Choose Date
Explore the Sassi in Matera, Basilicata - Book Tours, Events and Activities
Your visit starts in Piazza Vittorio Veneto, a beautiful nineteenth-century square where you’ll take in a panoramic view of the Civita and the iconic Sasso Barisano, then wind through the narrow streets of the center admiring important artistic and architectural works; you’ll arrive at the imposing belvedere of Piazza Duomo that overlooks the Sasso Barisano. As you continue among the steps of the Sassi, you’ll explore atmospheric cave churches, step inside a typically furnished cave house, and visit a historic cellar, all set in the unique context of Matera in Basilicata-an itinerary designed to help you connect your stay with local sights and experiences.
About this activity in Matera
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Highlights
- Begin at Piazza Vittorio Veneto in Matera to take in a sweeping panoramic view of the Civita and the Sasso Barisano.
- Wander the atmospheric narrow streets of the historic center, discovering notable works of art and architecture along the way.
- Pause at the elevated belvedere of Piazza Duomo for another stunning outlook over the Sasso Barisano and the layered cityscape.
- Descend the characteristic steps of the Sassi to visit cave churches, step inside a traditionally furnished cave house and explore a historic cellar.
Important Information
- The route follows uneven stone steps and narrow alleys typical of the Sassi district-wear sturdy, comfortable shoes and be prepared for walking.
- This experience is family-friendly and parts of the route are accessible with a pram or stroller; bring what you need for small children.
- Public transport options serve the area and there are nearby pick-up points if you’re arriving from elsewhere in Basilicata.
- Expect close-up encounters with historic cave dwellings and churches-photography is encouraged, but please be respectful inside religious sites.
Meeting Point
Meet your guide at Piazza Vittorio Veneto (central square). From here you’ll start the walking tour through the Sassi toward Piazza Duomo and the cave churches.
Includes
- Enjoy a guided experience led by a guide with a regional license in Matera, Basilicata - ideal for discovering authentic local history and heritage.
- Your entrance ticket covers access to a traditional cave house and the region’s rock churches, so you can explore the highlights without extra admissions.
- Receive a detailed map of the historic center to help you navigate the Sassi and the surrounding streets with confidence while you explore the area.
Other
- Infants and small children can join comfortably - you’re welcome to bring a pram or stroller for easy mobility through the streets.
- Service animals are allowed, ensuring accessibility for travelers who rely on them while visiting the destination.
- Public transportation options are available nearby, making it simple to reach the meeting point and return to your accommodation.
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels, so you can enjoy the experience whether you prefer a relaxed stroll or a more active pace.
Customer Reviews
10/10
Based on 10 Reviews
Summary:
Given that Matera deserves to be visited, it has received all the international awards with good reason.
I spent a lot of time in Puglia nearby, but only in the last weekend I visited this magnificent place.
You arrive in Matera and you don't understand why it is so famous, the new city was born in the countryside and if you don't look out to see the ancient city you can't see it.
When you arrive in the main square, very beautiful and well-kept, it rises in the area called "Piano" entirely pedestrian, from where between two wings of eighteenth and nineteenth century buildings starts the struscio.
If in this square you are approached by Umberto who invites you to the guided tour of the "Sassi" I listen to him and thank him, particularly if you are lucky enough to have as a guide Giuseppe, passionate about his places, where his ancestors lived, in what was then his playground as a boy, and his workplace when he grew up.
Fascinating tour with historical notes and lived stories.
Money well spent.
We also enjoyed the friendliness and Welcoming of the locals, as well as the good food.
I really recommend a visit to this charming and welcoming city.
💯
Read More
Summary:
We did the Sassi tour with Giuseppe: it was really nice! Two hours of walking that flew! Giuseppe told us the history of this city and putting his personal experience in these areas made everything more "alive". Thank you so much!
Read More
Summary:
Guided tour of great historical and artistic interest. Extraordinary journey through time, from the Neolithic, medieval wonders, to the Baroque and the present day. Peppino, the guide assigned to us, of great competence and sympathy, took us to the most significant places, telling the story in great detail and showing the wonderful magic of those places. Highly recommended!!!
Read More
Other Popular Activities in Matera
Explore top attractions and memorable experiences, including iconic observation decks and family-friendly activities.
279 activities found
5-Star Rating Recommendation
From
US $36Per Person
5-Star Rating Recommendation
From
US $174Per Person
5-Star Rating Recommendation
From
US $120Per Person
5-Star Rating Recommendation
From
US $17Per Person
5-Star Rating Recommendation
From
US $36Per Person
5-Star Rating Recommendation
From
US $23Per Person
5-Star Rating Recommendation
From
US $1,444Per Person
5-Star Rating Recommendation
From
US $351Per Person
Explore Matera, Basilicata: Book Tours, Food, Culture and Adventure
When you visit Matera in Basilicata, you’ll find a compact mix of Art & Culture, immersive Tours & Sightseeing, hands-on Workshops & Learning and memorable Food & Drink experiences that make it easy to plan Events and activities. The area’s rich cultural offerings, guided sightseeing options and culinary Events suit couples, groups and families looking for Romantic & Couples moments, Group-Friendly bookings or Multi-Day / Full-Day itineraries. Book here to align your stay with curated local experiences and discover how this destination connects comfortable accommodation with the things you want to do.
6 Guests
2 Bedrooms
2 Bathrooms
Family Friendly
House
- Fireplace/Heating
- Balcony/Terrace
- Kitchen
US $141/Night
For 7 Nights US $985
1722.23 ft²
7 Guests
3 Bedrooms
2 Bathrooms
Free Cancellation
House
- Fireplace/Heating
- Breakfast
- Parking
US $216/Night
For 7 Nights US $1,514
1 Bedroom
1 Bathroom
Family Friendly
Bed & Breakfast
- Fireplace/Heating
- Breakfast
- Kitchen
US $259/Night
For 7 Nights US $1,810
807 ft²
4 Guests
2 Bedrooms
1 Bathroom
Family Friendly
Apartment
- Spa
- Fireplace/Heating
- Balcony/Terrace
US $305/Night
For 7 Nights US $2,137
Know more about Matera
You will start in Piazza Vittorio Veneto for a panoramic view of the Civita and the Sasso Barisano, walk the narrow streets of the historic center to admire architectural and artistic sites, visit the belvedere at Piazza Duomo overlooking the Sasso Barisano, and continue through the steps of the Sassi to explore cave churches, a furnished cave house, and a historic cellar.
Yes. The experience includes a guide with a regional license who will lead you through the historic center, explain the artistic and architectural features, and accompany you into cave churches and the furnished cave house.
Yes. Public transportation options are available nearby, making it convenient to reach Piazza Vittorio Veneto before starting the panoramic and walking portions of the tour.
Yes. The route includes paved squares and narrow streets as well as steps in the Sassi; infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller, and the tour is described as suitable for all physical fitness levels.
Plan enough time to enjoy panoramic viewpoints like Piazza Vittorio Veneto and Piazza Duomo, stroll the narrow streets and steps of the Sassi, and visit cave churches, a furnished cave house and a historic cellar-this sequence of highlights typically requires a guided visit that covers both outdoor viewpoints and interior cave sites.
Yes. The offering includes entrance tickets for the cave house and rock churches and provides a map of the historic center to help you navigate the Sassi, piazzas and viewpoints during the visit.
