Matera: 2-Hour Walking Tour

Matera’s enchanting history and architectural wonders come alive on this captivating 2-hour walking tour. Led by knowledgeable local guides, visitors will explore the UNESCO-listed Sassi di Matera and the historic Sasso Caveoso. From furnished cave-houses to rupestrian churches, the tour immerses participants in ancient living conditions and breathtaking frescoes. At the Museo Nazionale di Matera, insightful historical context provides a deeper understanding of this remarkable city. Whether you’re a culture enthusiast or simply seeking an engaging introduction to Matera, this tour offers an experience that’s sure to leave a lasting impression. What secrets and surprises await as you uncover the hidden gems of this remarkable destination?

This experience made our list of the 17 Best Walking Tours In Matera.

Key Points

• A 2-hour guided walking tour of Matera, an ancient city featuring UNESCO-listed Sassi di Matera and other historical sites.
• The tour explores furnished cave-houses, frescoed cave-churches, and the Museo Nazionale di Matera to provide insights into the city’s unique cultural heritage.
• Led by certified local guides fluent in multiple languages, including Spanish, English, French, German, and Italian.
• Includes tickets for a rupestrian church and a furnished cave-house to enhance the experiential learning for visitors.
• Tour departs from Piazza Pascoli Giovanni, 1 and has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 based on 11 customer reviews.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The 2-hour walking tour of Matera offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of this unique Italian city. Priced from $161.11 per person, the tour provides free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a "reserve now, pay later" option.

Starting at Piazza Pascoli Giovanni, 1, the tour takes guests to key highlights including the Sasso Caveoso, Sassi di Matera, Museo Nazionale di Matera, and the Church of San Pietro Caveoso.

Visitors can expect to explore a furnished cave-house and a cave-church with frescoes before returning to the starting point.

Led by certified local guides available in multiple languages, the tour offers insights into Matera’s ancient cave dwellings and churches, as well as its status as a UNESCO site and 2019 European Capital of Culture.

Itinerary Highlights

Starting at Piazza Pascoli Giovanni, 1, the walking tour takes guests to several key highlights throughout Matera.

The tour explores the Sasso Caveoso, the iconic Sassi di Matera, the Museo Nazionale di Matera, and the Church of San Pietro Caveoso.

Visitors will have the opportunity to:

1. Step inside a furnished cave-house to learn about ancient living conditions.
2. Marvel at the frescoes adorning the walls of a cave-church.
3. Discover the UNESCO-listed Sassi di Matera, an ancient settlement carved into the city’s rocky terrain.
4. Visit the National Museum of Matera to gain insights into the history and culture of this unique Italian city.

Guided Experience

Led by a certified local guide, the walking tour of Matera provides an immersive experience for visitors. The tour is available in multiple languages, including Spanish, English, French, German, and Italian, catering to a diverse audience. Guests can expect to gain insights into the ancient cave houses and churches that make Matera a UNESCO site and the 2019 European Capital of Culture.

Language	Guide Availability
Spanish	✓
English	✓
French	✓
German	✓
Italian	✓

The knowledgeable local guides bring the history and culture of Matera to life, offering a unique perspective and deep understanding of this remarkable destination.

Inclusions

The walking tour includes a certified local guide who accompanies visitors throughout the experience.

The inclusions cover essential elements that enhance the tour:

1. Tickets for a rupestrian church, allowing participants to explore the ancient cave-churches and appreciate their frescoed interiors.

2. Admission to a furnished cave-house, providing a glimpse into the traditional dwellings and lifestyle of the Sassi di Matera.

3. Knowledgeable guidance from the local expert, who shares insights into the history, culture, and significance of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

4. The opportunity to experience Matera, the 2019 European Capital of Culture, and gain a deeper understanding of its unique architectural and archaeological wonders.

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Customer Feedback

According to the customer reviews, the overall rating for this walking tour of Matera stands at 4.3 out of 5 based on 11 reviews. Positive feedback praised the knowledgeable guides and interesting content, providing visitors with insights into the ancient cave houses and churches. However, some customers criticized aspects of the organization and felt the tour was not good value for money, particularly for certain experiences. The following table provides a more detailed breakdown of the customer feedback:

Positive	Negative
Knowledgeable guides	Poor organization
Interesting content	High prices for some experiences
Insights into cultural heritage

Tour Details

Starting from Piazza Pascoli Giovanni, 1, this 2-hour walking tour of Matera takes visitors on a comprehensive exploration of the city’s renowned Sassi – ancient cave dwellings that have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The tour highlights include:

1. Visiting the Sasso Caveoso, the most famous of Matera’s cave districts.
2. Exploring the Sassi di Matera, the ancient, cave-dwelling neighborhoods of the city.
3. Touring the Museo Nazionale di Matera to learn about the region’s history and culture.
4. Discovering the Church of San Pietro Caveoso, a rupestrian church with stunning frescoes.

The guided experience is led by certified local experts and available in multiple languages, providing an immersive and informative look at this unique UNESCO site.

Exploring Matera

Matera’s iconic Sassi, the ancient cave dwellings that dot the city’s landscape, are the heart and soul of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Visitors can explore the Sasso Caveoso and Sassi di Matera, the two main cave districts, and discover the Museo Nazionale di Matera, which provides insights into the region’s history and culture.

The Church of San Pietro Caveoso, with its well-preserved frescoes, offers a glimpse into the religious significance of these ancient structures.

Guided tours also include visits to a furnished cave-house, allowing guests to step back in time and experience the unique living conditions of the Sassi’s former inhabitants.

Practical Information

The walking tour of Matera’s Sassi, the ancient cave dwellings, departs from Piazza Pascoli Giovanni, 1. Priced from $161.11 per person, the 2-hour guided experience allows visitors to:

1. Explore the UNESCO-listed Sassi di Matera and Sasso Caveoso neighborhoods.

2. Visit a furnished cave-house and a cave-church with frescoes.

3. Tour the Museo Nazionale di Matera and the Church of San Pietro Caveoso.

4. Benefit from a certified local guide available in multiple languages, including Spanish, English, French, German, and Italian.

The tour features free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.

Reviews praise the knowledgeable guides, though some note the high prices for certain experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

The tour does not allow pets. The walking tour is focused on exploring the UNESCO site and ancient structures, which may not be suitable or safe for animals to join. Participants are advised to make alternative arrangements for their pets during the tour.

Is There an Option for Private Tours?

Yes, the tour provider offers private tours for those who prefer a more personalized experience. Customers can inquire about this option when booking, and the price may vary depending on the group size and specific requests.

What Is the Maximum Group Size?

The tour has no specified maximum group size, though it’s likely a small group experience. Customers should expect an intimate guided tour led by a certified local guide, providing personalized attention and opportunities for interaction.

Can We Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour duration can be extended, though it’s not explicitly mentioned in the provided details. Customers may be able to arrange for a longer tour by contacting the tour operator and inquiring about additional options or customizations.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

Yes, the tour company offers discounts for seniors aged 65+ and students with valid ID. Seniors receive a 10% discount, while students get a 15% reduction on the standard tour price. These discounted rates can be booked directly through the tour provider.

Recap

The 2-hour walking tour of Matera offers a captivating exploration of the city’s UNESCO-listed Sassi, revealing its ancient living conditions and stunning frescoes. Guided by local experts, visitors can explore the historical context at the Museo Nazionale di Matera, making this an immersive cultural experience for those eager to discover the enchanting charm of this remarkable destination.

You can check if your dates are available here: