Day trip

Heraklion: Matala Beach, Hippie Caves, and Gortyn Day Trip

4.5  / 5229 reviews
Certified by GetYourGuide
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Day trip
Heraklion: Matala Beach, Hippie Caves, and Gortyn Day Trip
Certified by GetYourGuide
4.5  / 5229 reviews

Enjoy a guided day trip to South Crete from Heraklion. Explore the archaeological site of Gortyna, chill out in the beautiful historical village of Matala and visit the caves of hippies by the beach.

About this activity

Free cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
Reserve now & pay later
Keep your travel plans flexible — book your spot and pay nothing today.
Duration 8.5 - 10.5 hours
Check availability to see starting times.
Live tour guide
English, German, French, Italian
Pickup included
You will receive a personalized email about the exact place and time of pick-up, within 24 hours after making the booking. If your accommodation is not accessible by bus or out of the referred areas there will be an extra charge, depending on the area. Please check your spam folder. Pickup available from specific points in the areas of Sisi, Malia, Stalis, Hersonissos, Anissaras, Agkisaras, Gouves, Gournes, Kokkini Hani, Karteros, Amoudara, Agia Pelagia and from centrally located points in Heraklion town.

Highlighted reviews from other travelers

L
Lynsey – United Kingdom

Perfect for transportation to Matala with historic site thrown in. Timing for each place was perfect. Transport was on time and stress free.

L
Lynsey – United Kingdom
V
Velyan – Bulgaria

Matala is one of the best relaxing destinations in Crete. The best part of Matala is The red beach. The staff was awesome. I realy recommend this provider. 3 days, 3 excursions and everything was perfect. Thank you Cretan Odyssey!

V
Velyan – Bulgaria

Experience

Itinerary

  • Timeline stop icon

    12 pickup location options:

    Ligaria, Agia Pelagia, Malia, Crete, Kokkini Hani, Heraklion, Kato Gouves, Sisi, Stalida, Analipsi, Limenas Chersonisou, Gazi, Anissaras

  • Bus/coach

    (1.5 hours)

  • Timeline stop icon

    Archaeological Site of Gortyna

    Photo stop, Visit, Free time, Sightseeing, Walk (50 minutes)

  • Timeline stop icon

    Matala Beach

    Photo stop, Free time, Sightseeing, Swimming, Snorkeling (4.5 hours)

  • Bus/coach

    (1.5 hours)

  • Bus/coach

    (20 minutes)

  • 12 drop-off locations:

    Kokkini Hani, Ligaria, Analipsi, Heraklion, Agia Pelagia, Malia, Crete, Sisi, Limenas Chersonisou, Stalida, Gazi, Anissaras, Kato Gouves

Main stop

For reference only. Itineraries are subject to change.

Highlights

  • Step back in time as you admire history at the archaeological site of Gortyna
  • Trace the history of Crete with artifacts that date back to the Neolithic Age
  • Swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Libyan Sea or sunbathe on Matala beach
  • Purchase a ticket to see the caves where the hippies once lived in Matala
  • Be picked up and dropped off from select locations on the island of Crete

Full description

Take and airconditioned bus trip through South Crete on this day trip with pickup from Heraklion. Travel back in time as you explore Cretan history at the Gortys archeological site and have plenty of free time to soak up the vibes of at the colorful, seaside town of Matala. Be picked up from the comfort of your accommodation in selected locations on Crete in the morning. Drive for 1.5 hours to the Gortys archeological site. Purchase a ticket to the site to uncover sights from 5000 years of Cretan history. Take a short drive to Matala and spend 4.5 hours of free time where you can go swimming, sunbathe at the beach, purchase a ticket to the local caves or have lunch at a charming seaside café. Return to your accommodation in Crete at the end of your free time in Matala.

Includes

  • Hotel pickup and drop-off from select locations
  • Transportation in an air-conditioned bus
  • Driver
  • Guide
  • Liability insurance coverage
  • Archaeological Site entry (6€)
  • Entrance to the caves (4€)
  • Food and drinks

Select participants and date

Participants

Date

Important information

What to bring

  • Water
  • Sunglasses
  • Swimwear
  • Sunscreen
  • Hat
  • Beachwear
  • Towel
  • Comfortable shoes

Know before you go

  • This tour takes place rain or shine

Customer reviews

Overall rating

4.5 /5

based on 229 reviews

Review summary

  • Guide
    4.9/5
  • Transportation
    4.5/5
  • Value for money
    4.3/5

Filter

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L
Lynsey – United KingdomSeptember 19, 2024  – Verified booking
Perfect for transportation to Matala with historic site thrown in. Timing for each place was perfect. Transport was on time and stress free.
Helpful?
V
Velyan – BulgariaSeptember 25, 2024  – Verified booking
Matala is one of the best relaxing destinations in Crete. The best part of Matala is The red beach. The staff was awesome. I realy recommend this provider. 3 days, 3 excursions and everything was perfect. Thank you Cretan Odyssey!
Helpful?
K
Kirsty – United KingdomOctober 16, 2024  – Verified booking
Great trip. Comfortable bus and the guide was fantastic! Perfect day out!
Helpful?

Product ID: 419103

Activity provider:Cretan Odyssey

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