SASSI DI MATERA: Guided Tour by Ape Calessino

Discovering Matera’s Sassi by Ape Calessino: An Authentic and Stylish Tour

Our review of the Sassi di Matera: Guided Tour by Ape Calessino offers a glimpse into a charming, comfortable way to explore one of Italy’s most iconic ancient neighborhoods. While we haven’t personally taken this exact ride, the combination of vintage style, expert guidance, and immersive stops promises a memorable experience.

What we love about this tour are three things: First, the unique vintage Ape Calessino adds a sense of fun and nostalgia that elevates sightseeing beyond the usual walking or bus tours. Second, the private, guided approach ensures you don’t miss the details and get personalized attention. Third, the stunning views and historic sites, from frescoed cave churches to scenic overlooks, make for incredible photo opportunities.

One possible consideration is the duration—at just 1.5 hours, it’s a quick taste of Matera’s highlights, so if you crave a deep dive, you might want to supplement it with more extensive tours later. Still, for those who want a relaxed, stylish introduction to the Sassi, this experience hits the sweet spot.

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a blend of heritage, comfort, and fun. It works well for first-time visitors wanting an overview, couples or friends looking for a memorable photo adventure, or anyone who appreciates vintage vehicles and authentic Italian charm.

Good To Know

• Stylish vintage ride: The Ape Calessino offers a fun, memorable way to explore Matera’s narrow streets.
• Private guided experience: You’ll enjoy personalized insights from a licensed local guide.
• Rich cultural stops: Including cave churches, a cave house, and scenic viewpoints.
• Authentic insights: Learn about the peasant civilization and view frescoes dating from the 12th to 17th centuries.
• Excellent value for the price: Considering the guided tour, entrance tickets, and unique transportation.
• Ideal duration: 1.5 hours makes it easy to fit into a busy sightseeing schedule.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Overall Setup
The tour kicks off at the Info Matera tourist info point, a convenient and central location. From there, your vintage Ape Calessino awaits, ready to whisk you through the labyrinth of Matera’s historic streets. The driver, who doubles as your guide, is licensed by the Basilicata region, ensuring you get accurate insights without the fatigue of walking.

The Ape Calessino: Style and Comfort
This three-wheeled vehicle doesn’t just look adorable — it’s surprisingly comfortable and allows you to navigate tight alleys and steep inclines with ease. Reviews mention that the ride is smooth and the open-air aspect enhances the experience, especially on a sunny day. Plus, the vintage aesthetic makes for fantastic photos, adding a layer of charm that sets this tour apart from more conventional options.

The Route and Stops
The itinerary is thoughtfully designed to cover the key highlights of Matera’s Sassi. After an initial scenic drive, you’ll stop for photo opportunities, capturing the city’s iconic skyline and dramatic rock formations. The guide will then lead you into the Church of Saint Mary of Idris, a cave church adorned with frescoes spanning from the 12th to 17th centuries. Expect an engaging tour, with the guide explaining the significance of the frescoes and the history behind this sacred site.

Next, you’ll visit a Casa Grotta, a cave house furnished with period furniture and tools. This spot offers a glimpse into the daily life of the peasant community that once inhabited these caves, providing context on how families lived in this unique environment. Reviewers appreciate the authentic feel here, noting that it’s not just a static museum but a lived-in space that brings history to life.

The final stop at San Pietro Caveoso Square is perfect for photos and soaking in the panoramic views of the Sassi’s unique architecture and the surrounding landscape. From here, the guide points out notable features and shares local stories, enriching your understanding of Matera’s enduring charm.

Booking and Practicalities
The tour lasts around 1.5 hours, making it an excellent choice if you’re short on time but still want a rundown. The price of approximately $113 per person aligns well with similar guided experiences but offers added value through the private vehicle and expert guidance. Entrance tickets to both the cave complex and cave house are included, so you won’t face additional costs at these stops.

What You’ll Need
Comfortable shoes are recommended, as you’ll be walking during the stops, though the majority of the tour is on the vehicle. Bringing a camera is a must to capture Matera’s breathtaking scenery and colorful cave interiors.

Reviews and Authentic Insights
According to feedback, travelers love the “beautiful views” and the sense of intimacy that comes with a private, guided tour. One reviewer mentioned that “the vintage buggy makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time,” which adds a playful touch to the experience. Others appreciated the detailed explanations of frescoes and local customs, making history accessible and engaging.

Why This Tour Stands Out

What makes this experience particularly appealing is the combination of style, comfort, and authenticity. The Ape Calessino isn’t just transportation; it’s a conversation starter and a photo magnet. It allows you to see Matera from a fresh perspective, gliding through its narrow, cobbled streets that are often inaccessible to larger vehicles. The inclusion of entrance tickets to key sites adds convenience and ensures you get a full, enriching experience without hidden costs.

Plus, the private group setting means more personalized attention and a flexible pace, which is especially appealing for couples or small groups. The guide’s local expertise shines, making sure you understand the significance of each site beyond just the visuals.

The itinerary balances famous highlights with lesser-known gems, making it suitable whether you’re a history buff, a casual tourist, or someone just looking to tick an iconic experience off your list in style.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a stylish, relaxed introduction to Matera. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy vintage vehicles, scenic views, and cultural stories delivered by a knowledgeable guide. If you’re short on time, this offers a quick yet comprehensive peek into the city’s soul.

It’s also suitable for photographers and social media enthusiasts—the open-air buggy and scenic stops provide endless opportunities for stunning shots. If you’re traveling with someone who might find extensive walking difficult or tiring, the vehicle offers a comfortable way to see the highlights without fatigue.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

In short, the Sassi di Matera: Guided Tour by Ape Calessino combines fun, style, and substance in a way few tours can match. You’ll enjoy exploring one of Italy’s most photogenic locations with a guide who shares intriguing stories and insights, all from the comfort of a vintage buggy.

This tour offers fantastic value for those seeking an authentic experience that balances sightseeing with comfort and fun. It’s especially great for first-timers in Matera looking for a memorable introduction or travelers who want to capture the city’s beauty from an unconventional angle.

While it doesn’t replace deeper explorations of Matera’s history, it makes for a delightful, picture-perfect snapshot of the city’s character. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, this tour is a charming way to soak in the sights and stories of Matera’s mesmerizing Sassi.

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FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it suitable for a quick overview or to fit into a packed sightseeing day.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Info Matera tourist info point and finishes back at the same location, ensuring easy access and minimal hassle.

Is the tour private?
Yes, it’s conducted as a private group experience, which means personalized attention and a flexible pace.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers the Ape Calessino ride, the driver-guide, entrance tickets to the cave complex and cave house, and a map of the Sassi.

Are there any physical demands?
You’ll need comfortable shoes for walking during stops; the tour itself is on a vehicle, so it’s suitable for most travelers.

Can I bring a camera?
Absolutely. The scenic stops and panoramic views are perfect for photos.

Is this tour suitable for pregnant women?
It’s not recommended for pregnant women, likely due to the vehicle ride and walking involved during stops.

Overall, this guided Ape Calessino tour offers a stylish, insightful, and comfortable way to experience the essential sights of Matera’s Sassi. Whether you’re short on time or simply want a fun twist on sightseeing, it’s a memorable way to connect with this ancient city’s soul without the fatigue.

You can check if your dates are available here: