Tour di Alberobello e Matera in Bus Privato da Bari
Hightlight
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English-Speaking
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Group-Friendly
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Local guide
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Reservations
History
Alberobello and Matera, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, embody Puglia and Basilicata’s ancient architectural and cultural legacies. Alberobello, designated in 1996, is famed for its trulli—unique dry-stone huts with conical roofs, built from the 14th century using prehistoric techniques. These limestone structures, like the Siamese Trulli (two joined cones), were originally agricultural shelters, evolving into homes and shops, reflecting rural ingenuity. The Basilica of Saints Cosma and Damiano (18th century) and the Church of San Francesco d’Assisi (19th century) highlight Alberobello’s religious heritage, blending with its fairy-tale aesthetic.
Matera, a UNESCO site since 1993 and European Capital of Culture in 2019, is one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, with Sassi cave dwellings dating back to 10,000 BC. Until the 1950s, 15,000 residents lived in these limestone caves without modern amenities, earning Matera the title “Italy’s shame.” Post-relocation, the Sassi were revitalized into a vibrant cultural hub, with sites like Casa Noha (a multimedia museum) and the Rupestrian Church of Sant’Antonio Abate (13th century) showcasing its prehistoric and Byzantine roots. Combined tours from Bari, popularized in the 2000s, leverage the proximity (60-75 km) to offer a day-long immersion into these contrasting yet complementary historic gems.
Highlights
- Explore Alberobello’s UNESCO-listed trulli, including the unique Siamese Trulli
- Visit the Basilica of Saints Cosma and Damiano and Church of San Francesco d’Assisi
- Discover Matera’s ancient Sassi caves and Casa Noha museum
- Admire the Rupestrian Church of Sant’Antonio Abate’s rock-hewn beauty
- Enjoy private bus transport from Bari for a hassle-free day trip
Full Description
Embark on a 10-hour private bus tour from Bari, starting at Ex Capolinea 1.4, Largo Eroi del Mare, at 8:30 AM (check-in 8:00 AM). Board a Ceglie Eurobus or Apulia Smart Tour bus and travel 1 hour to Alberobello for a 3-hour self-guided visit. Wander the UNESCO-listed Rione Monti, where hundreds of whitewashed trulli create a fairy-tale village. See the Siamese Trulli, a rare double-coned structure, and explore the Basilica of Saints Cosma and Damiano and the Church of San Francesco d’Assisi, both rich in local history. Browse souvenir shops, cafes, and bars amid the trulli’s winding streets, with a provided brochure offering historical context and navigation tips.
After Alberobello, board the bus for a 75-minute ride to Matera for a 4-hour self-guided exploration of the Sassi districts. Navigate the labyrinthine stone walkways of Sasso Barisano and Sasso Caveoso, where caves now house craft shops, cafes, and ice cream parlors. Visit Casa Noha, a multimedia museum detailing Matera’s history from prehistoric caves to modern revival, and the Rupestrian Church of Sant’Antonio Abate, with its ancient frescoes. Marvel at the Sassi’s cliffside setting above a ravine, a testament to human resilience. The English or Italian-speaking instructor provides insights during the journey, and the brochure aids independent exploration. Return to Bari by bus (1 hour), arriving back at Ex Capolinea 1.4 around 6:30 PM, enriched by two of Italy’s most unique UNESCO sites.
Why Choose This Experience?
This 10-hour tour, priced at $62, offers exceptional value for exploring two UNESCO World Heritage Sites—Alberobello’s trulli and Matera’s Sassi—in a single day from Bari. The private bus ensures comfortable, hassle-free transport, ideal for travelers seeking convenience without driving or navigating public transport. The self-guided format allows flexibility to explore at your own pace, with brochures providing enough context for a rich experience, while the instructor’s insights en route add depth. Covering Alberobello’s fairy-tale architecture and Matera’s ancient caves, the tour balances whimsical charm with profound history.
Perfect for history buffs, families, or couples, the trip suits diverse interests, from photography to cultural immersion. The 3-hour and 4-hour stops provide ample time to explore, shop, or dine, with Matera’s 2019 cultural status adding modern vibrancy. Free cancellation and reserve-now-pay-later options enhance flexibility, making this a stress-free way to experience Puglia and Basilicata’s iconic treasures in one unforgettable day.
