Full Private 3h Excursion to the Sassi di Matera
Overview
Available languages
3 hours
Mobile ticket
This guided walking tour offers a more complete and in-depth experience of the Sassi of Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, designed for travelers who want to go beyond a simple panoramic walk. Accompanied by a local guide, you will explore the historic districts by stepping into the heart of the city carved into the rock.
The itinerary includes entrance to two frescoed rock churches, including the renowned Madonna de Idris, dramatically suspended above Sasso Caveoso. Here, precious frescoes bear witness to the deep spirituality and artistic expression of medieval Matera.
Another key moment of the experience is the visit to a traditionally furnished cave house, set up as it was before the 1950s, offering a concrete understanding of the real living conditions of the families who inhabited the Sassi prior to the evacuation.
Enjoy a light tasting of regional bites - taralli, bread, and veggie spreads or other - to wrap up the tour.
Additional Info
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
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
Collect your 10% discount coupon at our agency before the tour
Matera’s historic districts feature uneven stone pavements, steps, and sloping pathways. We strongly recommend comfortable, non-slip walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing
The route includes steps, inclines, and narrow alleys. A moderate level of mobility is required. The itinerary may not be suitable for guests with limited mobility, wheelchairs, or strollers
What To Expect
Chiesa del Purgatorio
The tour begins with a symbolic introduction to Baroque Matera through an external visit to the Church of Purgatory, highlighting the connection between faith, death, and rebirth in local culture.
The elegant heart of the historic city, this is the ideal place to understand Matera’s urban development before entering the Sassi.
Options
Private Tour in Italian
Private Tour in English
What‘s Included
Exclusive expert tour guide
Tasting of local food samples
Entrance ticket to the Church of Sant'Antonio Abate
Guided tour to both Sassi districts, Caveoso and Barisano
10% discount coupon to Mòvado Food&Drinks bar in Piazza Duomo
Entrance tickets to a Casa Grotta museum (cave dwelling)
Entrance tickets to the rock church of Madonna de Idris
Tips
Extra food and drinks
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
458 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Excellent!
sgutlove,Jun 16, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Lorenzo was fantastic - charming, passionate, thorough, etc. I truly recommend it!!!
Look elsewhere for a private tour.
davidwE2138ZT,May 9, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
2.00Our tour in English of Matera was with Barbara. She guided us on an enjoyable walk through the city that allowed us to see the city from various perspectives. We also had private access to one of the small rock churches. However, she was not welcoming or enthusiastic, her English communication skills made her difficult to understand, she was on the phone and texting for approximately 20 minutes (seemingly or personal calls) and she did not follow the advertised itinerary. Our group had an enjoyable time because of the beauty of the city but, look elsewhere for a private tour.
Couple from Indy
William C,May 8, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Our guide Stephania (Stephanie) was truly wonderful. She made our 3hour private tour of a truly magical city absolutely memorable. She is very knowledgeable and has a warm & sincere personality. We felt very relaxed & could readily tell that Stephania really knew the history & culture of the town/region. We would recommend her to everyone who plans on visiting this spectacular place. She’ll make your time very worthwhile
Pleasant visit of the Sassi
R4507JMlorenzol,Apr 26, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The guided tour of the Sassi was very interesting and at the same time pleasant, the sympathy and preparation of our guide Giusi offered us an unforgettable experience and recommended to all those who really want to know the history and the particularities of this wonderful city.
Tour Sassi of Matera
msY276ZL,Apr 1, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We booked a guided tour in Matera and were lucky enough to be accompanied by Pasquale. With great passion and competence he guided us through the picturesque streets of the city, making us discover and appreciate this unique place even more. Thank you Pasquale for this wonderful experience!
Stone tours
Viaggiatoresicili,Mar 28, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00With the family we did the tour of the stones, wonderful experience with the guide Giusi very nice and very prepared. It was a really enjoyable experience
Great experience!
m0destin0m,Dec 22, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Great tour! Giusy is very good and tells you the story of the stones in detail! He made us spend a pleasant and carefree morning, highly recommended!
Great experience
MarinaBiEmme,Oct 12, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Excellent guide Giusi Napoleon, very prepared and helpful. Rich in information without being pedantic. I highly recommend.
Enthusiasm
Lee K,Sep 16, 2025
- Review from Viator
4.00Barbara was enthusiastic about her town. She was fun to be with and we covered a lot of territory even though we were 30 minutes late. Thanks
Excellent tour with an outstanding guide!
Maps38811738727,Sep 15, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Barbara was an excellent guide! Seeing that we were an 'older' group, she did a great job minimizing our time standing in the sun/heat - finding spots in the shade to stop and even suggesting we take the bus from one Sassi to the other. We saw Sassi Barisano and Caveoso, which are spectacular! Barbara even recommended a great place for lunch and called and made us a reservation (and ended the tour at the restaurant)!
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