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Book City Tours in Matera - Guided Tours, Bus Tours, Audio Guided Tours & More
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- Explore the UNESCO-listed town of Sassi of Matera with an expert local guide and soak up the culture of the districts of Sasso Barisano and Sasso Caveos.
- The region is known for its rock-cut architecture which you’ll observe in the churches of Saint Anthony Abbot, San Pietro Caveoso, and Sant’Antonio Abate.
- Visit a cave house, a site where life existed until 50 years ago, and experience the music of the region at a cupa-cupa show.
- Choose from a guided tour conveniently available in English, Italian, Spanish, French, and German.
- Explore the UNESCO-listed town of Sassi of Matera with an expert local guide and soak up the culture of the districts of Sasso Barisano and Sasso Caveos.
- The region is known for its rock-cut architecture which you’ll observe in the churches of Saint Anthony Abbot, San Pietro Caveoso, and Sant’Antonio Abate.
- Visit a cave house, a site where life existed until 50 years ago, and experience the music of the region at a cupa-cupa show.
- Choose from a guided tour conveniently available in English, Italian, Spanish, French, and German.
Inclusions
- 2-hr and 15-min guided tour of Sassi of Matera
- Certified multilingual guide
- Entry to Church of Saint Anthony Abbot
- Entry to the cave house 'C’era una volta'
- Map of the city
- Piazza San Francesco
- Civita
- Via dei Fiorentini
- Church of Sant’Antonio Abate
- Traditional Cave House
- Via Madonna delle Virtù and Porta Pistoia
- San Pietro Caveoso
- Piazzetta Pascoli
- Tip: Be sure to take some breathtaking photos from the Civita, the highest part of the city where you can observe the Cathedral.
- Pets and guide dogs are allowed on the experience.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Embark on a journey through Matera's ancient cave dwellings on a 1.5-hour open-air bus tour, accompanied by an audio guide for insights throughout the ride.
- Unearth the fascinating story of Casa Grotta of the Sassi of Matera, an extraordinary cave dwelling with tools and artifacts in 3 rooms.
- Zoom past the 16th-century fort of Castello Tramontano, the baroque church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul, and the lush park of Villa Comunale.
- Witness the awe-inspiring Cava Paradiso exhibition with immersive displays, and drive past the mellow-stone ornate facade of Palazzo Lanfranchi.
- Choose from 3 audio guide languages to delve into the captivating history and legends of each site, enhancing your exploration.
- Embark on a journey through Matera's ancient cave dwellings on a 1.5-hour open-air bus tour, accompanied by an audio guide for insights throughout the ride.
- Unearth the fascinating story of Casa Grotta of the Sassi of Matera, an extraordinary cave dwelling with tools and artifacts in 3 rooms.
- Zoom past the 16th-century fort of Castello Tramontano, the baroque church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul, and the lush park of Villa Comunale.
- Witness the awe-inspiring Cava Paradiso exhibition with immersive displays, and drive past the mellow-stone ornate facade of Palazzo Lanfranchi.
- Choose from 3 audio guide languages to delve into the captivating history and legends of each site, enhancing your exploration.
Inclusions
- 1.5-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
- Belvedere Colombo
- The Sassi di Matera – UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Casa Grotta Sassi di Matera
- Piazza San Pietro Caveoso
- Piccianello neighbourhood
- Sanctuary of Madonna della Palomba
- Belvedere of Murgia Park
- Tip: As you venture into the depths of Cava Paradiso, keep an eye out for the mesmerizing natural formations of stalactites and stalagmites that have adorned the cave walls for centuries.
- Facilities: Wheelchair Accessibility, Pram/Stroller Accessibility.
- The audio guide is available on iOS and Android.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Tour Murgia Park with a small group and learn about Matera’s Rupestrian churches and Neolithic history with an expert English or Italian-speaking guide.
- Hike through rocky landscapes to admire preserved frescoes and 9th-century Byzantine architecture at Madonna delle Tre Porte church and San Falcione's crypt.
- Be sure to closely observe one of the most famous frescoes of the churches, a beautiful one depicting Jesus.
- Take in magnificent views from Golgotha's panoramic viewpoint including the stunning sunset over Sassi of Matera.
