// MENU
History & culture

Matala Beach + Caves, Phaistos Palace & Southern Charm | Private

5.0 from 23 Viator reviews8 hoursViator
  • Private

Matala Beach + Caves, Phaistos Palace & Southern Charm | Private is an 8-hour history and culture tour in Iraklion, booked through Viator. From $93. Starts 7:00 am, 7:30 am, 8:00 am, 8:30 am, 9:00 am, 9:30 am, 10:00 am and 11:30 pm. Free cancellation up to 24 hours before.

  • Matala Beach + Caves, Phaistos Palace & Southern Charm | Private, photo 1 of 10
  • Matala Beach + Caves, Phaistos Palace & Southern Charm | Private, photo 2 of 10
  • Photo 3 of 10
  • Photo 4 of 10
  • Photo 5 of 10
  • Photo 6 of 10
  • Photo 7 of 10
  • Photo 8 of 10
  • Photo 9 of 10
  • Photo 10 of 10
10 photos

About this excursion

• Private experience • Flexible pace • Personalized routing

Private full-day tour to Phaistos Palace and Matala Beach & Caves, combining South Crete’s archaeological heritage with relaxed coastal time by the Libyan Sea.

The day begins at Phaistos Palace, overlooking the Messara Plain, with historical background provided outside the site and free time to explore independently.

The tour continues to Matala Beach & Caves, known for their ancient use and later hippie-era cultural history. Free time is available for swimming, walking, or relaxing by the sea.

One optional stop may be added, depending on interests, timing, and day flow:

• Olive oil estate with tasting and lunch by Zaros Lake

• Family-run winery with views

• Seaside lunch by the Libyan Sea

• Ancient Gortyn, former Roman capital

• Kalyviani Monastery, a quiet spiritual stop

You deserve the high standards of SunSud Tours.

Crete • Private day trip • Shore excursion • Cruise-friendly

From Heraklion Port • Hersonissos

What’s included in this excursion

Included
  • Bottled water
  • Onboard Wi-Fi and Fast Charger
  • Olive Oil & Premium Local Products Tasting Fee
  • Knowledgeable Local Driver-Host Fluent in English
  • Planning & Organization of your Personalized Tour
  • Fuel, Tolls, Taxes, and Fees
  • Liability Insurance
  • Hygiene Amenities and First Aid Kit
  • Private Transportation in a Comfortable Van
  • Hotel, Harbor, or Meeting Point Pickup & Drop-Off
Not included
  • Phaistos Palace (Free: EU <25 / Non-EU <18)
  • Licensed Guide (multi-language, optional, extra charge)
  • Winery Tour & Tasting of Indigenous Wines Fee
  • Personal expenses, tips & gratuities
  • Lunch is an Optional Experience

Know before you go

Accessibility

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Is it suitable for children?

  • Specialized infant seats are available

Health & fitness

  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

What to bring

  • Travelers should bring swimwear & a beach towel
  • Travelers should wear suitable shoes & clothes

Other

  • Your Driver-Host provides historical background, local context, and logistics throughout the day outside archaeological sites.
  • Greek law requires a Licensed Guide for tours inside sites and museums; these can be arranged upon request for an in-depth visit.
  • Travelers from Cruise ships should take the earliest possible option
  • We can accommodate big groups. For groups of 9 or more, please contact us directly

Where this excursion starts

The meeting point is on your booking confirmation from Viator.

When it runs

Runs every day. Starts 7:00 am, 7:30 am, 8:00 am, 8:30 am, 9:00 am, 9:30 am, 10:00 am and 11:30 pm.

Schedule checked Nov 15
Ready when you are
Matala Beach + Caves, Phaistos Palace & Southern Charm | Private
From $93Free cancellation
Check availabilityOpens Viator's site
Check availability

Sign up or
Sign in

Save your cruise, track reviews for your cabin, set cruise price drop alerts, & more with an account.

No password needed · Sign-in code sent