Matala - Ancient Phaistos - Faistos & Gortyn

Nestled along the rugged coastline of South Crete, Matala beckons visitors with its enchanting blend of ancient history and captivating natural beauty. Travelers can enjoy the timeless allure of Minoan civilizations, exploring the impressive ruins of Phaistos and Gortyna, while also indulging in the vibrant local culture and stunning vistas of the Libyan Sea. Whether it’s hiking through archaeological wonders, swimming in crystal-clear waters, or savoring the flavors of traditional cuisine, this captivating destination offers a truly unforgettable experience. But the journey has only just begun, as there’s much more to discover in this hidden gem of the Mediterranean.

Key Points

Explore the ancient Minoan sites of Phaistos, Gortyna, and Matala on an 8-hour guided tour in South Crete.
Visit the impressive Minoan palace of Phaistos and the birthplace of the first known code of laws at Gortyna.
Enjoy 3 hours at the iconic Matala Beach for swimming, shopping, and dining in a relaxed, bohemian atmosphere.
Benefit from live guides and audio guides available in multiple languages to enhance your understanding of the Minoan civilization.
Witness panoramic views of the Libyan Sea and the dramatic Cretan coastline during the tour.

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour covers several ancient sites in South Crete, including the Archaeological Site of Gortyna, Phaistos Minoan Palace, and the picturesque town of Matala, over the course of an 8-hour excursion.

Priced from $784.17 per group (up to 2 participants), the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, as well as a reserve now & pay later option.

This comprehensive experience allows visitors to enjoy the region’s rich history, from the impressive Minoan ruins to the stunning coastlines.

Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a unique adventure, this tour provides an unforgettable glimpse into the treasures of South Crete.

Itinerary and Highlights

This tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the ancient sites and natural wonders of South Crete. Visitors can look forward to a 1-hour guided tour of the Archaeological Site of Gortyna, delving into the history of this wealthy city that was the birthplace of the first code of laws.

Next, they’ll spend 1.5 hours exploring the captivating Phaistos Minoan Palace, a crucial center of the Minoan civilization that’s less crowded than the famous Knossos site.

After the historical immersion, the tour allows 3 hours at the picturesque Matala Beach for swimming, shopping, and dining, while taking in the panoramic views of the Libyan Sea and learning about the Minoan legacy.

The highlights of this tour include:

Visiting the historical significance of Gortyna
Exploring the Minoan Palace of Phaistos
Relaxing and indulging at the scenic Matala Beach
Experiencing the rich Minoan cultural heritage

Pickup and Drop-off Information

The tour offers pickup from various locations within the North Heraklion region, covering a total of 78 pickup and drop-off points, including popular hotels and resorts. For those staying at remote hotels or Airbnbs, participants can contact the tour provider to determine the nearest pickup point. However, extra charges may apply for pickups from the Rethimno, Chania, and Mires regions.

Pickup Area	Pickup Locations	Extra Charges
North Heraklion	78 locations	No
Rethimno	Selected locations	Yes
Chania	Selected locations	Yes
Mires	Selected locations	Yes

Providing the pickup details at least 24 hours before the tour ensures a smooth service.

Guided Experience and Language Options

Live tour guides are available in multiple languages, including English, French, German, Greek, Polish, Russian, and Spanish.

Alternatively, participants can opt for an audio guide offered in English, French, German, Italian, Polish, Russian, and Spanish.

The tour provider also offers the flexibility to personalize the itinerary based on the interests of the participants.

The guided experience ensures a comprehensive understanding of the historical significance and cultural richness of the visited sites.
Language options cater to the diverse needs of international travelers, fostering an inclusive and informative experience.
Personalized itinerary adjustments allow participants to focus on the aspects that most intrigue them.
This guided tour provides a well-rounded exploration of South Crete’s ancient wonders.

Important Information and Requirements

Upon booking, participants must provide their pickup details at least 24 hours prior to the tour to ensure seamless service.

Plus, they’ll need to specify their area of residence and contact number during the booking process.

Though the tour itself covers the entrance fees to the archaeological sites, any costs for lunch, museum visits, or boat tickets may incur extra charges.

Guests are encouraged to check their email spam folders for the confirmation details following their reservation.

It’s important to note that the available pickup and drop-off locations cover the North Heraklion region, with additional charges applying for pickups from Rethimno, Chania, and Mires.

Being mindful of these requirements will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable tour experience.

Minoan Civilization and Historical Significance

Notably, the Minoan civilization was a Bronze Age culture that flourished on the island of Crete, establishing it as a crucial center of ancient Mediterranean history.

Phaistos, one of the largest Minoan palatial sites, offers visitors a glimpse into this influential civilization’s architectural prowess and cultural legacy.

Plus, the historical significance of Gortyna, a wealthy city that served as the birthplace of the first known code of laws, further underscores the region’s profound impact on the development of early Greek society.

The Minoan civilization’s influence is evident in:

Its advanced architectural and engineering feats
Innovative agricultural and trading practices
Sophisticated artistic and cultural achievements
Lasting impact on the development of Western civilization

Libyan Sea and Panoramic Views

During the tour, visitors are treated to panoramic vistas of the captivating Libyan Sea, offering a breathtaking backdrop to the exploration of the region’s rich Minoan heritage.

As the group makes their way through the ancient sites, they’ll be able to take in sweeping views of the azure waters and the dramatic coastline that have long inspired travelers.

The Libyan Sea’s tranquil beauty provides a serene contrast to the impressive ruins, allowing visitors to immerse themselves fully in the timeless allure of this unique corner of Crete.

These stunning panoramic perspectives lend an extra layer of wonder to the already fascinating journey through the island’s Minoan past.

Swimming, Shopping, and Dining at Matala

After exploring the archaeological wonders of Gortyna and Phaistos, travelers can look forward to spending three captivating hours at the idyllic Matala Beach. Here, they’ll have the opportunity to swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Libyan Sea, browse the charming local shops, and indulge in delectable Mediterranean cuisine at the beachfront restaurants.

The relaxed atmosphere of Matala Beach provides the perfect respite from the day’s historic discoveries, allowing visitors to:

Unwind and soak up the sun on the golden sand
Discover unique handcrafted goods and souvenirs
Savor the region’s fresh seafood and authentic flavors
Connect with the laidback, bohemian spirit of the village

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for the Tour?

There are no age restrictions or requirements for this tour. Participants of all ages are welcome to join the experience, which can be tailored to their interests and needs by the knowledgeable local guide.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Private Groups or Special Requests?

Yes, the tour can be customized for private groups or special requests. The tour operator offers personalized itinerary adjustments based on the participants’ interests and can accommodate specific needs.

What Type of Transportation Is Provided During the Tour?

The tour includes private transportation throughout the day. Participants are picked up from their hotel or a nearby location and transported to each site via an air-conditioned vehicle driven by a professional driver.

Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers Available for the Tour?

There don’t appear to be any special discounts or offers currently advertised for this tour. The standard pricing is $784.17 per group of up to 2 participants, with the option to reserve without an upfront payment.

Can I Book the Tour for a Specific Date and Time, or Is It a Set Schedule?

The tour can be booked for a specific date and time, providing flexibility to fit your schedule. You’ll need to contact the provider to check availability and make arrangements for the pickup location that works best for you.