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9 BEST Matera Guided Tours (selected by an Italian)

By: Author Stefania Guglielmi

Posted on Last updated: May 8, 2024

Categories Europe , Italy

Ready to discover Italy’s oldest city with an expert? Learn about its fascinating history and culture with one of these epic Matera guided tours. You’ll find them below, so keep reading!

Located in the Basilicata region in Southern Italy, Matera is the country’s most ancient city and the third oldest city in the world (!) It’s also an absolute dream destination for history and archaeology buffs and a highly recommended place to visit when in Italy. 

Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site , Matera dates back to the 3rd century BC, and it boasts magnificent remains of ancient life. This includes caves, primitive settlements, rock churches, and a mesmerizing landscape. 

I was born and raised in Bologna, in Northern Italy, but for some reason, I didn’t make it to Matera until last year. Big mistake – I was absolutely blown away by it!

Matera quickly became one of my very favorite places in Italy , and I can’t wait to go back and spend another long weekend there. It’s such a unique place, unlike any other in the country.

The best way to explore the town is, in my opinion, with a Matera guided tour . It’s true, the city is a fascinating destination even if you’re aimlessly wandering around its streets. But its history, importance, and gripping stories can only be discovered if you visit with an expert. 

For this reason, I’ve compiled the very best Matera guided tours to help you choose the one that best suits your interests and budget. Check them out!

I generally use Viator and Get Your Guide to book tours around the world. I especially recommend them for their great cancellation policy. It allows you to cancel most activities up to 24 hours in advance and get a full refund. 

In a rush? These are the ultimate tours

OUR PICK: The BEST Guided Tour of Matera

The Sassi di Matera Tour with Entry to Cave Houses is our chosen best tour. Led by an expert, you’ll enjoy a guided tour of the ancient city and its Sassi. Explore the enchanting alleys and cave constructions as you learn about their history and purpose.

You’ll visit the Church of San Francesco before leaving the city center behind, and head to Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano. Check out the incredible limestone grottoes, and pay a visit to Rupestre Church of Sant’Antonio Abate, carved in the rock.

There you’ll discover examples of the area’s traditional culture through paintings and carvings. A trip to a typical Matera cave-house is also included… So you’ll get the full package!

Why this tour? It allows you to understand the age-old city in depth, introducing you to its main landmarks and their fascinating history. It’s comprehensive both in information and attractions, perfect for first-time visitors. If you only have one or two days to see the city, this tour is all you need.

Read what the reviews say

“This was a fascinating tour. We learned a lot about Matera and our guide Peppe was friendly, witty and very knowledgeable. Highly recommended.” Michael – Read more reviews

This tour includes : A guide tour of Matera, and all entrance fees. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Other Great Walking Tours

▶️ Check out Discover the Ancient City – Matera Tour in English or Italian , a thorough tour that allows you to get much more than a glimpse of this ancient city.

Along with a small group of people, you’ll follow your English-speaking guide to the districts of Sasso Barisano and Sasso Caveoso. There, explore the ancient dwellings and rock churches of the Sassi. 

Enjoy stunning views of the valley, and stroll along the narrow alleys as you learn about Matera’s millennia of history. Did you know the town used to be called the Shame of Italy ?Today, it’s one of the most important World Heritage Sites in the country. 

This Matera walking tour includes : A guided tour around Matera. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ Sassi di Matera Guided Tour is a half-day experience that introduces you to Matera’s oldest districts. Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano comprise Sassi di Matera, and have been inhabited continuously for over 7 thousand years.

The Sassi feature rock churches, cave houses, piazzas, and a striking Apulian-Romanesque Cathedral. 

Your expert guide will provide interesting insights about the city’s history and how it’s changed throughout the centuries. This way, you’ll get to truly delve into this fascinating location! 

This tour includes : A guide, and entry tickets to the caves. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Private Tour of Matera

A Matera Private Walking Tour is ideal if you’re traveling with your partner, family, or a group of friends. You’ll benefit from your guide’s undivided attention and get to ask all your questions as you stroll around the historical center of Matera. 

The tour will take you to a spectacular cave-house that was inhabited until the 20th century. There’s no better way to discover how people lived than stepping foot in their actual (rock) homes!

You’ll also visit rupestrian churches, and the Cathedral, which sits atop one of the town’s highest points and overlooks the city.

This tour includes : A guide, and a private tour of Matera. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

The Best Ape Tour in Matera (Tuk Tuk)

This Ape Tour Matera – Panoramic Tour in Ape Calessino is an incredibly fun way of exploring this ancient city. An ape is essentially a tuk-tuk that will zip you through the steep lanes of Matera. You’ll get to explore its historical districts without getting tired!

