South Crete: Matala Hippies Beach & Gortys Archaeological Site

If you’re planning a trip to Crete and want to soak up a bit of everything—ancient ruins, scenic coastlines, and a lively village—then this South Crete: Matala Hippies Beach & Gortys Archaeological Site tour might be just what you’re looking for. From what we see in reviews and the itinerary, it’s a well-balanced way to explore the southern part of the island without the stress of self-driving or trying to fit everything in on your own.

Two things we really appreciate about this experience are the comfortable transportation in air-conditioned buses and the knowledgeable guides who seem to keep things engaging without overwhelming you. Plus, the free time at Matala is substantial enough to really enjoy the beach, explore the caves, or have a relaxed lunch—something many travelers value.

On the flip side, a point to consider is that the Gortys archaeological site is described as small, so if you’re a hardcore history buff, you might find it a bit underwhelming or wish for a more in-depth tour. Also, the overall duration means you’ll spend around 3 hours on the bus, which some might find a little long, especially if they prefer more active or varied experiences.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive yet laid-back day, especially those who prefer guided trips over self-drive adventures. It’s especially good if you’re short on time but want to tick off two major south Crete highlights—Gortys and Matala—in one go.

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation with air conditioning makes the long drive more pleasant.
• Expert guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly attitude.
• Flexible free time in Matala allows for relaxing, swimming, or exploring the caves.
• The cost offers good value, considering transportation, guides, and site fees.
• Gortys is small but historically interesting, particularly for walking in the footsteps of early Christian communities.
• The tour duration is about 8 to 9 hours, so be prepared for a full day.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Pickup & Departure from Heraklion

Most travelers will start their day with a pickup from designated points around Heraklion. The reviews mention that the bus is reliably on time, and clear instructions are provided on where and when to meet. Since pickup points vary depending on your accommodation, it’s worth checking your specific meeting location to avoid missing the bus. Expect about a 1.5-hour ride to the first stop—so early starts are typical, but the comfort of the coach helps make it manageable.

Gortys Archaeological Site

This is the first major stop of the day, located about an hour from Heraklion. The site is noted for its ruins, which span over 5,000 years of Crete’s history. You’ll visit the archaeological park with a guide, who will help bring the ancient stones to life. While the site is described as small—some reviews mention that there isn’t an extensive guided tour inside, so you might just see ruins and some interesting pieces sitting near the entrance—what you’re getting is a quick immersion into a spot where early Christianity took root and where St. Paul is believed to have walked.

The price for entry is about €10, but that’s paid separately if you choose to go inside. The review from Joao_C highlights that the tour is very well organized and the guide makes it an excellent experience despite its size.

Transition to Matala

After exploring Gortys, the bus ride to Matala takes roughly 20 minutes. Once there, you’ll have a generous four and a half hours of free time. That’s plenty of opportunity to lounge on the beach, have lunch, explore the famous caves, or just soak in the laid-back vibe of this historic fishing village.

Matala Beach & Caves

Matala’s reputation as a hippie haven during the 60s and 70s is well-deserved; the caves carved into the cliffs above the beach are still a major draw. Many reviews emphasize how scenic and unique the area is. You’ll love the views, the colorful paintings that adorn the caves, and the chance to relax by the sea. The beach itself is well-equipped with accommodations, cafes, and places to rent sunbeds, making it easy to settle in for a few hours.

One traveler, Younda_H, mentions how much she enjoyed the “very special village,” and others have noted that Matala’s “vibe” really stands out. It’s a place where you can wander at your own pace, take photos, or jump into the water if you’re feeling brave.

Returning to Heraklion

After your free time, the bus heads back, with a ride of around 1.5 hours. The reviews mention that the bus is punctual and that the driver makes the journey comfortable. Keep in mind that your exact return time could vary depending on traffic and your pick-up point.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This trip’s main appeal is its balance of guided and free time. You’re with a knowledgeable guide at Gortys, learning about the site’s historical significance, but then given ample opportunity to explore Matala on your own. It’s a flexible way to see two very different sides of Crete—one ancient, one relaxed.

The price point of around $50 per person is reasonable considering the transport, guide, and site fees included. Many reviews rave about the good organization and the quality of the guide, which can make a big difference on a full-day trip.

In terms of logistics, the tour is suitable for those who are comfortable with about 1.5 hours of bus travel each way and are moderate in physical activity. While it’s not a strenuous tour, walking around ruins and caves will require some mobility, so bring comfortable shoes and sun protection.

How Do Travelers Feel About the Tour?

The overall rating is high—5.0 out of 5 from 30 reviews—indicating that most find it worthwhile. Many mention how well-organized and smooth the whole day is, with guides who are friendly and informative. One reviewer, Joao_C, calls it “very well organized” and “recommend it,” while another echoes that sentiment, calling the guide “excellent.”

While the archaeological site isn’t extensive, visitors seem to appreciate the quick dose of history and the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of early Christians, as Christelle_T mentions walking “on the steps of St. Paul.”

Matala, on the other hand, steals the show for many. The “beautiful landscape,” “art and colors,” and “laid-back vibe” get rave reviews. It’s a place to relax, enjoy the scenery, and soak up the unique atmosphere that’s hard to find elsewhere.

Some reviews point out that the long bus ride might be a downside for some, especially if you prefer shorter travel times or have mobility issues. The overall experience frequently earns full marks because of how much you get to see and do in one day.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a well-organized, no-fuss way to explore southern Crete, especially if you prefer a guide to explain the history and don’t want to rent a car. The mix of archaeological exploration and relaxing beach time makes it suited for those wanting a bit of both.

It’s perfect if you’re on a time crunch but still want to get a meaningful taste of Crete’s past and present. The price point is reasonable given the included transportation and guided experience, making it a good option for budget-conscious travelers who don’t want to sacrifice quality.

However, if you’re a dedicated history buff looking for in-depth archaeological or historical tours, this might feel somewhat surface-level. Likewise, those who dislike long bus rides or prefer a more active day might want to consider whether this fits their style.

All in all, if you’re after a memorable day that combines history, scenic beauty, and a relaxed seaside vibe, this tour from Heraklion appears to deliver just that.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup from designated points around Heraklion is offered, which helps make the day smooth and hassle-free.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is about 8 to 9 hours, including travel times and free time at Matala.

What is the cost of the tour?
It’s approximately $49.73 per person, which includes transportation, a guide, and taxes. Entrance fees to Gortys are optional and paid separately if you choose to go inside.

Is the archaeological site large?
No, Gortys is quite small. It’s a brief but meaningful stop that highlights key historical pieces and the early Christian history of Crete.

How much time is spent at Matala?
You get roughly four and a half hours to enjoy the village, beach, caves, and local cafes—plenty of time to relax or explore.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Based on reviews, guides are considered very good, friendly, and able to make the history engaging without overloading you.

Is this suitable for families or travelers with mobility challenges?
While not explicitly family-focused, the tour is generally accessible for those with moderate mobility; just be prepared for walking around ruins and caves. The long bus ride could be tiring for some.

This tour offers a nice blend of history, scenery, and leisure—kind of a perfect snapshot of southern Crete’s charm for anyone who enjoys a relaxed, well-organized day out.