Private guide Melfi: an amazing walk through so many cultures from 11th century

Basilicata , Italy

Private guide Melfi: an amazing walk through so many cultures from 11th century

Active

(1 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

The tour of Melfi, with a licensed guide, starts from the castle, certainly one of the most important Italian medieval castles. The castle is surrounded by ten towers, of which seven have a rectangular plan and three with a pentagonal plan.

The visit starts from the sarcophagus of Rapolla marble from the 2nd century. A.C., a tomb so called because found in the surroundings of the small town that is 7 km from Melfi, with relief decoration, referable to the workshops of Asia.

The tour continues in the national archaeological museum "Massimo Pallottino". You will see funerary objects of VII-III century. a.C., daunie ceramics with geometric decoration, bronze armors, precious ornaments in silver, gold and amber, and bronze vases of both Greek and Etruscan production.

The tour continues with the visit of the village and the Cathedral of the eleventh century dedicated to Santa Maria Assunta. Inside you will visit the Baroque wooden furniture collection, the bishop's chair and the pulpit

Available options

Private guide Melfi: an amazing walk through so many cultures from 11th century

Pickup included

What's included

Licensed guide

Detailed itinerary

Melfi

What's not included

Private transportation

Ticket entry

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Basilicata

Basilicata, often overlooked by tourists, is a hidden gem in Southern Italy known for its untouched natural beauty, rich history, and authentic Italian culture. This region offers a unique blend of medieval architecture, stunning landscapes, and traditional cuisine, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience.

Top Attractions

Sassi di Matera

The Sassi di Matera are ancient cave dwellings carved into the rock, offering a unique glimpse into Italy's past. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most iconic landmarks in Basilicata.

Historical Half day to full day Free to explore, guided tours available for a fee

Parco Nazionale del Pollino

This national park is home to the tallest mountains in Southern Italy and offers breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and numerous hiking trails.

Nature Full day Free entry to the park

Castello del Malconsiglio

This medieval castle in Potenza is a significant historical site, offering insights into the region's past and panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Historical 1-2 hours €5

Must-Try Local Dishes

Parmigiana di Melanzane

A classic Italian dish made with layers of fried eggplant, tomato sauce, and cheese, baked to perfection.

Dinner Vegetarian

Peperoni Cruschi

Crispy fried peppers, a traditional snack from Basilicata.

Snack Vegetarian

Lamb with Lucanian Truffle

Tender lamb cooked with the aromatic Lucanian truffle, a local delicacy.

Dinner Contains meat

Popular Activities

Hiking in Parco Nazionale del Pollino Rock climbing in the Sassi di Matera Beach relaxation in Maratea Wine tasting at local vineyards Exploring the Sassi di Matera Visiting Albanian villages Swimming in the Mediterranean Sea Skiing in the Pollino Mountains

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This is the best time to visit Basilicata for warm weather and outdoor activities. The region is vibrant with festivals and cultural events.

20°C to 35°C 68°F to 95°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Italian
Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas)
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Basilicata is generally a safe region for travelers, with low crime rates and friendly locals. However, as with any destination, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Use licensed taxis or rideshare apps
• Be cautious when using ATMs

Getting there

By air

Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport • 120 km from Potenza
Naples International Airport • 150 km from Potenza

By train

Potenza Centrale, Matera Centrale

By bus

Potenza, Matera

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the primary mode of public transport, connecting major towns and tourist attractions. The FAL network is reliable and affordable.

Taxis

Available • Apps: MyTaxi, FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Sassi di Matera Centro Storico di Potenza

Day trips

Albanian Villages of Basilicata

Varies by village • Full day

Explore the unique Albanian villages in Basilicata, such as San Costantino Albanese and San Paolo Albanese, which have preserved their Albanian heritage and traditions.

Maratea

100 km from Potenza • Full day

Maratea is a charming coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and the iconic statue of Christ the Redeemer.

Festivals

Festival of the White Truffle • October Sassi in Summer • July

Pro tips

Visit the Sassi di Matera at sunrise or sunset for the best views and fewer crowds
Explore the region's many hidden villages and towns for an authentic experience
Try the local truffles and other regional specialties
Consider staying in an agriturismo for a unique farm experience and to support local agriculture
Learn a few basic Italian phrases to enhance your interaction with locals