Rock church in the Sassi of Matera
Guided Tours · Matera, Basilicata

Walk into a story of stone

Two hours through the Grotta district, rock churches, and ancient neighborhoods of the Sassi — accompanied by a local guide who was born and raised in Matera.

4.9 / 5 · 2,382 travelers
Official local guides

Watch the video

The place

For centuries the Sassi were a national disgrace. Today they are a World Heritage site. We take you inside that history — one stone, one threshold, one life at a time.

2h
Duration
6
Iconic milestones
4
Languages
9.000
Years of history
4.9
Out of 5 · reviews
The itinerary

Six stops in the heart of the Sassi

A two-and-a-half-hour journey told by those who live in Matera. Choose a stop to explore it — or just let it unfold.

01/06
The voice of the travelers

Whoever has entered the Sassi, remembers it

4.9
2,382 verified reviews
Our guide didn't show us Matera: they told us about it, the way you tell the story of a family home. We went in as tourists and came out feeling a little Materan.
G Giulia & MarcoMilan · Couple’s visit, October

La Casa Grotta takes your breath away. In five minutes, you understand how people used to live here, and you never forget it. All entrance fees included, zero hassle.

FRFederica R.Turin · Family

The perfect pace, never in a hurry. The late afternoon light on Mount Caveoso alone makes the trip to Basilicata worthwhile.

JDJames D.London · English-language tour

We had the kids with us and I was worried they’d get bored. Instead, they were hanging on the guide’s every word. Authentic experience, very fair price.

ASAnna S.Rome · Family
Casa Grotta · Sasso Caveoso
Local guides

We tell the story of Matera because it is our home

We are not guides who have come from elsewhere. We were born in these alleys, played on the steps of the Sassi, and listened to the stories of our grandparents, who truly lived in these caves.

This is why every tour is a personal story, not a lesson learned by heart: we take you behind the scenes of the city, to the corners that tourist guides do not know.

“The stone here is not a monument. It is living memory. Our craft is simply to give it a voice.”
Vincenzo Lamacchia
Official Tourist Guide · Basilicata Region
Authorized tour operator Certified guides Italian · English · Spanish · French
Worth knowing

Frequently Asked Questions

Can't find what you're looking for? Write to us, we respond within an hour during opening hours.

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Where shall we meet?

The meeting point is in Piazza Vittorio Veneto, in the heart of Matera, easily accessible on foot from the city center. You will receive precise directions and the guide's contact information immediately after booking.

How long does the visit last?

About two and a half hours, at a leisurely pace with several scenic stops. Six main stages, from the historic center to the viewpoint overlooking the gravina.

Are tickets included?

Yes. The price includes admission to the Casa Grotta and the rock churches visited during the tour. No additional costs to pay on site.

Is it suitable for children and the elderly?

The tour is accessible to everyone, with a pace suited to the group. Children under 14 pay a reduced rate. The route includes some stairs typical of the Sassi: contact us for special accessibility needs.

In which languages is it held?

Italian, English, Spanish and French, with native or certified guides. Indicate your preferred language when booking.

Can I cancel the reservation?

Yes, cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the visit. No payment is required at the time of booking online.

Skyline of the Sassi di Matera at sunset
The Invitation

Your journey begins here

Limited spots for each session to keep groups small and the storytelling intimate. Choose your date.