Nestled in the heart of southern Italy, the ancient city of Matera beckons with its remarkable Sassi neighborhoods – Sasso Barisano and Sasso Caveoso. These labyrinthine enclaves, sculpted into the rugged limestone, offer a glimpse into a bygone era. Now, visitors can embark on a guided walking tour to uncover the secrets of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Led by knowledgeable local guides, the journey promises an immersive exploration of rock-carved churches, the renowned Casa Grotta, and the captivating architectural wonders that have stood the test of time. But what truly sets this tour apart is the chance to…
Key Points
- This guided walking tour explores the iconic rock dwellings and cave-like structures of the Sassi di Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Italy.
- The tour starts at Fontana Ferdinandea in Piazza Vittorio Veneto and concludes at Piazza Giovanni Pascoli, covering the Sasso Barisano and Sasso Caveoso neighborhoods.
- Highlights include visits to ancient rock churches and the Casa Grotta, providing insights into the rich cultural heritage of Matera.
- The tour is not wheelchair accessible, but service animals are permitted, and it involves moderate physical activity with frequent stops on uneven, rocky terrain.
- The tour is a private, small-group experience led by knowledgeable local guides, with flexible cancellation policies and a lowest price guarantee.
It's also worth checking out some other tours and experiences nearby.
Overview of the Walking Tour
The guided walking tour of Sasso Barisano and Sasso Caveoso in Matera, Italy, typically begins at the Fontana Ferdinandea in Piazza Vittorio Veneto and concludes at Piazza Giovanni Pascoli, offering visitors a captivating exploration of the city’s iconic rock dwellings.
Over the course of the 3-4 hour tour, guests will be led through the labyrinth of cave-like structures, learning about the history, architecture, and way of life in these ancient neighborhoods.
Along the way, they’ll have the opportunity to visit rock churches and the Casa Grotta, providing a deeper understanding of the unique Sassi di Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
This immersive experience is a must for anyone seeking to uncover the rich cultural heritage of Matera.
Meeting Point and Start Time
Kicking off the guided walking tour, visitors meet at the Fontana Ferdinandea in Piazza Vittorio Veneto at 9:00 am sharp, ready to embark on their captivating exploration of the Sasso Barisano and Sasso Caveoso neighborhoods in Matera, Italy. From this charming meeting point, the tour group will venture forth, following in the footsteps of past civilizations and uncovering the rich history etched into the ancient stone structures. The tour culminates at Piazza Giovanni Pascoli, leaving participants with a deeper understanding and appreciation for this UNESCO World Heritage site.
| Meeting Point | Start Time | Duration | Accessibility | Group Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fontana Ferdinandea, Piazza Vittorio Veneto | 9:00 am | 2-3 hours | Not wheelchair accessible | Private tour, only your group |
Included Experiences
During this captivating walking tour, visitors will explore the rich history and culture of Matera by exploring the entrances to the ancient rock churches.
They’ll also have the chance to step inside the iconic Casa Grotta, providing a glimpse into the traditional dwellings that once housed the region’s inhabitants.
Throughout the experience, guests will be taken on a journey through the unique Sasso Barisano and Sasso Caveoso neighborhoods, marveling at the stunning architecture and learning about the area’s fascinating past.
This guided tour offers a truly immersive way to discover Matera’s UNESCO-listed heritage, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the remarkable stories hidden within these ancient stones.
Tour Accessibility
This guided walking tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though service animals are permitted.
Public transportation options are available near the meeting and end points, making it accessible for most travelers to participate.
The walking tour covers uneven, rocky terrain within the historic Sassi district of Matera. Visitors should wear appropriate footwear and be prepared for stairs, inclines, and narrow passageways. Some areas may be dimly lit, so a small flashlight can be helpful.
The tour involves a moderate level of physical activity, with frequent stops to admire the unique architecture and underground cave dwellings.
Transportation and Proximity
The meeting point for this guided walking tour is the Fontana Ferdinandea, located in Piazza Vittorio Veneto in central Matera.
Conveniently, the tour’s end point can be found at Piazza Giovanni Pascoli, just a short distance away.
With public transportation options available near both starting and ending points, most visitors can easily access and navigate the historic Sassi district during this immersive walking experience.
The tour’s prime location and proximity to the heart of Matera make it an excellent choice for those seeking a hassle-free way to explore the unique cave dwellings and rock churches that define this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Getting to and from the tour couldn’t be simpler.
Participant Suitability
Most travelers can readily participate in this guided walking tour of the historic Sassi district in Matera. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are permitted.
Visitors should be prepared for an engaging, immersive experience exploring the unique cave dwellings and rock churches that define this UNESCO World Heritage site.
This walking tour is suitable for:
- Adventurous travelers seeking a deeper understanding of Matera’s rich cultural heritage
- Moderately fit individuals capable of navigating the uneven terrain and steps of the Sassi
- Curious history buffs eager to discover the ancient roots of this remarkable Italian city
- Travelers seeking a personalized, small-group experience led by knowledgeable local guides
Booking and Pricing Details
Passi nei Sassi, the operator of this guided walking tour, offers a lowest price guarantee to ensure travelers get the best value for their money. Travelers can conveniently cancel their booking up to 24 hours before the experience without incurring any penalties, providing flexibility in planning their Matera adventure.
The pricing for this tour is straightforward and transparent. Here’s a breakdown:
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Adult Ticket | €25 |
| Child Ticket (under 12) | €15 |
| Senior Ticket (over 65) | €20 |
| Private Tour (up to 6 people) | €150 |
With these reasonable rates and hassle-free booking policies, this guided walking tour is an excellent choice for exploring the captivating Sasso Barisano and Sasso Caveoso neighborhoods of Matera.
Cancellation Policy
With Passi nei Sassi’s flexible cancellation policy, travelers can cancel their booking up to 24 hours before the scheduled tour without incurring any penalties, providing them with the freedom to adjust their Matera itinerary as needed. This hassle-free approach ensures guests can plan their Matera adventure with confidence, knowing they can easily make changes if necessary.
The tour operator’s commitment to customer satisfaction is further demonstrated through:
- A lowest price guarantee, ensuring guests receive the best value for their money
- Friendly and knowledgeable local guides who bring the Sassi’s history to life
- Seamless coordination of entrance tickets to the rock churches and Casa Grotta
- A private tour experience, allowing guests to explore at their own pace
Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
The tour doesn’t mention bringing your own food and drinks, so you’re probably better off enjoying the local cuisine. It’s best to check with the tour operator first to see if that’s allowed.
Are Audio Guides or Headsets Provided During the Tour?
No, audio guides or headsets aren’t provided on this tour. Instead, you’ll get personalized attention from a knowledgeable guide who’ll share stories and insights about the historic sites you explore throughout the walking tour.
How Long Is the Walking Distance Covered During the Tour?
The walking distance covered during the tour is not explicitly stated, but it likely spans several kilometers as it takes visitors through the historic Sasso Barisano and Sasso Caveoso neighborhoods of Matera, allowing them to fully explore the ancient cave dwellings and rock churches.
Are There Any Recommended Places to Eat or Shop Near the Meeting Point?
The meeting point, Fontana Ferdinandea in Piazza Vittorio Veneto, is surrounded by charming cafes, bakeries, and shops selling local crafts and produce. Visitors can grab a quick bite or browse the shops before or after the tour.
Can I Request a Different Language for the Tour?
Yes, you can request a different language for the tour. The tour operator, Passi nei Sassi, offers the guided walking experience in multiple languages to accommodate visitors’ needs. Just let them know your preferred language when booking the tour.
Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby
- Underworld Hypogeum
- Panoramic Private Tour in Ape Calessino in the Sassi of Matera
- Food and Wine Tour Between the Patriarchs Olives and the Oil Temples
- Long Private Panoramic Tour With Ape Calessino in Matera
- Ape Calessino Tour Matera Long
- Complete Tour of the Two Sassi – Barisano and Caveoso
- Matera Balloon Flight for Small Groups
- Ape Tour Matera – Guided Tour in Ape Calessino
- Exclusive Private Hot Air Balloon Flight in Matera With Breakfast
- Grand Tour of the Stones in Electric Rickshaw
- Matera Cooking Class
- Secret Matera Sassi (Private Tour)
- Private Panoramic Tour With Piaggio Ape Calessino in Matera
- Ape Calessino Tour in the Sassi of Matera
- Private Transfer to Matera From Sorrento/Amalfi Coast
Recap
Uncover the captivating history and UNESCO-listed heritage of Matera’s iconic Sassi neighborhoods on this immersive guided walking tour.
Explore ancient rock churches, the renowned Casa Grotta, and more with knowledgeable local guides.
Suitable for moderately fit travelers, this personalized small-group experience is a must-do for anyone seeking to explore the unique architectural wonders of this Italian city.
