Matera works as a base for day trips into Basilicata and Puglia: Alberobello, Altamura, the Murgia plateau and the ghost village of Craco are all within a drive. In town, walking and panoramic tours of the cave-dwelling Sassi districts fill most of the list.
Related: Best Things To Do in Matera: Sassi Cave Dwelling Tours & Rock Church and Ravine Hiking Tours
Top-Rated Matera Sassi Italy Tours & Experiences
Guided Tour of Matera Sassi
A guided tour of the Sassi is the standard introduction to the two cave districts, with a guide explaining how people lived in them. Wear shoes with grip, since the stairs are uneven and steep.
Guided Walking Tour of the Historic Center and Sassi of Matera
A walking tour of the historic center widens the view to the cathedral and the upper town, not only the cave houses. It suits first-timers; check the length and the group size.
Panoramic Tour of the Sassi of Matera in Open Bus with House Cave
A panoramic tour emphasizes viewpoints over the ravine and the two districts. It suits visitors with limited stamina, as it involves less walking; check which stops are covered.
Guided Tour to the Sassi of Matera in Spanish
A second guided Sassi tour; compare the language, the group cap and the start point with the first. In summer, book a morning slot to beat the heat.
Ape Calessino Tour Sassi of Matera Standard
An Ape Calessino tour uses a small open three-wheeled vehicle that fits through narrow lanes, which helps if stairs are a challenge. Check the duration and the route, and bring a layer.
UNESCO Tour Van Tour ALBEROBELLO MATERA I TRULLI I SASSI
A van tour combining Alberobello and Matera, two UNESCO sites in one outing. Expect a long day with driving; check the departure city and the time at each stop.
Private Guided Tour Sassi of Matera
A private guided tour of the Sassi gives you flexibility on pace and focus, which helps families and travelers with mobility needs. Confirm the starting point and what the price covers.
Tour Sassi and Murgia Aboard the New Fiat 500 Cabriolet
A tour linking the Sassi with the Murgia plateau across the ravine, where rock-cut churches and caves look back at the old town. Check the vehicle named in the listing, the walking and the duration.
As with most in-demand destinations, the best tours in Matera Sassi Italy tend to sell out first, so booking a few days ahead is generally a good idea.
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How These Matera Tours Were Chosen
The Sassi are two districts of homes carved into the ravine, Sasso Barisano and Sasso Caveoso, lived in for thousands of years. Until the 1950s many families still occupied them; today they hold hotels, restaurants and small museums, and UNESCO lists them.
Day trips from Matera
Alberobello’s trulli, Altamura, famous for its bread, and the Gravina canyon are all close. Metaponto’s Greek temples and the abandoned hill village of Craco are further out. A van or private tour saves the planning.
Best Time to Book Matera Tours
Spring and autumn are the best seasons, with mild weather for the stairs. July and August are hot with little shade, and winter is cool and quiet. Evenings, when the lanes are lit, are especially atmospheric.
Where to Sleep in Matera
Cave hotels inside the Sassi offer atmosphere, but luggage means stairs, so check access. The newer town has easier parking and cheaper rooms. Matera is reached from Bari by regional train or bus.
Tour Prices in Matera
Walking tours are inexpensive, ranging from $14 to $35 for the six priced tours, and most cluster near $23. The low price reflects large groups, so check the group cap if you prefer a quieter visit.
Practical Tips Before You Book
Wear shoes with grip, carry water and a hat, and start early. The ravine is exposed, so cover up from the sun. Ask about the tour’s end point to plan lunch.
How the Top Tours Compare
Discover Matera has 1,921 reviews at 4.9 stars, the most of any tour. Tour in the Sassi of Matera holds 5 stars from 421 reviews at $14. Exploring alone is free, but a guide explains the cave life.
Common Questions About Matera Tours
How much do Matera Sassi tours cost?
Across 6 priced tours, prices run from $14 to $35, with a median near $23. Walking tours are inexpensive, as many run as larger groups.
Which Matera tour has the most reviews?
Discover Matera has 1,921 reviews at 4.9 stars, the most of any tour here. With 5,262 reviews across all tours, the ratings are well tested.
How long do I need in Matera?
A guided tour takes two to three hours. A full day lets you add viewpoints and a meal, and an overnight stay is worth it for the evening lights.
Can I visit Matera as a day trip from Bari?
Yes. Regional trains and buses link the two, and tours handle the transport. Allow a full day, and check the return times.
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