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Matala Beach + Caves, Phaistos Palace & Southern Charm | Private

By SunSud Tours
10 out of 10
Exceptional
Free cancellation available
Price is NZ$1,009 per adult* *Get lower prices by selecting more than 2 adults
See tickets
Features
  • Free cancellation available
  • 8h
  • Mobile voucher
  • Instant confirmation
  • Selective hotel pickup
Overview

• Private experience • Flexible pace • Personalised 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

Activity location
  • Archaeological Site of Phaistos
    • 70200, Vori, Greece
Meeting/Redemption Point
  • Archaeological Site of Phaistos
    • 70200, Vori, Greece

Check availability

Heraklion Region & Port
  • Activity duration is 8 hours8h
    8h
  • English

Pick-Up Areas Heraklion City,: Port,Hersonissos, Piskopiano, Koutouloufari, Anissaras, Analipsi,Gouves,Kokkini, Malia, Stalis, Ammouda,Agia Pelagia, Fodele
Pickup included

Language options: English
Price details
NZ$979.61 x 1 AdultNZ$979.61
Paid at activityNZ$29.39
Total
Price is NZ$1,009.00
Until Sat, 21 Feb

What's included, what's not

  • What's includedWhat's included
    Bottled water
  • What's includedWhat's included
    Knowledgeable Local Driver-Host Fluent in English
  • What's includedWhat's included
    Olive Oil & Premium Local Products Tasting Fee
  • What's includedWhat's included
    Planning & Organisation of your Personalised Tour
  • What's includedWhat's included
    Fuel, Tolls, Taxes, and Fees
  • What's includedWhat's included
    Onboard Wi-Fi and Fast Charger
  • What's includedWhat's included
    Hygiene Amenities and First Aid Kit
  • What's includedWhat's included
    Private Transport in a Comfortable Van
  • What's includedWhat's included
    Hotel, Harbour, or Meeting Point Pickup & Drop-Off
  • What's excludedWhat's excluded
    Phaistos Palace (Free: EU <25 / Non-EU <18)
  • What's excludedWhat's excluded
    Licensed Guide (multi-language, optional, extra charge)
  • What's excludedWhat's excluded
    Winery Tour & Tasting of Indigenous Wines Fee
  • What's excludedWhat's excluded
    Personal expenses, tips & service charge
  • What's excludedWhat's excluded
    Lunch is an Optional Experience

Know before you book

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Specialised 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.
  • Travellers from Cruise ships should take the earliest possible option
  • Travellers should bring swimwear & a beach towel
  • Travellers should wear suitable shoes & clothes
  • We can accommodate big groups. For groups of 9 or more, please contact us directly

Activity itinerary

Archaeological Site of Phaistos
  • 1h
  • Admission ticket not included
This significant archaeological site features the ruins of a grand Minoan palace, offering insights into one of the earliest advanced civilisations in Europe, and is home to the enigmatic Phaistos Disc.
Matala Beach
  • 1h
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 sun cream!
Matala Caves
  • 30m
  • Admission ticket not included
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.
Lake of Zaros Votomos
  • 1h 30m
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.

Location

Activity location
  • LOB_ACTIVITIESLOB_ACTIVITIES
    Archaeological Site of Phaistos
    • 70200, Vori, Greece
Meeting/Redemption Point
  • PEOPLEPEOPLE
    Archaeological Site of Phaistos
    • 70200, Vori, Greece

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