Ape Calessino Tour nei Sassi di Matera

Explore the charm of Matera with the Ape Calessino Tour nei Sassi di Matera, a private, 50-minute ride that immerses you in the city’s captivating sights. Priced at $40.70 per person, this guided excursion offers a personalized experience, with tours typically booked 48 days in advance, making it a convenient option for those who want an efficient overview of this UNESCO-listed city. The tour features a mobile ticket, allowing for easy access and flexibility. Though brief, this adventure provides a delightful glimpse into Matera’s historic districts, stunning views, and notable landmarks, making it perfect for visitors short on time but eager to see the highlights.

This tour is best suited for travelers seeking a comfortable, guided introduction to Matera without the fatigue of walking long distances. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate local storytelling, scenic rides, and personalized attention. Keep in mind that the tour involves a scenic tuk-tuk ride lasting just under an hour, and it starts from Via Alessandro Volta in Matera, ending back at the same point. The private nature of the tour means only your group participates, ensuring an intimate experience with your knowledgeable guide.

Key Points

• Private, guided tour exploring Matera’s Sassi districts and main sites
• 50-minute ride aboard a classic Ape Calessino tuk-tuk
• Visit Piazza San Francesco, Matera Cathedral, and Piazza del Sedile
• Experience panoramic views of Sasso Barisano and Sasso Caveoso
• Entry to Casa Grotta Narrante included for an authentic cave dwelling experience
• Tour cost of $40.70 per person, booked about 48 days in advance

Starting Point at Via Alessandro Volta in Matera

The adventure begins at Via Alessandro Volta, where the Ape Calessino awaits for a memorable ride through the city. The tour is private, meaning only your group joins, which enhances the personalized feel. The guide provides an informative and friendly narration throughout, making it easy to learn about Matera’s history and culture while enjoying the scenic journey.

The short duration of 50 minutes makes this an accessible option for those with limited time, yet it offers enough insight to spark curiosity for further exploration. The ride culminates back at the original meeting point, Piazzetta Pascoli, after a relaxing scenic drive along Via Bruno Buozzi.

Exploring Piazza San Francesco and Its Baroque Church

Your first stop is Piazza San Francesco, dominated by the Baroque Church of San Francesco d’Assisi. This square sets the tone for the city’s architectural grandeur and historic significance. The guide highlights the church’s artistic details and its role within Matera’s religious landscape.

From here, the tour continues to Piazza del Sedile, home to the Conservatorio di Musica Egidio Romualdo Duni, giving a sense of the city’s cultural vibrancy. These central spots allow for photo opportunities and quick insights into Matera’s urban fabric.

Visiting the Iconic Matera Cathedral

The Matera Cathedral, officially called the Cathedral of the Madonna della Bruna and Saint Eustace, offers a panoramic stop. Though admission is not included, the guide explains its architectural style and religious importance. From the vantage point near the cathedral, visitors enjoy stunning views of the surrounding city.

This site enriches the tour by connecting sacred architecture with the city’s visual landscape, giving a sense of Matera’s stature as Italy’s European Capital of Culture in 2019.

Panoramic Views from Convento Sant’Agostino

Next, the tour moves toward Sasso Barisano, an ancient rock-cut district. The Convento Sant’Agostino provides a breathtaking panoramic view of the Sassi. The guide points out the distinctive rock formations and historic structures that have been inhabited since prehistoric times.

This stop is perfect for taking photos and appreciating the scale of Matera’s unique architecture. Visitors can admire the rocky landscape and see how the buildings are carved directly into the rock.

Discovering the Sassi Districts and Cave Dwellings

The tour then explores Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano, two districts famed for their buildings and rock-cut architecture. Your guide explains how these districts have been inhabited since prehistoric times and showcase original cave dwellings.

A highlight is a visit to Casa Grotta Narrante, where authentic cave homes are preserved, offering a living testimony of Matera’s ancient peasant lifestyle. This 10-minute stop is included in the tour and provides a closer look at how people once lived in the rock-hewn homes, making history feel tangible.

Visiting the Church of San Pietro Caveoso

The journey concludes at Piazza San Pietro Caveoso, perched on the cliff of the Gravina, with spectacular views over the deep gorge. The Church of San Pietro Caveoso dominates the square, and the guide shares its story and architectural features.

This site offers a fitting finale, as the church’s position and surroundings encapsulate the dramatic beauty of Matera’s Sassi. The tour wraps up with a scenic ride back through Via Bruno Buozzi to the starting point.

The Scenic Tuk-Tuk Ride and Personalization

The Ape Calessino provides a charming and comfortable way to see Matera’s narrow streets and viewpoints. Its open-sided design ensures unobstructed views, and the private tour means your group receives customized attention.

The scenic drive enhances the overall experience, especially for those who prefer a relaxed pace and less walking. The guide’s knowledgeable narration and friendly demeanor are praised in reviews, making the ride both informative and enjoyable.

Logistics, Booking, and Practicalities

Starting at Via Alessandro Volta, the tour ends at the same location, making it convenient for participants. The 50-minute duration suits busy itineraries or as a warm-up before exploring on foot. Travelers should book about 48 days in advance, as this popular tour tends to fill quickly.

Participants should be prepared for scenic outdoor riding, and the tour is most accessible for most travelers, with no specific physical requirements mentioned. The free cancellation policy offers flexibility in case of bad weather, which could affect the scenic views.

Why Choose the Ape Calessino Tour in Matera?

This tour offers a personalized, intimate way to see Matera’s most iconic sites in a short amount of time. The combination of scenic rides and key stops makes it ideal for visitors who want a rundown without extensive walking.

The private nature, knowledgeable guides, and authentic Ape Calessino contribute to its appeal. It’s especially recommended for those interested in culture, history, and stunning vistas delivered in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Ape Calessino Tour nei Sassi di Matera?
The tour lasts approximately 50 minutes, making it a quick yet immersive experience.

What is the price per person?
The cost is $40.70, which includes the private guided ride and the visit to Casa Grotta Narrante.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Via Alessandro Volta and concludes back at the same meeting point, Piazzetta Pascoli.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
While specific physical requirements are not detailed, the scenic outdoor ride is generally accessible for most travelers.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are admission fees included?
Admission to sites like the Cathedral and Casa Grotta Narrante are included or not included as specified; Casa Grotta Narrante is included, but admission to the Cathedral is not.

What makes this tour different from other options?
The private Ape Calessino ride offers a personalized, scenic overview of Matera’s highlights, with informative narration and the chance to see key landmarks in just under an hour.

Is this tour suitable in bad weather?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor weather, a full refund or a rescheduled date is offered.

How far in advance should I book?
It is recommended to reserve about 48 days beforehand, as the tour is popular and tends to fill quickly.

Can I customize this tour or add extra stops?
As a private tour, customization may be possible by contacting Martulli Viaggi directly, but specific options are not detailed in the data.

This Ape Calessino Tour nei Sassi di Matera offers a delightful, efficient way to discover the essence of Matera in a short amount of time, combining scenic views, historic sites, and local storytelling in a comfortable setting.