Minoan Luxuries: Ancient Palaces, Messara Wine Routes & Matala

8 to 9 hours (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: German and 2 more

Hop down to the heart of Central Crete, the beloved land of our ancestors, and let the wonders of the Minoan world collide on this luxurious passage of time.

From the comfort of a premium chauffeured vehicle & escorted by our top local insider revel in the endless luxuries of the ancient Messara plain where wine-red fertile soils treasure lavish vineyards & the oldest olive groves stretch perennially toward the horizon.

Visit a family award-winning winery set on the peak of allure panoramas & let our passionate winemakers immerse you into their intoxicating world. Luxuriate in ages unearthing the Bronze Age palaces of Phaistos & Gortyna along with storied villages & monasteries.

In the afternoon, tuck in the bohemian vibe of Matala that captivated Bob Dylan & Janis Joplin. Bask in the turquoise waters of the Libyan Sea & unwind in the charming village irresistible for its freshly caught grilled fish & finest ouzo.

To us, travel means putting fire in your soul with the best stories.

What's Included

Our concierge support before & during your day trip
Private expert guide in art, history, & archeology
Our assistance with the best restaurant recommendations & reservations
Exclusive insider-access opportunities & tailored details of your personal interest
Private guide: We take much pride in having the best local guides of Crete!
Personal pick-up & drop-off (flexible pick-up time)
VIP skip-the-line access & assistance with purchasing admission tickets
A chauffeured premium vehicle
Vehicle amenities: mineral water, Cretan fruits & snacks, Wi-Fi, USB sockets & hygiene amenities
Drinks and meals
Admission fees
Wine tasting expenses (if requested)

Meeting and pickup

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

Enjoy personal pick-up and drop-off from your hotel, villa, cruise or any other point of Crete island. NOTE: pick-up time is flexible and upon your final confirmation

OR
Meeting point
You can choose from multiple locations at checkout.
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 8 to 9 hours (approximately)
  • 1

    Plunge into the guided tour of the land of old-world splendor of Minoan Crete with our brilliant local guide.

    2 hours Admission ticket free
  • 2

    Wander the picturesque village of Agios Myronas and step into the sacred cave of the Saint where still flows the holy water.

    45 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 3

    Stroll the Gortyna archaeological site famous for the great Gortyn Code in the Doric dialect that later became the Spartan Law.

    45 minutes Admission ticket not included
  • 4

    Wallow in the central Crete vineyard tour along the emerald expanse of Messara Valley and visit a boutique winery to taste luxuriant wine-tasting flavors.

    45 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 5

    Embrace the legendary Faistos Palace, the seat of King Rhadamanthus, where the Phaistos disc hieroglyphic script was excavated.

    25 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 6

    Discover the Cretan sacred jewel of Odigitria monastery (Agiofarango) with a strong monastic tradition linked to the Apostle Paul.

    35 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 7

    Delight in scenes of the spectacular sunset fading behind the iconic Matala Caves as you bathe in the azure waters of the Libyan Sea.

    2 hours Admission ticket free
  • 8

    Taste delicious seafood dishes from the fresh local catch of the Matala village fishermen by indulging in the culinary significance of South Crete.

    1 hour Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    A potential region for your personal pick up and drop off.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    A potential region for your personal pick up and drop off.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    A potential region for your personal pick up and drop off.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    A potential region for your personal pick up and drop off.

    Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Supplied by Crete Private & Luxury Tours by Snami Travel

Tags

Wine Tastings
Bus Tours
Private Sightseeing Tours
Cultural Tours
Shore Excursions
Spring Break
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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from per group (up to 15)
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