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• About this activity

Matera: Sassi di Matera Historical Self-Guided Audio Tour

• Free cancellation available
• Mobile voucher
• Instant confirmation
• Discover natural caves, underground architectures, cisterns
• More than 30 geolocated points of interest with audio description
• Make a journey into the past and enjoy a southern Italian jewel
• Languages: English, French, German, Italian

Activity location

• Matera, Basilicata, Italy

Meeting/Redemption Point

• This activity is a self guided audio tour , ther is no meeting point
• Thu, Apr 18 $4
• Fri, Apr 19 $4
• Sat, Apr 20 $4
• Sun, Apr 21 $4
• Mon, Apr 22 $4
• Tue, Apr 23 $4
• Wed, Apr 24 $4
• Thu, Apr 25 $4
• Fri, Apr 26 $4
• Sat, Apr 27 $4
• Sun, Apr 28 $4
• Mon, Apr 29 $4
• Tue, Apr 30 $4
• Wed, May 1 $4
• Thu, May 2 $4
• Opening hours: Thu 8:00am-11:00pm

What's included, what's not

• What's included What's included You will get audio guides on the ITGUIDES app for visiting Matera.
• What's included What's included Languages: English, French, German, Italian
• What's included What's included Audio guide is geolocated ( for outdoor attractions).
• What's included What's included An Android or Apple smartphone is needed.
• What's included What's included Best with, but not mandatory the earphones.
• What's included What's included You will receive all the instructions and steps on how to download and redeem your audioguide in your voucher.
• What's excluded What's excluded Entrance tickets

What you can expect

The Sassi (literally Stones) of Matera extend over two valleys and constitute a very particular urban agglomeration made up of natural caves that, over time, have been further excavated by man. Caves and ravines have been used since the Neolithic as dwellings, shelters, natural refuges and places for worship. The use of caves for housing purposes continued during the Middle Ages right up to modern times'. During the Middle Ages, small communities of lay people and monks from Armenia, Syria, Cappadocia and Asia Minor, persecuted in their lands, took refuge in these caves which became places for worship decorated with Byzantine frescoes. The area was enriched with oriental art and culture and further 'rock churches' were built. In the area of Matera there are 155 and the expression 'rock art' reaches its peak. In the period of time following the Second World War, almost twenty-thousand people still populated the Sassi. In 1952 the “Sassi Law” allocated funds for its complete restoration but it was such a hard task. Many writers have described how difficult it was to 'remove the inhabitants from the ravines they had lived in' for many generations.

Explore Ancient Matera: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

About this activity, tour preview.

• We will send the tour within 48 hours or refund your money
• • Start with the Self-Guided Audio Tour at Piazza Vittorio Veneto
• • Feel the ancient vibe on Via Madonna delle Virtù
• • Imagine life in Sassi di Matera's stone dwellings
• • Admire the grandeur of San Pietro Barisano church
• • Explore the depths of Palombaro Lungo

What's included

• Downloadable self-guided audio tour via the WeGoTrip app
• Detailed route from stop to stop with live GPS map on your smartphone
• Earphones are not included — please bring your own
• Tickets to the attractions along the way are not included

Places you will visit

Attractions on the route.

• Church of Saint M...
• Sassi di Matera
• Via Madonna...
• Piazza Vittori...
• Palombaro lungo
• Ponte San Pietro ...
• Church of Saint P...
• Via Bruno Buozzi
• Save Self-guided audio tour 2h Explore Matera's Heart: A Self-Guided Audio Tour $10.68 per tour

Any questions left?

The most interesting attractions in matera.

• Church of Saint Mary of Idris 2 tours and tickets
• Sassi di Matera 2 tours and tickets
• Via Madonna delle Virtù 2 tours and tickets
• Piazza Vittorio Veneto 2 tours and tickets
• Palombaro lungo 2 tours and tickets
• Sassi di Matera 1 tour
• Chiesa di San Francesco d'Assisi 1 tour
• Porta Pistola 1 tour
• Matera 1 tour
• Casa Grotta nei Sassi di Matera 1 tour
• Ponte San Pietro Caveoso 1 tour
• Church of Saint Peter 'Barisano' 1 tour
• Casa Noha 1 tour
• Via Bruno Buozzi 1 tour
• Cattedrale di Maria Santissima della Bruna e Sant'Eustachio 1 tour

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One Day in Matera Itinerary: A Day Trip from Bari

Last Updated on January 11, 2024

by Olivia Ellis

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

There are few places in the world as magical, fascinating, and yet still quite unknown as Matera. Located in the region of Basilicata, this 2019 European Capital of Culture is thought to be one of the most inhabited settlements in history dating back to the Paleolithic period. Read this guide to make your own one day in Matera itinerary and why this amazing destination needs to be on your travel radar.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Matera?

