Tramontano Castle

Experience Matera in the most complete and comfortable way possible — aboard an open-top panoramic bus. Ideal for those who prefer to avoid long walks, this tour offers the widest itinerary accessible by vehicle, taking you through the heart of the Sassi and beyond. As the city’s stone-carved beauty unfolds before you, multilingual audio commentary brings its rich history to life. The journey begins near the majestic Tramontano Castle, then winds down via Madonna delle Virtù, Matera’s most scenic panoramic street. Skirting the edge of the dramatic Gravina canyon, you’ll reach Piazza San Pietro Caveoso, the beating heart of the Sassi and one of the city’s most striking squares, surrounded by centuries of history carved into stone. Included in your ticket is a visit to a fully furnished cave dwelling, offering a rare glimpse into traditional life in the Sassi. From there, the tour ventures into the wild beauty of the Regional Park of the Rupestrian Churches with exclusive access to the Sanctuary of Palomba. From here, enjoy an entirely new perspective of the Sassi — Matera laid out before you like an ancient stone tapestry. Effortless, immersive, and filled with unforgettable moments — this is Matera as you’ve never seen it before.

With a sightseeing bus you will reach the panoramic viewpoint par excellence, called Murgia Timone, from which you will enjoy a breathtaking view of Sassi districts. A tour leader who will show you the sights along the way. After a short tour around the city, we will stop in Belvedere of Murgia Timone for 30 minutes, where you will walk on ancient paths to discover caves inhabited since the Stone Age and get close to one of the 150 rock churches in the area to see wonderful frescoes. Moreover, you will be enraptured by the scents and smells of plants that grow on the park such as thyme, savory and many others. If you are lucky you will also see flying over the area some specimens of Falco Grillaio, a typical species of the Murgia area. Your way back to our venue will be enriched by a tour leader with anecdotes and traditions of the city of Sassi.

Discover two UNESCO World Heritage sites in a single day! Embark on a remarkable journey from Bari, where a comfortable minivan or minibus will transport you to the heart of Puglia and Basilicata's most treasured destinations. Your day begins with a seamless transfer to Alberobello, granting you four leisurely hours to wander through the enchanting streets lined with iconic trulli. Immerse yourself in the whimsical atmosphere of this UNESCO-listed village, exploring its unique architecture and charming shops at your own pace. For those seeking deeper insight, an optional guided tour of Alberobello can be arranged, revealing the fascinating history and hidden stories behind these iconic conical dwellings. Later, the adventure continues to Matera, where the ancient Sassi await. Here, you'll have about three hours to delve into the captivating history of these cave dwellings. Choose your own path: either wander independently, or opt for a comprehensive two-hour guided tour, complete with entrance to a traditional cave house and rock church, to truly understand the depth of Matera's past. Throughout your experience, our dedicated support team ensures a smooth and memorable day.

We’ll meet at Tramontano Castle, where I’ll explain the rules of the game and give you a map with riddles linked to the places you’ll need to discover. You’ll have 2 hours to solve them, using both your brain and your legs — but the reward will be worth it! Along the way, you’ll explore hidden corners and discover what I consider to be the true gems of the city. I’ll stay at the starting point to assist you or give you hints, if needed. At the end of the adventure, you’ll return to me to decipher the key and unlock the treasure chest together, while I share some stories and fun facts about the places you’ve visited and we take some pictures together. Everyone will receive a certificate, but only the winner will take home the treasure! It’s the perfect activity to explore Matera in an original way, to give someone a special gift, or simply to enjoy a fun and unique experience! On request, small gifts or notes provided by you can be placed in the chest to make the experience even more personal. YOUR ITINERARY Your journey begins at the historic Tramontano Castle, where you will receive your first instructions. From there, you'll head towards Piazzetta Pascoli, and then lose yourself in the charming alleys of the Sasso Caveoso, passing by the scenic Church of Madonna dell’Idris. But that's just the beginning! As you continue, the route will lead you into the heart of Matera, from the Sasso Barisano to the lively Piazza Vittorio Veneto. There’s no set path — you’ll choose your own direction — but watch the time! During the treasure hunt, you’ll discover some of Matera’s most important attractions: the Cathedral, the Church of San Francesco, the underground ipogei, and the panoramic Church of Sant’Agostino. Through this unique tour, you'll have the chance to explore the city's history and beauty while having fun!