- Tour Murgia Park with a small group and learn about Matera’s Rupestrian churches and Neolithic history with an expert English or Italian-speaking guide.
- Hike through rocky landscapes to admire preserved frescoes and 9th-century Byzantine architecture at Madonna delle Tre Porte church and San Falcione's crypt.
- Be sure to closely observe one of the most famous frescoes of the churches, a beautiful one depicting Jesus.
- Take in magnificent views from Golgotha's panoramic viewpoint including the stunning sunset over Sassi of Matera.
Inclusions
- 2-hr 15-min tour of Murgia Park
- Expert English or Italian-speaking guide (as per option selected)
- Free return transfer from Murgia Park to Matera (courtesy shuttle)
- Entry to Rupestrian churches
- City map
- Tip: As the Rupestrian Churches are carved into the rock and can be quite dimly lit, it's recommended to bring a flashlight to better appreciate the details of the artwork.
- This tour is not suitable for wheelchair and pram/stroller users.
- The following is not allowed on this tour: pets and other animals.
- Your experience may be subject to change due to adverse weather conditions.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Explore the UNESCO Heritage town of Matera on a tuk-tuk tour with an expert English or Italian porter guide and an audio guide.
- Travel to the central Vittorio Veneto Square, and learn about impressive religious buildings like the Matera Cathedral, St. John's Church, etc.
- Discover the iconic Cave House, carved out of the soft limestone rock that makes up the rocky landscape of the city.
- Stop to photograph the expansive and panoramic views you’ll enjoy of the Sasso Barisano and Sasso Caveoso.
- Explore the UNESCO Heritage town of Matera on a tuk-tuk tour with an expert English or Italian porter guide and an audio guide.
- Travel to the central Vittorio Veneto Square, and learn about impressive religious buildings like the Matera Cathedral, St. John's Church, etc.
- Discover the iconic Cave House, carved out of the soft limestone rock that makes up the rocky landscape of the city.
- Stop to photograph the expansive and panoramic views you’ll enjoy of the Sasso Barisano and Sasso Caveoso.
Inclusions
- 45-min tuk-tuk tour of Sassi of Matera
- English or Italian-speaking porter guide
- Audio guide (available on Android and iOS)
- Entry to Cave House
- Informative city map
- Vittorio Veneto Square
- Church of Purgatory
- Matera Cathedral
- St. John's Church
- Panoramic views of Sasso Barisano
- Panoramic views of Sasso Caveoso
- Tip: Don't miss exploring the Vittorio Veneto Square at your own pace. It's known for its charming cafes, museums, and unique vantage point.
- Facilities: Wheelchair Accessibility, Pram/Stroller Accessibility.
- The experience could be canceled in case of adverse weather conditions.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
MateraClassic Tour
Why Go on a Matera Caves Tour?
- Visit Ancient Cave Dwellings: Cities from Mesopotamia might have been older, but none have stood the test of time like the cave dwellings of Matera that originated in the Paleolithic age.
- Live the Troglodyte Life: Know what it's like to inhabit a cave carved into the rocky slopes of Basilicata. Visit the famous Casa Grotta Cave House and interact with locals learning about their unique houses and lifestyles.
- Explore Ruprestrian Caves: Visit several of Matera's rupestrian caves that are carved out of the mountains and
- Cave Attractions: Attend exhibitions related to the caves of Matera, explore the water system cisterns and the even the Crypt of Original Sin in your Matera Caves tour.
Your Matera Caves Tour Options Explained
Guided Tours
Duration: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Discover the caves of Matera with an expert local guide in a guided tour available in English, Italian, Spanish, and French.
- Explore Matera's cave houses and learn about the astounding architecture of the interconnected caves.
- Gain entry to the rock-hewn churches and the Cave House.
Cancellation Policy: Cancel these tickets 48 hours before your experience and get a full refund.
Recommended Tours
Guided Tour of Sassi of Matera
Murgia Park & Rupestrian Churches Guided Tour with Transfer
Tours with Audio Guide
Duration: 45 mins - 1 hour 15 minutes
- Explore the City of Matera and get entry to cave attractions.
- Get a multilingual audio guide available in English and Italian.
