Matala Beach + Caves, Phaistos Palace & Southern Charm | Private

5.0
(18 reviews)

7 to 8 hours (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: English

Unforgettable South Crete Private Tour: History, Coast & Culture!

Discover South Crete's diverse beauty: vibrant Matala Beach & Caves (Hippy history!) and ancient wonders of Phaistos. Plus, choose your adventure: Scenic Lake + Olive Oil Tasting, Signature Winery, Lunch with great views of the Libyan Sea, or Gortyn's ruins.

Great for families & explorers!

Thank you for choosing SunSud Tours !
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Day Trip - Private Tour -Shore Excursion- Cruise Friendly- Heraklion Port - Crete - From Heraklion -Elounda - Ag. Nikolaos -Hersonissos

What's Included

Onboard Wi-Fi and Fast Charger
Olive Oil & Premium Local Products Tasting Fee
Bottled water
Fuel, Tolls, Taxes, and Fees
Private Local Driver-Guide Fluent in English
Hotel, Harbor, or Meeting Point Pickup and Drop-Off
Hygiene Amenities and First Aid Kit
Private Transportation in a Comfortable Van
Phaistos Palace (Free: EU <25 / Non-EU <18)
Licensed Guide (multi-language, optional, extra charge)
Winery Tour & Tasting of Indigenous Wines Fee
Personal expenses, tips & gratuities
Lunch is an Optional Experience

Meeting and pickup

Pickup points
You can choose a pickup location at checkout (multiple pickup locations are available).
Pickup details:

Pick-Up Point: Outside your Hotel Reception. -For Cruise Passengers: Outside the main Heraklion Port Passenger Terminal Building Pick-ups outside the designated area -Available upon request (extra fee may apply)

Itinerary

Duration: 7 to 8 hours (approximately)
  • 1

    This significant archaeological site features the ruins of a grand Minoan palace, offering insights into one of the earliest advanced civilizations in Europe, and is home to the enigmatic Phaistos Disc.

    1 hour Admission ticket not included
  • 2

    Matala Beach, with its golden sands, turquoise waters, and ancient cliffside caves, exudes a laid-back, bohemian vibe reminiscent of its 1960s hippie days. Known for inspiring artists and musicians, the beach continues to radiate a sense of freedom and creativity. The breathtaking sunshine over the Libyan Sea, casting a warm glow on the cliffs, enhances its unforgettable charm. - Don’t forget to bring your swimwear, towel, and sunscreen!

    1 hour Admission ticket free
  • 3

    Carved into the cliffs, these ancient Roman and early Christian tombs were later inhabited by 1960s hippies, creating a unique blend of ancient history and modern counterculture.

    30 minutes Admission ticket not included
  • 4

    Located at the base of Mount Psiloritis, Zaros Lake is a serene freshwater lake surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for relaxing, hiking, and enjoying traditional Cretan hospitality. Zaros Lake is renowned for its tavernas, which serves fresh fish caught directly from the lake. -A stop for lunch here is optional but highly recommended.

    1 hour 30 minutes Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Please note that, according to Greek law, only licensed guides are permitted to escort visitors inside archaeological sites. Our driver-guide will be with you throughout the day and can provide general background information, but they are not authorized to guide inside the sites themselves. If you would like a licensed guide to accompany you for a more in-depth experience, we would be happy to arrange this upon request.
  • Travelers from Cruise ships should take the earliest possible option
  • Travelers should bring swimwear & a beach towel
Supplied by SunSud Tours

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Tags

Day Trips
Full-day Tours
Bus Tours
Private Sightseeing Tours
Cultural Tours
Ports of Call Tours
Shore Excursions
Excellent Quality
Additional fees
New Product
Port Pickup
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

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

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Rating

5.0 Based on 18 18 reviews
5 stars
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