Visit the town’s main attractions accompanied by a guide, discovering the importance of the landmarks you’re passing by. You’ll stop to admire the views from a viewpoint and visit incredible caves that are thousands of years old.  

This Matera tuk tuk tour includes : A driver/guide, and transportation. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Eco Bus Tour in Matera

The Sassi of Matera: Eco-Bus Open Top Tour offers a very comfortable, convenient way to tour the area. You’ll hop on a sightseeing bus and travel to the Sassi districts, admiring the views through the open windows.

Stop for visits at San Pietro Caveoso Square, Casa Grotta Sassi di Matera, and some movie settings! Did you know The Passion of Christ and James Bond: No Time to Die were filmed here?

There will be plenty of time to stroll around the Sassi alleys and admire its cave houses up close. A trip to Murgia Materana, one of the major attractions in town, is also included.

This tour includes : A sightseeing tour, entry tickets, a guide, and a map of Matera. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Murgia Park Rocky Curches Tour (Unmissable!)

The Murgia Park Rocky Curches Tour takes you to an absolutely gorgeous attraction that you can’t miss when in Matera. The tour of the park grants you access to the striking rock churches, where you can admire their centuries-old Byzantine frescoes.

Check out the scenic views from Golgota, and delight in the panorama of Matera as the sun sets. 

Be prepared to explore a millennium of history, tracing the steps of countless generations of citizens. You’ll even get to see the spot where Mel Gibson filmed his movie The Passion of the Christ!

This tour includes : Transfers to the park, entry fees, and a guide. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Food Tour in Matera

Who can say no to a Food and Wine Tour between the Patriarchs Olives and the Oil Temples ? Better yet if it takes place in Italy’s most historical city, Matera.

You’ll start the day having breakfast under a Patriarch olive tree and then head into the Materan rocky countryside known as Murgia . 

Pass through ancient caves on your way to an old farmhouse, where you’ll be introduced to the traditional bread of Matera. You’ll even get to prepare one of its most traditional dishes, the cialledda!

Indulge in a meal completed with baked olives, salami, and Primitivo wine, and delight in the sounds of Matera’s traditional music and songs. 

This tour includes : Meal and a guide. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

James Bond 007 Guided Tour in Matera

Ready to live a cinematic experience in Matera? Book the James Bond 007 Guided Tour to follow the steps of the world’s most famous secret agent.

You’ll meet a Matera tour guide and follow them around town as they show you the spots where the James Bond movie No Time to Die was shot. Piazza San Giovani Battista, via Fiorentini, and Piazza San Pietro Caveoso are a few of them!

You’ll also go up the famous via Muro, where Mel Gibson’s via crucis in The Passion of Christ took place.

Along the way, listen to anecdotes and fascinating details about the shooting of the movies in Matera. Then, snap pictures in the places where Bond, James Bond carried out many of his heroic actions!  

This Matera James Bond tour includes : A tour guide. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Stefania Guglielmi is the founder of Every Steph. Originally from Bologna, Italy, she's been traveling full-time since 2016 and has visited over 50 countries across 6 continents. She believes sustainable travel and luxury travel can go hand in hand and has been advocating for responsible tourism since 2014. Stefania's advice and travel experiences have been featured in important publications such as Business Insider, Refinery29, and Yahoo Money.

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Natural fun Tour in quad Matera

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NATURAL FUN TOUR IN QUAD MATERA: Tutto quello che c'è da sapere (AGGIORNATO 2024) - Tripadvisor

MATERA GUIDED TOURS

With  our Matera guided tours  you will discover all aspects related to  history, culture, nature and traditions of the city of Rocks  and its surroundings: Ferula Viaggi will accompany you with several daily tours, each with specific activities and itineraries.

Gourmet and tasting tours  to cook and appreciate local delicacies;  visits to monuments and places  of historical and cultural importance, a time travel from the Neolithic to our day; a jump into the  underground Matera , villages and rock churches to understand how the ancients transformed hard places to live in their houses.

Choose one or more Matera guided tours, also customizable, starting with the following ones.

SASSI OF MATERA ESCORTED TOUR

An emotional escorted tour in the Sassi of Matera, the ancient districts of the town, along beautiful paths.

Duration: 2 hours max

Level: Easy

Periodo: All year

FOOD WALKING TOUR IN MATERA

Discover the city centre with six different stations to taste local gastronomy specialties

Duration: 3 hours max

Period: All the year

ARTISANAL TOUR IN MATERA

You will visit some craftsmen’s workshops located in ancient cavehouses.

WINE TOUR IN MATERA

You will learn how wine was processed in caves till the end of XIX century.

MATERA CYCLING TOUR

A daily guided cycling tour departing from the famous Sassi.

Period: All year

SASSI OF MATERA FULL DAY TOUR

Visit to the Sassi of Matera in one day: alleys, squares, history and curiosity of the ancient tufa districts.

Duration: 5 hours max

Visiting the places in Matera where they filmed the movie No Time To Die

EASY WALK IN THE PARK OF ROCK CHURCHES

Excursion in the Park of the Rock Churches in Matera to learn about rock civilization, flora and fauna of the park.

TOUR OF NOBLE RESIDENCES AND CONTEMPORARY ART IN MATERA

Discover three noble residences and where kings, counts and princes lodged in the past.

EXCLUSIVE COOKING CLASS IN A NOBLE PALACE IN MATERA

Learn how to prepare traditional recipes in one of the noble residences in Matera.

Period: All the year, weekends and bank holidays excluded

Learn how to prepare traditional dishes using fresh seasonal ingredients with coking classes in Matera.

Period: All year long. Weekend and bank holidays excluded

ROLLING HILLS AROUND MATERA

You will discover the rolling hills around Matera, cycling along the wonderful and deserted road around Matera and San Giuliano Lake.

Duration: 4 hours max

Level: Moderate

This self guided bike tour is a not to be missed excursion.

FROM SASSI TO MARY OF CROSSES RUPESTRIAN CHURCH

Walking tour of Matera starting from Porta Pistola, in the ancient districts of Sassi.

NEOLITHIC VILLAGES AND ROCK CHURCHES IN MTB

You will discover a world of Neolithic Villages ruins and the Rock Churches of Murgia Timone.

Matera, a unique place in the world

Here I propose  just a few of many possible Matera guided tours , with many sites to look at, admire, and especially live, to be able to fully enjoy the beauty that brings them together in a historical and cultural unicum, recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site since 1993.

Individual itineraries can obviously  joined and intertwined , each represents in fact a stage of the long journey through time that man has come into this land, from the remote past of the Paleolithic caves to the present day. And we hope for a long time yet.

matera GUIDED TOURS

Sassi of Matera

2 h • Walking Tour

Discovering the ancient tuffa districts.

Historic Center of Matera

Getting lost among squares and alleys.

Park of the Murgia

3 h • Walking Tour

Immersed in nature a few steps from the city center.

Museums of Matera

3 h • Cultural Tour

Discover the places of culture and city history.

Tasting Matera

3 h • Tasting Tour

Getting to know the city and its cooking traditions.

WHAT PEOPLE I ACCOMPANIED IN MATERA SAY ABOUT ME

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Guided Tours Matera

Choose your guided tour of Matera

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Exploring the Sassi of Matera: The Magic of a Guided Tour

Matera, nestled among the gentle hills of Basilicata, stands as a timeless jewel from the past. Its Sassi, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site , tell millennia-old stories intertwined with the timeless beauty of the city. Visiting Matera is like diving into a history book, and the key to unveiling all its secrets lies in an unforgettable experience: guided tours.

The stones that make up Matera's Sassi narrate tales of generations shaping rock to create homes, churches, and streets. Walking through Matera's intricate alleys is like traveling back in time, with the warmth of the sun illuminating stone facades and creating shadow plays that paint the landscape with emotions. Only a guided tour can lead you through the labyrinth of streets, revealing hidden anecdotes behind every corner and unveiling the magic of this unique city.

— Discover Matera the City of Stones

Revealing the Hidden Secrets and Intricate Stories of the City of Stones

Guided tours in Matera provide a comprehensive immersion into its rich history and culture. The local guides, passionate and knowledgeable, act as guardians of the secrets of the Sassi. Through their captivating stories, the alleyways and squares come to life, transporting you to bygone eras and allowing you to fully grasp the significance of this extraordinary place.

The city is an open-air museum, but only with a guide can you fully appreciate the mastery of rock architecture and the perfect symbiosis between man and nature. Guided tours reveal hidden architectural details, explain unique construction techniques, and unveil the cultural meaning behind each building. Without an expert guide, many of these details might escape notice, leaving your understanding of the intrinsic beauty of Matera's Sassi incomplete.

Furthermore, guided tours offer the opportunity to explore the rock churches, authentic witnesses to art and faith dating back centuries. The mural paintings and frescoes in these churches, often hidden from the eyes of unguided visitors, come to life with the detailed explanations of the guides, providing a unique perspective on the spirituality and creativity of the time.

Map of the historic center

Matera, with its magical atmosphere and tumultuous history, deserves to be discovered in all its grandeur. Guided tours provide a key to accessing a world of wonders that might otherwise remain hidden. Relying on an expert guide is like opening a book and beginning to read the pages that narrate the past, present, and future of this extraordinary city.

— Visite guidate disponibili

Scegli quale tour effettuare

Guided tour of the Sassi of Matera

Welcome to the evocative adventure of the Guided Tour of the Sassi of Matera! A journey through the Sassi on a fascinating walk.

