The ancient cave city of Matera offers three standout self-guided options for exploring its famous Sassi district.
We love the Matera Historical Audio Tour for its straightforward, fact-filled journey through the UNESCO site – perfect for history buffs who prefer to move at their own pace.
For active travelers, the Bike Tour to the Lake combines exercise with scenery, while the E-Bike Self-Guided Tour makes tackling Matera’s steep hills a breeze.
Both bike options include clear route maps and major viewpoint stops.
Let’s examine these top tour choices in detail.
Key Points
The Sassi Di Matera Historical Self-Guided Audio Tour offers an affordable, flexible, and informative exploration of the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Sassi Di Matera: E-Bike Self-Guided Tour provides an efficient and unique sightseeing experience with electric-assisted bicycles for navigating the hilly terrain.
The Bike Tour to the Lake is a scenic yet challenging self-guided cycling adventure suitable for older families, with optional guide service available.
The self-guided tours in Matera offer a range of pricing options, from the affordable audio tour to the more expensive but comprehensive bike tour.
Travelers have reported both positive and negative experiences with the self-guided tours, highlighting the scenic beauty but also difficulties with navigation and unexpected challenges.
Bike Tour to the Lake – Self Guided for Families
For families seeking a self-guided cycling adventure in Matera, the Bike Tour to the Lake offers a scenic yet challenging route.
Starting and ending at Ferula Viaggi_Slow Italy S.r.l., the tour takes riders through city streets before leading them to the countryside and the nearby lake. Priced from $32.21 per person, the tour provides use of a bicycle and road book, with a cycling guide available upon request.
The route isn’t recommended for young families, as it requires a good sense of bike riding and road safety. Older families (16+) may find the experience more suitable.
Customers have noted the scenic beauty of the tour, but also highlighted difficulties with the app navigation, unexpected hills, and heat challenges. The host has acknowledged these concerns and offered solutions for future tours.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, the Bike Tour to the Lake provides a private, self-guided cycling experience for families looking to explore the natural beauty of Matera, Italy.
Read our full review: Bike Tour to the Lake – Self Guided for Families Review
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Matera: Sassi Di Matera Historical Self-Guided Audio Tour
The Sassi di Matera Historical Self-Guided Audio Tour allows visitors to uncover the rich history and cultural significance of this unique UNESCO World Heritage Site. Priced at just $4.20 per person, the tour offers a flexible and accessible way to explore the natural caves, underground architecture, and ancient rock churches of Matera.
With an audio guide available in multiple languages, travelers can listen to informative commentary at over 30 geolocated points of interest.
The tour’s historical highlights include the Sassi’s use as dwellings and places of worship since Neolithic times, as well as its role as a refuge for communities from Armenia, Syria, and Asia Minor during the Middle Ages.
While the Sassi once housed nearly 20,000 people post-World War II, restoration efforts began in 1952. Reviewers praise the tour’s flexibility, ease of use, and value for money, though recommend comfortable shoes and charged phones for the best experience.
Read our full review: Matera: Sassi Di Matera Historical Self-Guided Audio Tour Review
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Sassi Di Matera: E-Bike Self-Guided Tour
Situated amidst the captivating Sassi of Matera, the E-Bike Self-Guided Tour offers visitors an exhilarating way to explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Covering a duration of 1.5 hours, this tour allows travelers to cover more ground than on a walking tour while still seeing the historic neighborhoods.
The tour includes the rental of an electric-assisted bicycle, which makes navigating the hilly terrain a breeze. Equipped with an optional audio guide, riders can learn about the rich history and architecture of the Sassi as they cycle through the winding streets.
With a 4.8 rating, this tour is a popular choice for those seeking a unique perspective of Matera. Priced at $26.33, the Sassi Di Matera: E-Bike Self-Guided Tour provides an affordable and efficient way to explore this fascinating city.
Whether you’re a history buff or simply looking for an active way to sightsee, this tour is an excellent option to consider when planning your visit to Matera.
Read our full review: Sassi Di Matera: E-Bike Self-Guided Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Matera offers a variety of self-guided tours that cater to different interests and abilities. Whether it’s a leisurely bike ride around the lake, an immersive audio tour of the Sassi di Matera, or an electric bike adventure, visitors can explore Matera’s rich history and stunning landscapes at their own pace. These tours provide a flexible and personalized way to discover the city’s unique charm.