The laid-back beach town of Matala packs several worthwhile day trips into its backyard. Standout tours include the cultural combo of Rethymno, Agia Galini, and Spili – a perfect mix of Venetian architecture and traditional village life. We love the Agiofarago Gorge walk for its pristine beach finale and the fascinating cave-studded Hippies Beach tour that reveals Matala’s colorful 1960s history. For hikers, the moderately challenging Imbros Gorge provides a more peaceful alternative to the famous but crowded Samaria Gorge. These guided excursions come with reliable transportation and local expertise that brings Cretan history to life. Check our favorite Matala tours below.
Key Points
- The Rethymno Day Tour offers a comprehensive 7-hour experience exploring the highlights of Matala, including the Neolithic caves and Spili’s lion-head fountains.
- The Matala – Agiofarago Private Tour focuses on the natural wonders of Crete, featuring the breathtaking Agiofarago Gorge.
- The Matala Hippies Beach Half-Day Tour provides a 7-hour experience showcasing the iconic 250-meter sandy beach and historical caves.
- The Hippies Beach – Matala Tour from Heraklion offers a 7-hour guided tour with hotel pickup/drop-off, exploring the crystal-clear waters and prehistoric caves.
- The Agia Galini/Matala Adventure Tours offer a range of excursions, including the Imbros Gorge, Samaria Gorge, and Agiofarago Gorge Safari tours.
From Rethymno: Matala , Agia Galini and Spili Tour Day Trip
If you’re looking to explore the picturesque regions of Crete, the Rethymno: Matala, Agia Galini, and Spili Tour Day Trip offers a comprehensive sightseeing experience. Priced at Kč 679 per person, this 7-hour tour provides transportation via an air-conditioned coach, along with a professional guide to lead you through the highlights.
The tour includes 1.5 hours of free time in Agia Galini, where you can enjoy coffee, shopping, and sightseeing. In Matala, you’ll have 3 hours to swim, relax on the sandy beach, and explore the Neolithic caves.
The final stop is Spili, where you’ll spend 40 minutes taking a guided tour and viewing the iconic lion-head fountains.
With convenient pickup and drop-off options from various locations around Rethymno, and a flexible cancellation policy, this tour offers an excellent value for money, as evident from its 4.7/5 rating based on 11 reviews.
Whether you’re interested in the natural beauty or the cultural heritage of Crete, this day trip is a must-consider.
Read our full review: From Rethymno: Matala , Agia Galini and Spili Tour Day Trip Review
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MATALA – AGIOFARAGO (Holy Gorge) PRIVATE TOUR
Setting out on a private tour to Matala and the captivating Agiofarago (Holy Gorge) promises an immersive exploration of Crete’s natural wonders.
The tour begins in Matala, a picturesque seaside town known for its limestone caves, where visitors can wander through the remnants of an ancient Minoan civilization.
From there, the journey leads to the Agiofarago Gorge, a stunning natural wonder carved by the elements over millennia. Hikers will traverse the rugged terrain, taking in breathtaking views of towering cliffs and lush vegetation.
Along the way, the tour guide shares insights into the area’s rich history and cultural significance. Visitors have the opportunity to discover hidden archaeological sites, witness traditional Greek Orthodox practices, and enjoy the tranquil serenity of the gorge.
This private tour offers a unique and personalized experience, allowing travelers to delve deeper into the hidden gems of Crete’s remarkable landscape.
Read our full review: MATALA – AGIOFARAGO (Holy Gorge) PRIVATE TOUR Review
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Matala- Hippies Beach -Half Day Tour
Visitors can discover the captivating Matala Village and its iconic Hippies Beach on this comprehensive half-day tour. Priced from Kč 903 per person, the 7-hour experience includes round-trip transportation from select locations and a knowledgeable live guide who’ll bring the area’s rich history to life.
The tour showcases Matala’s highlights, from its stunning 250-meter sandy beach to the historical caves where hippies once lived. Guests can swim in the Libyan Sea, sunbathe, and explore the Hippie village at their leisure. A scenic 75-minute bus ride each way provides breathtaking views. The optional cave tour offers an immersive glimpse into Matala’s past.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour is a convenient and engaging way to experience one of Crete’s most iconic destinations. Guests are advised to bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, and swimwear.
While not suitable for those with mobility issues, the tour caters to most travelers seeking an authentic taste of Matala’s captivating blend of natural beauty and counterculture history.
Read our full review: Matala- Hippies Beach -Half Day Tour Review
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Hippies Beach – Matala Tour From Heraklion
This comprehensive tour takes travelers on a journey to the captivating Matala Beach, a renowned destination in Crete famed for its vibrant hippie history.
Priced at just $36.43 per person, the 7-hour Hippies Beach – Matala Tour From Heraklion offers an immersive experience led by an English-speaking guide. Guests will enjoy the crystal-clear waters and warm sun of Matala, located 68 km southwest of Heraklion, and explore the prehistoric caves carved into the steep rocks – once serving as residences for the 1960s-70s hippie colony.
