Description
South Crete (Matala excursion): Tour to Matala Hippies Beach & Gortys Archaeological Site
(Disclaimer: Not all the parts shown on this video are scheduled to be visited on this excursion)
Dive into Hippie Heaven: Unleash Your Inner Flower Child on the Matala Excursion!
Calling all adventurers! Escape the ordinary and embark on a captivating journey to the legendary Matala Beach, Crete's iconic haven of bohemian spirit. This unforgettable excursion whisks you away from Heraklion, Malia, Hersonissos, or Sissi, promising a day drenched in sunshine, history, and unforgettable experiences.
Step Back in Time and Unearth Ancient Secrets
Our adventure begins with a fascinating visit to the archaeological site of Gortys. Immerse yourself in the rich history of this once-powerful Roman city, marveling at sights spanning over 5,000 years. Explore the ruins of the Odeon, imagine the murmurs of legal debates in the Chamber of the Law Code, and stand where legend says Zeus met Europa.
Unwind in Paradise: Where Sun-Kissed Days Meet Hippie Vibes
Next, prepare to be captivated by the legendary Matala Beach. This crescent-shaped haven boasts crystal-clear waters begging you to dive in. Relax on the golden sands, soak up the sun, and soak in the bohemian atmosphere. Explore the famous caves, once inhabited by the free-spirited flower children of the 60s and 70s.
Indulge Your Inner Foodie and Explore the Village
Treat yourself to a delicious lunch (not included) at a charming seaside taverna, savoring fresh Cretan cuisine with breathtaking views. Afterwards, wander through the vibrant village streets, where colorful shops brimming with local treasures tempt you to indulge.
A Day You Won't Forget
Pick-up's from:
Sissi, Malia, Stalis, Hersonissos (port), Koutouloufari, Piskopiano, Anissaras, Analipsis, Gouves, Gournes, Kokkini Hani, Amnissos, Karteros, Heraklion (port), Amoudara (Gazi, Heraklion), Lygaria, Agia Pelagia. [Check the pick-up table list below to find out which is the most convenient pick-up point & time, near your hotel]
Operating Days:
Every Wednesday, Sunday
Languages:
English, French, German, Italian: All days
Tour includes:
✔ Air-conditioned transportation with pick-up and drop-off services from your hotel or a nearby location
✔ Professional Driver
✔ The assistance of a tour escort throughout the tour
✔ Local taxes are included in the tour package to avoid any additional charges
✔ Liability insurance coverage by ALLIANZ to ensure your safety and security during the tour
Extra Fees (not included in the price)
Extras payable on the spot (optional):
• Archaeological Site Entrance: 6€
• Entrance to the caves: 4€
• Lunch / Drinks
Tour highlights:
• Visit the Archaeological Site of Gortys
• Enjoy a day in Matala Hippies Beach
• Explore the famous caves by the beach
• Swim in the crystal-clear waters
• Explore the Village and get lunch by the sea
Essentials to have with you:
• Hat / Sunglasses / Sunscreen
• Swimsuit / Beach towel
• Comfortable shoes
• Water
Direction:
South Crete
Duration:
8-9 hours approximately - 150 Km
Overview:
This time we set out for the south of Crete. Our first stop is the ancient city of Gortys, one of the most significant ancient cities of Crete and one of the largest archaeological sites of Greece. You will be fascinated by St. Titus’ Church, the Chamber of the Law Code, the Odeon and the natural beauty of the landscape: the square with the everlasting gnarled olive trees and the evergreen plane tree, where Zeus and Europe had their wedding ceremony.
After a short journey through traditional villages, we reach the famous beach of Matala. This is the place where Zeus, having taken the form of a bull, swam ashore with Europa on his back before dragging her off to Gortys. Both the Minoans and the Romans used the place as their harbour. Nevertheless, for most people, Matala means only one thing: hippies. Back in the late 1960s - 1970s, this little town was a colony of the “flower children”, who lived in the caves that used to be former Roman tombs. Here we will enjoy the crystal waters, the warm sun and lunch by the sea, while later, we can explore the prehistoric caves, carved on the steep rocks of the area.
Age Definition:
Adults: Over 12 years old (Full fare)
Children: 4-12 years old (50% discount)
Infants: 0-3 years old (Free of charge)
Booking Guiding Lines:
► Your Tour Language: Please check in the description which tour languages are available per day, and make sure your desired language is available on your chosen date
► Your Pick-up Point: Please check the list with all available pick-up points (and hours) from your area, on the table below
PRICING
This excursion includes in its price: Your transfer r/t from your hotel, Escorted Tours. The Adult Fare is applied to passengers of any age above 12 years old. The Child Fare applies to children between 4 and 12 years old (50% discount + extra's if chosen) and the Infant Fare to any child under 4 years old (Free of Charge // No seat reserved).
Pick-up Locations
Just to help you see which pick-up suits you best, here's a table of hotel accommodations and their nearest pick-ups:
SOUTH CRETE EXCURSION
Pickup timetable
|
Pick up Location |
Pick-up Time |
Sissi |
07:00 AM |
Nikos hotel - Filipidis S/M |
07:10 AM |
Malia church |
07:10 AM |
Malia Bay - Malia Park - Sirens |
07:05 AM |
Drossia - Kernos Beach - Ikaros Village |
07:20 AM |
Alexander - Ariadni |
07:25 AM |
Cactus - I Resort |
07:25 AM |
Mochos Cross (Bus Stop #29) |
07:30 AM |
Stalis (Bus Stop #28) - Blue sea |
07:30 AM |
Nana B/S - Mediterraneo |
07:35 AM |
Belvedere - Eri bus stop |
07:35 AM |
Silva Beach - Pela Maria |
07:40 AM |
National Bank (Ethniki Bank) - Chalkiadakis S/M |
07:40 AM |
Koutouloufari (Esperides Resort) |
07:40 AM |
Piscopiano well (pigadi) |
07:40 AM |
Mathioudakis (Kritikos S/M) - Albatros Corner - Creta Maris |
07:45 AM |
Hersonissos Village (Hotel Accommodation) |
07:45 AM |
Knossos Royal - Royal Mare - Annabelle |
07:50 AM |
Cretan Village - Laguna - Chrissi Amoudia |
07:55 AM |
Serita - Zorbas - Anissa - Bella - Lytos |
08:00 AM |
Analipsi Beach Road |
08:05 AM |
Analipsi Bus stop |
08:05 AM |
Amirantes Bus stop |
08:10 AM |
Gouves Beach Road |
08:10 AM |
Gouves Cross - Lavris |
08:15 AM |
Gournes church |
08:20 AM |
Rinela - Hatzis |
08:20 AM |
Knossos beach - Arina |
08:25 AM |
Karteros - Amnsissos |
08:30 AM |
Astoria Hotel - Galaxy Hotel |
08:30 AM |
Heraklion port - 18 Agglon Sq. (Koules fortress roundabout) |
08:30 AM |
Natural History Museum |
08:30 AM |
Talos Plaza (outside Envy Cafe) |
08:30 AM |
Giofyros (Meliriton) |
08:50 AM |
Amoudara (Gazi) |
08:55 AM |
Lygaria: Pick-ups are available from any accommodation in Lygaria via shuttle service to the nearest bus pick-up.
|
08:30 AM |
Agia Pelagia: Pick-ups are available from any accommodation in Agia Pelagia via shuttle service to the nearest bus pick-up. |
08:40 AM |
LET US HELP! Please don't hesitate to contact us, in order to help you out choose the best pick-up that suits you best!
CANCELLATION
1. Customers who for any reason fail to participate in our excursions are obliged to inform us at least 24 hours in advance. Otherwise, no refund will be given. Cancelling at least 24 hours prior to departure, 100% full refund!
2. VisitCrete.com reserves the right to alter or cancel any tour, due to adverse weather conditions or, insufficient passenger number or, force majeure.
IMPORTANT INFO
► We do return money in case of bad weather (when the excursion is cancelled by the organizer tour operator).
► IMPORTANT: You need to be at least 10 minutes prior to your pick-up time at your pick-up point.

All you need to know about Matala Crete in this article:
- Matala's History
- Tips (What will you see, What to do)
- Nearby attractions
- Useful information about Matala
ARTICLE: Why Matala Crete Should be in Your Bucket List!
For further information or bookings please call at telephone No. (+30) 2810341560
Need HELP? Check if we are online & chat with us!
We LOVE to answer questions...
South Crete (Matala excursion)
from: €43.00
Tour info
Accompanied service
Schedule
Morning Pick up: We will start collecting participants from pick-up points in the morning. Depending on the place of your hotel/apartment the bus drive will differ.
