About this tour
Spend nine hours exploring Matera, the southern Italian city carved into limestone cliffs and honoured as European Capital of Culture. Your day winds through the Sassi—ancient cave neighbourhoods now restored into boutique hotels and trattorias—with guided stops at a furnished cave dwelling and two landmark churches. You'll taste local wines, enjoy a three-course lunch, and take in panoramic views across the ravine from the hilltop streets above.
Highlights
- Walk the Sassi labyrinth of restored cave dwellings and streets
- Tour period-furnished Casa Grotta museum cave
- Visit Chiesa di Santa Lucia and Santa Maria De Idris churches
- Three-course lunch at a family-run local restaurant
- Winery visit with tasting of regional wines
- Sweeping vistas across the gorge and landscape
What to expect
Your morning begins with hotel collection before heading to Matera's lower precincts. The walking tour takes you through narrow passages and staircases linking the Sassi's interconnected cave homes, many now galleries, shops, or guesthouses. At Casa Grotta, period furnishings and household objects sketch life before 1950s resettlement. The two churches offer architectural contrast and quiet moments amid the bustle. Lunch breaks the afternoon; afterwards, you visit a winery for tasting. The route includes uphill sections and uneven ground, though the pace suits most fitness levels.
Good to know
Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes for cobblestone and cave terrain. The local guide speaks multiple languages. Prams and specialist infant seats are available. Dress smart casual. A minimum two-person booking applies. Gratuities are separate.
Tour sold and operated by Viator via Viator. Descriptions on this page are original BugBitten summaries written by our team — not copied from the operator. Prices and availability are confirmed at checkout.