What’s Included
- Round-trip private bus transport from Bari to Alberobello and Matera
- 3-hour self-guided visit to Alberobello
- 4-hour self-guided visit to Matera
- English or Italian-speaking instructor (on bus)
- Informative brochure for both sites
- Access to key landmarks like Casa Noha and Rupestrian Church (entry fees may apply)
Itinerary
- Meet at Ex Capolinea 1.4, Largo Eroi del Mare, Bari, at 8:00 AM for 8:30 AM departure
- Bus to Alberobello (1 hour)
- Self-guided visit to Alberobello: Siamese Trulli, Basilica of Saints Cosma and Damiano, Church of San Francesco d’Assisi (3 hours)
- Bus to Matera (75 minutes)
- Self-guided visit to Matera: Sassi districts, Casa Noha, Rupestrian Church of Sant’Antonio Abate (4 hours)
- Bus return to Bari (1 hour)
- End at Ex Capolinea 1.4 around 6:30 PM
Pricing
From $62 per person
Meeting Point
Ex Capolinea 1.4, Largo Eroi del Mare, 70121 Bari BA, Italy. Look for a bus marked “Ceglie Eurobus” or “Apulia Smart Tour.” Arrive by 8:00 AM for check-in. Contact via WhatsApp for issues.
How to Get There
- By Train: From Bari Centrale, walk 10-15 minutes to Largo Eroi del Mare or take a 5-minute taxi
- By Bus: Lines 1 or 19 stop near Piazza Eroi del Mare; 2-3 minute walk
- By Car: Park at Parcheggio Multipiano Bari (5-minute walk to meeting point)
- By Taxi or Rideshare: Drop-off at Ex Capolinea 1.4; €5-10 from central Bari
- On Foot: From Bari’s old town (Bari Vecchia), a 10-12 minute walk
Good to Know
What to Bring
- Comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestones and uneven paths
- Water bottle and snacks for the bus or self-guided stops
- Sun hat and sunscreen for outdoor exploration
- Camera for trulli and Sassi views
- Cash for souvenirs, cafe stops, or entry fees (e.g., Casa Noha)
Know Before You Go
- Moderate walking (~2-3 km) in Alberobello and Matera; Sassi have uneven terrain and steps
- Not fully wheelchair-accessible due to cobblestones and cave paths
- Casa Noha and Rupestrian Church may have small entry fees (~€5-7, not included)
- Tour operates in all weather; bring umbrella or jacket for rain
- Self-guided format; use brochure for navigation and history
- Cancel up to 24 hours for full refund; reserve-now-pay-later available
- Bus has AC and restrooms; confirm with operator
- Suitable for all ages; kids need supervision in Sassi
Reviews
- Great trip, good value, kept to schedule, and provided multilingual info. Friendly driver—recommend!
- Worked well, on time, with helpful driver and entertaining Matera guide—great value!
- Worth the visit despite morning rain. Quiet Alberobello and sunny Matera were amazing!
Maps
Contact
Video
FAQ's
What’s the difference between self-guided and guided portions?
The tour is self-guided in Alberobello (3 hours) and Matera (4 hours), meaning you explore independently using the provided brochure for historical context and maps. The English or Italian-speaking instructor offers commentary during bus rides, covering regional history and tips, but does not guide on-site. This format allows flexibility to prioritize sites like the Siamese Trulli or Casa Noha. For more structure, consider adding a local guide in Matera (extra cost, check availability). It suits independent travelers.
Is the tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly for kids able to handle a 10-hour day and walking (~2-3 km) in Alberobello’s trulli and Matera’s Sassi, which have cobblestones and steps. Supervision is needed for uneven terrain. For mobility issues, the Sassi’s stairs and slopes make it challenging; wheelchairs are not practical. The bus is accessible, but confirm with the operator. Comfortable shoes are essential. It’s engaging for kids 6+ but requires stamina. Evaluate mobility needs carefully.
What can I expect to see or do in Alberobello’s 3 hours?
In Alberobello, explore Rione Monti’s 1,000+ trulli, including the Siamese Trulli, a unique double-coned structure. Visit the Basilica of Saints Cosma and Damiano, an 18th-century church, and the Church of San Francesco d’Assisi for its frescoes. Stroll the trulli-lined streets, browse souvenir shops, or enjoy gelato at local cafes. The brochure guides you to key spots and shares history. Three hours allows ample time for photos, shopping, and a leisurely pace in this fairy-tale town.
Are entry fees included for Matera’s sites?
Entry fees for Casa Noha (~€5-7) and the Rupestrian Church of Sant’Antonio Abate (~€3-5) are not included in the tour price. These sites enhance the Sassi experience, with Casa Noha offering a multimedia history of Matera and the church showcasing Byzantine frescoes. Bring cash for tickets, as card payments may not be available. The brochure suggests other free areas to explore, like Sasso Caveoso’s walkways. Budget €10-15 for optional entries.
What happens if the weather affects the tour?
The tour runs in most weather, as Alberobello and Matera are walkable in light rain (bring an umbrella). In extreme conditions (e.g., severe storms), the operator may cancel, notifying you via WhatsApp for a refund or rescheduling. Puglia’s climate is typically mild, so disruptions are rare. The bus provides comfort, and Matera’s caves offer shelter. Dress for weather (hat, jacket) to enjoy the day. The flexibility ensures a reliable experience.