Guided tour of the Sassi of Matera by car

Exploring the Sassi is a unique experience that is enriched by the comfort and charm of a guided tour of the Sassi of Matera by car.

Guided tour of the Murgia Park

Welcome to the enchanting journey to discover the extraordinary Murgico plateau of Matera through the Guided Tour of the Murgia Park

Guided tour of the Murgia park by car

An adventure on four wheels in the heart of the Murgia plateau, where our guided tour of the Murgia park by car.

Visit to the Crypt of Original Sin

A cultural jewel rich in history and frescoes not to be missed that you can visit with our “Visit to the Crypt of Original Sin”

Guided tour of the Sassi of Matera and the Idris

Discover the enchanting Matera, the City of Sassi, through our exciting Guided tour of the Sassi of Matera and the Idris

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Guided tours by car

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We are a small but active tourist agency in love with our city.

Explore Matera with our guided tour agency, fall in love with the city through the passion we infuse into every tour. Operating for 10 years, we are strategically located in Piazza San Francesco, the pulsating heart of Matera. We are passionate storytellers ready to unveil the secrets of the Sassi and transform your visit into a unique experience. Discover the timeless beauty of Matera with meticulously crafted tours, led by expert connoisseurs of the area. Join us for a journey through the history, art, and magic of Matera. Welcome to your Materan adventure!

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The Ultimate Travel Guide to Matera

Matera, the City of Caves, was once a poor community that didn’t attract much attention from tourists, despite being an ancient city etched into the surrounding limestone rocks that has been populated since Palaeolithic times, some 7,000 years ago.

The residents of Matera built their homes in caves that they dug out of the landscape, which secretly conceals a network of caves, creating a troglodyte village which remains standing until this day.

The city was once known as “the shame of Italy” due to the extreme poverty and being riddled with malaria, but it emerged from obscurity in 1945, when the famous Author and Painter Carlo Levi published “Christ Stopped at Eboli” highlighting the plight of Matera’s people in his memoir.

Due to the public outcry that such poverty and squalor existed, the Matera officials re-established the townspeople in modern housing and even relocated them to other towns, and by 1950, it was fully evacuated, leaving the city was walled up and forgotten.

In the 1980s, a group of the political class decided to restore the Sassi and their work brought the attention of UNESCO to Matera, in 1993 it was named a UNESCO Heritage Site.

This magical city transports you to another era and is so similar to settlements found in the Holy Land that the town has been used in numerous films and TV series as a backdrop for Jerusalem. The most famous being Mel Gibson’s “The Passion of the Christ” which propelled Matera into the public eye.

Tourists started to flock to Matera to explore their winding alleyways and rustic cave dwellings and the tide has turned for this city so much that this year it was voted the European Capital of Culture 2019. Matera is the perfect example of a city that has thrived and flourished due to tourism and is now one of Italy’s hidden gems.

The city is incredible for history buffs and there are plenty of churches, grottoes and convents that go back as far as the middle ages. There are now charming cave restaurants, cave cafes and you can even sleep inside one of the rustic cave houses for an unforgettable experience.

This ultimate travel guide to Matera will show you all the most beautiful places in Matera, what to expect when visiting, where to stay in Matera and things to do in Matera which will help you in planning a trip to Matera.

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Table of Contents

How to get to Matera

Matera by air: Fly into Bari’s main airport and from there you can find an airport shuttle that takes you directly to Matera, prices start from only €3.

Matera by bus: There are various services connecting major cities with Matera, from Rome, Pisa, Siena or Florence there are services running with the Marozzi and Liscio buses. Matera is also connected to Bologna and Petruzzi bus lines runs a regular service.

From Milan, Bologna, Naples and Ancona you can take Marino Buses. All the various bus companies have differing prices for their services and it’s best to use a free booking app such as GO EURO where you can find the best prices for travelling from one city to another.

Matera by train: The most convenient way to get to Matera is to take the train from the city of Bari, the journey is very fast and cheap, costing only €5 for the hour and a half journey.

Matera by car: You can fly to Naples and drive to Matera, a four-hour drive from the city. There are car rental places at Naples airport.

What to expect in Matera

Matera is a sprawling Italian city which is composed of the Sassi, or historic centre, and the more modernised outskirts. In the centre there are many winding alleyways and stairs and the city requires a lot of walking. A pair of good walking shoes or comfortable trainers is a must.

Electricity is a standard 230 Volts in Italy and there is a three pronged socket that will probably require an adaptor. It is advisable to bring an extra camera battery or battery pack for exploring the city so that you won’t be caught out without any battery after wandering around the city.

The language spoken is Italian and the currency is the Euro. English is spoken in some more touristy hotels and restaurants, but a lot of people in the city don’t speak much English.