Bus Drive: 1 hour 30 minutes
1st stop: Gortys Site – 1 hour: Visit the unique archaeological place at the South of Crete, with sights from all periods of the 5000 years Cretan history.
Bus Drive: 20 minutes
2nd stop: Matala – 4 hours 30 minutes: Arrival at the Hippies Beach of Matala. Our participants will have plenty of free time to enjoy swimming, explore the famous caves, or have lunch at the most popular hippies shelter during the eras of 60’s & 70’s.
End of the tour – Return to resorts: Embarkation in the buses and drive back to the hotels where we gathered participants in the morning. Depending on traffic and on the pick-up places of each one, the time of journey back to the hotel will differ.
Bus Drive: 1 hour 30 minutes
Special offer
Description
South Crete (Matala excursion): Tour to Matala Hippies Beach & Gortys Archaeological Site
(Disclaimer: Not all the parts shown on this video are scheduled to be visited on this excursion)
Dive into Hippie Heaven: Unleash Your Inner Flower Child on the Matala Excursion!
Calling all adventurers! Escape the ordinary and embark on a captivating journey to the legendary Matala Beach, Crete's iconic haven of bohemian spirit. This unforgettable excursion whisks you away from Heraklion, Malia, Hersonissos, or Sissi, promising a day drenched in sunshine, history, and unforgettable experiences.
Step Back in Time and Unearth Ancient Secrets
Our adventure begins with a fascinating visit to the archaeological site of Gortys. Immerse yourself in the rich history of this once-powerful Roman city, marveling at sights spanning over 5,000 years. Explore the ruins of the Odeon, imagine the murmurs of legal debates in the Chamber of the Law Code, and stand where legend says Zeus met Europa.
Unwind in Paradise: Where Sun-Kissed Days Meet Hippie Vibes
Next, prepare to be captivated by the legendary Matala Beach. This crescent-shaped haven boasts crystal-clear waters begging you to dive in. Relax on the golden sands, soak up the sun, and soak in the bohemian atmosphere. Explore the famous caves, once inhabited by the free-spirited flower children of the 60s and 70s.
Indulge Your Inner Foodie and Explore the Village
Treat yourself to a delicious lunch (not included) at a charming seaside taverna, savoring fresh Cretan cuisine with breathtaking views. Afterwards, wander through the vibrant village streets, where colorful shops brimming with local treasures tempt you to indulge.
A Day You Won't Forget
Pick-up's from:
Sissi, Malia, Stalis, Hersonissos (port), Koutouloufari, Piskopiano, Anissaras, Analipsis, Gouves, Gournes, Kokkini Hani, Amnissos, Karteros, Heraklion (port), Amoudara (Gazi, Heraklion), Lygaria, Agia Pelagia. [Check the pick-up table list below to find out which is the most convenient pick-up point & time, near your hotel]
Operating Days:
Every Wednesday, Sunday
Languages:
English, French, German, Italian: All days
Tour includes:
✔ Air-conditioned transportation with pick-up and drop-off services from your hotel or a nearby location
✔ Professional Driver
✔ The assistance of a tour escort throughout the tour
✔ Local taxes are included in the tour package to avoid any additional charges
✔ Liability insurance coverage by ALLIANZ to ensure your safety and security during the tour
Extra Fees (not included in the price)
Extras payable on the spot (optional):
• Archaeological Site Entrance: 6€
• Entrance to the caves: 4€
• Lunch / Drinks
Tour highlights:
• Visit the Archaeological Site of Gortys
• Enjoy a day in Matala Hippies Beach
• Explore the famous caves by the beach
• Swim in the crystal-clear waters
• Explore the Village and get lunch by the sea
Essentials to have with you:
• Hat / Sunglasses / Sunscreen
• Swimsuit / Beach towel
• Comfortable shoes
• Water
Direction:
South Crete
Duration:
8-9 hours approximately - 150 Km
Overview:
This time we set out for the south of Crete. Our first stop is the ancient city of Gortys, one of the most significant ancient cities of Crete and one of the largest archaeological sites of Greece. You will be fascinated by St. Titus’ Church, the Chamber of the Law Code, the Odeon and the natural beauty of the landscape: the square with the everlasting gnarled olive trees and the evergreen plane tree, where Zeus and Europe had their wedding ceremony.
