Day Trip to Matala Hippie Beach and Gortyn Archaeologic Site

Matala Hippie Beach and the ancient Gortys archaeological site offer a captivating day trip for history and nature enthusiasts. Starting at just $34.95 per person, this 9-hour tour provides a seamless experience with air-conditioned transportation and multilingual guides. Explore the well-preserved ruins of Gortys dating back to 3000 BC, then discover the iconic 300-meter sandy beach of Matala, famous for its crystal-clear waters and historic caves. Whether you’re seeking culture or stunning natural beauty, this excursion promises to leave a lasting impression.

Key Points

• Explore the ancient archaeological site of Gortys, dating back to 3000 BC, and discover its well-preserved Roman ruins and the Gortyn Law Code.
• Enjoy the natural beauty of Matala Beach, famous for its 300-meter stretch of golden sand, crystal-clear waters, and caves once inhabited by 1960s hippies.
• Swim in the Mediterranean sea and discover the network of caves carved into the cliffs at Matala Beach.
• Savor traditional Greek cuisine at the beachside taverns of Matala.
• Conveniently arranged transportation and pickup services from various locations across Crete, including Sisi, Malia, Stalis, and Hersonissos.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Trip Overview

This day trip to Matala Beach offers visitors the opportunity to explore the archaeological site of Gortys and the iconic hippie beach of Matala.

Priced from $34.95 per person, the 9-hour tour is available in English, French, and German. Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours prior for a full refund. A reserve now, pay later option is also available.

Pickup is offered from several locations in the region, with times varying by location. The tour includes transportation, professional guides, and insurance coverage, but excludes entrance fees, food, and personal expenses.

Highlights of the Itinerary

The archaeological site of Gortys, significant since 3000 BC and reaching its peak during the Roman Empire, is a highlight of the day trip.

Visitors can also explore Matala’s sandy beach, which stretches 300 meters and offers crystal clear waters for swimming.

The caves used by Neolithic inhabitants and later by 1960s hippies are another fascinating attraction.

Lunch options are available at traditional taverns by the beach, allowing travelers to fully enjoy the local culture.

• Visit archaeological site of Gortys

• Explore Matala’s sandy beach and swim in crystal clear waters

• Discover caves used by Neolithic inhabitants and 1960s hippies

Exploring the Gortys Archaeological Site

Gortys, a significant archaeological site dating back to 3000 BC, reveals the captivating history of Crete during the Roman Empire.

Visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins, including the Roman Odeon, the Praetorium, and the famous Basilica.

The site’s highlight is the Gortyn Law Code, a unique collection of ancient Roman laws inscribed on stone.

Visitors can wander through the ruins, imagining the bustling city that once thrived here.

The Gortys Archaeological Site offers a fascinating glimpse into Crete’s rich past, complementing the natural beauty of Matala’s iconic hippie caves and sandy beaches.

Discovering the Matala Hippie Beach

After exploring the ancient ruins of Gortys, the day trip continues to the iconic Matala Hippie Beach.

This 300-meter stretch of golden sand is famous for its crystal-clear waters and the caves once inhabited by 1960s hippies.

Visitors can:

• Swim in the inviting Mediterranean sea

• Discover the network of caves carved into the cliffs

• Enjoy traditional Greek cuisine at the beachside taverns

The laidback vibe and stunning scenery make Matala Hippie Beach a must-visit destination on this day trip exploring Crete’s rich history and natural beauty.

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Transportation and Pickup Details

This day trip conveniently offers pickup services from a variety of locations across Crete, including Sisi, Malia, Stalis, Hersonissos, Anissaras, Analipsis, Gouves, Gournes, Kokkini Hani, Karteros, Heraklion, and Amoudara.

The pickup time varies by location, but you’ll receive an email confirmation with the details within 24 hours.

The tour includes complimentary transportation in air-conditioned buses and professional multilingual guides.

Complimentary transportation in air-conditioned buses and professional multilingual guides ensure a seamless start to your adventure.

Simply select your preferred pickup point during booking, and the tour operator will handle the rest, ensuring a seamless start to your adventure.

What’s Included and Excluded

The day trip includes a free pickup and drop-off service, transfer in air-conditioned buses, and professional multilingual tour guides. The tour also provides insurance coverage.

However, personal expenses, food and drinks, and entrance fees to Gortys and the caves aren’t included.

Customers can enjoy the following:

• Explore the archaeological site of Gortys, significant since 3000 BC

• Discover the sandy Matala Beach and swim in crystal clear waters

• Visit the caves used by Neolithic inhabitants and 1960s hippies

Customers should bring sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, camera, credit card, sunscreen, and cash.

Important Information for Travelers

What’s important to know about this day trip to Matala Beach?

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, so those with mobility issues should plan accordingly.

This tour may not be accessible for those with mobility issues, so plan accordingly.

Travelers should bring essentials like sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, and camera. It’s also recommended to have credit card, sunscreen, and some cash on hand.

The beach and caves are outdoors, so appropriate beachwear is a must.

With a 4.7/5 customer rating, this popular day trip offers an engaging experience exploring Matala’s rich history and natural beauty.

Just remember to pack smart and be prepared for a day of adventure.

Customer Ratings and Reviews

Customers have rated this day trip to Matala Beach a stellar 4.7 out of 5 based on 7 reviews.

Reviewers praised the:

• Incredible scenery and crystal-clear waters at Matala’s sandy beach

• Knowledgeable and friendly tour guides who brought the archaeology to life

• Seamless pickup and drop-off service that made the excursion stress-free

One traveler remarked, "This was the highlight of our Crete vacation! The caves and ancient ruins were fascinating, and we’d ample time to relax on the beautiful beach."

Another noted, "Highly recommended for anyone seeking an authentic Greek island experience."

Things To Know

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography at the Archaeological Site?

The archaeological site allows photography, but visitors should avoid disturbing the ruins or historical artifacts. Respectful and responsible photography is permitted to capture the site’s ancient wonders.

Can Children Participate in This Day Trip?

Yes, children are welcome to participate in this day trip. The tour is suitable for all ages, and families with children can enjoy exploring the archaeological site and relaxing on the beach together.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

There doesn’t appear to be an option to extend the tour duration. The trip overview states the duration is 9 hours, and there’s no mention of any extension options.

Can Special Dietary Needs Be Accommodated During the Trip?

The tour does not explicitly mention accommodating special dietary needs. However, the tour provides lunch options at traditional taverns by the beach, so it may be possible to request specific dietary requirements when making the booking.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

The website doesn’t mention any discounts for seniors or students. However, you can check with the tour operator to see if they offer any special rates for those groups.

Sum Up

Set out on a captivating day trip to Matala Hippie Beach and the ancient Gortys archaeological site. Explore well-preserved 3000 BC ruins and the iconic 300-meter sandy beach with crystal-clear waters and historic caves. Enjoy seamless transportation, multilingual guides, and the option for traditional tavern lunch – all for just $34.95 per person. An unforgettable experience blending history and natural beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here: