Key Points

Price: $36.14 per person, offering an affordable way to see Matala and its caves
Duration: Approximately 8 hours, including pickup, travel, and free time
Highlights: Swim at the famous hippie beach, explore Roman caves, and enjoy leisure time in the charming town
Guides: Provided in English, French, Russian, Italian, Polish, depending on the day
Inclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off from multiple locations, bus tickets, and guided commentary
Limitations: Entry to the Matala Caves costs an additional €2 and is optional

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Introduction to the Heraklion to Matala Day Trip

This guided day trip from Heraklion takes visitors to the legendary Matala Beach, renowned for its wide, sandy shoreline and colorful seaside town. The tour costs just over $36, making it a budget-friendly option for travelers seeking a mix of history, relaxation, and scenic views.

The trip lasts around 8 hours, starting with an early pickup from various locations around Heraklion and nearby towns. It includes comfortable transportation, guided insights, and free time at the beach, perfect for those wanting a taste of Crete’s legendary hippie culture and ancient Roman caves.

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What Makes this Tour Stand Out?

The main draw of this tour is the chance to swim and relax on the famous hippie beach of Matala. Back in the 1960s and 70s, this spot was a magnet for flower children who carved out homes in the Roman tomb caves carved into the cliffs. Today, visitors can still explore these prehistoric caves, which add an intriguing layer of history to the scenic surroundings.

Another noteworthy feature is the flexibility of the tour. After arriving around 11:00 AM, you’ll have free time for swimming, sightseeing, or simply soaking up the warm sun. The tour also includes a scenic drive through Crete’s countryside, offering views of the coastline on the way to and from Matala.

How the Route Unfolds: Stops and Travel Time

The trip starts with pickups from at least 15 locations, including Heraklion, Malia, Stalis, and Hersonisos, with pickups beginning early in the morning. After boarding the bus, travelers enjoy a 110-minute scenic drive to the Heraklion Regional Unit for a short break.

The journey continues with a second bus segment leading to Matala Beach, arriving around 11:00 AM. Here, visitors are free to swim, explore the caves, and enjoy lunch by the sea. After about 4 hours on site, the group departs around 3:00 PM for the return trip, with an approximate arrival back in Heraklion around 4:15 PM.

Exploring Matala Beach and Its Legendary Caves

Arriving at the beach, visitors find a large sandy shoreline, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters. While relaxing in the sun, it’s easy to imagine why this beach drew so many hippies decades ago.

The Matala caves—once Roman tombs—are now a key sightseeing highlight. Carved into the cliffs, these prehistoric caves provide a unique glimpse into ancient burial practices and later counterculture history. Visitors can choose to explore these caves independently; an entry fee of €2 is optional but not included in the tour price.

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The Charm of Matala Town

Beyond the beach and caves, the colorful town of Matala offers a relaxed atmosphere with cafes, shops, and seaside tavernas. The town’s bohemian vibe reflects its history as a hippie colony. Walking through its narrow streets, you’ll find murals, vintage shops, and welcoming cafes—perfect for a leisurely stroll or a quick snack before heading back.

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Practicalities: Pickup, Transport, and Accessibility

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from several locations, including Gouves, Karteros, Kokkini Hani, and Heraklion. Pickup times vary but are coordinated to ensure an efficient journey.

Travelers should bring sun protection like a hat, swimwear, and towel. The bus journey lasts about 110 minutes each way, making it a comfortable day trip for most. However, as infants will be seated with parents and won’t have separate seats, consider this if traveling with young children.

Guide Languages and Tour Inclusions

Guided commentary is available in English, Polish, French, Italian, and Russian, depending on the day. The guides are known for their informative narration, enhancing the experience with historical insights and local stories.

The tour price includes bus tickets and guide services, but extra expenses like the €2 cave entry fee are optional. The trip offers flexibility with a full refund available if canceled more than 24 hours in advance.

The Experience of the Guide

While specific guide personalities aren’t detailed, the guides are noted for their multilingual skills and ability to provide engaging commentary about the mythological significance of Zeus’ landing, as well as local history. This adds an educational layer to the scenic excursion, making it more than just a beach day.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

One key point to keep in mind is the cave entry fee; it’s optional but adds €2 if you decide to visit the caves. Plus, the rating of 4.1 out of 5 based on 101 reviews indicates that some participants might be disappointed if they expect an all-inclusive experience or detailed guide narration.

Another consideration is the timing—the free time at the beach is around 4 hours, which may be just enough for sunbathing, swimming, or exploring the caves at a leisurely pace.

Is This Tour Right for You?

This day trip suits travelers who want a cost-effective way to explore Matala with minimal planning. It’s ideal for those interested in history, beach relaxation, or local culture. The tour’s flexible structure allows time for swimming and self-guided exploration.

However, those seeking a guided tour with detailed commentary or specific guided cave visits should be aware that the caves are optional and not included in the base price.

Final Thoughts on the Matala Day Trip

This 8-hour guided excursion offers a balanced mix of scenic drive, cultural sights, and leisure time at one of Crete’s most iconic beaches. The affordable price, multiple pickup points, and availability of guides in various languages make it a popular choice.

While some reviews mention disappointments about guide language options, the overall experience provides a relaxing day in a place forever linked to mythology and hippie history. This tour is best suited for budget-conscious travelers seeking easy access to the famous Matala caves and beach.

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From Heraklion: Day Trip to Matala Hippie Beach and Caves

4.1

(101)

“Unfortunately, the evening before the trip, we were informed that there would be no German-speaking guide, so we canceled the trip. The contractual…”

— GetYourGuide traveler, May 16, 2025

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include the cave entrance fee?
The €2 fee for visiting the caves is not included in the ticket and is optional.

What should I bring for the trip?
Travelers should bring a sun hat, swimwear, and towel to enjoy the beach comfortably.

How long is the free time at Matala?
The free time at Matala lasts about 4 hours, giving ample opportunity for swimming, exploring the caves, or relaxing in the town.

Are guide commentary services available in different languages?
Yes, guides are available in English, Polish, French, Italian, and Russian, depending on the day of the week.

Is pickup available from my hotel?
Pickup is available from multiple locations, including Heraklion, Malia, Stalis, and Hersonisos, with specific times coordinated in advance.

Can I cancel this tour easily?
Yes, full cancellation is possible up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, with a full refund.