One of your first questions while planning your time in Matera will be how many days to spend in Matera? If you’re looking to make a day trip to Matera from Bari or other nearby areas, you’ll be happy to know that the city can very easily be explored in one day. 

Seeing Matera in one day is a great experience in itself but might also make you keen to come back for a longer trip. On the other hand, Matera is without a doubt worth a trip in itself to at least stay a night or two and it makes for an excellent addition on any trip to Puglia or Southern Italy. 

This way you don’t need to rush and you can also see the city and Sassi at different points of the day. There is nothing more alluring than watching the city lights glisten from the Sassi at nighttime. 

Getting To and Around Matera

The best way to reach Matera no matter where you’re coming from in Italy is to take a direct train from the Bari central train station to Matera.

Trains from Bari to Matera take around 1.5 hours. Departures are quite regular so you don’t need to worry if you arrive late and miss your train. 

If you’re flying into the Bari airport, there are bus shuttles that take you to the Bari train station which takes only around 20 minutes, There are also buses that run directly from Bari Airport to Matera that can be booked here.

For those that plan on driving to Matera, keep in mind that parking is quite difficult to come by closer to the city. Your best option to snag parking will be on the outside of the old part of Matera and will be in the “new Matera”. If you need to rent a car, you can compare options on Rentalcars.com.

If you prefer to travel as part of a guided tour there are also several options such as this full-day tour to Matera only or this full-day tour that visits both Matera & Alberobello.

Once you reach the Sassi and old part of the city, the only way to get around will be on foot. Be prepared for your time exploring the historic Sassi with the correct footwear as there will also be quite a lot of stairs.

The good thing is that the part of Matera that you’ll be exploring is quite small so it’s not difficult at all to make your way around its entirety by walking.

1 Day in Matera Itinerary

Once known as “the shame of Italy”, Matera has gone through a drastic transformation and is now a prime travel spot in Italy, with Michelin restaurants and fancy spa hotels residing in the caves. 

With one day in Matera, you’ll have the chance to walk through the history of this incredibly interesting city and leave feeling inspired by the city risen from the caves.

Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario

A great way to begin your day in Matera is to spend time learning about the Sassi and what life was like for those living within the caves.

I recommend heading to the museum, Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario or “Cave House in the Sassi”. The house is where a peasant family in Matera lived up until 1956 before being relocated to the new part of the city during evacuation. 

Here you can see what life was like for those living within the caves up until the last century as well as learn more about the history of the city. The museum is open every day.

Sassi di Matera 

The Sassi of Matera are what make up the historic area of the city and what you have probably seen in pictures of Matera. These prehistoric cave dwellings are where the first inhabitants of Italy lived and have gone through many phases throughout history. 

Later, the Sassi became overcrowded, dark, and without most of the necessary means to live comfortably in the modern day. Thankfully in 1945, these poor conditions were brought to light by author Carlo Levi prompting attention by the government which led to the creation of modern Matera. 

Everyone that was living within the Sassi was evacuated to new Matera, leaving the ancient city void, empty, and full of secrets and history. What was left behind is now a thriving attraction. 

Some have moved back into these renovated caves, and some are hotels and restaurants, but the Sassi in its entirety is just pure magic.

Sassi District

After learning more about the Sassi and its past residents while being immersed in the way life was once, take some time to explore the Sassi district and the unique and exciting things within it.

While wandering the Sassi of Matera, there’s no doubt that you’ll feel as if you’ve ended up in a nativity scene. Numerous films have been filmed here yet as much as you feel like you’re on a film set – you’re in the living breathing history of one of the oldest cities on earth. 

It’s an easy joy to get lost while exploring the Sassi and you don’t know what you’ll come across next or the unbelievable views just waiting around the corner. 

There’s a plethora of artisanal shops throughout the district as well as great bars and restaurants featuring local Materan and Basilicatan dishes. Check out Osteria San Francesco to enjoy a delicious local meal within the Sassi for lunch. 

