SASSI DI MATERA: Guided Tour by Ape Calessino

Discovering Matera’s Sassi by Ape Calessino: A Unique Journey into History and Scenery

If you’re visiting Italy and craving an authentic yet fun way to explore one of the country’s most captivating historic sites, the guided tour of the Sassi di Matera on an Ape Calessino might just be your perfect fit. This vintage three-wheeled vehicle whisks you through the narrow, winding streets of Matera’s famous cave dwellings, with a knowledgeable guide narrating stories and pointing out sites along the way. Priced at around $113.29 per person for a 1.5-hour experience, it offers a charming combination of sightseeing, cultural insights, and a sense of adventure.

What I love about this tour is how it combines comfort and intimacy. The Ape Calessino’s open-air design allows you to feel the atmosphere of the ancient city while being comfortably seated. Plus, the presence of a licensed local guide—such as the enthusiastic and informative Marco—really elevates the experience. They bring the history and traditions of Matera to life, all while you relax in a vintage setting. Another highlight is passing through the picturesque rock complex Madonna de Idris and San Giovanni Monterrone, where the frescoed cave churches date from the 12th to the 17th century, offering a glimpse into centuries of faith and art.

On the flip side, the tour’s brevity—just 1.5 hours—means you won’t see everything. If you’re eager to explore every nook and cranny of Matera’s Sassi, this might feel like just a taste. Also, since it’s a private group, the experience is more personalized but less suited for travelers wanting a larger, social atmosphere. If you’re prone to motion sickness, keep in mind that the open-air buggy’s bumpy ride through narrow alleys can be a bit jolty. Still, for a first-time visitor or someone short on time, this tour hits a sweet spot between convenience and depth.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Unique Vintage Experience: Riding in an Ape Calessino adds a nostalgic, fun element to exploring Matera’s historic streets.
• Expert Local Guide: The licensed guide provides rich insights into the sites, enriching your understanding beyond just sightseeing.
• Focus on Iconic Sites: The tour covers essential highlights like cave churches, traditional cave houses, and scenic viewpoints.
• Authentic Cultural Touch: Visiting a cave house furnished with period tools and furniture offers a rare glimpse into the peasant lifestyle.
• Convenient and Comfortable: The vehicle easily navigates narrow streets where larger tour buses can’t go, making for an intimate tour.
• Value for Money: For just over $100, you get entrance tickets, a map, and a guided journey through Matera’s most photogenic areas.

Exploring Matera’s Sassi in Style: A Detailed Review

The Charm of the Ape Calessino Tour

Imagine gliding through a labyrinth of stone alleyways in a charming, vintage three-wheeled vehicle. That’s precisely what you get on the guided Sassi di Matera tour by Ape Calessino. This experience is designed for travelers who want a relaxed, charming introduction to Matera’s most iconic quarters without the fatigue of walking long distances or the hassle of large bus groups.

The tour’s starting point is at Info Matera, a convenient location that’s easy to find, and the driver/guide—like the friendly Luigi—will greet you with a smile. The open-air nature of the Calessino means you’re exposed to the sights, sounds, and even the breeze of the city’s narrow streets, which adds to the sense of adventure. The vehicle’s small size makes it perfect for threading through Matera’s tight, winding streets, allowing access to spots that larger buses simply can’t reach.

The Itinerary: An Authentic Glimpse into Matera’s Past

The tour begins with a quick briefing and then moves through a series of stops that cover the most visually stunning and culturally significant sites. The first highlight is the frescoes of the cave churches, especially in the Church of Saint Mary of Idris and San Giovanni Monterrone. These frescoes, dating from the 12th to 17th centuries, showcase religious art tucked away in rock-cut sanctuaries, revealing a spiritual dimension that’s both humbling and inspiring.

Next, you’ll visit a cave house that’s been furnished with traditional tools and period furniture. This gives you a tangible sense of the peasant civilization that once inhabited these dwellings, and it’s a rare chance to see how people lived centuries ago. One reviewer noted: “Seeing the cave house with its furnishings really helped me understand the daily life of Matera’s ancestors.”

The scenic views are another high point, especially at San Pietro Caveoso Square where the panoramic vistas of the Sassi are breathtaking. The guide will point out the rock complex Madonna de Idris, famed for its dramatic cliffs and ancient frescoes, and explain the significance of each site.

