Crete’s laid-back beach town of Matala packs a punch when it comes to guided experiences. Three standout tours showcase the best of this historic region. I’m especially fond of the Agiofarago Private Tour, which takes you through a dramatic gorge dotted with ancient caves – it’s perfect for history buffs and nature lovers alike. The Matala-Agia Galini-Spili combo tour hits all the right notes, connecting three charming towns and featuring those famous lion fountains that make Spili so special. For something more active, the Agiofarago Gorge Safari mixes hiking with local culture, including stops at vineyards and traditional meal breaks. Let’s explore the top-rated tours worth your time and money in Matala.
Key Points
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The Matala – Agiofarago Private Tour offers a 5-star rated, full-day guided safari through the Agiofarago Gorge, showcasing ancient caves and rock formations.
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The Rethymno: Matala, Agia Galini and Spili Tour is a 7-hour exploration with guided visits to Agia Galini, Matala, and the iconic lion-head fountains in Spili.
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The Matala Agiofarago Gorge Safari Tour is a highly rated, one-day excursion that takes visitors through vineyards, olive groves, and the scenic gorge, with opportunities to explore Roman tombs and Byzantine churches.
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The Samaria Gorge Hiking Tour is a challenging 9-hour trek covering 18 kilometers, providing an unforgettable experience through diverse flora and a scenic boat ride.
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The Faistos Palace Tour & Matala Visit offers a 6-hour exploration of ancient Minoan heritage, including the Faistos Palace ruins and the coastal town of Matala.
MATALA – AGIOFARAGO (Holy Gorge) PRIVATE TOUR
Nestled in the heart of Crete’s rugged landscape, the Matala – Agiofarago (Holy Gorge) Private Tour offers visitors a captivating exploration of the region’s natural beauty and historical significance.
Boasting a 5-star rating, this full-day excursion whisks travelers away from Matala to embark on a guided safari through the stunning Agiofarago Gorge. Along the way, you will discover ancient caves and rock formations, enjoy the serene beauty of the natural surroundings, and uncover the rich cultural heritage of the area.
With pickup services available, this private tour provides a personalized and enriching experience, catering to visitors’ interests and preferences.
At Kč 2,410, the Matala Agiofarago Gorge Safari Tour offers an exceptional value, delivering a comprehensive exploration of Crete’s captivating landscapes and history.
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking an unforgettable adventure, this private tour is a must-consider option during your time in Matala.
Read our full review: MATALA – AGIOFARAGO (Holy Gorge) PRIVATE TOUR Review
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From Rethymno: Matala , Agia Galini and Spili Tour Day Trip
Although nestled in the heart of Crete’s rugged landscape, the Rethymno: Matala, Agia Galini and Spili Tour Day Trip offers a diverse exploration of the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
This 7-hour tour takes travelers on a journey through three distinct destinations, with a mix of guided exploration and free time for independent discovery.
Guests will start with a 75-minute transfer to Agia Galini, where they’ll have 1.5 hours to savor the coastal charm, visit local shops, and enjoy coffee.
Next, it’s a 20-minute ride to Matala, where 3 hours of free time awaits to swim, relax on the beach, and explore the famous neolithic caves.
Lastly, the tour heads to Spili, a charming village known for its iconic lion-head fountains.
After a 30-minute drive, visitors will enjoy a 40-minute guided tour and sightseeing.
Priced from €25.11 per person, this comprehensive day trip includes hotel pickup, transportation, and a professional guide, making it an excellent value for Crete adventurers.
Read our full review: From Rethymno: Matala , Agia Galini and Spili Tour Day Trip Review
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Matala Agiofarago Gorge Safari Tour
Departing from the coastal charm of Agia Galini and the historical significance of Spili, the Matala Agiofarago Gorge Safari Tour offers an immersive adventure into Crete’s natural wonders.
Priced from €96.00 per person, this one-day excursion promises a captivating journey through vineyards, olive groves, and the scenic Agiofarago Gorge.
Along the way, guests can explore Roman tombs, Byzantine churches, and the renowned Matala Caves, once a haven for 1970s hippie culture.
With live guides available in multiple languages, the tour includes a traditional meal, pickup and drop-off service, and ample time for hiking, swimming, and sightseeing.
Though not suitable for certain travelers, the tour has earned a perfect 5/5 rating from past guests who praise its unforgettable experiences, knowledgeable guides, and beautiful destinations – an ideal alternative to typical group bus tours.
Read our full review: Matala Agiofarago Gorge Safari Tour Review
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From Agia Galini/Matala: Samaria Gorge Hiking Tour
For those seeking a thrilling outdoor adventure in Crete, the Samaria Gorge Hiking Tour from Agia Galini/Matala is an exceptional choice. This 9-hour excursion takes hikers on an 18-kilometer trek through the breathtaking Samaria Gorge, offering a glimpse of the White Mountains’ rugged beauty.
The hike traverses a terrain ranging from 3 to 150 meters wide, with towering rock walls soaring up to 700 meters high. The journey begins at the Omalos Plateau, where hikers will embark on a 4-6 hour trek through diverse flora and fauna, encountering century-old trees, wildflowers, and crystal-clear springs.
The experience isn’t for the faint of heart, as the terrain is uneven and rugged, making it unsuitable for those with health conditions.
After the hike, guests can relax in the charming fishing village of Agia Roumeli, enjoying a refreshing swim in the turquoise waters of the Libyan Sea. A scenic boat ride from Agia Roumeli to Chora Sfakion completes the day’s adventure, showcasing the stunning southern coast of Crete.
Read our full review: From Agia Galini/Matala: Samaria Gorge Hiking Tour Review
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Faistos Palace Tour & Matala Visit
Embarking on a 6-hour exploration, the Faistos Palace Tour & Matala Visit offers travelers a captivating blend of ancient Minoan heritage and picturesque coastal charm.
Priced at £489.08 per group (up to 3 participants), the tour allows visitors to explore the ruins of the Faistos Palace, the second-largest Minoan palace on the island of Crete. Guests will discover the enigmatic Phaistos Disc, marvel at the intricate Minoan frescoes and carvings, and learn about the region’s rich history and cultural exchange.
The tour then takes visitors to the charming coastal town of Matala, renowned for its stunning sandy beaches and crystalline waters.
Explore the iconic caves carved into the cliffs, once inhabited by 1960s hippies, and enjoy the vibrant waterfront promenade with its local tavernas, bars, and shops.
With the option to indulge in a wine tasting and visit to nearby museums and archaeological sites, this comprehensive tour promises an unforgettable experience in Crete.
Read our full review: Faistos Palace Tour & Matala Visit Review
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Agia Galini/Matala: Imbros Gorge & Frangokastelo Day Tour
What better way to experience the stunning natural landscapes of Crete than the Agia Galini/Matala: Imbros Gorge & Frangokastelo Day Tour? This 8-hour tour offers a chance to explore the famous Imbros Gorge, located 780m above sea level and adjacent to the renowned Samaria Gorge.
Hikers will trek 8km through the gorge in 2-2.5 hours, learning about the dramatic history of the Turkish occupation in 1867. After the gorge trek, visitors can relax and swim at the picturesque Frangokastello village.
The tour includes a live guide in German and English, air-conditioned transportation, and hotel pick-up/drop-off. Priced at Kč 1,556 per person, the tour features free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.
While reviews are generally positive, some suggest better group management and more guide support during the hike. This tour offers a chance to immerse in Crete’s natural wonders and rich history.
Read our full review: Agia Galini/Matala: Imbros Gorge & Frangokastelo Day Tour Review
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Hippies Beach – Matala Tour From Heraklion
Situated 68 km southwest of Heraklion, the picturesque Matala Beach has long been a hub for cultural and historical exploration.
This 7-hour Hippies Beach – Matala Tour from Heraklion offers visitors a chance to enjoy the area’s rich past and vibrant present.
Priced at $36.46 per person, the tour includes roundtrip transportation and an English-speaking guide. Highlights include enjoying the crystal-clear waters and warm sun, as well as visiting the prehistoric caves carved into the steep rocks – once home to hippies in the late 1960s and 1970s. An optional 4-euro entrance fee allows access to the Matala Caves.
With a flexible cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, this tour provides a hassle-free way to discover the cultural significance of Matala, from its Minoan and Roman history to its connection to the Zeus and Europa myth.
Travelers are advised to bring sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, and a camera to capture the scenic beauty of this unique destination.
Read our full review: Hippies Beach – Matala Tour From Heraklion Review
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Recap
Matala offers a variety of tours that cater to different interests. Visitors can explore the scenic Agiofarago Gorge, visit historic sites like the Faistos Palace, or hike through the Imbros Gorge. There are also tours that combine Matala with nearby destinations like Agia Galini and Spili. Whichever tour visitors choose, they’ll get to experience the natural beauty and rich history of this charming coastal town.