Matera Sassi: Ape Calessino Panoramic Tour & Local Stories

Summary

Ride through Matera’s Sassi in an ape calessino with panoramic views and history

You’ll ride through Matera’s winding Sassi in a classic ape calessino with a local guide who shares stories you won’t find in any brochure. Expect quick stops at historic squares and cathedrals, plus sweeping views over both old and “new” Matera — all in just about an hour, with private transport included.

What’s the experience like?

We were already bumping along the narrow stones of Matera when I realized I’d been grinning since we set off. The little ape calessino isn’t exactly quiet — it rattles and hums, and people wave as you pass. Our driver, Paolo, kept up a running commentary, sometimes pausing to point out a crumbling arch or a doorway he said his grandmother remembered from childhood. The smell of warm stone and coffee drifted out from somewhere (I still wish we’d stopped for an espresso), but Paolo was on a mission to show us the Sassi before the crowds really woke up.

The main square of Sasso Caveoso felt almost too big after the tight lanes. We hopped out for a minute — “just enough time for a quick look inside,” Paolo said — and wandered into the cathedral. It was cool and dim, with that faint musty scent old churches always have. Outside again, the sun was getting stronger, bouncing off pale walls. I tried to take a photo but honestly, it didn’t catch half of what it felt like standing there.

There was this one stop overlooking the Piano area — Paolo called it “the new part,” though it looked ancient to me. He told us how Matera went from being called Italy’s shame to something people travel across the world to see. He sounded proud but also kind of amused by it all. At one point he laughed at my attempt to pronounce “calessino” properly (I mangled it), which broke whatever ice was left between us. The whole tour took about an hour but it felt like we’d seen three versions of Matera layered on top of each other. I still think about that view over the rooftops when things are too quiet at home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Panoramic tour of Matera's historic center

• Visit main square of Sasso Caveoso
• Stop at Cathedral to admire interiors
• Cross city with panoramic stops
• Panoramic stop for photos and explanation

Top questions

How long does the ape calessino tour in Matera last?

The tour lasts about one hour from start to finish.

Is pickup included in this Matera Sassi tour?

Private transportation is included for your group during the tour itself.

Are infants or small children allowed on this tour?

Yes, infants can ride on an adult’s lap or in a pram or stroller.

Can service animals join the Matera panoramic tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed on this tour.

What main sights do you see on this day trip in Matera?

You’ll visit Sasso Caveoso’s main square, the cathedral (with time to step inside), and enjoy panoramic stops around the Sassi di Matera and Piano area.

Is this ape calessino tour suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes, it’s suitable for all physical fitness levels as most exploring is done by vehicle with short stops.

Can I choose my preferred departure time?

You can request your preferred departure time when booking.

What’s included

Your hour-long day trip through Matera includes private transportation aboard an ape calessino with a local guide sharing stories along the way; there are stops for photos at panoramic viewpoints and time to step inside key sites like the cathedral before returning where you started.