South Crete: Matala Beach & Ancient Gortyn

• An exciting journey from the North to the South of Crete Island!
• The route passes through the entire island capturing part of the Psiloritis massif. From the foot of the mountains stretches the delightful beauty of Messara valley, which has been the island's breadbasket for centuries.
• During the ride you will hear the information about the history of the island and the sights that you will visit. Then, you can enjoy a walk in the preserved part of the ancient Roman capital of Crete Gortis, which is considered to be one of the most important archaeological sights in Greece.
• Finally you will have time to swim in the crystal clear waters of Matala beach, relax or dine in one of the traditional taverns located along the coast.

Itinerary
This is a typical itinerary for this product

Stop At: Agioi Deka, Gortyna Municipality, Crete 70012 Greece

After pick-up from your hotel in Heraklion region, the first stop on your way will be the visit of the preserved part of the ancient Roman capital of Crete - Gortis. During the Minoan civilization, it was the richest and fastest growing city of Greece and is also famous for being the place where, in the 5th century BC. and, for the first time, a code of laws regulating life and relations between citizens was created and carved on a stone.

Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes

Stop At: Matala Beach, Matala, Crete Greece

The port of Matala is situated in Mesaras Bay. This place is famous for its caves that are built in the rocks and resemble small residences that were used by the ancients back in time. In the 1960-1970s Matala started to be a very popular destination where Hippies used to meet altogether and spend their time dancing and singing. Matala has beautiful beach with turquoise water, and you can enjoy swimming there.

Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes



Informacion Adicional
"Not wheelchair accessible"
"Infants must sit on laps"
"Infant seats available"
"Most travelers can participate"
"If an infant does not sit on lap in the bus, It is necessary to pay a child ticket."
"After booking we will contact you to arrange the pick-up. Please, note, if you do not provide your pick-up details up to 24 hours before the tour, we do not guarantee the pick-up. For pick-up from different location, please, contact us."
"Pick-up from the specific bus stops next to the hotels. From Area 1: all the villages between Amudara/Heraklion/Karteros/Amnissos/Kokkini Hani/Gournes/Gouves/Analipsi/Anissaras/Hersonissos/Stalida/Malia/Sissi"
"Area 2: Sises/Fodele/Agia Pelagia/Ligaria/Achlada/Mades/Ammoudi/Rodia/Palaiokastro/Pantanassa /Linoperamata/Gazi"
"This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund"
"This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund"
"This tour/activity will have a maximum of 150 travelers"
"Confirmation will be received at time of booking"



Start Time:
Confirm time with the local provider in advance of your experience.
Pick-up from Heraklion WEST
4/24/2024 - 11/3/2024

Wednesday :

07:00 AM - 09:00 AM

Sunday :

07:00 AM - 09:00 AM

Pick-up from Heraklion EAST
4/24/2024 - 11/3/2024

Wednesday :

08:00 AM - 09:00 AM

Sunday :

08:00 AM - 09:00 AM

Duration: 7 To 9 Hours
Start location: Traveler pickup is offered
• After booking we will contact you to arrange the pick-up.
• We pick up from the tourist bus stops, a maximum 800m walk from your hotel.
• For remotely located hotels and Airbnb's, please, contact us to clarify the closest pick-up point or any extra transfer arrangements.
• Please, note, if you do not provide your pick-up details up to 24 hours before the tour, we do not guarantee the pick-up.

Ports

• Heraklion Port, Pl. Kountourioti, Iraklio 712 02, Greece

Cancellations and refunds: For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start time of the experience.

Included

• Pick-up (at the specific tourist bus stop, outside of the hotel or no more than 800m walk)
• Transfer with air-conditioned bus
• Information about the route and sights during the bus ride
• Additional insurance for tour participants

Not Included

• Entrance to Gortina: Adult 6€ / person, Child (up to 18 years - free of charge)
• Entrance fees to museums/sights, other individual expenses.

Facilities