South Crete: Matala Beach & Ancient Gortyn

Explore the South of Crete with a Private Guided Day Trip

This 7 to 9-hour tour from Heraklion offers a tailored experience of South Crete, perfect for those seeking to explore without the hassle of planning transportation. For $67.99 per person, you’ll enjoy a private guide who takes your group through the scenic Messara valley to visit the ancient city of Gortyn, relax at Matala Beach, and explore two Orthodox monasteries that are difficult to find on your own. Pickup is included, with options available next to your hotel or at designated bus stops.

While the tour offers a flexible mix of guided sightseeing and free time, reviews note that timing at Matala Beach might be tight, with the 1 hour 30 minutes stop sometimes feeling brief. Still, this trip suits travelers who want to see key archaeological sites, enjoy beach time, and appreciate local history in a relaxed setting.

Key Points

• Private tour for your group of family or friends, ensuring a personalized experience
• Visit Gortyn, once Greece’s fastest-growing city and the site of the first written laws
• Swim at Matala Beach, famous for its caves and hippie history
• Explore two Orthodox monasteries, which are tricky to access alone
• Flexible timing with time allocated for relaxation, swimming, and a coastal dinner
• Cost of $67.99, with pickup included and additional insurance for participants

Discovering Gortyn, the Ancient Roman Capital of Crete

The tour begins with a visit to Gortyn, the remains of Crete’s Roman-era capital. This site was once the most prosperous city during the Minoan civilization period and is notable for being the place where the first code of laws was carved on stone in the 5th century BC. While admission tickets are not included in the price, the ruins provide a glimpse of ancient governance and architecture. The site offers about 1 hour 30 minutes to explore, giving enough time to walk around and appreciate the historic significance.

This stop is especially meaningful for those interested in classical history or archaeology, though some may find the visit brief if eager to see every detail.

Relax on Matala Beach and Its Famous Caves

After visiting Gortyn, the group heads to Matala Beach, situated in Mesaras Bay. This lively spot is best known for its caves built into the rocks, which historically served as residences in ancient times. The 1960s-70s hippie movement popularized Matala as a meeting point for musicians and free spirits, adding a unique cultural layer to its natural charm.

Here, the 2 hours 30 minutes allocated allow plenty of time to swim in the turquoise water, relax on the pebbly beach, and explore the caves at your own pace. The admission is free, making it an excellent spot for unwinding, though some reviews suggest that the time may feel a bit rushed, especially if you want to explore the caves more thoroughly.

Visiting the Orthodox Monasteries of South Crete

The tour includes visits to two Orthodox monasteries, which are notable for their architecture and spiritual heritage. These monasteries are located in areas that are challenging to access without a guided tour, making this a rare opportunity to see local religious sites that might otherwise be difficult to find. The guides provide insights into their history and significance, adding depth to the experience.

While specific names of the monasteries are not provided, this part of the tour appeals to those interested in religious history or Cretan culture. The visits are structured to include a meaningful look at the monasteries while allowing some free time for personal reflection or photos.

Scenic Drive Through the Messara Valley

A key part of this tour is the bus transfer through the scenic Messara valley. During the ride, the information provided by the guide highlights local geography, history, and sights, enriching the journey. The air-conditioned bus ensures comfort during the roughly 7 to 9 hours of activity, and pick-up is arranged at a designated bus stop or near your hotel.

This scenic drive offers a chance to relax between stops and enjoy views of olive groves, mountains, and traditional villages, giving a taste of rural Crete outside the more tourist-heavy areas.

Dining and Free Time Along the Coast

After the sightseeing, the tour includes a coastal dinner, giving travelers a chance to sample local cuisine while enjoying sea views. The stop at Matala Beach also allows for free time to swim, sunbathe, or stroll along the shoreline.

While the tour highlights include guided visits, the free time at Matala and the opportunity for a dinner make this a balanced day. However, some reviews suggest that more time at Matala would enhance the experience, especially for those wishing to explore its caves or spend additional time relaxing.

Logistics and Group Size

The tour’s group size is capped at 150 travelers, but it typically caters to smaller groups if booked privately. Pickup occurs at specific bus stops near hotel areas in Heraklion, including villages between Amudara, Karteros, Gouves, and more.

Languages available depend on the day, with English, German, French, and Italian offered on Wednesday and Sunday, and English, German, and French on Thursday. The tour operator offers additional insurance for all participants. Since most travelers can participate, the tour is accessible to a wide range of ages and physical abilities.

Value and Booking Considerations

Priced at $67.99 per person, this tour provides a cost-effective way to see a variety of historic sites and relax at the beach in a single day. Given the inclusion of pickup, transport, and guidance, it offers good value for those interested in Cretan history and scenery.

However, reviews note some logistical issues, such as timing at Matala Beach feeling tight and occasional vehicle breakdowns, which the operator addresses with quick replacements. The cancellation policy is flexible, allowing free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, making it a low-risk choice.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This tour suits history buffs, beach lovers, and culture enthusiasts who want a personalized experience with a private guide. It’s ideal for travelers who want to avoid self-driving, enjoy scenic drives, and see key archaeological and religious sites in South Crete. While it covers a lot in a day, visitors should be prepared for some time constraints, especially at Matala Beach.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour price?
Yes, transfer with an air-conditioned bus is included, along with pickup at specific locations or outside your hotel.

How long is the free time at Matala Beach?
You get about 2 hours 30 minutes at Matala Beach, which includes swimming and exploring the caves.

Are the monasteries included in the tour?
Yes, the tour visits two Orthodox monasteries, offering insights into local religious heritage.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, full refund is available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled start.

What languages are available during the tour?
On Wednesday and Sunday, the tour is available in English, German, French, and Italian; on Thursday, in English, German, and French.

What should I expect from the scenic drive?
The bus ride takes you through the scenic Messara valley, offering views of rural Crete, with commentary on local sights from the guide.

This South Crete: Matala Beach & Ancient Gortyn tour offers a well-balanced day of history, relaxation, and culture, making it a solid choice for those wanting a personalized and comprehensive experience in Crete’s south.