- Depending on the ticket, take the tour on a tuk-tuk or bus.
Cancelation Policy: Cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Recommended Tours
45-min Tour of Sassi of Matera with Porter & Audio Guide
Bus Tour of Matera with Audio Guide & Access to Casa Grotta
Bus Tours
Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Sit back in an open-air bus as you cruise through Matera visiting its top attractions.
- Get access to a comprehensive audio guide in the language of your choice to make your tour an informative and meaningful one.
- Visit the cave dwellings of Casa Grotta nei Sassi di Matera, occupied by people several centuries ago, and even an exhibition at Cava Paradiso.
Cancelation Policy: Cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Recommended Tours
E-bike Tours
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Zip between the ancient buildings of Matera on an iconic Vespa in 2.5 hours and get access to several cave attractions.
- Get the freedom and flexibility to explore the culture and history of the site at your own pace.
- Allow an English or Italian tour guide will take you to the best spots in town and share local insights.
Cancelation Policy: Cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Recommended Tours
Explore the Matera
Enter the ancient realm of Matera and witness one of the oldest cities in the world. From rupestrian churches and cave lodgings to excavations in the hills, the city of Matera is a world apart from what you're normally used to.
Rupestrian Churches
The rock churches of Matera are holy spaces that were carved straight from large rocks. However, it is easy to mistake these structures for large amorphous boulders. They are said to be the work of Byzantine monks from the 15th century. Inside them, you will find rupestrian frescoes that delight the eyes as the soft light pours into the cavernous interiors.
The Duomo of Matera
At the highest point of the ridge that separates the two Sassi in Matera stands the towering, pale yellow structure of the Matera Cathedral. Dedicated to the protector of the city Saint Eustace, the church was constructed in the 13 century. In the center of its simple yet elegant facade is a rose window and behind it, a large 170 ft. bell tower. Inside you will find delightful interiors, Byzantine frescoes, and gold-gilded stucco moldings.
Cavernous Neighbourhoods
Stroll the narrow and winding streets of the ancient city of Matera until you reach the hermetic buildings in the center of Sasso Caveso. The houses here are small and layered onto top of each other against the hillside giving them a Post-classical appearance. The caverns here are so visually stunning that they have been used as locations for filming as in 'The Passion of Christ' by Mel Gibson and 'OO7: No Time to Die'. You may also find various grottoed shops and restaurants in this area.
Cave Houses
Visit one of Matera's traditional cave houses that are said to have been dwellings of troglodytes for millennia. Cave houses such as the Casa Grotta Cera Una Volta and the Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario are limestone cave dwellings that have been refurbished for public exhibitions. They lend unique insight into the lives of the former inhabitants of Matera. You will see how they conducted domestic life and arranged their household items and even cattle in their cavernous homes!
Crypt of the Original Sin
If you follow the ravine that cuts through the Murgia Plateau, you will find several natural caves that look like gaping black holes on the mountainside. There is one, however, that is of great archaeological and artistic interest - The Crypt of Original Sin. Discovered in 1963, this cave was said to be inhabited by monks in the 8th century who left beautiful frescoes. The themes of the Creator, Light and Darkness, and Adam and Eve are rendered on the rough walls of the cave.
Plan Your Visit to the Matera Caves
Best Time to Visit
Location
Facilities
Accessibility
Eat
Stay
Tips
Nearby
Matera enjoys a Mediterranean climate that sees hot summers and moderate winters. The winter months between December and March are tolerable but can get a little cold. The warmest months are between June and August. Matera's caves are difficult to explore especially while moving between several locations due to soaring temperatures. The spring months of April, May, and June and the autumn months of September, October, and November are the best times to take a cave tour in terms of weather.
Address: The caves of Matera are located in Matera city in the region of Basilicata, Italy. It lies about 65 km from the city of Bari. [Find on Maps]
Getting There
- By Walk: The Sassi area of the city (where most of the attractions are found) is a relatively small area that can be covered on foot.
- By Bus: Frequent buses (15 urban lines and 2 circular lines) circulate within Matera between 7 AM and 10 PM that can reach you to your destination. The Sassi Line is a special bus that reaches the UNESCO Heritage site.
