Greece · Archaeology

Private Gortys, Phaistos & Matala Daytrip from Heraklion

8 Hours Round trip from Pickup service provided in Heraklion. Easy pace

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The journey

Trip highlights

01 Private day trip to Gortys, Phaistos, and Matala from Heraklion
02 Discover important archaeological sites of ancient Crete
03 Visit Phaistos, one of the major palatial centres of Minoan civilization
04 Enjoy free time at Matala Beach and its famous caves
05 Flexible itinerary with time adjustments at each stop
06 Hotel pickup and drop-off included
07 Travel with a professional English-speaking local driver
08 Combine archaeology, coastal scenery, and relaxation in one day

Explore some of Crete’s most fascinating ancient sites on a private day trip from Heraklion, combining archaeology, scenic landscapes, and time by the sea. Visit Gortys, an important archaeological site with layers of Doric, Roman, and Byzantine history, then continue to Phaistos, one of the island’s great Minoan palatial centres with sweeping views over southern Crete.

Your journey also includes time in Matala, a legendary beach village known for its distinctive coastal scenery and famous caves. With private transport, hotel pickup and drop-off, and the flexibility to adjust your time at each stop, this experience offers a relaxed way to discover Crete’s ancient heritage and coastal charm in a single day.

Phaistos was one of the most important palatial centres of Minoan civilization and the most wealthy and powerful city in southern Crete.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 8 Hours

Tour type Private

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Included

Transport Included

Wheelchair access No

Cities Heraklion, Crete

Languages English, Greek

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Your Welcome driver will pick you up from your hotel in Heraklion at a time of your convenience to start your trip.Gortys or Gortyna is a municipality and an archaeological site on the Mediterranean island of Crete, 45 km away from the modern capital Heraklion.Phaistos was one of the most important palatial centres of Minoan civilization and the most wealthy and powerful city in southern Crete.Matala Beach in Crete is a legendary beach offering unique scenery, famous from the 1960's and later.

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Pickup service provided in Heraklion. 2 cities · 8 Hours

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Hotel or custom pickup and drop-off
Professional English-speaking local driver/informal guide
Fuel and Tolls
All taxes and handling charges
Hotel pickup and drop-off
WiFi on board
Water

What's Not Included

Meals and beverages
Tips and Gratuities
Phaistos Archaeological Site
Licensed guides available to accompany you inside the attractions

Know before you go

STROLLER OR PRAM ACCESSIBLE
PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION NEARBY
INFANT SEATS AVAILABLE
Not wheelchair accessible
Not suitable for pets
Infants must not sit on laps
For 1–4 people: A comfortable sedan will be assigned to your group.
For 5-8 people: A spacious minivan will be assigned to your group.
For 9-12 people: A private minibus will be assigned to your group.
Throughout your ride, our drivers serve as informal local guides—sharing stories, history, and local tips at every stop. Please note that drivers are not permitted to enter museums or archaeological areas, but they’ll ensure you make the most of your visit with suggestions and background information before you explore on your own.
Some stops on your itinerary may be closed on the date of travel due to public holidays, maintenance or special events. We recommend verifying opening hours on the attraction’s official website or contacting us before your tour. If a stop is unexpectedly closed, we will try to offer a suitable alternative.
Please show this to your driver
Your Welcome Pickups driver will be waiting for you at the selected pickup location and time.
Before your ride, you’ll receive your driver’s details — including their name, phone number, and car information — so you can easily recognize them.
Your driver will arrive on time and be ready to assist you and any special requests before starting your journey.
Please note that our sightseeing tours does not automatically include airport pickup or drop-off. If you wish to start or end your tour at the airport, simply select the option with airport pickup included when booking if available.
Kindly share any special requirements, such as traveling with a service animal or needing extra assistance, when booking your ride. This ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience for you.