Included in the tour are hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as the option to visit the famous Matala Caves for an additional 4 euros.
Travelers are advised to bring essentials like sunglasses, hats, and swimwear, and to check their email the previous day for pickup time and location.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the flexibility to reserve now and pay later, this tour provides an excellent opportunity to discover Crete’s rich history and stunning natural beauty.
Read our full review: Hippies Beach – Matala Tour From Heraklion Review
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Agia Galini/Matala: Imbros Gorge & Frangokastelo Day Tour
Venturing beyond the picturesque Matala Beach, this captivating tour takes travelers on an 8-hour journey to explore the renowned Imbros Gorge and the charming village of Frangokastelo. Priced from CZK 1,559 per person, the tour offers a fantastic value with inclusions such as air-conditioned transportation, hotel pick-up and drop-off, and a delicious lunch.
Hikers will embark on an 8km trek through the dramatic Imbros Gorge, marveling at the towering walls that can be touched with outstretched arms. Along the way, the knowledgeable guide will share the gorge’s captivating history, including the tragic events of the 1867 Turkish occupation.
After the hike, travelers can relax and swim at the scenic Frangokastelo village.
While the tour has received generally positive reviews, some guests have noted minor organizational challenges, such as delays due to multiple pick-up points. The opportunity to explore the stunning Imbros Gorge and enjoy the tranquil beaches of Frangokastelo makes this tour a compelling option for those seeking an immersive Cretan experience.
Read our full review: Agia Galini/Matala: Imbros Gorge & Frangokastelo Day Tour Review
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From Agia Galini/Matala: Samaria Gorge Hiking Tour
Adventurers seeking an exhilarating hike through one of Europe’s most stunning natural wonders will find the Samaria Gorge Hiking Tour from Agia Galini/Matala a compelling option.
Priced from $67.66 per person, this 9-hour tour promises an unforgettable trek through the longest gorge in Europe, measuring 18 km in length and up to 700 meters deep.
The hike, which lasts 4-6 hours, starts at the Omalos plateau (1200 m altitude) and winds through the rugged, rocky terrain of Samaria National Park.
Along the way, hikers will marvel at the diverse flora and fauna, breathtaking views, and the gorge’s narrowest section, where the rock walls soar 350 meters high.
After the hike, participants can relax in the charming fishing village of Agia Roumeli and enjoy a one-hour boat ride to Chora Sfakion.
With free cancellation, a pay-later option, and an overall customer rating of 4.6/5, this tour offers a well-rounded experience for adventurous travelers.
Read our full review: From Agia Galini/Matala: Samaria Gorge Hiking Tour Review
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Matala Agiofarago Gorge Safari Tour
Visitors seeking a captivating day trip from Matala can embark on the Agiofarago Gorge Safari Tour, priced at Kč 2,414 per person. This 1-day tour offers a diverse itinerary, including visits to Roman tombs, a 14th-century monastery, and the scenic Agiofarago Gorge.
Highlights include hiking, swimming, and exploring the famous Matala Caves. The tour covers pickup from various locations, traditional meals, and an experienced driver. However, it’s not suitable for the visually impaired, recent surgery patients, or individuals over 70 years old.
With a 5/5 rating based on 3 reviews, travelers rave about the tour’s fantastic experiences and beautiful destinations. Recommended items to bring include a camera, biodegradable sunscreen, and beachwear.
Alcohol, drugs, and baby carriages aren’t allowed on the vehicle.
Read our full review: Matala Agiofarago Gorge Safari Tour Review
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Faistos Palace Tour & Matala Visit
Those seeking to explore the rich cultural heritage of Crete can embark on the Faistos Palace Tour & Matala Visit, a captivating 6-hour excursion. Priced from $603.77 for up to 3 participants, this tour showcases the second-largest Minoan palace and the picturesque coastal town of Matala.
Visitors will uncover the ancient ruins of Faistos, the Palace of King Radamanthys, and the enigmatic Phaistos disc inscribed with Linear A script. They’ll enjoy Minoan art, architecture, and trade routes that shaped Crete’s past.
The tour also includes a visit to Matala, renowned for its stunning beaches, carved clifftop caves, and vibrant waterfront culture.
Amenities like Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and child/infant seats cater to comfortable travel. Guests can choose to add a wine tasting or museum admission to enhance their cultural experience.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour offers flexibility and value for those eager to explore Crete’s captivating history and natural beauty.
Read our full review: Faistos Palace Tour & Matala Visit Review
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Sum Up
Matala offers a variety of tours to explore its rich history and natural beauty. From day trips to Agia Galini and Spili to private tours of the Agiofarago Gorge, visitors can discover the region’s highlights. Plus, tours to the Hippies Beach, Samaria Gorge, and Faistos Palace provide a well-rounded experience. Whether seeking history, nature, or a combination, Matala has a tour to suit every traveler’s interests.