Another great way to spend time within the Sassi is to take part in a guided tour . While a lot of locations are still quite valuable with your own independent research, learning about the city with a local that may even have a personal history within the city is completely worth it. 

You’ll learn the world behind what you’re walking through and this can only enrich your experience during your Matera itinerary.

Duomo of Matera 

Like any other city in Italy, Matera has an abundance of churches and museums to visit that are unique and offer stunning views as well. After wandering throughout the Sassi from the outside and 

Dedicated to Saint Mary the patron saint of the city, is the cathedral (duomo) of Matera dividing the two Sassi. You’ll see the tower of the cathedral from pretty much any point in the city and it can’t be missed during a Matera day trip from Bari.

The cathedral was built in Puglian Romanesque style dating back to the 13th century and offers some of the most dramatic views of the city. 

I suggest visiting at night if you don’t have an interest in visiting the inside of the church. This way you’ll have the opportunity to see the city light up from below.   

MUSMA 

Located within a 16th-century cave palace is the MUSMA – the Matera Museum of Contemporary Sculpture. This museum is a great option to visit if you’re tired of churches and older museums and would like to experience something a bit more unique in the city. 

It’s known as one of the most important museums in the city offering a wonderful collection of contemporary art and sculpture. 

Santa Maria di Idris 

If you’re looking for more of a unique church to visit during your day trip to Matera, head to the Santa Maria di Idris located in the upper part of the Sassi near San Pietro Caveoso. 

The Santa Maria di Idris church goes back to the fifteenth century and is located within a rock complex as its cave dwelling.

The church itself is quite small in comparison to the cathedral, with just one room making up the interior, but is worth the visit due to its unique location and history. There are quite remarkable views from the area around the Santa Maria di Idris church as well.

Belvedere Murgia Timone Hike

Matera is perched on a plateau above a ravine that surrounds the city and surrounding the ravine are more cave structures where the first people inhabited the city.

One of the most unique things to do in Matera is to walk along the ravine and take in the most magnificent views of the Sassi.

The route from start to finish is just under 3 miles or 5 km, so it’s quite feasible even if you’re someone that doesn’t typically spend time hiking. Plan to spend at least 2 ½ hours of your day on the hike so you’re not rushing for time.

If you’re doing the hike in the warmer weather, make sure you have enough water to last for the hike since once you reach the bottom area of the trail, there won’t be anywhere to buy or get fresh water.

To reach the route that will take you through the ravine, first go to Porto Pistola which is close to “Chiesa di San Pietro Caveoso” on the west side of Sassi district, and take the stairs. A great way to know you’ve arrived at the right entry point is to look for the parking lot named “Parcheggio via Madonna delle Virtu”, which is also convenient if you’re driving to the trail.

From here you’ll be entering the Parco della Murgia Materana. You’ll then be led to a few different bridges that will bring you downwards into the canyon and the pathway along the ravine. 

Along the way are a few churches dating back to the 7th century such as Chiesa Rupestre Sant’Agnese, Chiesa Rupestre di San Falcione, and Chiesa Rupestre Madonna delle Tre Porte. The Chiesa Rupestre Madonna delle Tre Porte gained in popularity since being the site of crucifixion in the filming of Passion of the Christ. 

After the Chiesa Rupestre Madonna delle Tre Porte, you’ll want to make your way back to the side of the canyon that is near the suspension bridge. From here you’ll have the chance to witness some of the most remarkable panoramic views of the ancient city of Matera. 

Once you’ve reached the side of the canyon and took in the city from below, the only way to get back to town and the starting point of the trail is to follow the same trail in the opposite direction. The benefit of this is if you want to check out any of the churches or views again, this is your opportunity! 

Palombaro Lungo – Cathedral of Water 

Another unique site to visit while spending one day in Matera is the Palombaro Lungo. During the construction of Piazza Vittoria Veneto in 1991, this large public water cistern was discovered under the city of Matera. 

Access to water within the residences of the Sassi had always been quite difficult and took creativity to have access to enough water. The houses were equipped with a cistern dug deep within the home but as the population grew quickly with the city, the Palombaro Lungo was built. 

Visiting the Palombaro Lungo is a distinctive experience as you’ll likely find few other places in the world where you can visit such a complex labyrinth of a huge water system underground. 

