EN
Matala beach
Gortyna
Monastery of Kaliviani
Gortyna
Matala bay
Monastery of Kaliviani
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South Crete: Matala Beach & Ancient Gortyn

4.6 (11)· 7 to 9 hours ·German, English, Italian, Polish, French

Overview

• An exciting journey from the North to the South of Crete Island!
• The route passes through the entire island capturing part of the Psiloritis massif. From the foot of the mountains stretches the delightful beauty of Messara valley, which has been the island's breadbasket for centuries.
• During the ride you will hear the information about the history of the island and the sights that you will visit. Then, you can enjoy a walk in the preserved part of the ancient Roman capital of Crete Gortis, which is considered to be one of the most important archaeological sights in Greece.
• Finally you will have time to swim in the crystal clear waters of Matala beach, relax or dine in one of the traditional taverns located along the coast.

Other things to do in the area

Itinerary

  1. Gortyna

    After pick-up from your hotel in Heraklion region, the first stop on your way will be the visit of the preserved part of the ancient Roman capital of Crete - Gortis. During the Minoan civilization, it was the richest and fastest growing city of Greece and is also famous for being the place where, in the 5th century BC. and, for the first time, a code of laws regulating life and relations between citizens was created and carved on a stone.

    45 minutes · Admission not included
  2. Matala Beach

    The port of Matala is situated in Mesaras Bay. This place is famous for its caves that are built in the rocks and resemble small residences that were used by the ancients back in time. In the 1960-1970s Matala started to be a very popular destination where Hippies used to meet altogether and spend their time dancing and singing. Matala has beautiful beach with turquoise water, and you can enjoy swimming there.

    3 hours 30 minutes

What is included

  • Additional insurance for tour participants
  • Pick-up (at the specific tourist bus stop, outside of the hotel or no more than 800m walk)
  • Transfer with air-conditioned bus
  • Information about the route and sights during the bus ride

Not included

  • Entrance to Gortina: Adult (discounts apply for some age groups)

Meeting and pickup

• After booking we will contact you to arrange the pick-up.
• We pick up from the tourist bus stops, a maximum 800m walk from your hotel.
• For remotely located hotels and Airbnb's, please, contact us to clarify the closest pick-up point or any extra transfer arrangements.
• Please, note, if you do not provide your pick-up details up to 24 hours before the tour, we do not guarantee the pick-up.

Good to know

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • If an infant does not sit on lap in the bus, It is necessary to pay a child ticket.
  • After booking we will contact you to arrange the pick-up. Please, note, if you do not provide your pick-up details up to 24 hours before the tour, we do not guarantee the pick-up. For pick-up from different location, please, contact us.
  • Pick-up from the specific bus stops next to the hotels. From Area 1: all the villages between Amudara/Heraklion/Karteros/Amnissos/Kokkini Hani/Gournes/Gouves/Analipsi/Anissaras/Hersonissos/Stalida/Malia/Sissi
  • Area 2: Sises/Fodele/Agia Pelagia/Ligaria/Achlada/Mades/Ammoudi/Rodia/Palaiokastro/Pantanassa /Linoperamata/Gazi
  • Wednesday: English, German, French, Italian
  • Thursday: English, German, French
  • Sunday: English, German, French, Italian

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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