Enjoy plenty of free time to swim, explore the legendary caves carved into the cliffs, stroll through the charming village, or simply unwind by the Libyan Sea. With comfortable transfers and a stress-free schedule, this is the ideal way to experience one of Crete’s most famous beach destinations.
Book now online and get best rates!South Crete: Matala, Hippies Caves & Gortyn
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Staring from
Heraklion
Languages
English, German, French, Polish on Thursdays
Trip highlights
Visit the famous Matala Beach, known for its crystal-clear waters
Explore the iconic Hippie Caves, once home to the 1960s free spirits
Enjoy plenty of free time to relax, swim, and explore at your own pace
Travel comfortably with organized transport from Heraklion
Overview
Tour to Matala Hippies Beach
Escape to the laid-back south of Crete on a relaxing day trip to Matala Beach from Heraklion. Famous for its golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and iconic hippie caves, Matala offers the perfect mix of relaxation, history, and unique atmosphere.
Duration of trip
Total Duration of the tour: 9-10 hours
The trip duration varies depending on the location of your hotel.
Mobile ticketing
Simply present your digital voucher to either the guide or the driver, and they will be ready to assist you accordingly.
Pickup - Available
Pick-up and drop-off service are both included in the price of your booking. Our pick-up service covers different points, including hotels and bus stops. After making your booking, we will reach out to inform you about the specific location and time for the pick-up that is convenient for your accommodation.
Free cancellation
In order to obtain a full refund, it is necessary to cancel your reservation at least 48 hours before the scheduled event or booking.
Covid 19 requirements
No specific requirements for participating.
Tour schedule
8:30 - 10:00
Morning Pick-up:
Start your day with a comfortable pick-up from your hotel in Heraklion or the surrounding area.
11:15 | Arrival at Matala Beach & Free Time
Welcome to Matala, one of Crete’s most iconic beach destinations, famous for its golden sands, turquoise waters, and unique cliffside caves.
The next few hours are yours to enjoy at your own pace:
Relax on the beach, swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Libyan Sea, or simply unwind under the Cretan sun.
Take time to explore the legendary Matala caves, carved into the cliffs. Once used as Roman tombs and later as homes by the hippie community of the 1960s and ’70s, they remain one of the area’s most fascinating highlights (optional entrance fee €5).
Stroll through the charming village, filled with small shops, local art, and a relaxed bohemian atmosphere, or enjoy a leisurely lunch at a seaside taverna overlooking the beach (not included).
15:15 | Departure from Matala
After a relaxing and fulfilling day, meet your group and begin your journey back to Heraklion.
17:00-18:00
Arrive back at your hotel, bringing with you the colors, atmosphere, and unforgettable memories of Matala’s unique charm.
Extra information
Included
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off.
- Travel in comfort aboard our air-conditioned bus, driven by a professionally trained driver.
- Experienced tour guide to provide insightful information during the bus drive.
- All applicable taxes and legal fees.
- Participants covered by Public Liability Insurance.
Not Included
Entrance to the caves: 5€
Food & Beverages
What To Bring
- Hat / Sunglasses / Sunscreen
- Swimsuit / Beachtowel
- Comfortable shoes
Know before you go
- Your tour guide will be there to assist you during the entire day.
- The beach area in Matala is well organized, featuring amenities such as umbrellas, restrooms, showers, a lifeguard service, first aid facilities, snack bars, water sports options, excursion boats, and more.
- Sunbeds and umbrellas are available for rent (approx. €10–€15 per set), while free public areas are also accessible if you prefer your own setup.
from 35 €
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“Enjoyed visiting the island. Guide was very friendly and did a good job of making sure we all made the right connections. Visit included lots of free time. Hotel pick up and drop off was a pleasant experience. Very punctual . Ferry ride was three hours long but atmosphere was nice except very cold. Bring a jacket! Only negative was the ferry ride was completely inside and windows did not allow for view.”
Day tour to Mykonos island
“We got to see Mykonos this trip . Only for 5 hours. But it was fun to go. The Ferry goes very fast and is comfortable.had time for meal and sight seeing. A beautiful sunny and warm day. And not crowded compared to summer.”
Day tour to Mykonos island
“Day trip from Athens to Mykonos: Brilliant service from Mania from start to finish. Very competent, great instructions and paperwork, the day was a treat. We packed so much into our day on Mykonos. Highly recommend Island Spy.”
Day tour to Mykonos island
“Mykonos is a beautiful place and we as a family had a great time. Mania was quite helpful in organizing this trip at a short notice.”
Day tour to Mykonos island
“Great experience. The best service I have recieved in Greece. Fully recomendable ++
Special mention to the staff Mania who made our experience the best in class. Thanks”
