Matala Beach and Zaros Village from Heraklion

Dive into Crete’s sun-kissed south on a full-day adventure that blends Bronze-Age palaces, legendary beaches, and mountain-spring villages into one effortlessly paced outing.

In just eight hours, you’ll unlock three of the island’s best-kept secrets–Phaistos, Matala, and Zaros–without worrying about maps, parking, or getting back to the ship on time.

This tour kicks off with a visit to the world-renowned archaeological spectacle, Phaistos, a crucial city of the ancient Minoan civilization. Forty-five unhurried minutes let you roam grand staircases, peer into royal storerooms, and snap panoramic shots of Mount Ida that will light up your social feed.

Following the path of history, we venture to the quaint coastal hamlet of Matala. Known for its radiant sandy beach and pristine waters, Matala also boasts remarkable cliff-carved caves that stand as a testament to time. Enjoy nearly two hours basking in the sun, soaking in the Aegean Sea, or meandering through the vibrant lanes filled with character and charm.

Mid-afternoon brings a cool change of scenery in Zaros, tucked high on Mount Psiloritis and famed for its bottled spring water. Enjoy two leisurely hours to sip coffee beside emerald Lake Votomos, photograph working watermills, or savor a farm-to-table lunch of grilled trout and Cretan olive oil–totally optional and payable on the spot, so you control the budget. Throughout the journey your guide shares insider stories about vineyard traditions, olive-grove legends, and the epic knife dances still performed at village festivals, ensuring every mile is rich with local color.

The tour concludes with a timely return to the Heraklion Port, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Crete’s stunning landscapes, historic treasures, and charming local culture. With a total of 3 1/2 hours of comfortable transportation included, this excursion offers an incredible balance of adventure and relaxation, appealing to history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and beach-goers alike. Join us and unearth the true magic of Crete!

Please Note:The entrance fee to the archaeological site of Phaistos is not included in the tour price and must be paid on the day of the tour. The cost is 15 EUR for adults and 8 EUR for EU citizens over 65 years old. Discounts apply to EU citizens only and do not apply during the high season (June-September). Admission is free for EU citizens up to 25 years old, non-EU citizens up to 18 years old.