Ape Calessino Tour nei Sassi di Matera

Exploring Matera in a Whole New Way: The Ape Calessino Tour of the Sassi

A quick glance at the Ape Calessino Tour through Matera’s famous Sassi reveals a charming, personalized way to experience one of Italy’s most captivating cities. This 50-minute guided ride on a vintage tuk-tuk offers a fresh perspective on the city’s iconic rock-hewn neighborhoods, with highlights like the Cathedral of Matera, Sasso Cavoso, and panoramic views that are simply unforgettable.

What makes this tour truly stand out is the combination of scenic routes and expert guidance. You’ll feel like you’re exploring with a knowledgeable local who shares insights into the city’s history, culture, and architecture—all while enjoying easy, open-air transportation.

One consideration to keep in mind is that, at just under an hour, this tour is more of an introductory experience rather than an in-depth exploration. It’s perfect for those wanting a quick yet immersive overview of Matera’s highlights.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate authentic, small-group adventures and want to see the city without tiring themselves with long walks or multiple tours. It’s especially ideal if you’re short on time but still crave a memorable, visually stunning introduction to Matera.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Since this is a private tour, you get a tailored sightseeing experience with your group only.
• Expert Guidance: The tour is led by a knowledgeable local guide, enriching your visit with detailed stories and historical context.
• Scenic Views & Photo Opportunities: From panoramic stops at Matera Cathedral to the dramatic cliffs of Sasso Cavoso, you’ll capture stunning photos and learn about each site.
• Comfort & Convenience: The use of a vintage tuk-tuk makes navigating the narrow, ancient streets easy and fun, adding charm to your journey.
• Authentic Local Insights: Reviewers mention that guides like Francesco make the experience entertaining and informative, providing a genuine touch to the tour.
• Cost-Effective: At around $40.70 per person, it offers good value for a personalized, scenic overview of Matera’s highlights.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point & First Impressions

Your adventure begins at Martulli Viaggi’s office, where you’ll hop into an iconic Ape Calessino, a quintessential Italian tuk-tuk that immediately sets a fun, nostalgic tone. The tour’s planning seems well thought out, with most travelers booking about 48 days in advance, indicating strong interest and good availability.

The initial ride, just five minutes, whisks you through Matera’s vibrant streets, giving a lively sense of the city’s atmosphere even before you step out for sightseeing. This brief cruise also helps you settle into the experience, setting expectations for a relaxed yet informative journey.

Exploring the Historic Heart of Matera

Your first stops are Piazza San Francesco, dominated by a stunning Baroque church, and Piazza del Sedile, home to the Conservatorio di Musica Egidio Romualdo Duni. These piazzas are excellent for getting a feel for local life and architecture, and the guide will likely share stories about the city’s evolution over centuries.

Next, the panoramic stop at the Matera Cathedral offers sweeping views of the city’s rooftops and the surrounding landscape. While the cathedral’s entrance isn’t included in the ticket, the external views alone are worth the moment of pause. Travelers describe this as a highlight, with one noting it as giving a “first taste” of Matera’s charm.

The Sassi & Its Hidden Stories

Most of this tour focuses on the Sassi di Matera, the ancient cave districts carved directly into the Murgia rock. You’ll visit Sasso Barisano and Sasso Caveoso, two neighborhoods that have been inhabited since prehistoric times.

A particularly popular stop is Casa Grotta Narrante, where you’ll step into a recreated cave dwelling. This 10-minute visit, with an included ticket, offers a rare peek into the peasant lifestyle from centuries past. Visitors describe this as “an authentic look at Matera’s ancient cave-dwelling lifestyle,” and it’s often praised for its historical clarity and atmospheric setting.

From here, you’ll head to Piazza San Pietro Caveoso, with its dramatic cliffside location and the church dedicated to Saints Peter and Paul. This spot, perched on the Gravina gorge, offers one of the most iconic views of the city. Reviewers mention that the entire Sassi district feels like stepping into a different world, with one describing the area as “meraviglia e genio umano”—a marvel of human ingenuity.

Scenic Ride & Final Highlights

The tour concludes with a leisurely ride back through Via Bruno Buozzi and exiting the Sassi district, giving you a final chance to soak in the city’s ambiance. The entire experience lasts about 50 minutes, making it a perfect concise introduction rather than a full-day tour.

The Guides & Their Impact

What reviewers repeatedly mention is the knowledge and friendliness of the guides, especially Francesco and others from Martulli Viaggi. They bring the city’s stories alive, making history accessible and entertaining. One reviewer even appreciated having explanations in French, indicating the personalized approach of the tour.

Practicalities & Value

At just over $40 per person, this tour offers great value, particularly given the private nature of the experience. It’s ideal for those who want a private, comfortable, and engaging way to see Matera’s highlights without the fatigue of walking or large group tours.

The timing, around 50 minutes, is perfect for fitting into a busy schedule or as a gentle introduction before exploring on your own. Booking well in advance ensures you secure a spot, especially since many travelers plan their visit about a month or more ahead.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This Ape Calessino tour is especially suited for travelers who value personalized, small-group experiences. If you’re short on time but want a taste of Matera’s most photogenic spots and hear local stories from a guide, this is a perfect option.

It’s also great for those who dislike walking long distances or navigating narrow, steep streets on their own. The relaxed pace and open-air vehicle make it accessible and comfortable, even in warmer weather.

Finally, if you’re a history buff or travel enthusiast eager to see the city through the eyes of a knowledgeable local, this tour promises engaging commentary and stunning views that will stay with you long after the ride ends.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour takes approximately 50 minutes, making it a quick but immersive overview of Matera’s main sights.

What is included in the tour?
You’ll enjoy a private ride on a vintage Ape Calessino, guided commentary from a local expert, and access to certain stops like Casa Grotta Narrante with an included ticket.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the open-air tuk-tuk is comfortable. However, those with mobility issues should consider the standing and seating arrangements.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book about 48 days ahead, as most trips are planned well in advance by travelers eager to ensure availability.

What if the weather is bad?
Since the tour is outdoors, poor weather might lead to cancellation. You would be offered a different date or a full refund if canceled due to weather conditions.

Can I customize the experience?
This is a private tour, so your guide can tailor the commentary to your interests, focusing more on history, architecture, or local stories.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Via Alessandro Volta, 3/5, and ends back at the same meeting point after the scenic ride through the city.

Is the price per person or for the whole group?
The listed price is per person, making it easy to budget for your trip to Matera.

Are there any additional costs I should know about?
Some stops, like the Cathedral of Matera, do not include admission fees, but most sites like Casa Grotta Narrante do. Make sure to check if you want to visit specific places independently.

To sum it up, the Ape Calessino Tour of Matera’s Sassi is a delightful way to see the city’s highlights without tiring yourself out. Its personalized approach, expert guides, and scenic routes make it an ideal choice for those seeking a relaxed, authentic introduction to this UNESCO World Heritage site. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, it offers a memorable, photo-worthy glimpse into Matera’s ancient neighborhoods and vibrant culture.

This tour is best for travelers who appreciate intimacy, storytelling, and stunning panoramic views—all delivered with a touch of vintage Italian charm. It’s an experience that perfectly complements a broader exploration of Matera, offering just enough to whet your appetite for more adventures in this extraordinary city.