassi Rock Churches and Cave House
This 2-hour tour offers a classic exploration of Matera’s historic core. Starting from the central Via Don Minzoni, your guide takes you past churches, cave houses, and panoramic viewpoints. Key stops include rock-hewn churches like Santa Maria de Idris and San Giovanni in Monterrone, along with a visit inside a typical cave house. The tour emphasizes the urban evolution of Matera, blending architecture, art, and everyday life stories. Guests praise the knowledgeable guide and the smooth pacing that allows for plenty of photo opportunities. The experience is perfect for travelers who want a well-rounded introduction to the Sassi’s sights and stories.
Bottom Line: A solid choice for visitors eager to see key sites with a local guide, especially if comfort and cultural context matter.
5. Matera Walking Tour with Casa Grotta & Rock Church Entry
Combining a guided walk with interior visits, this 2-hour tour explores the historic center, cave churches, and cave dwellings. Starting from Via Don Giovanni Minzoni, it visits Santa Maria de Idris and San Giovanni in Monterrone—including entry to a cave church. You’ll get a hands-on look at cave life, with insights into peasant life and local traditions. The tour’s value lies in its combination of walking and inside visits, making it suitable for those who want both a scenic and immersive experience. Reviews highlight the friendly guides and the memorable cave visits.
Bottom Line: Excellent for travelers who want a bit more depth, especially in exploring cave churches and historic homes.
6. Discover Matera: Overnight Stay, Meal, and Sassi Tour
For those wanting a multi-day immersion, this package combines a charming overnight stay in a Sassi B&B with a dining experience and a 2-hour guided tour. The walking tour covers Caveoso and Barisano, including rock churches and cave houses, and is perfect for soaking up the atmosphere after hours. The meal features local dishes, giving you a taste of Lucanian cuisine. This experience is ideal for travelers seeking more than just a day trip, offering a chance to see Matera at night and really connect with its ambiance.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want a deep, authentic experience and don’t mind spending a night in the city.
7. Matera walking tour in English
This 2-hour guided walk provides a bright and friendly introduction to Matera. Led by a licensed local guide, you’ll visit cave houses, the palombaro cistern, and explore the sassi neighborhoods. Guests appreciate the clear explanations and the opportunity to ask questions. The guide’s enthusiasm makes the city’s urban landscape and history come alive, perfect for first-time visitors or those who want an easy overview without a rush.
Bottom Line: Ideal for English speakers wanting a well-organized, accessible tour that covers the essentials.
8. Matera: Guided Walking Tour
This 2.5-hour tour offers a comprehensive sightseeing experience. Led by a local guide, you’ll explore Sasso Barisano, Sasso Caveoso, and the landscape of the “Sassi”. Special highlights include cave churches and historic architecture. Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guide and the pace that allows ample time for photos and questions. If you want to understand Matera’s history and architecture in a single visit, this tour hits the mark.
Bottom Line: A good choice for travelers who want a thorough overview with local insights in a comfortable timeframe.
9. Ape Tour Matera – Panoramic tour in ape calessino
This 40-50 minute tour in a classic Ape Calessino gives you a quick, scenic overview of Matera’s highlights. Starting at Piazza San Pietro Caveoso, you’ll glide through Sasso Caveoso, enjoying panoramic photo stops at the cathedral and main squares. The driver acts as your guide, sharing insights about Matera’s film fame and urban layout. Guests love the fun, relaxed atmosphere and the opportunity to see the main sights without much walking. It’s particularly good for families or travelers with limited time.
Bottom Line: A fun, efficient way to get a taste of Matera’s main sights—ideal if you want a quick overview or are short on time.
10. Sassi di Matera: Guided Walking Tour with Cave House/Church
This 2-hour tour combines walking through historic Sassi neighborhoods with visits to rock churches and a cave house. The guide is praised for their enthusiasm and local knowledge, bringing stories of life in the caves alive. The tour emphasizes authentic experiences like entering a cave dwelling and learning about materan traditions. If you’re interested in the social history of Matera, reviews note the guide’s ability to answer questions and the memorable cave visits.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting an authentic, immersive experience of the urban and domestic life in Matera’s caves.
11. Ape Calessino Tour nei Sassi di Matera
This 50-minute guided tour offers a luxurious, relaxed ride through Matera’s Sassi districts. Starting from Martulli Viaggi, you’ll see Piazza San Francesco, the cathedral, and other key sights, all from the comfort of a vintage Ape calessino. The driver doubles as a guide, sharing stories and historical insights as you enjoy scenic views. Guests appreciate the personalized experience and photogenic stops. It’s ideal for photo lovers and those wanting a lightweight overview of the city’s top attractions.
Bottom Line: Best suited for luxury seekers or first-timers wanting a stylish introduction to Matera’s highlights.
12. Ape tour Matera – Guided tour in ape calessino
This hour-long tour takes you through Matera on a small, fun vehicle. Meeting at the same location as above, you’ll visit Piazza San Pietro Caveoso, the cathedral, and other viewpoints, with stops for photos and explanations. Reviewers love the friendly guide Vito, who tailors the experience to your interests, sharing insider stories about Matera’s transformation. The tour is perfect if you want a quick, memorable overview that’s easy to fit into your day.
Bottom Line: An ideal short, personalized tour for those who want to see the main sights with minimal fuss.
13. Go where the Quad takes you
For a completely different experience, this 1.5-hour quad adventure takes you into the Lucanian Apennines. Starting from Castelmezzano, it offers a thrilling ride over mountain trails with guidance on safe driving. The tour is suitable for adventure lovers seeking a rush and a chance to see the natural landscape beyond Matera. Reviews mention the fun and the stunning views over the Pierfaone-Viggiano ridge. Be aware that this is more physically active than other options.
Bottom Line: Best for adventure travelers wanting an adrenaline rush and scenic views outside the city.
14. Guided Tour of Parco Murgia
This 2.5-hour tour explores the Rupestrian churches of Parco Murgia, a site often overshadowed by Matera’s Sassi but equally rich. Led by an expert guide, you’ll see about 150 rock churches, including fresco-filled San Falcion and 17th-century Madonna delle Tre Porte. The tour includes walks through the park’s natural landscape and detailed stories about troglodyte settlements and Renaissance-era churches. The special sunset departure offers stunning views of the city at dusk. The small group size makes this a personalized and educational adventure.
Bottom Line: Great for eco-enthusiasts and history lovers who want a deeper understanding of Matera’s religious and architectural heritage.
15. Matera Cooking Class
Finally, if you want a hands-on experience, this 4-hour private cooking class takes you to a local farm. You’ll visit olive and orange groves, then learn to prepare fresh pasta and traditional dishes under the guidance of a local family. The class ends with a casual meal featuring your creations, providing a delicious insight into Matera’s rural cuisine. Guests rave about the warm hospitality and authenticity of the experience, which offers a culinary window into local life. It’s perfect for foodies and those eager to bring home a taste of Matera.
Bottom Line: An enriching, flavorful way to spend part of your trip, especially suited for those interested in cooking, local culture, and authentic dining.
How to Choose the Perfect Tour in Matera
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, time, interests, and fitness level. Want a quick glimpse? The Ape Tour Matera offers a memorable overview in under an hour. For those craving an authentic deep dive, the From Matera: Sassi di Matera Tour with Entry to Cave Houses provides detailed insights into everyday life inside the caves. If you’re after a private, tailored experience, the Full Private 3h Excursion is ideal. For food lovers, consider the Matera Cooking Class, which offers a culinary journey into local flavors.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season (spring and fall). Check availability and consider your walking endurance—Matera’s cobblestones can be tough on the feet.
Final Thoughts
Matera’s tours are as varied as its history, offering options for every type of traveler. For an immersive look into daily life, the Casa Grotta & Cave Church tour is hard to beat. If you prefer scenic highlights in a fun ride, the Ape Calessino will serve you well. And for the adventure seekers, the quad tour into the Lucanian mountains is a thrilling change of pace.
Whatever your style, Matera’s rich tapestry of history and scenery awaits. Book your tour early, and get ready for an unforgettable journey into one of Italy’s most extraordinary cities.
