tour description

Matala & Gortyna – A Journey Through History and Nature

Discover the rich heritage and natural beauty of southern Crete with our full-day excursion to Gortyna and the famous coastal village of Matala.

Our first stop is Gortyna, one of the most important archaeological sites on the island. Once a powerful Roman city, Gortyna is home to impressive ruins including the ancient Roman Odeon and the famous Law Code of Gortyna, carved in stone and still visible today. A guided tour will take you through the fascinating history of this ancient city.

We then continue to Matala, a charming village nestled in a bay with stunning cliffs and crystal-clear waters. Matala is known for its unique caves carved into the cliffs, once used as Roman tombs and later as homes for 1960s hippies. You'll have free time to swim, explore the village, enjoy lunch in a seaside taverna, or simply relax on the beach.

This tour offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and relaxation, making it a must-do for anyone wanting to experience a different side of Crete.

- Departure between 7:00 and 9:00 AM
- Arrival at Gortyna
- Gortyna – possibility to visit the archaeological site, or alternatively enjoy a coffee break (30–40 minutes)
- Departure to Matala
- Matala – 4.5 hours of free time. Option to visit the hippie caves, take a walk through the village, or relax on the beach
- Return to the hotel between 6:00 and 7:00 PM
kids 0-4 free (not included lunch)
kids 4-12 20€
adults 12-99 35€
- Free pick up and drop off service from and to your hotel
- Transfer with air-conditioned buses
- Professional and multilingual tour guides
- Insurance Coverage
- Personal expenses
- Tips for the guide and driver (optional)
- Entrance to the archaeological site of GortyNA 10€
- Entrance to the caves - MATALA 5€
- Items not mentioned in the “Price includes” section
- Comfortable clothing and shoes
- Light jacket or sweater (especially in spring or autumn)
- ID OR PASSPORT
- Sunglasses, hat, SWIMMINGSUIT, TOWEL
- Sunscreen
- Camera or smartphone for photos
- Personal water bottle
- Good mood and a sense of adventure!
Free of charge
- Sissi (+3€ per person)
- malia
- hersonissos
- stalida
- anissaras
- analipsi
- gouves
- kokkini hani
- heraklion
- ammoudara
- Agia Pelagia (+5€ per person)
- FRIDAY- english, German, french,