Greece · Archaeology

Gortys, Festos & Matala Beach Private Tour

8 Hours Pickup service provided in Heraklion. to Drop-off service provided in Heraklion. Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Visit ancient Gortys, one of Crete’s most historically significant cities
  • 02 Explore St. Titus’ Church and traces of Crete’s early Christian heritage
  • 03 Discover the Minoan Palace of Festos in the Messara Plain
  • 04 See the site associated with the mysterious Phaistos Disc
  • 05 Enjoy sweeping views over the valley and surrounding mountains
  • 06 Relax at Matala Beach on the Libyan Sea
  • 07 Explore the cliffside caves linked to Roman and hippie history
  • 08 Travel in a private vehicle with hotel pickup and drop-off in Heraklion

Discover a rich cross-section of Crete on this private day tour, combining ancient history, archaeological heritage, and time by the sea. Visit Gortys, explore the remarkable Minoan Palace of Festos, and continue to Matala Beach for a relaxed coastal finale.

Along the way, uncover layers of the island’s past, from early Christian and Roman-era landmarks to one of Crete’s most important Minoan sites. Then trade ruins for seaside scenery as you enjoy Matala’s famous caves, golden beach, and laid-back atmosphere.

Unwind on the golden sands of Matala Beach, where the crystal-clear waters of the Libyan Sea meet a vibrant bohemian atmosphere, once a haven for hippies in the 1960s and 1970s.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 8 Hours
Tour type Shared
Activity level Easy
Accommodation Included
Transport Included
Wheelchair access Not applicable
City Heraklion
Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Gortys

One of Crete’s most historically significant cities, with origins stretching back thousands of years. As you explore its ancient ruins, you’ll visit St. Titus’ Church, an early Christian basilica dedicated to the island’s first bishop, reflecting the city’s deep religious history.

Festos (Phaistos)

Explore the Minoan Palace of Festos, one of Crete’s most significant archaeological sites dating back to 6000 BC, where a once-thriving civilization flourished in the Messara Plain. Marvel at the mysterious Phaistos Disc, an undeciphered clay artifact, and take in breath-taking views of the surrounding valley and mountains, offering a glimpse into Crete’s ancient past.

Matala Beach

Unwind on the golden sands of Matala Beach, where the crystal-clear waters of the Libyan Sea meet a vibrant bohemian atmosphere, once a haven for hippies in the 1960s and 1970s. Explore the prehistoric caves carved into the cliffs—once ancient Roman tombs and later hippie dwellings—before enjoying a delicious seaside lunch at a traditional taverna.

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Pickup service provided in Heraklion. to Drop-off service provided in Heraklion. 1 city · 8 Hours

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Professional Drivers with Deep knowledge of history. [Not licensed to accompany you in any site.]
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Transport by private vehicle
  • Bottled water

What's Not Included

  • Entrance Fees [25€ per person]
  • Licensed Tour guide upon request depending on availability [Additional cost]
  • Food & Drinks

Know before you go

  • Not suitable for pets
  • Infants must not sit on laps
  • The duration of the tours is approximate, the exact duration will depend on the pick up location, the time of the day & traffic conditions.
  • Don't hesitate to ask any more questions you may have.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Pickup service provided in Heraklion.
Tour start
Pickup service provided in Heraklion.
Tour end
Drop-off service provided in Heraklion.
End of the journey

Your 8 hours run from Pickup service provided in Heraklion. to Drop-off service provided in Heraklion..

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