Top Matera Archaeology Tours

We will discover together what was once defined as the "national shame". Today, Matera, with its Sassi and the Park of rock churches, has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1993. Millennia of history and almost uninterrupted human presence have made Matera today a city that has so much to show; we will try to tell it and get to know it.

Discover the magic of the Sassi of Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with a guided tuk tuk tour, a comfortable, original and suggestive way to explore one of the oldest cities in the world. Accompanied by an expert Guide, you will cross the famous Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano, admiring rock churches, ancient houses carved into the rock and breathtaking views of Gravina. The tuk tuk allows you to reach even the most characteristic and panoramic points, making the experience pleasant and accessible to everyone. Along the way, the Guide will tell you about the history, curiosities and traditions of Matera, from its prehistoric origins to the cultural revival that made it the European Capital of Culture. Photographic stops are planned at the most iconic points to capture unique views. An ideal experience for those who want to get to know Matera in a relaxed, authentic and fun way, without sacrificing the charm and depth of the historical story.

On this in-depth guided tour of Parco della Murgia, explore the UNESCO-listed Rupestrian churches that Matera is famous for. With a guide, walk along scenic footpaths to visit two must-see churches: the fresco-filled San Falcion and 17th-century Madonna delle Tre Porte. Admission fees to the park and a discount coupon for lunch are also included.

Matera is home to the Sassi cave churches and dwellings that make up one of the oldest cities in the world. Join your guide for an in-depth tour of the Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano districts to learn about their unique history and evolution. Discover rupestrian structures, stroll the steep and narrow lanes, and gain a deeper understanding of how this town, once called the “Shame of Italy”, is now a UNESCO-listed treasure.

The UNESCO-listed Sassi di Matera is both captivating and mysterious. With this guided tour, take a deep dive into the history of this unique rupestrian city, named a 2019 European Capital of Culture. Explore its hidden dwellings and churches carved directly into the cliff, the setting for a number of films, including Ben Hur.

Discover the timeless charm of Matera and Alberobello on a private full-day tour from Polignano a Mare. Explore Matera’s ancient cave dwellings and rock churches, then wander through Alberobello’s iconic trulli houses. Immerse yourself in history, culture, and unforgettable landscapes—book your private experience today!

Private panoramic tour of the historic districts of the city, aboard the historic Ape Calessino Piaggio. You will not share the tour with other guests.

Discover the historical "Sassi" neighbourhoods with a high profile guide. Our guides are all very fluent in English. Starting from the upper part of the city centre, you will get to know the most alive part of the town, where the locals live. Moving towards the Sassi area, you will have the chance to better understand how this complex city developed over the centuries. Passing first by the Sasso Barisano which we will admire from a panoramic terrace, the tour keeps going on through the internal alleys of the Sasso Caveoso with several stops to dig into the depths of Matera’s historical, architectural and cultural background. Our choice on what to include in the tour has been made, taking into careful consideration which sites are most worthy of the presence of a guide. We decided to include a rock-hewn church: Santa Lucia alle Malve. At the end of the tour the guide will share with you infos on which other places it’s worth of visiting on your own.

This is part of one of the world’s largest digital travel guide platforms, used by millions. Travelers can create custom itineraries or let AI build them instantly, based on location, time, and interests. Explore Matera’s lesser-known soul: winding Sassi cave dwellings, hidden Rupestrian churches, secret stone courtyards, symbols carved in ancient rock, and food traditions passed down for generations. Ideal for curious minds and independent travelers.

Discover the old mountainside city of Matera on a 2-hour private walking tour. Visit the city’s key landmarks like Palazzo Lanfranchi, the church of San Pietro Caveoso, the Sasso Caveoso, and visit a typical cave house from the region. Learn about the history of this centuries-old city from your informative guide and even walk the streets where Mel Gibson filmed scenes from ‘The Passion of the Christ.’

Discover the unique and inspiring stones of Matera on this tour. The UNESCO World Heritage city is tucked into a mountainside ravine and the rocky landscape of the oldest city in Europe. Led by a local guide, you'll explore the Sassi caves/rock formations, that make for magical photos of the city when lit at night. Your guide will show you the Sasso Barisano, a 13th century church and hidden parts of the Old Town.

Enjoy a private, exclusive tour with your own local guide. Join us for a three-hour walking tour to explore the enchanting city of Matera. Visit Casa Cava, a unique space where history and modernity blend, and marvel at the beautiful frescoes of Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista. Take in the stunning views of Piazza Vittorio Veneto and delve into the fascinating history of Chiesa del Purgatorio. Discover the fascinating Casa Grotta nei Sassi di Matera, and explore the charming Chiesa di Santa Lucia alle Malve. Finally, immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of the Sassi di Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in the world.

Dive into an enchanting 2-hour journey to experience the awe-inspiring Matera Sassi. Immerse yourself in the heart of Sasso Caveoso, guided by a local expert. Marvel at the baroque beauty of San Pietro Caveoso, nestled within this UNESCO World Heritage site. Discover the captivating history, remarkable architecture, and fascinating stories that make Matera a true gem, in just a few hours. Don't miss out on this unforgettable adventure.

Explore the Gravina Bridge and Orsini Dukes on a guided tour from Matera. Discover the rock church "Madonna della Sella," ancient caves, and the hidden soul of the Gravina, where James Bond was filmed.

Experience the magic of Matera with this exclusive package! Enjoy a one-night stay for two in a charming B&B nestled in the heart of the UNESCO-listed Sassi district. Treat yourself to a delicious lunch or dinner featuring traditional local dishes, giving you a true taste of Lucanian cuisine. Then, embark on a 2-hour group walking tour through the iconic Sassi neighborhoods, Caveoso and Barisano. Explore a historic rock-hewn church and step inside a typical cave house to discover what life was like in this fascinating ancient city. This is the perfect chance to immerse yourself in the history, culture, and unique atmosphere of Matera.

Travel from Matera in a comfortable private vehicle and begin your experience with a visit to the ancient temple included in the itinerary. Then continue to a spacious vineyard overlooking the surrounding countryside and enjoy the striking views of the ghost village of Craco at sunset. Receive a traditional picnic basket filled with an abundant selection of local specialties, such as cheeses, cured meats, bread, focaccia, and seasonal products, carefully paired with a bottle of local wine. Choose your preferred table freely among the vines and enjoy a genuine, unhurried picnic surrounded by peaceful landscapes and panoramic views. - Visit the ancient Greek temple, Palatine Tables, along the route to Montalbano - Enjoy a sunset picnic with local delicacies and local wine tasting in a vineyard - Travel in a private sedan or minivan with a professional driver - Perfect for those looking for a blend of culture, history, and gastronomy