Matala is famous for its bohemian vibe, stunning cliffside caves, and beachfront charm. It’s a place where history, music, and natural beauty collide, making it an ideal hub for unique tours and experiences. Whether you’re after a festival filled with international music, a cultural exploration of ancient sites, or a relaxing day on the beach, Matala offers options that cater to different interests and travel styles. We’re particularly fond of the Matala Beach Festival — it’s a lively way to experience the local spirit and dance until the sun sets, but the quieter archaeological and scenic tours are just as rewarding for those seeking history and authentic Crete.
For those who love music, culture, and a good party, the Matala Beach Festival is a must. Meanwhile, history buffs will appreciate the Gortyn archaeological site and the Neolithic caves, which tell tales of a bygone era. And if you’re just looking to relax and soak up the sun, several tours include free time on the beach and scenic drives. With so many options, it’s easy to find a tour that fits your pace and interests.
Quick Overview
In this guide, you’ll find a variety of tours in Matala, including lively festivals, day trips to archaeological sites and scenic gorges, and private custom excursions. Some tours, like the Matala Beach Festival (more here), offer a full day of celebration with live acts and arts markets, while others, such as the Day trip to Gortyn and Hippie Beach, focus on cultural and archaeological exploration. There are also half-day tours from Heraklion and private options for a personalized experience. Below, we explore each in detail to help you choose the right fit.
1. 04-06 July 2025: Matala Beach Festival One World – One Love
At number 1 on our list is the Matala Beach Festival, scheduled for July 2025. This event is a lively celebration of music, peace, and community, echoing the hippie days but with a modern twist. The festival features free live acts and activities right on Matala’s iconic beach, attracting an international crowd looking to party with all nations.
The tour includes a comfortable air-conditioned bus transfer, avoiding the hassle of traffic, which makes the journey stress-free. Once in Matala, you’re free to dance, explore arts and crafts markets, and soak up the scenic views all day long. The sunset concert is a highlight, providing a magical backdrop to the festival’s vibrant atmosphere. The reviews mention how welcoming and fun Viola, the tour guide, is, along with her friends, making this experience feel like a hippie reunion.
This tour is perfect for music lovers, festival goers, and anyone eager to experience Matala’s legendary vibe. Keep in mind that it’s a full-day event, so be prepared for lively crowds and a spirited atmosphere. The bottom line: if you want to celebrate peace, love, and music, this festival trip is hard to beat.
2. Rethymno:Matala ,Agia Galini,Botanic Garden & Spili Day Trip
At number 2, this 7-hour day trip takes you through a beautiful mix of coastal villages, archaeological sites, and lush gardens. Starting from Rethymno or nearby locations, the tour includes a visit to Agia Galini, a charming village with narrow alleys and local cafes, plus a stop at Matala to explore the famous neolithic caves. The free time in Matala allows for swimming or just relaxing on the beach with stunning cliff views, which keeps the experience authentic and immersive.
The visit continues to the Maravel Garden, a tranquil four-acre medicinal herb garden that offers a peaceful break from sightseeing. Afterward, the group heads to Spili, renowned for its lion-head fountains and traditional tavernas, giving a taste of local life. The reviews praise the ease of booking, making it a popular choice for travelers wanting a comprehensive day tour with diverse highlights.
This trip is ideal for those who want a balance of culture, nature, and beach time, especially if you enjoy photo stops and scenic drives. The bottom line: a well-rounded day that offers a taste of South Crete’s best.
3. Day trip to Matala Hippie Beach & Gortyn Archaeological Site
Number 3 is a 9-hour adventure blending history and relaxation. It begins with a visit to the Gortyn archaeological site, known for its impressive Roman law code inscribed in stone, giving a deep dive into ancient Crete’s past. Then, you’ll enjoy free time on the beach in Matala, famous for its caves once inhabited by hippies.
The tour offers a chance to swim in crystal-clear waters, explore the caves, and walk through Matala’s charming village, soaking in its laid-back atmosphere. The reviews highlight the staff’s friendliness and the quality of the experience, making it a great choice for history and beach lovers alike. The highlight is walking through Gortyn’s ruins and imagining life there centuries ago.
Ideal for travelers who want to combine archaeological exploration with a relaxing beach afternoon, this tour balances these interests well. The bottom line: a smart pick for those who want a cultural and seaside experience.
4. From Heraklion: Matala – Hippie’s Beach Half-Day Tour
This 7-hour tour from Heraklion offers a short but sweet visit to Matala’s iconic caves and village. It’s perfect if you’re based in Heraklion and short on time but still want to experience the essence of Matala. The trip includes swimming in the Libyan Sea and the option to visit the famous caves where the hippies once lived.
What makes this tour stand out is the flexibility, with multiple pickup options and a focus on relaxation. You’ll get a taste of Matala’s bohemian history without a full-day commitment. The reviews mention how smooth the booking process is, making it accessible for spontaneous plans.
Best suited for travelers with limited time or those who want a quick escape to the beach, this tour emphasizes easy access and relaxed exploration. The bottom line: a practical choice for Heraklion-based visitors wanting a brief but authentic Matala experience.