Hiring a local guide, using google translate and having a local map handy is a great way to help you get around the city if you don’t speak Italian. People are helpful and your hotel or restaurant and bar staff may be willing to help you if you require.

Matera is not an expensive destination and a meal costs around €20 per person, entrance to museums and churches only cost a few Euro, whilst there are many free places to explore in the Sassi.

For budget travellers, you can make do with a daily budget of around €100 including food and accommodation, for midrange budgets it is advisable to budget up to €250 per day. Since the rise of Matera due to its fame in movies, prices for cave hotels have increased significantly but there are still some hidden gems under €100 per night.

Tipping is common in Italy despite a service charge, or “coperto” being included in the bill, it is usual to tip around 10 – 15% of the bill.

Matera is growing into a booming tourist destination but has not yet reached peak popularity as yet, there are some tourist buses that come in for a daytrip, these usually depart by lunchtime so the city is quieter in the afternoon and evening if you want to avoid the crowds.

Staying in Matera itself will allow you more freedom and flexibility to take your time to explore in the quieter periods of the day.

How to get around Matera

Matera is a great city for exploring on foot, as there are plenty of hidden alleys and winding stairways that mean that you will be exhausted after a day’s walk around the city.

There are some sights that are worth visiting a little further out of the city and the easiest way to reach them is by car. There are some car rentals in Matera itself if you prefer to rent just for the day.

A public bus service runs from Matera to connect it with local points of interest. Alternatively, you can also hire a taxi to get around the city itself, there are several agencies which you can call ahead to book your taxi and your hotel, or restaurants may be more than happy to call and arrange a taxi for you as not everyone speaks English.

In fact, most taxi drivers don’t speak English so a map or google translate will be sure to come in handy!

The best time to visit Matera

Italy is best visited in the springtime and autumn. In the summer, the temperatures tend to be high and the city can be humid and sweltering.

The benefit of the cave dwellings is that caves often maintain cooler temperatures in the summer and keep in the warmth in the winter.

The best time to visit Matera is in early autumn, from September to October, when prices for accommodation are slightly cheaper. Summer is often the most expensive time to visit.

Things to do in Matera

Learn about the history of matera at casa noha.

For a brief introduction to the tragic and inspiring history of the Sassi, head to Casa Noha which is a small museum run by local families which have a 25-minute-long multimedia exhibit about the history of the city.

The price is only €5 per person and you will gain greater insight into the city and its often tragic history before heading off to explore on foot.

Lose yourself in the Sassi

The historic centre of the Sassi is divided into two sections, the Sassi Barisano and Sassi Caveoso, the neighbourhood is best explored on foot and it is possible to spend an entire day losing yourself in the historic alleyways and discovering the winding paths of the city.

You can discover little havens of paradise in the hidden courtyards with vibrant cacti and the higher you ascend, the more spectacular the views. Walking around, you can feel like a time traveller and you can discover the two sides of the Sassi.

Sassi Barisano is more developed for tourism and there are cafes, hotels restaurants and plenty of trendy places to discover, whilst in the Sassi Caveoso you can discover the more historic buildings of the city.

Some of these caves have been closed to visitors due to safety concerns but you can still catch a glimpse of life in another time by wandering around this area of the historic centre.

Visit the Matera Cathedral

Matera boasts a stunning 13 th century cathedral that can be found at the highest vantage point of Matera at Civitas Hill, straddling both neighbourhoods of Sassi.

The cathedral has undergone significant restoration which lasted over ten years and has only recently opened to the public. From the cathedral you can take in the spectacular views over the sprawling city.

Frescoes, frescoes and more frescoes

There are many churches to explore in Matera, most of which are Rupestrian churches. These churches have been built into the surrounding stone and are home to stunning frescoes.

The most notable churches and convents include: Convento Di Sant’Agostino, Chiesa Rupestre di Santa Lucia Alle Malve, Chiesa di Santa Maria di Idris and San Giovannni, Convincio di Sant’Antonio and more.

A window into the past at Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario

Casa Grotta offers an insight into life in one of the traditional cave houses of Matera. Here you can see how locals once lived until the 1950s!

The house has a collection of artifacts including furniture and tools from Matera’s past and entrance only costs €3 per person.

Visit a lookout point

The city is best seen from a high vantage point and aside from the spectacular views from Matera cathedral you can find numerous areas of the city that will reward you with breathtaking panoramas.

Another favourite is the Convent of Saint Augustino where you can see some spectacular views of the city.

Modern art at Musma

Matera has its own museum of modern art which was refurbished from a cave palace built in the 17 th century. An entrance ticket only costs €5 per person.

Explore the Palaeolithic caves

From Sassi you can explore the caves that date back to over 7,000 years ago! To get there you can cross the ravine on foot.

The path starts just next to Via Modonna della Virtù, where you can cross a hanging bridge that crosses the river and take any of the small hiking paths upwards, the best times to go are very early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat, good walking shoes and drinking water should be carried with you on the hike.

What to eat in Matera

Small pasta shapes made from semolina are a traditional favourite in Matera, and served up with vegetables or mushrooms.

Some of the best Cucina Povera, or poor man’s cuisine can be found at La Finestra Sui Sassi, where you can taste some down-to-earth Materan cuisine.

Lucanica sausages

This traditional pork sausage is seasoned with pepperoncino, fennel, salt and pepper and comes from pigs that live in the region and have been made following a traditional recipe since Roman times.

The Materans love their cold deli meats and the best place to try a dish of the local specialties is the Trattoria del Caveoso, a cave restaurant that offers thin, buttery, melt-in-your mouth slices of local meats.

Matera Bread

This crusty and famous Italian bread is made from durum wheat, the bread is still made following the ancient baking process and is a perfect accompaniment to local cheeses and sausages.

Peperone di Senise

In the Basilicata region, the vibrant red Senise pepper is the star of the show. It is used in most of the cooking and most sauces will have a hint of this sun-dried pepper.

It is often preserved and even served with meat or grilled. Be sure to try the Peperoni Cruschi, peppers fried in aromatic olive oil and served up as a small snack.

A fantastic restaurant is San Biagio on Via San Biagio, 12, where you can watch the sunset on the terrace and enjoy local dishes flavoured with the famous Senise peppers.

Matera pasta

The Basilicata region is said to be the origin of over ten different types of pasta shapes including the “Orecchiette” or “little ears” and there are wonderful restaurants in Matera where you can try the different pastas.

One of the best is Il Cantucchio, Via delle Beccherie, 33, which only has 10 tables so booking several days in advance is a must! The orrechiette here is some of the best you’ll taste and they have excellent slow food such as braised rabbit.

If you need something to keep you going whilst you are exploring the city head to Piada, Via Della Beccherie, 45, and pick up the ultimate street food, the Piada.

This is a sandwich made of flat bread and other forms resemble a type of stuffed bread or pizza. This street food is served up with a variety of fresh local ingredients including the local meat, eggplant, cheeses always with a sprinkling of oregano and a drizzle of local olive oil.

Where to stay in Matera

If you come to Matera, where should you stay other than a cave hotel? Here are some of the very best to suit every budget (and a hostel if a cave hotel is beyond your budget) including Airbnb:

The Rock Hostel – This hostel is the perfect budget solution to stay in the heart of Sassi with shared bathrooms and lockers.

L’Hotel in Pietra – This charming budget hotel is built upon an ancient Rupestrian church, the reception area was once an altar and there are views out onto the historic city. The hotel also offers a parking service for an additional fee.

The hotel staff are friendly and there is a gorgeous terrace where you can enjoy the views. The rooms also have unique period features, room 1004 has an original stone bath, whilst room 1003 has an underground hot tub!

As is typical in a cave house, the rooms are prone to dampness but they try to rectify it with dehumidifiers.

Il Palazzotto Residence & Winery – This hotel was built in a 16 th century noble residence carved into the limestone caves and is a great spa hotel with massages and beauty treatments in your room and regular wine tastings and cooking lessons.

Rooms combine the modern and the traditional with a minimalistic atmosphere, if you book upstairs you can enjoy spectacular views from a Juliet balcony and sleep underneath a wooden vaulted ceiling.

Palazzo Viceconte Matera – This hotel is built on the site of a Palazzo, or aristocratic residence, and you can feel as if you are staying in a regal palace decorated with elegant chandeliers, antiques and paintings.

The hotel boasts 14 regal rooms which are sumptuously decorated and perfect for a romantic getaway, you can also have massage treatments in your room and parking for €18 per day.

The stunning hotel bar has a terrace overlooking Matera and there is a buffet breakfast included in the price.

Tours to do in Matera

Cooking class in Matera

Learn how to make traditional poor man’s cuisine in a wonderful three-hour cooking class. This hands –on class will give you the opportunity to learn how to make pasta from scratch and enjoy a tasting of the meals that you create accompanied with the local wine.

The class is hosted in the home of the chef and she will teach you about the local ingredients and experience the best of Matera’s hearty cuisine.

A guided tour of Matera

This two-hour guided tour will take you to explore the attractions of Matera including the Church of San Pietro Caveoso, Palazzo Lanfranchi, the cave houses and even where “The Passion of the Christ” was filmed. This guided tour will give you depth and insight into the incredible city of Matera.

Day trips from Matera

The Stunning Baroque Bari is o nly 1 hour 10 minutes by car from Matera and is also accessible by bus.

