Ape Calessino Tour Matera Lungo

If you’re visiting Matera, you’ve probably heard about its incredible history, stunning Sassi districts, and the way the city has transformed into a cultural jewel. The Ape Calessino Tour Lungo offers a playful, practical twist on sightseeing—riding through the cobbled streets in a classic Italian tuk-tuk. While it’s a short ride, it packs a punch, giving visitors a chance to see the highlights without tiring out on foot, especially under the summer sun or in hilly terrain.

What sets this tour apart is its personalized approach—with only your group participating, you get a more intimate and flexible experience. We love how guides like Antonio and Francesco bring the city’s stories to life with their enthusiasm and local knowledge. But, of course, a quick ride isn’t for everyone; those seeking a deeply detailed or extensive historical immersion might prefer a longer walking or guided tour. Still, if you’re looking for a fun, convenient way to get your bearings and snap some memorable photos, this could be just the ticket.

In this review, we’ll walk you through what to expect, the pros and cons, and why this tour could be a highlight of your Matera visit. Whether you’re traveling with family, mobility-challenged, or simply want a breezy introduction to the city, we aim to give you all the practical details you need.

Key Points

• Comfort and Convenience: Riding in a tuk-tuk makes exploring Matera’s steep streets easier, especially in hot or rainy weather.
• Authentic Insights: Guides like Antonio and Francesco are praised for their local knowledge, making the tour both fun and informative.
• Time-Efficient: Perfect for those on a tight schedule or who prefer a quick overview without extensive walking.
• Personalized Experience: Only your group participates, providing a more tailored and relaxed atmosphere.
• Photo Opportunities: Stops at scenic spots like the Casa Grotte and Sassi districts allow for memorable photos and cultural insights.
• Weather Considerations: The tour can be rescheduled in case of bad weather, adding flexibility for travelers.

A Fun and Insightful Introduction to Matera

The Ape Calessino Tour Lungo offers a breezy, cheerful way to get acquainted with Matera’s famed Sassi districts and ancient streets. For many visitors, the appeal lies in combining entertainment and education—riding through narrow alleys as guides share snippets of history, culture, and local stories that bring the city alive.

Since the tour is designed to last around 1 hour to 1 hour 5 minutes, it’s a great option if you’re short on time or want an engaging introduction before exploring on your own. The small-group setting means your experience won’t be rushed, and guides are available to answer questions or point out hidden gems.

One aspect that garners consistent praise is the knowledge of the guides. Reviews frequently mention guides like Antonio and Francesco, who are described as personable, passionate, and in-depth with their storytelling. Francesco, in particular, is noted for providing detailed insights about Matera’s history, which adds a layer of richness to what could otherwise be a superficial ride.

However, it’s worth noting that some visitors have experienced language barriers—one review mentioned that their guide spoke no English and relied on pre-recorded audio, which could detract from the experience if you’re expecting a fluent guide. That said, most reviews highlight guides capable of providing lively, informative commentary in English or other languages, making this tour suitable for many travelers.

Detailed Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point: Piazza San Francesco
The tour kicks off at this central square, a practical meeting spot close to public transportation and easily accessible. From here, your guide will load you into the charming Ape Calessino vehicle, which resembles a vintage scooter with a sidecar—a whimsical and Instagram-worthy way to explore.

First Stop: Casa Grotte di Matera
Immediately after boarding, the tour heads to the iconic Casa Grotte, also known as the House Museum. This stop, lasting about 5 minutes, provides a glimpse into the traditional dwellings carved into the rock—these Case Grotte are part of the UNESCO World Heritage designation and offer a tangible sense of how ancient inhabitants lived. Visitors often find this visit eye-opening, with the admission fee included in the tour.

Exploring the Sassi Districts
The majority of the ride involves meandering through the labyrinth of streets and alleys in the Sassi, Matera’s famous cave dwellings. Guides stop along the way for photos, giving you a chance to marvel at the panoramic views and capture memories. Many reviewers note that the tour helps newcomers orient themselves, making it easier later to explore on foot.

Visiting Churches and Squares
Several stops include visits to local churches and squares, which are small but packed with atmosphere. Guides often provide stories about the significance of each site, enriching your understanding of Matera’s spiritual and cultural fabric.

End of Tour
The ride concludes back at the starting point, leaving you with a compact but memorable overview of the city’s most picturesque sights.

Transport and Practicalities

The Ape Calessino is a small, vintage-style vehicle that comfortably seats a small group—making it ideal for family trips or intimate groups. The tour’s duration is just over an hour, making it a flexible option that won’t eat up your entire day.