After a short journey through traditional villages, we reach the famous beach of Matala. This is the place where Zeus, having taken the form of a bull, swam ashore with Europa on his back before dragging her off to Gortys. Both the Minoans and the Romans used the place as their harbour. Nevertheless, for most people, Matala means only one thing: hippies. Back in the late 1960s - 1970s, this little town was a colony of the “flower children”, who lived in the caves that used to be former Roman tombs. Here we will enjoy the crystal waters, the warm sun and lunch by the sea, while later, we can explore the prehistoric caves, carved on the steep rocks of the area.
Age Definition:
Adults: Over 12 years old (Full fare)
Children: 4-12 years old (50% discount)
Infants: 0-3 years old (Free of charge)
Booking Guiding Lines:
► Your Tour Language: Please check in the description which tour languages are available per day, and make sure your desired language is available on your chosen date
► Your Pick-up Point: Please check the list with all available pick-up points (and hours) from your area, on the table below
PRICING
This excursion includes in its price: Your transfer r/t from your hotel, Escorted Tours. The Adult Fare is applied to passengers of any age above 12 years old. The Child Fare applies to children between 4 and 12 years old (50% discount + extra's if chosen) and the Infant Fare to any child under 4 years old (Free of Charge // No seat reserved).
Pick-up Locations
Just to help you see which pick-up suits you best, here's a table of hotel accommodations and their nearest pick-ups:
SOUTH CRETE EXCURSION
Pickup timetable
LET US HELP! Please don't hesitate to contact us, in order to help you out choose the best pick-up that suits you best!
CANCELLATION
1. Customers who for any reason fail to participate in our excursions are obliged to inform us at least 24 hours in advance. Otherwise, no refund will be given. Cancelling at least 24 hours prior to departure, 100% full refund!
2. VisitCrete.com reserves the right to alter or cancel any tour, due to adverse weather conditions or, insufficient passenger number or, force majeure.
IMPORTANT INFO
► We do return money in case of bad weather (when the excursion is cancelled by the organizer tour operator).
► IMPORTANT: You need to be at least 10 minutes prior to your pick-up time at your pick-up point.
All you need to know about Matala Crete in this article:
- Matala's History
- Tips (What will you see, What to do)
- Nearby attractions
- Useful information about Matala
ARTICLE: Why Matala Crete Should be in Your Bucket List!
For further information or bookings please call at telephone No. (+30) 2810341560
Need HELP? Check if we are online & chat with us!
We LOVE to answer questions...
Additional information
HER – Agia Pelagia, HER – Amnissos, HER – Amoudara (Gazi), HER – Analipsis, HER – Anissaras, HER – Gournes, HER – Gouves, HER – Heraklion City, HER – Hersonissos, HER – Karteros, HER – Kokkini Hani, HER – Koutouloufari, HER – Lygaria, HER – Malia, HER – Piskopiano, HER – Stalis, LAS – Sissi
AG.PEL: Alexander House Hotel (Main Road), AG.PEL: Ambelos Apts. (Main Road), AG.PEL: Bella Vista Hotel (Main Road), AG.PEL: Blue Bay (Reception), AG.PEL: Blue Bay Resort Hotel (Main Road), AG.PEL: EKO – Ag. Pelagia Gas Station, AG.PEL: Happy Cretan (Main Road), AG.PEL: Irida Hotel Apartments (Main Road), AG.PEL: Laundry, AG.PEL: My hotel (add it in the comments), AG.PEL: Nicolas Villas, AG.PEL: Out Of The Blue Resort (Entrance), AG.PEL: Panorama (Main Road), AG.PEL: Pela Mare Ag. Pelagia, AG.PEL: Peninsula Resort & Spa (Main Road), AG.PEL: Sea Side Resort & Spa (Reception), AG.PEL: Shell Gas Station, AMNIS: AKS Minoa Palace (Main Road), AMOUD: Agapi Beach (Main Road – Taxi Station), AMOUD: Apollonia Beach Resort & Spa (Main Road – Bus Stop), AMOUD: Candia Maris (Main Road), AMOUD: Creta Beach (Main Road), AMOUD: Dessole Dolphin Bay Resort, AMOUD: Neptuno Beach Resort (Main Road – Bus Stop), AMOUD: Roxani Hotel, AMOUD: Santa Marina (Main Road), AMOUD: Shell Gas Station, ANALPS: Analipsis church, ANALPS: Anthoula Village Hotel (Main Road), ANALPS: Atlantica Caldera Palace (Main Road), ANALPS: Europa Beach Hotel, ANALPS: Golden Star Hotel, ANALPS: Stella Village Hotel & Bungalows (Beach Main Road), ANISSR: Aldemar Knossos Royal (Main Road), ANISSR: Anissa Beach & Village Hotel, ANISSR: Annabelle Beach Resort, ANISSR: Bella Beach Hotel (Main Road), ANISSR: Chrissi Ammoudia Hotel (main road), ANISSR: Galini Hotel (Main Road), ANISSR: Kosta Mare Palace Resort & Spa, ANISSR: Laguna Resort & Spa (Reception), ANISSR: Lyttos Beach Hotel (Main Road), ANISSR: Mitsis Cretan Village (Reception), ANISSR: Mitsis Royal Mare Thalasso & Spa Resort (Main Road), ANISSR: Paradise Island Villas – (Crossroad), ANISSR: Serita Beach Hotel (Main Road), ANISSR: Zorbas Village Hotel, GOURN: Gournes Church, GOUVES: Amirandes Grecotel Exclusive Resort (Bus Stop), GOUVES: Aphrodite Beach Club (Beach Road), GOUVES: EKO Gas Station – (Lavris), GOUVES: Gouves Church, GOUVES: Hotel Diogenis Blue Palace (Beach Road), GOUVES: Marina Beach Resort (Beach Road), GOUVES: The Island Hotel (Beach Road), HERAKL: Capsis Astoria Hotel, HERAKL: Galaxy Hotel, HERAKL: Koules Fortress / 18 Agglon Sq. (Roundabout), HERAKL: Natural History Museum, HERAKL: Talos Plaza (outside ENVY cafe), HERSON: Albatros Spa Resort Hotel (Corner), HERSON: Creta Maris Beach Resort (Bus Stop), HERSON: Hersonissos Village, HERSON: Mediterraneo (Main Road), HERSON: National Bank, HERSON: Pela Maria Hotel (Bus Stop #22), HERSON: Royal Belvedere Bus Stop / Eris Bus Stop, HERSON: S/M Chalkiadakis, HERSON: S/M Mathioudakis, HERSON: Silva Beach, KARTER: Karteros Corner, KOKHAN: Arina Beach Resort (Main Road – Bus Stop #2), KOKHAN: Knossos Beach Bungalows & Suites (Main Road), KOKHAN: Rinela Beach Resort & Spa (Main Road), KOKHAN: S/M Hatzis (Bus Stop #4), KOKHAN: Shotels Sunset Beach Hotel, KOUTL: Esperides Resort Crete, LYGAR: Angel Hotel (Main Road), LYGAR: Bellevue – National Road (Sign), LYGAR: CHC Athina Palace Resort & Spa (Reception), LYGAR: Lygaria (Main Road), LYGAR: My hotel (add it in the comments), MALIA: Amvrosia Hotel (Main Road), MALIA: Drossia, MALIA: Ikaros Village Hotel (Main Road), MALIA: Kernos Beach Hotel (Main Road), MALIA: Main Church (St. Nektarios / Taxi Rank), MALIA: Malia Bay Hotel, MALIA: Malia Park Hotel (Main Road), MALIA: McDonalds Fastfood, MALIA: Nikos Hotel, MALIA: S/M Filipidis, MALIA: Sirens Hotel (Main Road), PISKOP: Pigadi Piskopiano (Well), SISSI: Bella Vista Apartments (Main Road), SISSI: Castello Village Resort (Main Road), SISSI: Grecotel Meli Palace (Main Road), SISSI: Kalimera Kriti Hotel & Village (Main Road), SISSI: Maritimo Beach Hotel (Main Road), SISSI: Sissi Bay (Main Road), SISSI: Sissi Church, SISSI: Sissi Mare Apartments (Main Road), STALIS: Alexander Beach Hotel & Village, STALIS: Blue Sea Beach Hotel, STALIS: Cactus Royal Spa Hotel, STALIS: I Resort Beach Hotel & Spa (main road entrance), STALIS: Mochos Cross Road (Bus Stop #29), STALIS: Nana Beach, STALIS: Stalis (Bus Stop #28)
Gortys, Matala
City Tour, Land Excursion
English, French, German, Italian
1 Day
April, May, June, July, August, September, October
Wednesday, Sunday