The museum is open every day and is also the perfect opportunity to escape the heat from above if you’re visiting in the summer! 

Have 2 Days in Matera?

If you are planning to spend more than one day in Matera and would like to see more of what the city was like to live in historically, Casa Noha is also a great place to check out.

Located near the Cathedral of Matera, Casa Noha is an immersive experience that from the moment you walk into the caved home, you feel as if you’ve been transported back in time.

The home was donated to the city and now offers visitors a multimedia experience taking them through 3 different rooms within the 16th-century home. 

Casa Noha is a great place to learn more about the painful and inspiring history of the city, the Sassi, and the courageous residents of the city throughout time. 

Materasum Ipogeo

If you’ve explored the city of Matera enough from above, head underground to the Materasum Ipogeo to experience an entirely different world from below. 

1,200 square meters below ground you’ll discover a city of homes, streets, cisterns, and churches. It’s incredible to see the things that people were capable of in some of the most ancient times and walking among that history is something that can’t be missed on any Matera itinerary. 

The museum is open every day and tickets include an audio tour for your visit.

Stay in a Cave Hotel

If your Matera itinerary includes more than one day and your budget allows, an unforgettable experience overnight is to stay in one of the many restored cave hotels that are now in Matera. 

There are few experiences more special than falling asleep and waking up within an ancient cave surrounded by memories from some of the first inhabitants of Italy.

Costs for cave hotels to stay within the Sassi vary depending on how luxurious of a hotel experience you’re after.

Where to Stay in Matera

Palazzotto Residence&Winery – This cave hotel and winery is an excellent option if you’re looking for an interesting place to rest your head in this beautiful city. Situated in the heart of Matera, they have lovely rooms available, are pet friendly and have breakfast available each morning.

Casa Blanca Matera – If you’re after a luxury stay in Matera, this four-star hotel is an excellent option. Located in the city centre within easy walking distance of the top sites, they have countless amenities and several plush rooms to choose from.

L’Ostello Dei Sassi – For those travelling solo or on a budget, this hostel is an excellent choice in Matera. Centrally located close to everything this unique city has to offer, they have a range of dorm beds and private rooms to choose from and good common areas to enjoy.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Matera hotels!

Matera is truly a city that is defined as off the beaten path, and no matter how wondrous and magical it looks from pictures, it needs to be discovered in person for full justice. 

With a cuisine different from any other Italian food you’ve likely eaten, an emotional history full of trials and tribulations, and some of the warmest people you’ll meet, Matera deserves to be on the top of your Italian travel bucket list. 

Are you planning to visit Matera? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

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About Olivia Ellis

Olivia is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from Michigan, USA, she is currently living in Athens, Greece exploring Europe and filmmaking. When she’s not travelling or writing, Olivia can be found cooking delicious new recipes from around the world, reading, and spending time outdoors.

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12 BEST Matera Guided Tours (selected by an Italian)

By: Author Stefania Guglielmi

Posted on Last updated: February 17, 2024

Categories Europe , Italy

Read on to find the most epic Matera guided tours available, so you get to discover Italy’s oldest city with an expert in its history and archaeology.

Located in the Basilicata region in Southern Italy, Matera is the country’s oldest 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, including caves, primitive settlements, rock churches, and a charming 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. While it’s a fascinating destination even if you’re aimlessly wandering around its streets, its history, importance, and the mesmerizing stories tied to Matera 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, which allows you to cancel most activities up to 24 hours in advance and get a full refund. 

Table of Contents

The BEST Matera Walking Tours

▶️ Discover the Ancient City – Matera Tour in English or Italian is a very comprehensive experience 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, and explore the ancient dwellings and rock churches of Sassi. 

Enjoy stunning views of the valley and stroll along the narrow alleys as you learn about Matera’s millennia of history, a town that used to be called the Shame of Italy and ended up being recognized as an important World Heritage. 

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, which comprise Sassi di Matera. Inhabited continuously for over 7 thousand years, the Sassi feature astounding rock churches, cave houses, piazzas, and a striking Apulian-Romanesque Cathedral overlooking the city. 

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

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

▶️ 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, rupestrian churches, rocks, and the cathedral which sits atop one of the town’s highest points. 

This tour includes : A private guide. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

The Best Ape Tours in Matera (Tuk Tuk)

▶️ 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 as you explore its historical districts without getting tired. 

