Matera Half Day Walking Tour - European Capital of Culture 2019 (UNESCO)

Ciao! I’m Giorgio, a licensed tour guide from Bari (since 2010) with a lifelong passion for the people, traditions, food, stories, and spirit of my land — Puglia and Basilicata. Growing up in Bari, I learned early on that culture isn’t just something you observe — it’s something you feel, taste, laugh with, and live. That’s exactly what I love to share on my tours. Whether we’re walking through the winding alleys of Bari Vecchia, exploring the fascinating Sassi of Matera, discovering the coastal villages, or visiting artisan towns like Grottaglie with its incredible ceramics, I want you to experience these places as if you were being welcomed by a local friend — curious, open-hearted, and ready to taste everything that makes this region so special. My approach to guiding is warm, flexible, and deeply human. I love hearing your questions — about history, everyday life, quirks of Italian culture, even politics — and turning them into lively conversations that add layers of connection and meaning to what you see. Many guests have told me they felt like they were walking with a friend rather than just following a guide. I also strongly believe that food is one of the most honest and joyful ways to understand a place. You’ll often find moments in my tours where we stop for a taste of local specialties, meet artisans and makers, watch pasta being hand-made, or pull up a chair with locals at a vibrant market. It’s all part of the real culture that doesn’t sit in a history book but lives in daily life here. Beyond Bari and Matera, my customized tours can take you to the villages, towns, and landscapes that make southern Italy unforgettable — Polignano a Mare, Monopoli, Alberobello with its trulli, Ostuni the White City, ancient olive groves, vineyards, Castel del Monte, Castellana Grotte, Grottaglie with its ceramics, and countless hidden gems you may not even know exist yet. Each destination is a chapter of rich history, artistry, and warm humanity, and I take joy in helping you connect with both. I’m truly grateful to the wonderful travelers who have shared their experiences and feedback over the years — your trust and curiosity are the heart of what I do. I look forward to welcoming new friends to explore these incredible places and unforgettable moments together. Licensed Tour Guide n. 00459 — Puglia Region