Price-wise, at around $51.59 per person, the tour offers good value, especially considering the included admission to the Casa Grotte and the personalized service. Booking in advance—about a month ahead on average—ensures you secure a spot, particularly during busy seasons.

Accessibility is a notable plus: many reviews mention that the tuk-tuk is appreciated by families with children and those using wheelchairs, as it avoids the tiring uphill walks in hot weather. The tour is also private, meaning only your group participates, allowing for tailored stops and commentary.

Authenticity and Local Insights

One standout feature of this tour is the depth of local knowledge. Guides like Antonio and Francesco are from Matera and have family roots in the Sassi districts, which clearly adds passion and authenticity to their storytelling. Visitors frequently note how their personal anecdotes and enthusiasm make the experience more meaningful.

For example, one reviewer remarked that Antonio’s family hails from the Sassi, which allowed him to share intimate stories that aren’t found in guidebooks. Others appreciated that Francesco took the time to explain the city’s history in English, making it accessible for international visitors.

While some guests have experienced language limitations—such as audio guides in different languages or guides who couldn’t answer questions in English—the overall sentiment highlights the value of engaging, knowledgeable guides.

Pros and Cons of the Ape Calessino Tour Lungo

Pros
– Comfortable and fun transportation in a vintage-style tuk-tuk, especially helpful in Matera’s hilly terrain.
– Short duration makes it easy to fit into a busy travel schedule or combine with other activities.
– In-depth local guides who can share personal stories and detailed insights.
– Photo stops and visits to significant sites like Casa Grotte enrich the experience.
– Private tour option enhances intimacy and flexibility—great for families or small groups.
– Weather resilience: tour can be rescheduled if rain threatens, maintaining flexibility.

Cons
– The limited duration means it’s a quick overview, not a comprehensive deep dive into Matera’s history.
– Some guides may rely on pre-recorded audio, which can reduce interaction if language barriers exist.
– The tour is primarily a sightseeing ride; if you’re after extensive walking or detailed exploration, this might feel superficial.
– Price might seem high for just over an hour, but considering included admissions and personalized service, it offers good value.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits travelers looking for a lightweight yet charming introduction to Matera. It’s ideal for families with children, those with mobility issues, or visitors who prefer a relaxed, humorous way to see the city without the fatigue of endless walking. If you’re short on time but want to get a taste of Matera’s beauty, the Ape Calessino offers a perfect balance of fun and function.

It’s also well-suited if you appreciate local stories and personal touches from guides who are passionate about their city. Lovers of photography will appreciate the scenic stops and vantage points along the route.

However, if your priority is a detailed historical or architectural tour, this short ride might serve better as a warm-up rather than a deep dive. For a more comprehensive experience, consider pairing this with a longer guided tour or exploring on foot afterward.

Final Thoughts

The Ape Calessino Tour Lungo in Matera delivers a lighthearted, practical, and personable way to see Italy’s unique city. With knowledgeable guides, scenic stops, and a flexible, private setting, it offers excellent value for travelers looking to get their bearings or enjoy a fun ride through history.

While it’s not designed for those seeking exhaustive historical insights, it’s perfect for families, first-timers, or anyone wanting a memorable, photo-friendly overview. The combination of comfort, charm, and local storytelling makes it a worthwhile addition to your Matera itinerary.

In a city famous for its rock-hewn dwellings and cinematic appeal, this tour offers a playful yet meaningful way to start your adventure. You’ll love the views, the stories, and the joy of riding in a piece of Italian charm—without breaking a sweat.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
Yes, many reviews mention that the tuk-tuk is appreciated by families with young children and those in wheelchairs, as it reduces the need for tiring walks on steep, uneven streets.

How long does the tour last?
The tour typically lasts around 1 hour to 1 hour 5 minutes, providing a quick but rundown of Matera’s main sights.

Can I book this tour last minute?
It’s recommended to book about 31 days in advance on average to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons.

What’s included in the price?
The price (~$51.59 per person) includes the ride in the Ape Calessino, a guided commentary, and an admission ticket to Casa Grotte. It’s a private tour, so only your group participates.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour can be rescheduled if bad weather is forecasted or if the conditions aren’t suitable. If canceled due to weather, a full refund or alternative date will be offered.

Is the guide fluent in English?
Most reviews praise guides for their English explanations, but some guests have experienced pre-recorded audio guides or language barriers. It’s best to confirm your preferred language when booking.

This Ape Calessino Tour Lungo in Matera proves that exploring a city can be both charming and efficient. With its authentic touches, friendly guides, and scenic stops, it’s a delightful way to start your journey into one of Italy’s most extraordinary towns.