You’ll visit the town’s main attractions accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, which enables you to understand 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

▶️ Ape Tour Matera – Guided Tour in Ape Calessino is another fantastic tuk-tuk guided experience. You’ll explore three districts in the Sassi of Matera, hearing curiosities and interesting facts about the town’s history and stopping to enjoy panoramic views, and visiting a cave and rock church. 

The tuk tuk tour of Matera takes only an hour, so you’ll have the rest of the day free to wander at your leisure, seeing the town with new (and more informed) eyes. 

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

Murgia Park Rocky Curches Tours (Unmissable!)

▶️ 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 and being in awe of the fabulous sights. 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

▶️ Join this Sassi and Murgia Tour by Electric Bike to cross through the neighborhoods of Matera effortlessly, relying on your e-bike to ascend the steep alleys. 

After exploring the districts of Sassi you’ll head to the Murgia Materana National Park, with stops at an ancient tuff quarry, a rock church, and the viewpoint of Murgia Timone, from which the views over Matera are unparalleled.  

This tour includes : E-bike and helmet rental, and a guide. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Matera Food Tours & Dining Experiences

▶️ 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 . 

You’ll pass through ancient caves on your way to an old farmhouse, where you’ll be introduced to the traditional bread of Matera and 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

▶️ Dining Experience at a Local’s Home ought to be one of the most authentic tours in Matera, Italy. You’ll join a local in their house to learn delicious Italian recipes that have been passed down through generations and relish a 4-course meal. 

Start by witnessing a cooking demonstration, an ideal excuse to ask all your culinary questions and write down some secret tips, and then join your host for a homemade lunch or dinner paired with wine and coffee, and surely interesting conversation. 

This tour includes : A 4-course lunch or dinner with drinks at a local’s home. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ Join a Six Course Truffle Tasting Tour for the ultimate foodie experience. You’ll head to the center of Matera and visit a shop that specializes in Basilicata’s star product: the truffle. You’ll get to learn everything about it and sample traditional dishes that include this precious ingredient. 

A six-course meal consisting of truffle sauces with bread, cheese, and other dairy products, truffle salami, and panna cotta with truffle honey should most definitely make up for lunch, so be sure to have an empty stomach before starting the activity! It’s arguably one of the most interesting (and delicious!) Matera tours!

This tour includes : Tastings of six truffle specialties, and a truffle expert to guide the experience. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Night Walking Tour of Matera

A Walking Tour of Matera at Sunset allows you to see the city during the day and witness how it gets transformed as the sun sets. You’ll visit centuries-old cave dwellings, walk through the Sassi districts, and enjoy the views at Murgia National Park as you learn about the history of Matera from your guide. 

You’ll finish the tour by visiting a Rupestrian church that overlooks the city, seeing as it lights up for the evening.     

This tour includes : A tour 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 several of the James Bond movies were shot. 

You’ll hear anecdotes and interesting information about the shooting in Matera, and get to 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

Matera Guided Tours FAQ

As the oldest city in Italy, and holding incredible information about the history and customs of ancient civilizations, Matera is 100% worth visiting in my opinion. 

Yes, you can certainly walk around Matera, although you have to take into consideration that its narrow lanes and alleys are sometimes quite steep. If you have mobility issues, walking in town might be difficult.

The most special aspect of Matera is its incredible history and architecture: it’s the country’s oldest city after all, and it’s been continuously inhabited for thousands of years! 

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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1-Hour Bus Tour of Matera with Audio Guide & Access to Casa Grotta

• Instant confirmation
• Mobile ticket

Journey through Matera's ancient cave dwellings and modern culture on an open-air 1-hour bus tour with an audio guide.

Explore the fascinating past of Matera aboard an open-air bus, accompanied by an audio guide, and see the baroque Saint Peter and Saint Paul church.

Discover the tools and artifacts of Casa Grotta of Sassi di Matera, a cave-dwelling, and drive past sights like Palazzo Lanfranchi's mellow-stone facade.

At Cava Paradiso, see the rock formations concealed within secret chambers, and catch sight of the Villa Comunale park and Castello Tramontano fort.

Enhance your journey with a choice between 3 audio guide languages, English, French, and Italian, immersing yourself in the captivating legends of each site.

