Matera, as only an archaeologist can show it.
Looking for a Matera tour that goes deeper than the usual walking route? I’m Nicola Taddonio — a professional archaeologist, certified sommelier, and licensed guide born and raised here. I’ve spent years excavating the very caves you’ll walk through. I offer exclusively private tours of Matera and the surrounding Basilicata: no groups, no scripts, no rush.
If you’re looking for the deepest possible encounter with one of the world’s oldest cities, you’re in the right place.
Why tour with an archaeologist?
The Sassi of Matera are not just a UNESCO site or a film location. They’re a living archaeological record spanning thousands of years of human history, still being uncovered — and I’ve spent years working on the excavations that are bringing it to light. I’ve written about it in books and academic journals, and I bring that knowledge directly into every tour — in plain English, without lectures.
I’m also a certified sommelier. Which means that when we stop for lunch or a wine tasting, you’ll understand what’s in your glass as well as what’s beneath your feet.
Archaeology — Active participant in ongoing excavations in Matera.
Sommelier — AIS certified expert in Basilicata’s food and wine traditions.
Private only — Every tour is designed around you, never a group.
Private Matera Tour - Choose your experience
All tours are private, fully customisable, and available in English. Half-day or full day, on foot or by car, focused on archaeology, food & wine, or both. Check my best sellers.
Matera Private Walking Tour: Sassi Half-day.
My top selling service. 2 hours, with an option for more. No fixed route. One archaeologist who has spent years excavating what you’ll walk through.
Matera Wine Tasting. In the Sassi with a Sommelier.
Finish your walking tour with a well earned treat. In a cave restaurant carved from the same stone as the Sassi above, I’ll guide you through Basilicata’s (and more) finest wines and olive oils — private, fully tailored to your palate.
“We saw amazing things, but also learned all about the social, political, and cultural factors that led Matera to become what it is today. Super fun to learn about archaeology in practice. Nico was just great to hang out with.”
“Always on time, great company, his knowledge of Matera is second-to-none. Being from Matera himself, he knows all the back roads and can really bring this magical town to life in the most authentic way possible.”
“Rich in historical knowledge, we were able to feel immersed into the deep culture with layers of history we would have never known without a true local. Book the longest tour with him that you possibly can.”
About Nicola
Who you'll be walking with
I was born in Matera and have spent my career studying it — first as an archaeologist at the University of Basilicata, then through years of fieldwork in the Sassi and the whole region, and eventually as a guide for visitors who want more than a walking tour.
I’ve contributed to archaeological digs in the historic centre, written for academic publications and regional magazines, and authored books on Basilicata Region. A few years ago I made a deliberate choice: private tours only, exclusively for guests who value depth over speed.
My clients are mostly English-speaking — American, British, Australian, Canadian — and most find me right here or through word of mouth.
Ready to see Matera differently?
Tours book out weeks in advance during spring and autumn. Get in touch early — I’ll reply personally within 24 hours.