South Crete: Matala Hippies Beach & Gortys Archaeological Site

Exploring south Crete with this full-day guided tour offers a perfect mix of ancient history and relaxed seaside vibes. Starting from Heraklion, you’ll visit the Gortys archaeological site, the island’s former Roman capital, and then enjoy four hours of free time in Matala, famed for its hippie caves and scenic beach. For just under $50 per person, you get around 8 to 9 hours of transportation, guided insights, and ample time on your own to soak up the atmosphere.

What we love most about this tour is the balance of guided exploration and free time—you’ll get expert commentary at Gortys and then the chance to explore Matala at your own pace, whether that’s swimming, wandering the caves, or just relaxing with a drink. Plus, the air-conditioned bus makes the sometimes long ride comfortable, especially during a warm Crete summer.

A possible consideration is that the Gortys site is relatively small, which means it doesn’t take long to see. If you’re a history buff wanting an in-depth tour, you might find the time at Gortys a bit brief. However, if your main goal is to experience the beauty of Matala and its relaxed atmosphere, this tour hits the mark.

This experience suits travelers who prefer a guided day out with minimal planning, enjoy a mix of culture and seaside leisure, and appreciate good value for a full day’s exploration. It’s especially well-suited for those staying in Heraklion who want to see a different side of Crete without the hassle of driving.

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation in air-conditioned coaches makes the long ride pleasant.
• Guided tour of Gortys offers valuable insights into Crete’s ancient history.
• Free time in Matala allows for swimming, caves, and relaxing at your own pace.
• Affordable price point provides good value for a full-day experience.
• Small group size (max 50 travelers) ensures a more relaxed atmosphere.
• Highly rated guides add to the overall enjoyment and understanding of the sites.

Exploring South Crete: A Practical Guide

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

The day begins early, with pickup from designated points in Heraklion. The bus ride to Gortys takes about an hour and a half, a good opportunity to settle in and enjoy the scenery. The focus here is on the Gortys archaeological site, which dates back over 5,000 years. While the site is relatively compact, it is packed with ruins from various eras, including the Roman period, making it a worthwhile stop for history enthusiasts.

Our guide, whose reviews rave about their knowledge, will walk us through the ruins, pointing out key features like the famous Gortys Law Code and remnants of ancient streets. Expect about an hour of exploration, enough to appreciate the site’s significance without feeling rushed. Reviewers like Joao C and Josep C mention that the guide made the visit very worthwhile, emphasizing the quality of the commentary.

From Gortys, the journey shifts to the coast, with a quick 20-minute drive to Matala. Here, the highlight is the beach and the iconic hippie caves, which gained fame in the 1960s and 70s as a refuge for free spirits and musicians. The free time allotted—about four and a half hours—is ample for swimming, exploring the caves, or just relaxing on the distinctive red sands.

One reviewer, Lisa L, notes, “Matala beach is definitely worth checking out. The whole area has a unique vibe! Very picturesque.” You’ll love the combination of natural beauty and a touch of counterculture history, with colorful paintings and the relaxed village atmosphere.

What Makes Gortys Special?

Gortys is not the largest archaeological site on Crete, but it’s a gem for history buffs. The site’s layers of history, from ancient Cretan settlements to Roman rule, make it a fascinating walk through time. Some reviews mention that the site is small, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in authenticity and atmospheric ruins sitting just by the entrance.

Expect to see remnants of ancient streets, a Roman odeon, and the notable Law Code inscribed on a stone slab. The guide’s expertise helps you connect the dots, making the visit more meaningful. As one traveler put it, “It’s a nice stop in between,” but another said, “The time in both places was enough to know everything,” which suggests the balance between guided insight and free exploration is well maintained.

The Magic of Matala Beach

Your free time at Matala is the star of this tour, especially if you love coastal scenery and informal village life. The beach’s distinctive red cliffs and caves create a captivating backdrop for relaxing or sightseeing. Many visitors, like Yolanda H, expressed how this was “a very special village,” with enough time to enjoy swimming, strolls, and visiting the caves with their vibrant murals and history.

In the 1960s, these caves served as shelter for hippies, and today they’re a symbol of free spirits and artists. You might find local cafes and tavernas lining the coast, perfect spots for a leisurely lunch or a cold drink. The reviews repeatedly mention how “Matala is absolutely gorgeous,” with photos and descriptions that make it clear this is a place to unwind.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

The cost of around $50 covers transportation, the guide, driver, and all taxes. Entrance to Gortys costs about €10, and the caves are free to explore, though some choose to pay a small fee to access certain parts or visit caves with more murals. Lunch isn’t included, so you’ll want to bring snacks or plan to eat in Matala.

The tour is suited for travelers with moderate physical fitness, as some walking over uneven terrain at Gortys and around the caves might be required. The group size, capped at 50, keeps the experience intimate enough for questions and lively conversation.

What Travelers Say

Most reviews are glowing, with a 4.8/5 rating from 30 reviews. People praise the organized nature of the trip, the knowledgeable guides, and the scenic beauty of both sites. For example, Joao C and Josep C described the tour as “very well organized” and “excellent,” emphasizing how the guide enhanced their understanding.

Others appreciated the ample free time to enjoy Matala, especially those who prefer a relaxed pace. Several travelers mentioned that the length of the stops was just right, providing enough time to enjoy each location without feeling rushed.

However, a few reviews noted that Gortys is small and the tour might be less suitable for those seeking a more in-depth archaeological experience. Some also remarked on the long bus ride from their hotel, but most found it acceptable given the value of the visit.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors to Crete who want a snapshot of the island’s history and scenic coast without renting a car. It’s perfect for those who enjoy guided insights but also appreciate free time to explore independently. If you’re drawn to beach life and colorful villages, Matala’s relaxed vibe is a highlight.

It’s also a good choice for families or older travelers due to the moderate physical activity involved and the comfortable transport. The small group size ensures a friendly atmosphere, and the affordability makes it accessible for many travelers.

Final Thoughts

This full-day tour to Gortys and Matala stands out as a practical and rewarding way to experience some of Crete’s ancient history and coastal charm in one go. The combination of guided exploration and free time offers flexibility, making it suitable for a variety of travelers.

The knowledgeable guides and the stunning scenery are the highlights, providing both education and leisure in a single day. While the archaeological site is small, the historical insights and the scenic drive add meaningful context to your Crete experience.

If you’re after a well-organized, value-packed day that combines history, natural beauty, and a laid-back beach town, this tour is worth considering. It’s especially perfect if you prefer to leave the driving to someone else and focus on soaking up the sights.

FAQ

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs approximately $49.73 per person, covering transportation, the guide, and taxes. Entrance to Gortys costs about €10, and the caves are free to visit.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 8 to 9 hours, with around 1.5 hours traveling each way, an hour at Gortys, and approximately 4.5 hours free in Matala.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, so you should plan to bring snacks or buy food in Matala.

What is the group size?
The tour caps at 50 travelers, ensuring a more relaxed and personal experience.

Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
Yes, as long as participants have moderate physical fitness, since some walking and exploring are involved.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, entrance to Gortys costs around €10, and the caves may charge a small fee if you choose to access certain areas.

What do reviews say about the guides?
Reviews highlight that guides are very knowledgeable and make the experience more engaging, with many travelers praising their helpfulness and professionalism.

This tour offers a well-rounded taste of south Crete—perfect for those eager to combine history, scenic beauty, and leisure in one memorable day.