Fun Fact: The Sassi of Matera are among the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in the world, with evidence of human habitation dating back over 9,000 years.

1-hour sightseeing bus tour of Matera

Audio guide in English, French, or Italian (based on option selected)

Entry to Casa Grotta Sassi di Matera

Digital map of the city

Cancellation policy

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Your Experience

Discover matera's history.

Embark on a 1-hour open-air bus tour through Matera's history with an audio guide and visit the city's must-see attractions. Experience the wonders of Matera as you delve into its rich past, from ancient cave dwellings to vibrant contemporary culture. Marvel at the panoramic views of the stunning cityscape while enjoying the comfort and style of the tour.

During this tour, you will have the opportunity to unearth the captivating history of Casa Grotta Sassi di Matera, a unique cave dwelling that has stood the test of time. Marvel at the remarkable architecture and immerse yourself in the stories of those who once called this cave house their home.

Cava Paradiso

As you continue your adventure, make a pit stop at Cava Paradiso, a fascinating exhibition that offers insights into the geology and history of the region. Explore the hidden chambers and discover intriguing artifacts that shed light on Matera's past. The city offers sights of the lush green, royal garden of Villa Comunale, the fort of Castello Tramontano that dates back to the 16th century, and the 12th-century carved church of Madonna delle Virtu.

Castello Tramontano, Matera, Italy

Museum of Palazzo Lanfranchi

Villa Comunale dell'Unita d'Italia

The Sassi of Matera – World Heritage Site

Cave House, the Sassi of Matera

Rupestrian churches Madonna delle Virtu and San Nicola dei Greci

Piazza San Pietro Caveoso

Alvino 1884

Know Before You Go

Important information.

Facilities: Wheelchair Accessibility, Pram/Stroller Accessibility.

The audio guide is available on iOS and Android.

Your voucher will be emailed to you instantly.

Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the boarding point.

Please arrive at the boarding point 15 minutes before the scheduled time of your tour to avoid any delays.

Boarding Point

Board your bus at Martulli Viaggi - Tour & Experience.

Address: Via Alessandro Volta, 5, 75100 Matera MT, Italy.

Get Directions to the Boarding Point

Getting There

The closest bus stop is Matera - Piazza Matteotti. It is a 11-minute walk to the boarding point.

Board buses 601.01R, 650R, 710.05 and more to get you there.

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THE 10 BEST Matera Tours & Excursions

Matera tours.

• Cultural Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Walking Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
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• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Traditional)
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Discover Matera, the ancient city - Tour in Italian or English tour

2. Private Guided Tour in Matera - Local Guide

3. Charming Exclusive Customized tours with your real Apulian friend

4. Unesco Tour from Polignano: Guided tour of Alberobello and Matera

5. Unesco Tour from Bari: Guided Visit to Alberobello and Matera

6. Ape tour Matera - Guided tour in ape calessino

7. Ape Tour Matera - Panoramic tour in ape calessino

8. Day tour by car and on foot among the Apulian beauties of Matera

9. Private Guided Tour Sassi of Matera

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14. Visit Alberobello & Matera: Private or shared tour from Bari

15. Matera and Altamura Small-Group Day Trip from Bari

16. Long Private Panoramic Tour with Ape Calessino in Matera

17. Full day tour Alberobello - Polignano - Bari departing from Matera

18. Matera with a local tour guide!

19. Private cooking class at a Cesarina's home with tasting in Matera

20. From Bari: Sightseeing Puglia and Matera

21. Complete tour of the two Sassi - Barisano and Caveoso

22. Matera balloon flight for small groups

23. Matera 2 hours walking tour

24. Tour of Matera and Altamura

25. Day Tour of Bari, Alberobello, Matera

26. Sassi Walking Tour: between history and culture

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28. Ape Calessino Tour Matera Lungo

29. Private Pizza & Tiramisu Masterclass at a Cesarina's home with tasting in Matera

30. Tour of the Sassi - ancient Sasso Caveoso

What travelers are saying.

• Stanley Meyers Newcastle, Australia 2 contributions 0 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great guide, beautiful city with astounding history Great guide, beautiful city with astounding history. Good pace, good information and so much to see, well worth the effort to reach Matera. Avoid the tuk tuk, do walking tour. Stanley April 2024 Read more Review of: Discover Matera, the ancient city - Tour in Italian or English tour Written April 16, 2024 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

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