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











