How long does the tour last?

The Ape Calessino tour typically lasts about 1.5 to 2 hours, including stops and sightseeing.

Is the tour suitable for children?

Yes, it’s family-friendly, but watch out for open-air seating for young children.

Can I customize the tour?

Customizations are limited but special requests can be discussed when booking.

Is there any physical activity required?

No, it’s a leisurely ride; walkability is mostly on flat, paved streets.

What language is the tour conducted in?

Guides primarily speak Italian and English, with other languages available upon request.

Are there any dietary restrictions for the aperitif?

The aperitif includes local specialties, with dietary restrictions accommodated if notified in advance.

Ape Calessino Tour of Matera | City Tour in Molfetta | Sightseeing Tour, Guided Tour, History Tour, Attraction, Private | City Tour | Sightseeing Tour

Matera, located in the southern Italian region of Basilicata, is a city famous for its ancient cave dwellings and storied history. The Ape Calessino Tour of Matera offers an intimate, windswept journey through this UNESCO World Heritage Site, blending history, culture, and scenic beauty in a uniquely engaging way. Riding in a vintage Ape Calessino, travelers glide through narrow, winding streets lined with stone facades, capturing the essence of this ancient city with ease. The tour includes visits to iconic sites such as the Sassi di Matera—the ancient cave dwellings carved into limestone—where residents have lived continuously for thousands of years. These formations are not only striking but also rich with history, with structures dating back to prehistoric times, offering a tangible connection to Italy’s distant past. A key feature of the tour is a guided visit to the Cathedral of Matera, perched atop a hill with sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. Guests also explore cave churches and dwellings, marveling at the ingenuity of early inhabitants who adapted the rocky terrain into a thriving community. The experience culminates with an authentic aperitif on a panoramic terrace, providing a perfect vista of the city’s honey-colored rooftops and the rugged Apennine mountains beyond. This tour stands out for its intimate, open-air approach, offering a relaxed way to soak in the sights and sounds of Matera while learning about its cultural significance. Whether you're a history buff, a lover of architecture, or simply seeking a unique way to discover Italy's hidden corners, this adventure in Matera’s historic center gets beneath the surface of one of Europe’s most captivating cities.

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

1.5–2 hours.

Fitness level

Suitable for most fitness levels; no strenuous activity involved.

Wildlife

European roe deer
Various bird species

History

Matera has been continuously inhabited since prehistoric times, with its cave dwellings first carved out over 9,000 years ago.

Conservation

Efforts to preserve Matera’s ancient structures are ongoing, balancing tourism with sustainable cultural heritage management.

Authentic Puglia Tours S.r.l.s. is a Lecce-based tour operator specializing in curated experiences across Puglia and nearby Matera. The company organizes small-group and private tours led by local experts, connecting visitors with regional culture, culinary traditions, and artisanal crafts. Offerings include guided walks and vehicle-based excursions such as the Ape Calessino Tour of Matera and a Guided Tour of Alberobello with Segway, mini golf cart, rickshaw, or e-bike options. Hands-on workshops feature local masters and traditional crafts: a Ceramics Workshop with Maestro Mimmo Vestita and a visit to Museo Casa Vestita in Grottaglie, a papier-mâché laboratory rooted in Salento heritage, and a Natural Dyes Workshop using food waste and local plants. Culinary experiences include a Cooking Class in Lecce with a market visit and meal, plus a Guided Tour of Bari with street food tasting. Food-and-drink visits extend to a Vineyard Visit and Wine Tasting in the Itria Valley and a Private Bike Tour of the National Park of Coastal Dunes with olive oil tasting. Seasonal and multi-day options are available, including a nine-day Puglia Autumn Road Trip that combines accommodation, guided activities, and a digital map of curated stops. Tours emphasize local history, sustainable practices, and tactile learning through studio visits and tastings. Booking details, duration, and accessibility options vary by trip; interested visitors should consult individual trip descriptions. Authentic Puglia Tours S.r.l.s. operates from Lecce, Puglia, and focuses on delivering region-specific itineraries that showcase Apulian landscapes, craftsmanship, and gastronomy. Reservations are confirmed with clear cancellation, payment, and deposit terms.

Base locationMolfetta, Puglia

Tours offered23+

Specialtyland-adventures

StewardshipLeave No Trace