Situated on the southern coast of Crete, this captivating tour unveils the island’s rich history and stunning natural beauty. Visitors will marvel at the well-preserved ruins of ancient Gortyna, once the capital, and the iconic Minoan Palace of Phaistos, offering insights into the advanced Minoan civilization. The highlight, however, is the enchanting Matala Beach, where travelers can swim, relax, and explore the famous Matala Caves – a former hippie haven. With delectable seafood and a charming local village, this tour promises an unforgettable exploration of South Crete’s captivating attractions. What secrets and surprises await those who choose to embark on this journey?
Key Points
- Explore the ancient archaeological sites of Gortyna and the Minoan Palace of Phaistos, offering insights into Crete’s rich history and cultural heritage.
- Discover the charming coastal village of Matala, known for its iconic caves, stunning beaches, and vibrant local life.
- Enjoy a panoramic tour of the picturesque southern Cretan coastline, showcasing the natural beauty of the Libyan Sea.
- Benefit from the expertise of a multilingual guide who brings the past to life through engaging storytelling and in-depth knowledge.
- Tailor your experience with flexible pickup and drop-off options across the North Heraklion region, with potential extra charges for other areas.
Tour Overview
This tour offers a panoramic exploration of the Libyan Sea, combining archaic history, local life traditions, and recreational activities at Matala Bay over an 8-hour duration.
Guests will be picked up from 78 locations within the North Heraklion region, with possible extra charges for pickup from Rethimno, Chania, or Mires. After the tour, they’ll be dropped off at one of 78 locations.
The itinerary includes guided tours of the Archaeological Site of Gortyna and the Minoan Palace of Phaistos, as well as a 3-hour break for photos, free time, shopping, and swimming at Matala Beach.
The tour is led by experienced, multilingual guides and includes entrance fees, but lunch, boat tickets, and individual expenses are excluded.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Pappagiannades.
Pickup and Drop-off
The tour provides pickup from 78 locations within the North Heraklion region, with possible extra charges for pickup from Rethimno, Chania, or Mires. This ensures convenient access to the tour for participants across a wide area.
After the day’s activities, guests will be dropped off at one of the 78 designated locations, making it easy for them to return to their original starting point. The flexibility of the pickup and drop-off system is a key feature of this comprehensive tour, allowing travelers to seamlessly integrate the experience into their overall Crete itinerary.
With a focus on convenience and accessibility, the tour caters to the needs of a diverse group of visitors.
Archaeological Site of Gortyna
Guided tours of the Archaeological Site of Gortyna offer visitors a glimpse into the ancient city’s rich history, with knowledgeable guides leading them through the well-preserved ruins.
Gortyna was one of the most important cities in ancient Crete, serving as the capital of the island during the Roman era.
The site boasts an impressive array of archaeological finds, including the famous Law Code of Gortyna, one of the longest ancient Greek inscriptions ever discovered.
Tourists can explore the ruins of ancient temples, theaters, and the iconic Basilica, all while learning about the city’s role in Crete’s storied past.
With its blend of historical significance and well-maintained ruins, Gortyna offers a captivating glimpse into the island’s ancient origins.
Minoan Palace of Phaistos
Situated on a hilltop in southern Crete, the Minoan Palace of Phaistos captivates visitors with its well-preserved ruins and insights into the island’s ancient Minoan civilization.
Constructed around 1900 BC, the sprawling palace complex offers a glimpse into the architectural and social sophistication of the Minoan people, who established one of Europe’s earliest advanced societies on the island.
Explore the grand ceremonial courtyard, intricate storage rooms, and advanced drainage systems that showcase the Minoans’ engineering prowess.
Discover the iconic Phaistos Disc, a mysterious clay artifact found in the palace’s ruins, which continues to puzzle archaeologists with its undeciphered hieroglyphic script.
A visit to Phaistos provides a captivating window into Crete’s distant past.
More Great Tours NearbyMatala Beach Experience
Matala Bay’s natural beauty and laid-back atmosphere captivates visitors, inviting them to unwind and enjoy the area’s unique blend of ancient history and contemporary charm.
After exploring the archaeological wonders of Phaistos and Gortyna, guests can enjoy a well-deserved break at Matala Beach. This idyllic coastal spot offers a chance to swim, relax, and soak up the sun.
Visitors can also:
- Explore the famous Matala Caves, which were once used as dwellings and later as a hippie haven in the 1960s
- Wander through the charming village, with its whitewashed buildings, vibrant cafés, and local shops
- Indulge in a delicious seafood lunch at one of the seaside tavernas
- Capture the stunning views of the Libyan Sea and the picturesque cliffs surrounding the bay
Inclusions and Pricing
The tour package includes round-trip transfers from various locations within the North Heraklion region, with potential extra charges for pickups from Rethimno, Chania, or the Mires region.
An experienced multilingual guide accompanies visitors throughout the excursion, providing guided tours of the Archaeological Site of Gortyna and the Phaistos Minoan Palace.
The tour also offers a break, photo stop, and free time for swimming, shopping, and exploring the picturesque Matala Beach.
Entrance fees to the museums and archaeological sites are included, but lunch, boat tickets, and individual expenses are not.
Experienced Multilingual Guide
The experienced multilingual guide leads visitors through the excursion, providing in-depth commentary on the Archaeological Site of Gortyna and the Phaistos Minoan Palace.
They share captivating stories about the ancient civilizations and bring the sites to life through their expertise. The guide’s multilingual abilities ensure that guests from diverse backgrounds can fully engage with the tour and gain a deeper understanding of Crete’s rich history.
Their passion and knowledge make the experience truly memorable. Highlights of the guide’s expertise include:
- Fluency in multiple languages, including English, Greek, and others
- Extensive training and experience in archaeology and cultural heritage
- Engaging storytelling abilities that bring the past to the present
- Adaptability to cater to the needs and interests of each group
Explore South Crete
Crete’s southern coastline beckons visitors to explore its captivating history and natural splendor, offering a multifaceted experience that encompasses ancient ruins, picturesque villages, and the serene Libyan Sea.
This panoramic tour to the south showcases the Archaeological Site of Gortyna, a significant Minoan palace that has stood witness to the island’s rich past. Nearby, the magnificent Phaistos Palace reveals the architectural and cultural achievements of the Minoan civilization.
The highlight of the tour is the idyllic Matala Bay, where visitors can explore local life traditions, enjoy swimming in the crystal-clear waters, and indulge in leisure activities.
This comprehensive journey through southern Crete promises an unforgettable blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks. The tour does not include lunch, so you’re welcome to pack a picnic or purchase snacks and beverages during the free time at Matala Beach.
How Much Time Is Spent at Each Site?
The tour spends 1 hour at the Archaeological Site of Gortyna, 1.5 hours at the Phaistos Minoan Palace, and 3 hours for a break, photo stops, free time, and swimming at Matala Beach.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions. It’s suitable for all ages, making it an excellent choice for families. Participants can enjoy the historical sites, local traditions, and recreation at Matala Beach regardless of their age.
Can I Extend My Time at Matala Beach?
Yes, you can extend your time at Matala Beach. The tour includes 3 hours of free time at Matala, so you’re welcome to stay longer if you’d like to spend more time swimming, relaxing, or exploring the area.
Is There a Discount for Children or Seniors?
The tour does not offer any discounts for children or seniors. The price is the same for all participants regardless of age. However, children under a certain age may be able to enter the sites for free.
Recap
This captivating tour through South Crete’s ancient ruins and natural wonders offers a unique opportunity to take in the island’s rich history and stunning landscapes.
Visitors can marvel at the well-preserved sites of Gortyna and Phaistos, then unwind at the enchanting Matala Beach, exploring the famous caves and savoring local seafood.
With an experienced multilingual guide, this tour provides a comprehensive and unforgettable exploration of South Crete’s treasures.
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