From Rethymno: Spili, Agia Galini, and Matala Tour

Discover the captivating wonders of Crete’s southern coast on this full-day tour from Rethymno. Explore the picturesque villages of Spili, Agia Galini, and Matala, each offering a unique glimpse into the island’s rich history and natural beauty. Whether you’re seeking breathtaking landscapes, culture, or simply a day of relaxation, this tour promises an unforgettable experience. With seamless transportation and knowledgeable guides, you’ll uncover the hidden gems that make this region truly special.

Key Points

• A full-day excursion from Rethymno to Spili, Agia Galini, and Matala, with a duration of 10 hours and a discounted price of $28.02 per person.

• Key stops include exploring the lion-head fountains and traditional shops in Spili, relaxing at Matala Beach and visiting the Minoan Caves, and strolling through the harbor in Agia Galini.

• The tour includes hotel pickup, air-conditioned transportation, and a multilingual guide, with entry tickets to the sites covered in the price.

• Visitors can enjoy 2.5 hours in Matala and 1.5 hours in Agia Galini to fully experience the highlights of each location.

• Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, and a reserve now, pay later option is offered.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The tour from Rethymno offers a full-day excursion to the charming villages of Spili, Agia Galini, and the renowned Matala.

Lasting 10 hours, the tour costs $29.49 per person, with a discounted price of $28.02. Travelers can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance and take advantage of the reserve now, pay later option.

The tour includes pickup from select hotels, an air-conditioned bus, an English/French/German-speaking guide, and entry tickets.

Visitors will have 2.5 hours in Matala to explore the Minoan caves and enjoy the beach, and 1.5 hours in Agia Galini to discover the charming village and harbor.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with a pickup from select hotel locations, such as the Grand Rimondi and Hotel IDEON.

First, the group visits Spili village, known for its lion-head fountains and traditional shops.

Next, they head to Matala, where they’ll enjoy 2.5 hours of beach time and exploration of the Minoan caves.

The final stop is Agia Galini, where visitors have 1.5 hours to explore the charming village and harbor.

After the excursion, the group returns to their hotels.

Spili Village

Spili village, the first stop on the tour, is renowned for its distinctive lion-head fountains that dot the picturesque town square.

Visitors can explore the village’s traditional shops and local cafes, soaking in the charming ambiance.

The tour highlights include:

• Admiring the unique lion-head fountains, a symbol of the village

• Browsing the local artisanal shops selling handcrafted goods

• Sampling traditional Cretan cuisine and refreshments at quaint cafes

• Strolling through the peaceful town center and taking in the historic architecture

• Discovering the village’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Matala Beach and Minoan Caves

Why, the second stop on the tour is the renowned Matala Beach and its captivating Minoan Caves. Known for its stunning cliffs and picturesque caves, Matala offers 2.5 hours of beachside exploration. Visitors can discover the ancient Minoan caves, once used as dwellings, and soak up the sun on the golden sands. The tour includes the following:

| Feature | Details |

| — | — |

| Beach Time | 2.5 hours |

| Cave Exploration | Minoan Caves |

| Additional Fees | Transfers from certain areas |

Matala’s unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance makes it a must-see on this Rethymno excursion.

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Agia Galini

After exploring the captivating Minoan Caves and relaxing on the beautiful sands of Matala, the tour moves on to the final stop – the charming village of Agia Galini.

Visitors will have 1.5 hours to enjoy the quaint seaside ambiance.

The highlights include:

• Strolling along the picturesque harbor and admiring the traditional fishing boats

• Browsing the local shops for unique handicrafts and souvenirs

• Indulging in fresh seafood at the tavernas along the waterfront

• Climbing up to the hilltop for panoramic views of the village and surrounding coastline

• Discovering the 13th-century Byzantine church nestled in the heart of Agia Galini.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour package includes a comprehensive set of services to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.

Pickup and drop-off service from select hotel locations, transportation by air-conditioned bus, and a knowledgeable tour leader who provides commentary in English, French, and German are all included.

Entry tickets to the various sites are also covered. However, food and drinks aren’t included, and transfers from certain areas may incur an additional fee.

Guests are advised to bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, and cash for any personal expenses or optional activities.

What to Bring

Guests on the tour should come prepared with a few essential items to make the most of their experience. These include:

Guests should pack essentials like comfortable shoes, sunglasses, swimwear, and cash to fully enjoy the Spili, Agia Galini, and Matala tour.

• Comfortable walking shoes, as the tour involves exploring historic sites and walking along the beach.

• Sunglasses and a sun hat to protect against the Mediterranean sun.

• Swimwear and a towel, as the tour includes time at the beach in Matala.

• Sunscreen to prevent sunburn during the outdoor activities.

• Cash for any additional expenses, such as food or souvenirs.

With these items in hand, travelers can fully immerse themselves in the sights and experiences of the Spili, Agia Galini, and Matala tour.

Customer Feedback

According to the customer reviews, the tour has received an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars based on 325 reviews.

Reviewers praised the tour guides, Anastasia and Kostas, who were rated 4.9 out of 5 for their excellent service and informative commentary.

The transportation was also highly rated at 4.8 out of 5, and customers felt the tour provided good value for money, with a 4.7 out of 5 rating in this area.

Things To Know

Is There a Discount for Senior Citizens or Children?

The pricing information doesn’t mention any discounts for senior citizens or children. The tour costs $28.02 per person, and there’s no indication of reduced rates for specific age groups.

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

No, pets are not allowed on the tour. The tour operator’s policy prohibits bringing pets on the excursion for safety and comfort reasons. Only service animals are permitted to accompany guests on the full-day trip.

Is the Tour Available in Other Languages Besides English?

The tour is available in multiple languages, including English, French, and German. A multilingual tour leader accompanies the group, ensuring all participants can fully enjoy the cultural and historical highlights of the excursion.

How Many People Are Typically in a Tour Group?

The tour typically has group sizes ranging from 15 to 25 people. The small group size allows for a more personalized experience and easier transportation logistics throughout the day’s itinerary.

Can I Customize the Itinerary or Choose Different Stops?

Unfortunately, the tour doesn’t allow for much customization of the itinerary. The stops and schedule are fixed, though customers can request to be picked up or dropped off at specific hotels in the area.

Sum Up

This full-day tour from Rethymno offers a well-rounded exploration of Crete’s picturesque landscape and cultural sites. From the charming village of Spili to the iconic Matala Beach and Minoan Caves, and the scenic seaside town of Agia Galini, travelers can enjoy the island’s natural beauty and rich history. The seamless transportation and multilingual guidance ensure a hassle-free experience, making this tour an excellent choice for discovering the highlights of this stunning region.

You can check availability for your dates here: