From Bari: Half-Day Guided Tour of Matera

About This Experience

This half-day trip takes you from Bari to Matera for a guided walk through the Sassi and some free time, then back. It runs about six hours from the Camera di Commercio (Chamber of Commerce) in central Bari; you can also start from Polignano a Mare or Monopoli at the same price. It cost $124 per person when checked in October 2026, and a private option with hotel pickup is also sold.

The drive to Matera takes about an hour. There the itinerary lists a guided walk of about 2.5 hours with photo stops, including entry to a cave house that shows how families lived in the Sassi (the listing does not name it). After about 1.5 hours of free time for lunch or the artisan shops, you return to Bari by road, another hour or so.

The guide speaks English, Italian or Portuguese. The trip suits travelers based in Bari who do not want to handle the FAL train or a car, and who want a guided walk with a cave house included. The operator needs at least four participants and may cancel below that, and the final itinerary arrives by WhatsApp or message the day before.

The rating is 4.5 from 149 GetYourGuide reviews. Low-star reviewers report a guided part shorter than advertised, larger groups than expected, faulty headsets and a rushed feel, with only two or three hours in Matera in total. Plan lunch for the free time and bring cash and a card for food and the artisan shops. Free cancellation applies up to 24 hours before the start.

Highlights

• Round trip from Bari, Polignano a Mare or Monopoli
• About 2.5 hours of guided walking in the Sassi
• About 1.5 hours of free time in Matera
• Photo stops on the guided walk
• Guide in English, Italian or Portuguese
• Private option with hotel pickup available

What's Included

• ✓ Air-conditioned vehicle from Bari and back (the itinerary lists a van)
• ✓ Guided tour of Matera with a local guide
• ✓ Entry to a cave house (Casa Grotta)
• ✓ Free time in Matera
• ✓ Hotel pickup and drop-off with the private option only

Not Included

• Food and drinks
• Hotel pickup on the shared option

What to Bring

• Comfortable shoes with grip
• Sun hat, sunglasses and sunscreen
• Water and snacks
• Cash and a credit card

Good to Know & Caveats

• Minimum 4 participants; the operator may cancel if it is not reached.
• The final itinerary is sent by WhatsApp or message the day before; small changes for weather or traffic are possible.
• The Sassi involve steep steps and uneven stone on foot.
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start for a full refund.

Meeting Point

The Camera di Commercio (Chamber of Commerce) building in central Bari, or the Polignano a Mare or Monopoli option; your voucher confirms the spot and time.