In-Depth Look at Each Stop

Frescoes of Cave Churches: The cave churches are a highlight, with their well-preserved paintings that span hundreds of years. The guide will share stories of their religious significance and the historical context—something you can’t grasp just by looking at photos. Visitors have appreciated how the guide’s explanations make these artworks come alive, making the experience more meaningful.

Cave House Visit: Walking through a reconstructed cave dwelling furnished with period tools offers a sensory experience. You’ll see the tiny spaces that housed families and learn about their daily routines. One review mentioned that this stop “felt like stepping back in time,” adding a layer of authenticity to the tour.

Scenic Views and Photo Stops: Matera’s stunning landscapes are everywhere, and the driver is skilled at finding vantage points. The San Pietro Caveoso Square provides the perfect backdrop for photos, with the city’s ancient stone architecture and sweeping views of the surrounding landscape.

Archaeological Zone: Passing through the archaeological zone, you’ll recognize the cinematic quality of the setting—this was the filming location for Mel Gibson’s The Passion of the Christ. The guide may share behind-the-scenes stories, adding extra flavor to your visit.

The Practicalities: What You Need to Know

Duration and Pacing: The tour lasts around 1.5 hours, making it an excellent choice if you’re short on time or want a gentle introduction to Matera. It’s paced well, with enough stops to appreciate each site without feeling rushed.

Price and Value: At just over $113 per person, the cost includes entrance tickets to the caves and cave house, a map of the Sassi, and a private group experience. Considering the personalized touch and access to sites that aren’t always open to the public, the price offers good value—especially if you value comfort and insider knowledge.

Group Size: This is a private experience, meaning it’s tailored to your group. It’s perfect for couples, families, or small groups seeking a more intimate exploration.

Accessibility and Comfort: The open-air vehicle navigates narrow streets comfortably, but be prepared for some uneven surfaces—wear comfortable shoes. The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, as the ride can be bumpy.

Availability and Flexibility: You should check availability for your preferred time, and the activity allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. You can also reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility for spontaneous or uncertain travel plans.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour appeals most to travelers who enjoy a relaxed, stylish way to see the highlights without exhausting themselves. If you appreciate vintage aesthetics, personal interaction with a knowledgeable guide, and scenic photo opportunities, this experience will resonate. It’s particularly suited for those who want a more intimate view of Matera’s cave dwellings, frescoed churches, and panoramic vistas.

It’s less ideal for those seeking a comprehensive, hours-long exploration, or travelers with mobility issues due to the bumpy ride and narrow streets. The experience also doesn’t include a detailed historical lecture—so if detailed archaeology is your thing, you might want a longer, more in-depth tour.

The Sum Up

The guided tour of the Sassi di Matera on an Ape Calessino offers a memorable blend of comfort, charm, and authentic insight. The vintage buggy ride makes exploring the narrow, historic streets both fun and manageable, especially if walking long distances isn’t appealing. The knowledgeable guide brings the city to life through stories and context, making the frescoes, cave houses, and panoramic views much more meaningful.

Priced reasonably for what it includes—entrance tickets, private guide, and a scenic ride—it’s an experience that balances value with a unique perspective. It’s perfect for travelers who want a taste of Matera’s magic without the fatigue. The stunning vistas and intimate stops guarantee you’ll leave with a richer sense of what makes this city truly special.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or short on time, this tour provides a delightful, stylish introduction to one of Italy’s most visually striking towns. Just remember to bring your camera, wear comfortable shoes, and prepare to be charmed by Matera’s timeless beauty.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 1.5 hours, which is enough to see key sites without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour start?
It begins directly at the Info Matera agency, a convenient central location in the city.

Is the experience private?
Yes, it’s a private group, ideal for couples, families, or small groups seeking personalized attention.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers the Ape Calessino ride, a local licensed guide, entrance to the cave complex, entrance to the cave house, and a city map.

Are there any physical restrictions?
The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women due to the bumpy ride and narrow streets.

Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there an option to pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, giving you flexibility in planning.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and a camera are recommended to make the most of the experience.

Will I get good photos?
Absolutely. The scenic stops and panoramic views provide excellent photo opportunities, especially at San Pietro Caveoso Square.

Enjoy discovering Matera’s Sassi in a way that’s fun, stylish, and full of stories—an experience that beautifully captures the city’s timeless allure.