Matera
Complete Sassi of Matera Small Group Walking Tour with Tasting
This 3-hour walking tour is perfect for travelers looking to experience the Sassi of Matera in a deeper and more complete way, beyond the usual panoramic routes. The itinerary explores both historic districts, Sasso Barisano and Sasso Caveoso, and includes visits to two of the city’s most important rock churches.
Led by a local guide, you’ll learn how Matera evolved from a “built” city into one carved directly into stone, as you pass through historic squares, scenic viewpoints, and rock-hewn spaces that reveal centuries of everyday life and spiritual tradition.
The highlight of the tour is the visit to the rock churches, from Sant’Antonio Abate to the striking Madonna de Idris. Here, you’ll admire frescoes dating from the 12th to the 17th century and explore the ancient crypt of San Giovanni in Monterrone.
The experience ends with a tasting of traditional Lucanian specialties. The tour runs in small groups, allowing for a more engaging pace and better interaction.
Itinerary
-
1
The route begins in the Baroque part of Matera, with an external visit to the Church of Purgatory, a symbolic site that reflects the cityu2019s deep connection between faith, memory, and rebirth.
-
2
This spot marks the transition from monumental Matera to its rock-hewn heart, introducing the story of the cityu2019s urban evolution.
-
3
From above, the Sassi unfold below, offering a clear overview that helps you understand the layout of the landscape.
-
4
In Sasso Barisano, a frescoed rock church brings to life the spiritual world of the Middle Ages, carved directly into the stone.
-
5
An immersive look into daily life in the Sassi, with rooms furnished as they were before the 1950s and stories of family life and adaptation.
-
6
This panoramic stretch connects city and nature, opening onto views of the Gravina canyon and the Park of the Rupestrian Churches.
-
7
One of the most iconic views of the Sassi, perfect for photos and a short pause.
-
8
The highlight of the tour is a rock church seemingly suspended above Sasso Caveoso, preserving frescoes from the 12th to the 17th century and the crypt of San Giovanni in Monterrone.
-
9
The tour ends with a tasting of local Lucanian specialties, including taralli, Matera bread, and vegetable spreads.
What's included
- Licensed local tour guide
- Entrance to the rock church of Santu2019Antonio Abate
- Tasting of regional bites - taralli, local bread, and veggie spreads
- City map
- Entrance to the rock church of Madonna de Idris / San Giovanni in Monterrone
- 10% discount coupon at Mu00f2Vado Food & Drink in Piazza Duomo
- Entrance to the traditionally furnished Narrated Cave House
What's not included
- Extra meals and drinks
- Tips (optional)
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- 100% refund 1+ days before departure
- 0% refund Within 1 days of departure
Good to know
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adultu2019s lap
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness