From Heraklion: South Crete Festos and Matala With Lunch

Crete’s southern coast beckons with a captivating blend of ancient history and breathtaking natural beauty. From the well-preserved Minoan palace of Phaistos to the picturesque fishing village of Matala, this journey offers a glimpse into the region’s rich heritage. Travelers can explore the ruins, swim in the crystal-clear Libyan Sea, and savor traditional Cretan cuisine – all while taking in panoramic views of the majestic Ida Mountains. But there’s more to discover on this enchanting excursion beyond the beaches and archaeological sites.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Lunch Experiences In Crete.

Key Points

• Explore the ancient Minoan palace of Phaistos, a well-preserved archaeological site with intricate architecture and historical significance.
• Discover the picturesque fishing village of Matala, renowned for its crystal-clear Libyan Sea waters and world-famous cliffside caves.
• Savor the flavors of traditional Cretan cuisine with a panoramic lunch by the sea, surrounded by the stunning Ida Mountains.
• Marvel at the majestic Ida Mountains, the highest range in Crete, and their cultural and spiritual importance for the local people.
• Visit the Odigitria Monastery and its tholos tombs, providing a captivating glimpse into the region’s rich archaeological and cultural heritage.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Discover the Southern Coast of Crete

This excursion offers travelers the opportunity to explore the stunning southern coast of Crete, where they can discover a blend of ancient history, breathtaking natural landscapes, and the tranquil charm of seaside villages.

Along the way, visitors will be awed by the panoramic views of the Ida Mountains and the crystal-clear waters of the Libyan Sea.

The highlight of the coastal journey is the chance to swim in the extraordinary caves that dot the shoreline, offering a unique and unforgettable experience.

Whether it’s seeing the history of the Phaistos archaeological site or simply soaking up the serene atmosphere, travelers on this excursion will be captivated by the allure of Crete’s southern regions.

Explore Scenic Landscapes and History

The excursion begins with a guided tour of the ruins of Phaistos, an ancient Minoan palace that offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the region’s rich historical heritage. Travelers explore the well-preserved remains, discovering the grandeur of this once-thriving civilization.

From there, the journey continues to the picturesque fishing village of Matala, where the crystal-clear waters of the Libyan Sea await. Guests can then venture into the world-famous cliffside caves, marveling at the stunning natural formations.

The final stop is the monastery of Odigitria, where travelers can admire the tholos tombs and take in the breathtaking panoramic views of the Ida Mountains.

Throughout the day, participants savor a traditional lunch by the sea, seeing the authentic flavors of the region.

Visit Phaistos Archaeological Site

Visitors first explore the well-preserved ruins of the ancient Minoan palace at Phaistos, where they learn about the region’s rich historical heritage through the guidance of a knowledgeable tour guide.

The Phaistos site dates back to the 3rd millennium BC and was one of the most important centers of the Minoan civilization.

Highlights of the tour include:

• Discovering the intricate architectural layout of the palatial complex, including its grand staircases, courtyards, and storage rooms.
• Admiring the impressive ancient technology, such as the Phaistos Disc, a mysterious clay tablet with an undeciphered script.
• Learning about the daily life, customs, and religious practices of the Minoan people who once inhabited this ancient site.

After the tour, participants continue their journey to explore other captivating destinations along the southern Cretan coastline.

Enjoy Traditional Lunch by the Sea

After exploring the ancient ruins of Phaistos, participants enjoy a traditional Greek lunch by the Libyan Sea. The meal, prepared with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, provides a chance to savor the flavors of Cretan cuisine while taking in the stunning coastal scenery.

Overlooking the crystal-clear waters, travelers have the opportunity to relax and recharge before continuing their journey along the southern Cretan coastline. The restaurant’s seaside location offers panoramic views of the Ida Mountains, creating a picturesque setting for the mid-day respite.

The traditional dishes served during this lunch break give participants a true taste of the region’s culinary heritage, complementing the archaeological and natural wonders experienced earlier in the day.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Panoramic Views of Ida Mountains

Amidst the excursion, participants enjoy panoramic vistas of the majestic Ida Mountains, whose peaks rise majestically over the Libyan Sea, providing a stunning backdrop to the coastal scenery.

These ancient mountains, also known as Psiloritis, are the highest range in Crete, reaching an impressive height of 2,456 meters.

Travelers are captivated by:

• The rugged, snow-capped summits that pierce the azure sky
• The lush, verdant slopes blanketed in fragrant pine and cypress forests
• The numerous caves and gorges carved into the mountainsides over millennia

The Ida Mountains have long held cultural and spiritual significance for the people of Crete, and their splendor leaves a lasting impression on all who witness it.

Swim in Libyan Sea Waters

One of the highlights of the excursion is the opportunity to swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Libyan Sea, which borders the southern coast of Crete.

Tucked within a scenic fishing village, the azure expanse of the Libyan Sea beckons travelers to dive in and cool off from the Mediterranean sun.

The warm, turquoise waters are inviting, and swimmers can explore the sea’s underwater caves and coves.

The tour group will have ample time to enjoy a refreshing swim, taking in the stunning coastal views and soaking up the serene atmosphere of the Libyan Sea.

This is a chance to truly take in the natural beauty of southern Crete.

Explore the Cliffside Caves

As part of the tour, visitors can explore the world-famous cliffside caves located along the coastline near Matala. These ancient caves, carved into the towering limestone cliffs, have a rich history dating back to prehistoric times when they served as dwellings for early Cretan inhabitants.

Visitors can:

• Wander through the network of interconnected caves, marveling at the intricate rock formations and natural sculptures.
• Discover the remnants of ancient wall carvings and graffiti left by the cave’s former inhabitants.
• Swim in the crystal-clear waters that fill some of the larger caverns, creating a serene and otherworldly swimming experience.

The caves offer a glimpse into Crete’s distant past and a chance to take in the island’s stunning natural beauty.

Monastery of Odigitria and Tholos Tombs

Along With the natural wonders, the tour also includes a visit to the Monastery of Odigitria, where travelers can witness the remarkable tholos tombs – ancient circular burial chambers that provide a glimpse into Crete’s rich archaeological heritage.

These unique structures, dating back thousands of years, offer a fascinating insight into the burial practices and beliefs of the island’s ancient inhabitants. Visitors can explore the monastery’s grounds, admire its Byzantine architecture, and learn about its historical significance from the knowledgeable guide.

This stop on the tour provides a well-rounded cultural experience, allowing travelers to not only enjoy Crete’s stunning natural landscapes but also uncover the region’s captivating archaeological treasures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Pets Allowed on the Tour?

The tour does not allow pets. The tour is focused on exploring historical sites, swimming in the Libyan Sea, and visiting a monastery, which are activities not suitable for pets. The safety and comfort of all participants is the priority.

Is There a Discount for Students or Seniors?

There don’t appear to be any discounts mentioned for students or seniors on this tour. The information provided focuses on the tour highlights, itinerary, and inclusions without specifying any age-based pricing considerations.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Include Additional Sites?

The tour can likely be customized to include additional sites, though this may incur extra costs or require altering the itinerary. It’s best to discuss any desired changes with the tour operator to determine feasibility and pricing.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Snorkeling Gear?

No, you don’t need to bring your own snorkeling gear. The tour includes swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the Libyan Sea, but snorkeling equipment is not mentioned as an inclusion. Bring your swimwear and towel, and the tour will provide the necessary gear.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour does not offer an option to extend the duration. However, travelers can explore the area further on their own after the scheduled 8-hour tour. Private transportation arrangements may be available for an additional fee.

Recap

This captivating journey along Crete’s southern coast offers a unique blend of ancient history, stunning natural beauty, and authentic cultural experiences.

From the well-preserved Minoan palace of Phaistos to the picturesque fishing village of Matala, visitors can enjoy the region’s rich heritage, savor traditional Cretan cuisine, and discover the serene wonders of the Libyan Sea.

This comprehensive day trip provides an unforgettable glimpse into the enchanting allure of southern Crete.

You can check if your dates are available here: