Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish, Italian
Group sizeUp to 15 travelers
Overview
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.
Options
Guided tour in Italian
Guided tour in English
What's included
Licensed local tour guide
Entrance to the rock church of Sant’Antonio 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 MòVado Food & Drink in Piazza Duomo
Entrance to the traditionally furnished Narrated Cave House
Extra meals and drinks
Tips (optional)
What to expect
Chiesa del Purgatorio
Pass by
The route begins in the Baroque part of Matera, with an external visit to the Church of Purgatory, a symbolic site that reflects the city’s deep connection between faith, memory, and rebirth.
Pass by
This spot marks the transition from monumental Matera to its rock-hewn heart, introducing the story of the city’s urban evolution.
Cathedral Basilica of Matera
Pass by
From above, the Sassi unfold below, offering a clear overview that helps you understand the layout of the landscape.
Chiesa Rupestre Sant'Antonio Abate
15m · Admission ticket included
In Sasso Barisano, a frescoed rock church brings to life the spiritual world of the Middle Ages, carved directly into the stone.
15m · Admission ticket included
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.
Pass by
This panoramic stretch connects city and nature, opening onto views of the Gravina canyon and the Park of the Rupestrian Churches.
Pass by
One of the most iconic views of the Sassi, perfect for photos and a short pause.
Church of Santa Maria de Idris
20m · Admission ticket included
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.
15m · Admission ticket included
The tour ends with a tasting of local Lucanian specialties, including taralli, Matera bread, and vegetable spreads.
Meeting and pickup
Meeting point
Si prega arrivare in agenzia 10 minuti prima del tour e presentarsi allo staff.
End point
Additional information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s 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
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