The beautiful coastal city is an important Roman Catholic pilgrimage destination who come to visit the cathedral di San Sabino and the Basilica of San Nicola. There is also a Norman castle that has stood in Bari since the 1100s which can be explored.

The most enchanting part of Bari is its old town, where you can get lost in the cobblestone streets and discover the city on foot.

As this is a coastal city you can wander the seafront promenade called Lungomare Nazario Sauro and take in the sea air and the local atmosphere.

There is even a golden-sand beach just east of the historic centre called Lido San Francesco to enjoy a swim and sunbathe amidst the locals.

Lecce is a beautiful city with a wealth of historical sights situated just over two hours’ drive from Matera, amongst them a beautiful Baroque Basilica of Santa Croce and the impressive 17 th century Cathedral.

There are several charming squares such as the Piazza del Duomo and the Piazza Sant’Oronzo where you can take in the monuments and Baroque architecture.

At the Piazza Sant’Oronzo you can find the Roman Amphitheatre which dates back to the 2 nd century AD, here you can go on a guided tour and get a feel for what this amphitheatre must have been like in Roman times.

Lecce also has its own defensive fortified castle that was constructed in the 16 th century when Charles V ruled.

As Lecce was once part of the defensive network of the coastal cities of Italy, Porto Napoli is one of the relics of its network and you can appreciate the majesty of the fortifications.

Recommend budget tours in Matera

• Discover Matera Walking Tour
• Guided Tour Sassi di Matera: Sasso Caveoso and Civita
• Italian Hands-on Private Cooking Class in Matera
• Full-Day Tour of Matera
• Matera Hot Air Balloon Tour
• Miglionico tour: Castle and Polyptych will surprise you
• Tricarico walking tour: the Arab-Norman town
• Crypt of Original Sin tour with transfer

Get your guide is a Great company, that often offers heavily discounted tours! Check out a few options below:

If you’d like to save it for later, please save it to Pinterest.

Sam, a seasoned traveler across four continents and 49 countries, is a leading authority in travel planning. Her website, Travelling King, offers tailored itineraries and expert guides for seamless trips. Sam's expertise in luxury travel, fast travel, and destination guides keeps her at the forefront of the travel community.

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Walking Tour Matera

Set out on a journey through the ancient streets of Matera with the Walking Tour Matera.

Step back in time as you explore the winding alleys and historic landmarks of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

From the iconic Sassi districts to the stunning views of the Murgia Materana, each turn presents a new chapter in Matera’s captivating history.

Uncover hidden gems and stories that have shaped this unique city, enjoying its charm and mystery.

• Explore Matera’s winding alleys, historic landmarks , and iconic Sassi districts for 2.5 hours.
• Enjoy stunning views of Murgia Materana and uncover hidden gems with a maximum group size of 15.
• Accessible tour with wheelchair/stroller accessibility and convenient location near public transport.
• Immerse in Matera’s charm, culture , and mystery with comprehensive exploration and local engagement.

Here's some more nearby activities we've reviewed

• Guided Tour of Matera Sassi
• Sassi Walking Tour: Between History and Culture
• Small Group Walking Tour of Matera
• The Sassi of Matera

Tour Overview

With a duration of 2 hours and 30 minutes, the Matera Walking Tour offers a captivating exploration of this UNESCO World Heritage Site and former European Capital of Culture . Participants can expect to gain cultural insights while visiting historical landmarks like Piazza Vittorio Veneto.

The tour also provides an opportunity to savor local cuisine, immersing visitors in the region’s culinary delights. On top of that, hidden gems of Matera are unveiled, offering a unique perspective on the city’s rich history and architecture.

Whether it’s exploring ancient caves or wandering through charming alleyways, this tour promises an enriching experience for all. Get ready to explore the heart of Matera’s heritage and uncover the beauty of this remarkable Italian gem.

Pricing and Duration

Discover the Matera Walking Tour’s pricing starting from SEK 295.51 and its duration of 2 hours and 30 minutes for an immersive exploration of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can compare this cost to other guided tours in the area for a competitive option. Managing time effectively is essential during the tour to fully appreciate the historical richness of Matera. The 2-hour 30-minute duration allows for a thorough exploration of key sites without feeling rushed. The tour’s pricing is reasonable when considering the inclusions and the expertise of the guides. By balancing the cost with the duration of the tour, visitors can ensure they are getting a comprehensive experience at a fair price.

Booking Information

To secure your spot on the Matera Walking Tour, travelers need to select their preferred date and number of participants, check availability , and confirm their booking within 48 hours for a seamless experience. The tour has a maximum group size of 15 travelers, with a minimum requirement of 4 people to start the tour. This ensures an intimate and engaging experience for all participants.

The tour is offered in English, providing accessibility to a wider range of visitors. Language options are essential for creating a welcoming environment for travelers from different backgrounds. By offering tours in English, the Matera Walking Tour aims to cater to the needs of a diverse audience, enhancing the overall tour experience.

Accessibility Details

After ensuring a seamless booking process, the Matera Walking Tour’s focus shifts to detailing its accessibility features for visitors. The tour is designed to be wheelchair and stroller accessible, ensuring that all guests can comfortably participate. Plus, the tour is conveniently located near public transportation options, making it easy for visitors to reach the meeting point.

It’s important to note that the experience is weather-dependent, so it’s advisable to check the forecast and dress accordingly. The tour requires a minimum number of travelers to operate, so it’s recommended to check availability in advance. These accessibility details aim to provide a smooth and inclusive experience for all participants, ensuring everyone can enjoy the wonders of Matera.

Cancellation Policy

The Matera Walking Tour implements a strict cancellation policy to ensure a seamless booking experience for all participants. Participants can receive a full refund if they cancel 24 hours in advance. However, no refund is provided for cancellations made less than 24 hours before the tour. Plus, changes to bookings cannot be accepted within 24 hours of the scheduled start time. This policy is in place to maintain the quality and integrity of the tours offered. It’s essential for participants to plan accordingly and communicate any changes in a timely manner to avoid inconvenience. Below is a table summarizing the cancellation policy:

Additional Tips

Participants on the Matera Walking Tour can enhance their experience with the following additional tips:

Sample the Local Cuisine : Try traditional dishes like ‘Cavatelli’ and ‘Pasticciotto Materano’ for an authentic taste of Matera.

Explore Hidden Gems : Wander off the beaten path to discover hidden churches and ancient caves that aren’t on the typical tourist route.

Engage with Locals : Strike up conversations with locals to gain insight into Matera’s culture and history.

Take a Cooking Class : Learn how to prepare local specialties from skilled chefs for a hands-on experience of the region’s flavors.

Visit Local Markets : Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Matera’s markets, where you can find fresh produce and unique souvenirs.

Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we have reviewed.

• Guided Tour, Historic Center Sassi Rock Churches and Cave House
• Guided Tour of the Sassi of Matera
• Discovering Matera
• Sassi Di Matera Small-Group Walking Tour
• Go Where the Quad Takes You
• Guided Tour of Parco Murgia

Common questions

Are There Any Specific Dress Code Requirements for the Walking Tour Matera?

When exploring Matera, visitors should consider cultural norms and weather conditions when choosing attire. Comfortable clothing and footwear are recommended for the walking tour. Dress code suggestions may include modest attire to respect local customs and traditions.

Is There a Specific Meeting Point for the Tour in Matera?

In Matera, the tour guide meets participants at Piazza Vittorio Veneto. The group, limited to 15 travelers , embarks on a 2.5-hour journey through the UNESCO World Heritage Site. The experience is wheelchair accessible and operates with a minimum of 4 people.

Will There Be Any Breaks During the 2 Hours 30 Minutes Tour?

During the 2 hours 30 minutes tour in Matera, there will be rest stops available for bathroom breaks. The tour does not have a formal break schedule ; however, the guide may accommodate brief pauses as needed for the group.

Are There Any Specific Items or Provisions Participants Should Bring for the Tour?

When embarking on a journey, travelers should remember "less is more." For the tour, participants should bring comfortable footwear, a water bottle , sunscreen , and a camera. These items ensure a pleasant and memorable experience.

Will There Be Opportunities for Food or Drink Purchases During the Tour, or Should Participants Bring Their Own Snacks?

During the tour, you will have opportunities for food options and drink choices. It’s recommended to bring snacks and water for personal preferences. However, some tours may include refreshment stops, so guests can enjoy local delicacies along the way.

Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby

• Matera Private Day Tour From Rome
• Bari: Matera Private Half-Day Tour With Guide
• Matera – Private Historic Walking Tour
• Family Exploration: Matera’s Hidden Gems Unveiled
• Unpublished Matera: Horse Riding and Sassi Tour
• Bike Tour to Lake Miglionico With Beer and Focaccia
• Sorrento: Private Transfer to Matera
• Private Transfert From Naples to Matera
• Alberobello & Matera in 1 Day! Private Tour From Bari
• Insightful Matera Walking Tour for Couples
• From Matera: Sassi Di Matera Tour With Entry to Cave Houses

To sum it up, the Walking Tour Matera offers a fascinating journey through the historic city, blending culture and architecture in a unique way.

With its wheelchair accessibility , intimate group size , and proximity to public transportation, it guarantees a seamless and enjoyable experience for all.

Don’t miss the chance to explore this former European Capital of Culture with Walking Tour Matera – it’s a real blast from the past!