- By Taxi: It is easy to hail or book a cab in Matera through the Matera Taxi Consortium which has pre-established rates.
- By Car: Cars are good for circulating within the city but keep in mind that cars are not allowed in the Limited Traffic Zones (ZTLs) of the Sassi.
Despite its history and old-world charm, attractions in Matera have all the modern facilities one could wish for including closely situated toilets.
Most of Matera is wheelchair accessible. With well-paved roads and ramps to buildings, wheelchair users can easily navigate their way through the city. However, entrances to some rock caves and other cave attractions, especially those on elevated platforms are not wheelchair accessible.
- La Focagna: Try the crapiata in Taverna La Focagna, a grottoed restaurant, and wash it down with a beer or a local wine.
- Morgan: Located inside a cavernous hall, this restaurant serves gourmet-style dishes with a peperoni cruschi to die for.
- l Fiore del Latte: If you are looking for a homely ambiance and food crafted with love, head on over to Il Fiore del Latte for their Tagliolini and an array of cheeses.
- Pizzeria I Due Sassi: Enjoy sizzling pizzas at this restaurant which has a patio-style table arrangement and the best views of Matera's rustic surroundings.
- Mosto Osteria Della Birra: At this resto-bar, you can help yourself to gourmet burgers and an amazing variety of beer.
- As the Rupestrian Churches are carved into the rock and can be quite dimly lit, it's recommended to bring a flashlight to better appreciate the details of the artwork.
- Cars are restricted within the main sassi area. Therefore it is recommended that you park your vehicle in one of the surrounding parking lots.
- Matera is best explored by foot. Therefore ensure that you have comfortable walking shoes.
- Matera is known for hot days and chilly nights so it is best to bring appropriate clothing for both extremes.
- Photography for personal use is allowed in most cave tours. However, make sure to avoid using flash and tripods.
- Musma: Visit Musma or the Matera Museum of Contemporary Sculpture to view amazing sculptures in a beautiful 16th-century cave palace in the Sasso Caveoso district.
- Murgia Materana Park: Hike along the gorges of the Murgia plateau and appreciate the arid landscape of Basilicata. You may also discover vacant caves along the hillsides.
- Dolomiti Lucane: Located 80 km away, Dolomiti Lucan is a stunning mountain range in the region of Basilicata that was formed 15 million years ago and is a great place to visit.
- Pisticci: Located 51km from Matera is the quaint town of Pisticci, known for its Amaro Lucano, one of Italy's most famous liqueurs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Matera Caves Tours
How can I buy Matera caves tours?
You can purchase Matera caves tours online. Do this in order to get advance booking in a convenient way.
Are Matera caves tours available online?
Yes, you get Matera caves tours online. In doing so you can choose from a variety of tours and attractions as well as avail of discounts and offers.
How much do Matera caves tours cost?
A guided tour of the Matera caves will cost you approximately €15.
What are the different types of Matera caves tours available?
At present, you can avail yourself of guided tours, bus tours, tours with audio guides and and e-bike tours. Book now for the best prices.
What is the cancelation policy for Matera caves tours?
Matera caves tours come with a free cancellation policy which means that you can cancel your tickets before the date of your experience and get a full refund.
Do I need to book Matera caves tours in advance?
No, you are not required to book your Matera caves tours in advance but it is recommended. With advance booking, you can go for a Matera tour hassle free without looking for a tour service in the city.
Are guided tours of Matera caves available?
Yes, guided tours of the caves of Matera are available. A guided tour will include a multilingual local guide and a visit to a range of cave attractions within the city.
What is Matera?
Matera or the Sassi di Matera is a paleolithic city in the Basilicata region of Italy known for its cave dwellings and rupestrian churches.
How long does a Matera caves tour last ?
A Matera cave tour takes to multiple attractions in the city of Matera. Therefore a tour may take anywhere between an hour or two hours.
What is the best time to visit the Matera?
Avoid visiting Matera during the summer season. The spring months of April, May, and June and the autumn months of September, October, and November are the best times to visit in terms of weather.
Is Matera caves tours wheelchair accessible?
Matera for the most part is wheelchair accessible. However, wheelchair users will not be able to go on hikes outside Matera or climb elevated structures that are frequently found within the city.