5. Agia Galini/Matala: Imbros Gorge & Frangokastello Day Tour
Number 5 offers a full 8-hour trip combining adventure and history. The tour explores Imbros Gorge, known for its dramatic geological features and historical significance during Turkish occupation. After walking through the gorge, you’ll visit Frangokastello, a Venetian fortress where you can swim and relax.
This experience is appealing for nature lovers and those interested in military history, providing a mix of natural beauty and historic sites. Reviewers mention the stunning scenery and informative guides. It’s an active tour that involves walking, so some fitness is recommended.
Best for adventurous travelers who want to combine hiking with beach time, this trip is a full-day exploration of South Crete’s rugged landscape. The bottom line: a solid choice for active visitors seeking scenic views and historic insights.
6. Crete: Beach Day Trip to Matala and Komos
Number 6 is a 9-hour day focusing on beach relaxation and prehistoric history. It begins with a visit to Matala, exploring its prehistoric caves and learning about the hippie culture that once thrived there. Afterwards, you’ll head to Kommos Beach, known for its big dunes and tamarisk trees.
The tour offers swimming opportunities and time to enjoy the scenic coastline. The reviews mention the ease of planning and the combination of cultural and beach experiences. It’s suitable for travelers wanting a laid-back day with a touch of history.
This trip is perfect if you want a relaxed yet informative experience with sandy beaches and ancient caves. The bottom line: great value for those looking to combine history with leisure.
7. Explore Ag. Galini, Matala, Spili and Botanic Garden
Number 7 is a 10-hour tour that weaves together mountain villages, beaches, and lush gardens. Starting from Agia Galini, it takes you to Matala and Spili, showcasing local life and natural beauty. The visit to the Botanic Garden offers a peaceful walk among medicinal herbs.
The tour is ideal for those who want to see a variety of landscapes and experience the cultural richness of South Crete. The reviews emphasize the smooth organization and stunning scenery. It’s suited for travelers who want to avoid overcrowded spots and prefer a more intimate experience.
The bottom line: a diverse, full-day journey for those interested in mountain villages, botanical beauty, and coastal charm.
8. From Rethymno Bali & Panormo: Matala & Spili Villages Trip
At number 8, this 9-hour tour takes you along the southern coast, visiting Bali, Panormo, and Matala. It’s perfect for travelers wanting to experience a mix of coastal villages and mountain scenery. The highlight is the relaxing time in the hippie village of Matala, alongside visits to Charming coastal towns.
What sets this tour apart is the scenic drive and relaxed pace that allow for plenty of photo stops and exploration. Reviewers mention how easy and enjoyable the experience is, making it suitable for family groups or couples.
This trip is ideal if you prefer a less hectic day with beautiful landscapes and authentic local villages. The bottom line: a relaxing scenic drive with cultural stops.
9. MATALA – AGIOFARAGO (Holy Gorge) PRIVATE TOUR
Number 9 is a private 9-hour tour focusing on beaches and natural beauty. Led by your own comfortable vehicle, this tour takes you to Agiofarago Gorge and Matala’s beaches, offering a personalized experience. The highlight is visiting two incredible beaches in Southern Crete and enjoying a quiet, private day with your own group.
The guide’s friendly and informative manner makes this private tour a standout for families or couples seeking flexibility. The private nature means you can customize your stops and pace, avoiding crowds. It’s an excellent option for those wanting solitude combined with scenic beauty.
The bottom line: personalized, flexible, and relaxed — ideal for travelers who want privacy and control over their day.
10. Organize your private tour with Kostas
Finally, number 10 offers a customized experience with Kostas, an experienced driver who speaks multiple languages. For $565 per group, up to 4 people, you can shape your perfect Crete day — whether that’s exploring Matala, Spili, or other hidden spots. The luxury car and friendly driver ensure a comfortable and tailored adventure.
Reviews praise Kostas for his informative insights and friendly manner, making this option especially appealing for small groups or private travelers. You can choose your starting time and destinations, making it highly flexible. This is perfect if you want to avoid cookie-cutter tours and prefer a personal guide.
The bottom line: an excellent choice for private, customized exploration with a driver who treats you like family.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Matala
When selecting a tour, think about your interests, budget, and time available. Want a full festival experience? The Matala Beach Festival is unbeatable. If you prefer history and archaeology, the Gortyn or Hippie Beach trips (see here) offer a great mix. For a private, flexible day, the Kostas private tour (more info) is ideal.
Consider your physical activity level; some tours, like the Imbros Gorge, involve walking, while others are more relaxed. Booking early is recommended, especially for popular events like the festival or private tours. Think about whether you want a group experience or a personalized itinerary, as that will influence your choice.
Final thoughts
Matala’s diverse tour offerings mean there’s something for every traveler — from rocking festivals to archaeological explorations and peaceful beaches. For a lively atmosphere, the Matala Beach Festival is hard to beat. For a more historical or scenic experience, options like the Gortyn archaeological tour or private excursions give you flexibility and depth.
Booking early is wise, especially for popular dates and private tours. Whatever your style, Matala promises a memorable mix of culture, history, and laid-back fun. Now, all that’s left is to pick your perfect adventure and enjoy everything this unique corner of Crete has to offer.