Long Private Panoramic Tour with Ape Calessino in Matera

Explore Matera in Style with a Private Ape Calessino Tour

This long private panoramic tour in Matera offers an intimate and scenic way to see the city’s highlights. Priced at $53.88 per person, the tour lasts roughly 1 hour and 10 minutes to 1 hour and 15 minutes, making it a compact yet thorough introduction to the city. The experience is completely private, meaning only your group participates, and it departs from Via del Corso, 76.

What truly sets this tour apart is the vintage Ape Calessino Piaggio, which adds a sense of charm and nostalgia to every ride. The tour is designed for those who want to see Matera comfortably without the need for extensive walking, thanks to the zip through narrow streets in this unique vehicle. The experience includes pickup and a mobile ticket, making everything straightforward and easy to book.

While the tour’s stops are brief, they cover some of the most emblematic parts of Matera, with plenty of photographic opportunities and captivating stories from guides who know the city inside out. This tour is perfect for travelers seeking a personalized, informative, and visually engaging way to explore Matera’s iconic districts.

Key Points

• Private tour ensures an exclusive experience with only your group.
• The Ape Calessino Piaggio adds a nostalgic, photogenic element.
• Duration of just 75 minutes makes it ideal for a quick overview.
• Includes stops at key sites: Sasso Barisano, Sant’Agostino, Piazza San Pietro Caveoso, Casa Grotta, and Sassi in Miniatura.
• Guides are knowledgeable and friendly, providing detailed insights.
• The tour starts at 8:00 AM and runs daily until 7:00 PM, with flexible scheduling.

Experience Scenic Views from Sasso Barisano

The tour begins with a visit inside Sasso Barisano, a historic district renowned for its ancient stone buildings and narrow alleyways. The guide takes guests to several panoramic points where the city’s unique architecture and landscape unfold before the eyes. This stop lasts around 15 minutes and is free of admission costs.

This area is perfect for photos and understanding how the old town is built into the hillside. The targeted stops allow for capturing the essence of Matera’s charm, with the guide explaining the history and significance of each viewpoint.

Visiting the Crypt at Sant’Agostino Church

Next, a short stop at the Chiesa di Sant’Agostino provides a chance to explore one of the city’s rock churches. Although admission tickets are not included, guests can admire the suggestive church and its crypt, which offer a glimpse into the religious architecture carved into the rock. The 10-minute visit allows for quick but meaningful sightseeing.

This stop adds a layer of cultural depth to the tour, highlighting Matera’s religious heritage and the rock-cut church traditions that are so characteristic of the area.

Piazza San Pietro Caveoso and Its Historic Church

A visit to Piazza San Pietro Caveoso follows, one of Matera’s most picturesque squares. The church of Saints Peter and Paul stands prominently here, and the 10-minute stop allows for soaking in the lively atmosphere and snapping photos of this charming square.

Guests learn about the square’s history and its role in local life, making it a meaningful and scenic part of the tour.

Stepping Back in Time at Casa Grotta Sassi di Matera

A highlight of this tour is a 7-minute visit to Casa Grotta “C’era Una Volta”, which offers a hands-on glimpse into traditional life in Matera. The site vividly recreates how inhabitants lived in the ancient caves, with furnishings and artifacts that tell stories of the past.

This stop is included in the ticket price, allowing for an immersive experience without extra cost. It’s a perfect place to understand the daily life of early Matera residents and gain context for the city’s unique architecture.

Admiring the Miniature Sassi di Matera

The tour also features a 5-minute visit inside Sassi in Miniatura, an ex snowfield turned artistic display. Here, you can see a miniature reproduction of the Sassi districts, showcasing intricate detail and craftsmanship.

This site offers a fun and visual summary of the city’s layout, making it an engaging stop for all ages and an excellent photo opportunity.

A Short Stop in a Historic Square

The tour concludes with a brief stop in a significant square within Matera, allowing time for personal exploration or photos. This provides a final scenic moment that encapsulates the historic ambiance of the city.

Logistics and Convenience

Starting at Via del Corso, the pick-up service makes the experience seamless, especially for those staying nearby. The tour ends back at the meeting point, completing a compact sightseeing loop. It operates every day from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, giving flexibility to fit almost any schedule.

The mobile ticket and confirmation upon booking make planning straightforward, while the private nature of the tour ensures an exclusive and personalized experience.

The Appeal of the Ape Calessino Experience

The Ape Calessino Piaggio is what makes this tour memorable. Its nostalgic design and ability to navigate narrow, crowded streets set it apart from traditional sightseeing options. This vehicle allows for a fun, leisurely ride that is both practical and charming, especially with guides who are passionate and informative.

From the reviews, it’s clear that guides like Antonio and Francesco are highly praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to share stories in engaging ways. The comfortable pace and willingness to stop for photos make this tour stand out as an enjoyable way to see Matera without tiring oneself out.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private panoramic tour is especially suited for those who prefer a personalized experience and want to maximize their sightseeing in a short time. It’s ideal for visitors with limited mobility, thanks to the zip in narrow streets and short stops. Travelers seeking a fun, scenic introduction to Matera will appreciate the charm of the Ape Calessino and the expert guidance.

Final Thoughts on the Matera Ape Calessino Tour

The Long Private Panoramic Tour with Ape Calessino offers a well-rounded, charming way to explore Matera’s key sights. Its affordable price point, combined with personalized service and the unique vehicle experience, makes it an attractive option for many visitors.

While the stops are brief, they cover the most iconic locations, and the knowledgeable guides turn each stop into a story. This tour suits those looking for a light, scenic overview of Matera with plenty of photo opportunities and local insights.

This tour is a delightful introduction to the city, especially for first-time visitors eager to see Matera’s beauty from the comfort of a vintage Ape Calessino.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 75 minutes, providing a quick yet rundown of Matera’s highlights.

Is the tour private?
Yes, this is a completely private experience, with only your group participating.

What stops are included?
Stops include Sasso Barisano, Sant’Agostino Church, Piazza San Pietro Caveoso, Casa Grotta, and Sassi in Miniatura, plus a short scenic stop in a historic square.

Are there any extra costs?
Admission to Sant’Agostino Church is not included. Other stops, like Casa Grotta and Sassi in Miniatura, are included in the ticket price.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, with full refunds available if canceled earlier.

Who operates this tour?
The experience is provided by Apeppecar, known for their personalized and friendly service.

For more details or to book, visit the tour’s page at Viator.