Shopping in Matera centers around authentic food experiences and local market exploration. The best tours combine market visits with hands-on cooking classes – a perfect way to understand this ancient city’s cuisine. Local home cooks (Cesarine) welcome visitors into their kitchens, teaching traditional recipes and sharing family cooking secrets. Market tours showcase seasonal ingredients and regional specialties, while offering chances to purchase unique foodie souvenirs.
I especially love the combined market-and-cooking experiences – they’re practical, memorable, and give you direct access to real Italian home cooking. Plus, you’ll learn tips you can actually use back home.
Check out these top-rated Matera shopping and cooking tours…
Key Points
- Explore Matera’s vibrant local market on a guided tour to learn about fresh, seasonal ingredients used in local cuisine and interact with local vendors.
- Participate in private cooking classes in a Cesarina’s home to prepare a delectable 3-course or 4-course seasonal meal and learn authentic regional cooking techniques.
- Embark on an immersive culinary adventure that combines a market visit and a cooking class, creating genuine connections with local families.
- Discover the production process and enjoy a family-style lunch at an authentic olive farm, with transportation from Bari included in the tour price.
- Benefit from flexible scheduling, cancellation policies, and accommodations for dietary restrictions for the best shopping tours in Matera.
Local Market Visit and Private Cooking Class at a Cesarinas Home in Matera
A unique culinary experience awaits visitors in Matera. The “Local Market Visit and Private Cooking Class at a Cesarina’s Home in Matera” offers an immersive glimpse into the city’s vibrant food culture.
Guests will start with a private guided tour of the local market, learning about the fresh, seasonal ingredients that make Matera’s cuisine so distinctive.
Next, they’ll head to a Cesarina’s (local home cook’s) home for a private cooking class. Under the guidance of their expert host, you will prepare a delectable 3-course meal, crafting authentic regional dishes using time-honored techniques.
The experience culminates with a private lunch or dinner, complete with regional wines and beverages, allowing guests to savor the fruits of their culinary labor.
This exclusive, behind-the-scenes experience is priced from $202.66 per person and includes an official Le Cesarine apron and shopping bag as souvenirs.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a private, intimate setting, it’s an unforgettable way to take in Matera’s vibrant food culture.
Read our full review: Local Market Visit and Private Cooking Class at a Cesarinas Home in Matera Review
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Matera: Market Tour and Cooking Class at a Locals Home
Immersing oneself in Matera’s vibrant food culture is at the heart of the “Matera: Market Tour and Cooking Class at a Local’s Home” experience. Priced at $146.10 per person, this 4-hour activity offers a unique opportunity to explore a local market with a certified cook and learn authentic cooking techniques from an Italian family.
The experience begins with a tour of a lively local market, where participants can listen to insights from the cook about selecting the best produce.
This is followed by a private cooking demonstration and a four-course seasonal meal in a welcoming home environment. The menu includes a starter, pasta, main course, side dish, and dessert, accompanied by regional wines and hot coffee.
Guests can expect to create a genuine connection with local Italian families and enjoy the hospitality of a warm home setting.
With flexible start times and the ability to accommodate dietary requirements, this immersive culinary adventure is a must-try for those seeking an authentic taste of Matera.
Read our full review: Matera: Market Tour and Cooking Class at a Locals Home Review
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Real Farmers Lunch at Olive Farm in the Italian Countryside
Although just a short drive from the historic city of Matera, the “Real Farmers Lunch at Olive Farm in the Italian Countryside” experience offers a chance to step into the tranquil heart of rural Italy.
This 10-hour tour, rated 4.7 out of 5 stars, provides a unique opportunity to visit an authentic olive farm and enjoy a homemade lunch prepared by the farm’s owners.
The tour, priced at $115.62 per person, includes transportation from Bari and a guided exploration of the olive groves and production facilities. Guests will learn about the farm’s sustainable practices and have the chance to sample the farm’s own olive oil.
The highlight of the experience is the family-style lunch, featuring traditional dishes made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
This immersive experience allows visitors to connect with the local culture and cuisine, offering a glimpse into the daily life of Italian farmers.
With an optional audio guide available, the “Real Farmers Lunch” tour provides a well-rounded and memorable day trip from Matera.
Read our full review: Real Farmers Lunch at Olive Farm in the Italian Countryside Review
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Matera: Market & Private Cooking Class at a Locals Home
Visitors seeking an intimate culinary experience in Matera can embark on the Matera Market & Private Cooking Class at a Local’s Home. This 5-hour excursion offers a glimpse into the vibrant local market, where participants learn to recognize quality produce.
The highlight is a private cooking class with an expert home cook, where they’ll create three authentic regional dishes and learn traditional cooking techniques. The class is available in Italian or English, and a private group setting can be arranged.
Priced at €189 per person, the experience includes tastings of the prepared meals, paired with local wines, as well as water, coffee, and taxes. Dietary restrictions can be accommodated with advance notice.
The class address is provided after booking for privacy reasons, and the market tour typically starts at 9 AM or 4 PM, with flexible scheduling available. Cancellations up to 24 hours in advance qualify for a full refund.
Read our full review: Matera: Market & Private Cooking Class at a Locals Home Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Photography Allowed During the Private Cooking Class?
Photography is generally allowed during the private cooking class, but it’s best to check with the instructor beforehand. They may have specific guidelines or preferences regarding photography to ensure the enjoyment and focus of all participants.
What Type of Dietary Restrictions Can Be Accommodated?
The private cooking class can accommodate a variety of dietary restrictions, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and halal. The chef works closely with participants to ensure their culinary needs are met during the hands-on cooking experience.
Is Transportation to and From the Tour Locations Provided?
Yes, most shopping tour providers in Matera offer round-trip transportation to and from the tour locations. This ensures guests can fully enjoy the shopping experience without worrying about getting to and from the destinations.
Can I Purchase Local Crafts or Souvenirs During the Tours?
Yes, you can typically purchase local crafts and souvenirs during the tours. Many of the shopping tours in Matera provide opportunities to browse and buy unique handmade items from local artisans and shops.
How Much Advance Notice Is Required to Book These Tours?
Most tour operators recommend booking their shopping tours at least a week in advance, though some may accept last-minute bookings if availability allows. Advance reservations help ensure your spot and allow the tour provider to best accommodate your needs.
Recap
Matera offers an array of immersive shopping and culinary experiences. Visitors can explore local markets, participate in private cooking classes, and enjoy authentic farm-to-table lunches. These tours provide unique insights into the region’s rich cultural heritage and traditional lifestyle. Whether you’re a foodie or a cultural enthusiast, Matera’s best shopping tours deliver an unforgettable taste of southern Italian hospitality.