From Matera: Altamura Cheese and Pastry Tasting Day Trip

Planning a day trip that combines delicious food, cultural sights, and scenic landscapes in Italy? Then the Altamura Cheese and Pastry Tasting Day Trip from Matera might be just what you’re looking for. This 6-hour excursion offers a flavorful journey into Puglia’s renowned culinary traditions, wrapped up in a comfortable private transportation experience.

What makes this tour particularly appealing? First, the opportunity to sample some of the finest cheeses and learn about their craftsmanship at a local dairy. Second, the visit to Altamura’s charming historic center, complete with its ancient alleys and significant monuments, adds a cultural layer to the day. Third, the outdoor picnic in the Mercadante Forest, surrounded by nature’s calm, provides a relaxing finale with regional specialties.

That said, the tour involves a fair amount of walking, and it’s not suited for those with mobility challenges or specific food allergies. Still, if you’re after a well-rounded, authentic taste of Puglia with plenty of opportunities for photos, bites, and insights, this trip could be a highlight of your Matera stay.

Good To Know

• Authentic Food Experiences: Tasting regional cheeses, focaccia, and traditional sweets directly from local artisans.
• Cultural Insights: Guided tours through historic Altamura and visits to the monastery add depth to the culinary journey.
• Comfortable Transportation: Private round-trip van transfer ensures a relaxed day without hassle.
• Hands-On Activities: Participate in a cheese-making workshop that lets you get a taste of the craft.
• Natural Setting: Outdoor lunch in Mercadante Forest offers a serene backdrop for enjoying regional treats.
• Flexible Booking: Reserve now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance — ideal for spontaneous travel plans.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Detailed Look at the Altamura Cheese and Pastry Tour

Starting Point and Transportation

Your day begins with a convenient pickup from Matera, where you’ll board a private minivan. This transfer is designed to be comfortable and hassle-free, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenic drive to Altamura, which takes approximately 30 minutes. Traveling by private vehicle means more flexibility with timing and less crowding, making it a stress-free way to start your day.

The Cheese Tasting Experience

The first highlight is a visit to Caseificio Dicecca, a renowned spot for Altamura’s cheese tradition. Here, you’ll see firsthand how centuries-old recipes and techniques produce some of the region’s best cheeses. The guided tasting pairs these cheeses with local wines, giving you a true sense of regional flavors.

But what’s especially engaging is the opportunity to participate in a cheese-making workshop. While you might not be creating cheese from scratch, the chance to observe and perhaps even lend a hand offers a memorable, tactile element many travelers appreciate. Previous reviewers mention that the cheese tasting is “the heart of the experience,” with some saying, “I loved tasting the different types and hearing how they’re made.”

Exploring Altamura’s Historic Center

Walking through the narrow, historic streets of Altamura is like stepping back in time. The guided tour takes you past ancient alleys, significant churches, and artisan shops, revealing layers of history and local craftsmanship. Visitors note that the walk is leisurely but involves a fair bit of strolling, so comfortable shoes are a must.

A key stop is the Monastery of Santa Chiara, where the architecture and quiet atmosphere provide a peaceful pause. The guide shares stories about its historical significance, adding a layer of cultural appreciation to your visit.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Tasting the Famous “Tette delle Monache”

A highlight for sweet tooths is the visit to a historic pastry shop to try the “tette delle monache” — soft, delicate sweets that are iconic in Puglia. Reviewers have called them “delicious” and “a perfect little bite of local tradition,” making it a must-try during your trip. Alongside, you’ll sample Padre Beppe Elixir liquor, a regional specialty that adds a unique flavor to the tasting session.

Outdoor Lunch in Mercadante Forest

After a morning of exploring and tasting, the tour moves to Baby Dicecca, a cheese bar located amidst greenery in the Mercadante Forest. Here, you can enjoy an outdoor picnic-style lunch, featuring fresh cheeses, local bread, and regional delicacies. The tranquil setting enhances the flavors, and reviewers mention the fresh air and scenic views as a real bonus.

This relaxed meal allows you to process all the new tastes and sights of the day, rounding out the experience beautifully. It’s a chance to sit back, take photos, and enjoy regional wines in nature.

Return Journey

The day wraps up with a 45-minute drive back to Matera, giving you time to reflect on the day’s highlights or share photos with travel companions. With all transport arranged in a private group, your day remains intimate and personalized.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for food lovers eager to explore authentic regional flavors, especially those interested in cheese and pastry traditions. It’s also suitable for travelers who enjoy cultural sights, as the guided walk and monastery visit provide historical context. The outdoor picnic makes it perfect for those who like combining culinary experiences with nature and scenic surroundings.

However, it’s worth noting that the tour involves some walking and standing, so it’s best for those with moderate mobility. If you have food allergies or specific dietary needs, you may want to double-check with the provider, as the experience involves tasting a variety of local products.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

• Price: $407.83 per person — this covers transportation, tastings, workshop, guided walks, and outdoor lunch, representing good value given the inclusions.
• Duration: 6 hours — perfect for a full but manageable day trip.
• Availability: Check starting times, as they vary, to fit your schedule.
• Languages: Conducted in Italian and English, making it accessible to most travelers.
• Group Type: Private group ensures a more personalized experience.
• Booking Flexibility: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and pay later options make planning easier.

What to Bring

• Comfortable shoes for walking
• Hat and sunscreen for outdoor activities
• Camera for scenic views and tasty moments
• Water (though provided, extra bottles are allowed)

Restrictions and Considerations

• Not suitable for wheelchair users
• Not recommended for travelers with food allergies
• Pets and smoking are not permitted during the tour

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians?
While the tour focuses on cheese and regional specialties, you should check with the provider about specific dietary restrictions, as some tastings may involve animal products.

How much walking is involved?
The tour includes a guided walk through Altamura’s historic center and visits to various sites, so expect some walking and standing, but it’s generally manageable.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Yes, provided there’s availability, you can reserve now and pay later, giving you flexibility to plan your trip.

What is included in the price?
The price covers private transportation, a cheese-making workshop, tastings of cheeses, wines, “tette delle monache,” and Padre Beppe Elixir, plus an outdoor lunch and guided walks.

Is this tour kid-friendly?
While it’s generally suitable for most ages, consider the walking involved and the nature of tastings if traveling with children.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, making it easy to adapt your travel plans.

Final Thoughts

The From Matera: Altamura Cheese and Pastry Tasting Day Trip offers a well-rounded taste of southern Italy’s culinary and cultural riches. With a combination of cheese-making, historic sightseeing, and outdoor dining in nature, it’s a thoughtfully curated experience for those wanting to connect with local traditions beyond just sightseeing.

Ideal for foodies, culture buffs, and anyone looking to enjoy a relaxed day exploring the flavors and scenery of Puglia, this tour balances education and indulgence. The private group aspect ensures a more intimate experience, and the inclusions pack a lot of value into a manageable half-day adventure.

For travelers eager to enrich their Matera stay with regional specialties, scenic views, and authentic stories, this trip is a genuine option that promises memorable bites and beautiful moments.

Additional Tips for Travelers

Remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring a camera to capture the picturesque surroundings. The outdoor lunch in Mercadante Forest is a peaceful way to relax and savor your food, so packing sunglasses and sun protection is a smart move. Be prepared for some walking, but overall, this tour manages to pack plenty of highlights into a manageable 6-hour window—making it a highly recommended addition to your Italian itinerary.

You can check if your dates are available here: