Matala, the Hippie Beach! Tour From Heraklion

Explore Matala, the Iconic Hippie Beach of Crete

The Matala, the Hippie Beach! Tour from Heraklion offers an engaging and well-organized day trip to one of Crete’s most famous destinations. Priced at $47.89 per person, this tour makes it easy to enjoy crystal-clear waters, warm sunshine, and a scenic seaside lunch. With an approximate duration of 7 to 9 hours, it’s perfect for those who want a relaxed yet enriching experience.

This tour departs from Heraklion and includes pick-up and drop-off services, a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, and a multilingual professional guide. The highlight is the chance to explore Matala Beach, renowned for its hippie history and the prehistoric caves carved into the steep rocks. Although visiting the caves is optional, the admission fee of €4 is straightforward, and the overall experience is highly praised for its organization and accessibility.

Key Points

• Affordable and well-organized day trip from Heraklion to Matala Beach
• Includes transportation, guide, and optional cave visit for €4
• Enjoy free time at the famous crystal waters and scenic coastline
• Tour duration ranges from 7 to 9 hours, accommodating various schedules
• Multilingual guides (English, French, German) ensure clear explanations
• Caves are optional but offer a peek into the area’s prehistoric past

Convenient Pick-up and Group Size

The tour begins early in the morning, with pick-up from designated points between 8:30 AM and 10:00 AM. The group size is capped at 50 travelers, which helps maintain a friendly and manageable atmosphere. The transportation is in an air-conditioned vehicle, making the journey comfortable even on warm days.

Travelers can expect a professional guide who speaks multiple languages, including English, French, and German. This ensures clear communication and an informative experience as you learn about Matala’s history and local significance.

Discovering Matala Beach’s Famous Past

The main stop is at Matala Beach, celebrated for its crystal waters and golden sand. Historically, this small town became a flower-power destination in the late 1960s and 70s, as hippies settled in the caves that once served as Roman tombs. Today, the caves remain a prominent feature, carved into steep rocks overlooking the sea, and they are accessible for an additional €4 entrance fee.

Visitors have the option to explore these caves, discovering the unique archaeological and cultural significance of this area. Walking around the caves offers a glimpse into the counterculture era that transformed Matala into a symbol of free spirit and artistic expression.

Relaxing by the Sea with Lunch Included

While at Matala Beach, the tour provides time to relax, swim, and enjoy the warm Mediterranean sun. You can spend your time soaking in the scenery or walk along the shoreline, taking in the cliffs and caves from different angles.

A lunch by the sea is included, giving travelers a chance to savor local flavors amid stunning views. No specific menu details are provided, but the opportunity to dine by the water adds a memorable touch to the day.

Optional Cave Exploration and Entrance Fee Details

Exploring the prehistoric caves is not mandatory, but it offers a deeper connection to Matala’s past. The caves, carved into the steep rocks, are free to view from the outside, but accessing them requires a €4 entrance fee. This fee covers entry to the caves, which takes about 4 hours of the overall tour time.

Travelers should plan accordingly if they wish to visit the caves, as it provides a closer look at the Roman tombs and prehistoric carvings. The guided explanation enhances understanding of the caves’ significance.

Logistics and Meeting Points

The tour operates daily from April 28, 2025, to July 31, 2026, with the meeting time early in the morning. The precise pickup points are designated in Heraklion, making it convenient for most travelers staying in the city.

The return happens later in the day, after enjoying the beach, lunch, and optional cave exploration. The max group size of 50 helps keep the experience intimate and well-paced.

Customer Satisfaction and Ratings

This tour holds a solid 5.0 rating based on 1 review, which praises the organization and multilingual guides. The reviewer notes the well-structured itinerary and the convenience of direct access to the caves, highlighting the smooth flow of the day.

Although the review is brief, it emphasizes the efficient planning and friendly guide service that make this tour stand out.

Cancellation and Weather Policy

Booking this tour includes free cancellation, allowing flexibility if plans change. Cancellations must be made at least 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour requires good weather, and if canceled due to poor conditions, travelers are offered a different date or a full refund.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour

This experience is ideal for those seeking a relaxing day at the beach with cultural insights into Matala’s hippie past. The optional cave visit suits travelers interested in archaeology and history, while the lunch and scenic views appeal to those wanting a laid-back seaside day. The multilingual guides and organized transportation make it accessible for diverse groups.

Final Thoughts on the Matala, the Hippie Beach Tour

For $47.89, this tour provides a comprehensive introduction to Matala Beach’s legendary past and scenic beauty. It combines beach time, cultural exploration, and optional cave visits in a well-structured day. The professional guides and comfortable transport ensure a smooth experience.

While the caves are additional and optional, they add an interesting dimension to the visit, especially for history buffs. The easy logistics and flexible cancellation policy make this a practical choice for visitors to Heraklion eager to see one of Crete’s most iconic spots.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour price?
Yes, the tour includes pick-up and drop-off service from designated points in Heraklion in an air-conditioned vehicle.

How long does the tour last?
The total duration ranges from 7 to 9 hours, allowing plenty of time for beach relaxation, lunch, and optional cave exploration.

Can I visit the caves without paying the entrance fee?
You can view the prehistoric caves from the outside for free, but to enter the caves, the €4 fee applies.

What languages are available for the guided tour?
The guide speaks English, French, and German, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.

Is lunch included?
Yes, lunch by the sea is part of the tour, giving a chance to enjoy local food with a view.

What is the maximum group size?
Groups are limited to 50 travelers, providing a comfortable and organized experience.

What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellations made more than 24 hours in advance are fully refundable; less than 24 hours results in no refund.

What should I bring for the caves?
It’s advisable to bring comfortable shoes and a small amount of cash for the cave entrance fee.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
The information does not specify accessibility details, but the moderate walking involved at the caves may require some mobility considerations.

Can I book this tour last-minute?
Since most bookings are made 27 days in advance on average, last-minute bookings are possible but less common. Early reservation is recommended.