Panoramic Private Tour in Ape Calessino in the Sassi of Matera

Taking a ride through Matera’s famous Sassi in an Ape Calessino isn’t just transportation—it’s an experience that captures the city’s charm in a playful, stylish way. This private tour, rated a perfect 5.0 with 28 reviews, offers an intimate, laid-back way to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it ideal for travelers wanting to combine comfort, fun, and authentic sights. Priced at around $37.83 per person, it’s accessible for many budgets and often booked well in advance, which speaks to its popularity.

What we really love about this experience is how it balances stunning panoramic views with local storytelling. The vintage Ape Calessino, with its iconic design, turns a sightseeing journey into a photo-worthy adventure, especially as you wind through Matera’s narrow alleys. However, some may find that this tour doesn’t include a professional guide, so it’s best suited for those who enjoy exploring with a bit of independence or prefer self-guided narratives. This tour is perfect for those who want a fun, relaxed introduction to Matera’s most photogenic spots without the formality of a large group.

Key Points

• Unique transportation: Vintage Ape Calessino makes sightseeing playful and photogenic.
• Stunning views: Multiple panoramic stops showcase Matera’s iconic landscape.
• Informative stops: Learn about key sites with insightful commentary from the driver.
• Ideal duration: Around 45 minutes, perfect for a quick but memorable overview.
• No guide included: Great for self-guided discovery or small group flexibility.
• Advance booking recommended: On average, booked 35 days ahead, showing high demand.

An Authentic, Stylish Way to Explore Matera’s Sassi

If you’re after a memorable way to see Matera, this private Ape Calessino tour ticks all the boxes. The entire experience is designed to give you a luxurious yet laid-back vibe, letting you sit back, relax, and enjoy the sights while someone else handles the steering. The small, private nature of the tour ensures an intimate experience—perfect for couples, small groups, or families eager for a personal touch.

The tour lasts about 45 minutes, which means it’s an ideal way to incorporate a highlight into your day without commitment. The mobile ticket format offers the convenience of booking ahead and just showing up for your adventure, making it easy to fit into your travel plans.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour kicks off at Piazza Vittorio Veneto, where your driver awaits to introduce you to the city in style. From there, the real fun begins as you wind through Matera’s most scenic alleys and squares.

Stop 1: Piazza Vittorio Veneto

Here, you’ll meet your driver and start your journey through the historic center. This square acts as a natural starting point, giving you a glimpse of the city’s vibrant life and dramatic setting.

Stop 2: Panoramic View of Matera’s Main Catholic Site

The first stop offers a sweeping view of Matera’s central religious landmark. The panoramic point provides excellent photo opportunities of the city’s layered architecture and rugged landscape. Expect to hear interesting facts about the significance of the church and its role in the city’s spiritual life.

Stop 3: Sant’Agostino Complex

Next, you’ll pause at another viewpoint overlooking the Sant’Agostino complex, which dates back to the late 16th century. The convent and church are standout features, and from this vantage point, you’ll get a sense of the historical depth of Matera. The reviewers praised their guide’s ability to explain the complex’s history, making this not just a photo stop but an informative session.

Stop 4: Piazza San Pietro Caveoso

This square is a favorite for visitors, named after the church built on its eastern edge. The panoramic view here captures the unique layout of Matera’s Sassi, with its houses carved into the cliffs and the church’s silhouette against the sky. Reviewers appreciated how this stop allowed them to take in the city’s authentic character with ease.

Stop 5: UNESCO Heritage Landscape

The tour’s final stop takes in the cultural landscape that earned Matera UNESCO recognition. From this vantage, you’ll understand why these ancient caves and stone dwellings are considered so globally significant. It’s a moment to reflect on the city’s resilience and beauty.

Stop 6: Piazzetta Pascoli

Named after the poet Giovanni Pascoli, who started his teaching career here, this small square offers a charming glimpse into Matera’s cultural history. It’s a quieter spot where you can soak in the atmosphere before concluding your ride.

What Travelers Are Saying

The reviews highlight a few recurring themes that add color to what you can expect. Many praise the knowledgeable guides—notably, the driver, Pino, who is described as friendly, attentive, and full of interesting stories. One reviewer mentioned how Pino “transmitted love for Matera,” which certainly comes through in the experience. Reviewers also appreciated the stunning views and the opportunity for great photos, with one noting the “amazing view” and another saying they would happily do the tour again.

Several guests remarked on how the tour made exploring Matera fun and comfortable—a welcome alternative to walking or larger bus tours. The compact duration means you get a good overview without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. It’s an especially excellent choice for those with limited time or who prefer a more relaxed approach.

Practical Details and Value

The price point of approximately $37.83 per person strikes us as very reasonable, considering the private nature of the tour and the fun factor of riding in an authentic vintage vehicle. Since the tour is private, your experience is tailored, and you won’t be jostling with strangers, making for a more personalized experience.

The 45-minute duration is tight but actually ideal for a quick overview. It’s long enough to appreciate the views and hear some stories, but short enough to fit easily into a day packed with other activities. The mobility of the ticket adds to convenience, especially if you plan to explore other parts of Matera afterward.

While the tour does not include a professional guide, the driver’s commentary offers enough insight for most travelers. For those seeking a deeper historical narrative, it might be worth supplementing with a guided tour or audio guide later.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who enjoy quintessential photo moments and are looking for a stylish, fun way to see Matera. It’s perfect for couples celebrating, small groups of friends, or solo travelers eager for a memorable snapshot of their trip. If you prefer guided walking tours with detailed history, this might feel a little light, but if you want a laid-back, visually stunning overview, it’s a winner.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private Ape Calessino tour offers a light, enjoyable way to see the highlights of Matera’s Sassi. The stunning panoramic views, combined with friendly, knowledgeable drivers, turn sightseeing into an experience that feels both luxurious and personal. The affordable price makes it accessible for many travelers, and the short duration makes it a perfect addition to a day of exploring.

It’s especially well-suited for those who want to capture beautiful photos and enjoy a relaxed ride through one of Italy’s most unique landscapes. If you value authentic, offbeat experiences and don’t mind a tour without a guide, this adventure will leave you with plenty of great memories—and Instagram-worthy shots.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the experience is generally suitable for all ages who enjoy scenic rides and sightseeing.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 45 minutes, making it a quick but memorable overview of Matera.

Does the tour include a guide?
No, the tour does not come with a professional guide but features commentary from the driver and stunning viewpoints.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book about 35 days ahead, as it’s a popular experience, and tickets are limited.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, with a full refund.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothing and a camera or smartphone for photos are recommended. Since it’s an open-air vehicle, dress accordingly for the weather.

This Ape Calessino tour in Matera offers a delightful blend of style, scenery, and stories, making it a charming way to get to know this incredible city. Whether you’re after the perfect shot or just want to enjoy a relaxed ride, it’s an experience that many travelers find well worth the price.