Discovering Matera

Arrive in the enchanting city of Matera and settle into your hotel (such as Hilton Garden Inn Matera or similar). In the evening, embark on a captivating guided walk through the ancient Sassi di Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its labyrinthine cave dwellings and rock-hewn churches. Your expert guide will lead you from the lively Piazza San Francesco through the atmospheric Civita district, where you’ll marvel at the majestic Cathedral and panoramic vistas. Explore the iconic neighborhoods of Sasso Barisano and Sasso Caveoso, uncovering hidden gems like the evocative rock church of Sant’Antonio Abate and a traditional cave house. The tour concludes at Piazzetta Pascoli, offering breathtaking views over the stone-carved landscape. Overnight in Matera.

After a delicious breakfast at your hotel, immerse yourself in Matera’s culinary traditions with a hands-on bread-making experience at a local panetteria. Learn the secrets behind the city’s famed bread, from selecting the finest local semolina to mastering the art of kneading and shaping the dough. Guided by a master baker, you’ll create your own loaf and discover the unique stamp that distinguishes Matera’s bread. This interactive workshop offers a delightful taste of local culture, and you’ll leave with your freshly baked creation. Enjoy another restful night in Matera.

Begin your day with breakfast before meeting your driver for a journey to the awe-inspiring Crypt of the Original Sin. This extraordinary cave-church, adorned with vibrant frescoes by the mysterious Flower Painter of Matera, dates back to the 9th century and is celebrated as the 'Sistine Chapel' of rock art in Southern Italy. Discover the fascinating history of this sacred site, once a refuge for Benedictine monks and now a must-see masterpiece of rupestrian art. Return to Matera for another overnight stay.

Savor your final breakfast in Matera and, if time allows, take a leisurely stroll through the city’s charming streets or indulge in some last-minute shopping. Optional transfers to the airport or train station are available for your convenience as you bid farewell to this unforgettable city.