Viator
From €82
Matala Beach + Caves, Phaistos Palace & Southern Charm | Private
• Private experience • Flexible pace • Personalized routing Private full-day tour to Phaistos Palace and Matala Beach & Caves, combining South Crete’s archaeological heritage with relaxed coastal time by the Libyan Sea. The day begins at Phaistos Palace, overlooking the Messara Plain, with historical background provided outside the site and free time to explore independently. The tour continues to Matala Beach & Caves, known for their ancient use and later hippie-era cultural history. Free time is available for swimming, walking, or relaxing by the sea. One optional stop may be added, depending on interests, timing, and day flow: • Olive oil estate with tasting and lunch by Zaros Lake • Family-run winery with views • Seaside lunch by the Libyan Sea • Ancient Gortyn, former Roman capital • Kalyviani Monastery, a quiet spiritual stop You deserve the high standards of SunSud Tours. Crete • Private day trip • Shore excursion • Cruise-friendly From Heraklion Port • Hersonissos
Tour information provided by Viator.
- · Minimum 1 travelers
- · Up to 8 travelers
Photos
10 photos
Itinerary
Select a stop or tap a pin on the map to see details. 3 of 4 stops have map coordinates.
Route is approximate — 🚗 road, 🚶 walk, 🚲 bike, or ⛵ sea between the selected stops.
- 1
Archaeological Site of Phaistos
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.
60 minAdmission not included - 2
Matala Beach
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!
60 min - 3
Matala Caves
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 minAdmission not included - 4
Lake of Zaros Votomos
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.
90 min
What's included
- Bottled water
- Onboard Wi-Fi and Fast Charger
- Olive Oil & Premium Local Products Tasting Fee
- Knowledgeable Local Driver-Host Fluent in English
- Planning & Organization of your Personalized Tour
- Fuel, Tolls, Taxes, and Fees
- Liability Insurance
- Hygiene Amenities and First Aid Kit
- Private Transportation in a Comfortable Van
- Hotel, Harbor, or Meeting Point Pickup & Drop-Off
What's not included
- Entrance fees: 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
Good to know
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Your Driver-Host provides historical background, local context, and logistics throughout the day outside archaeological sites. Greek law requires a Licensed Guide for tours inside sites and museums; these can be arranged upon request for an in-depth visit.
- Travelers from Cruise ships should take the earliest possible option
- Travelers should bring swimwear & a beach towel
- Travelers should wear suitable shoes & clothes
- We can accommodate big groups. For groups of 9 or more, please contact us directly
Tickets
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Tour options
Heraklion Region & Port
Pick-Up Areas Heraklion City,: Port,Hersonissos, Piskopiano, Koutouloufari, Anissaras, Analipsi,Gouves,Kokkini, Malia, Stalis, Ammouda,Agia Pelagia, Fodele Pickup included
Once
Once Pickup included
Reviews
5.0 · 20 reviews
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