Matala Beach and Zaros Village from Heraklion

Excursion Highlights:
  • Wander through the ancient Minoan ruins of Phaistos, exploring royal staircases and storied chambers with sweeping views of Mount Ida.
  • Relax on the golden sands of Matala Beach or swim in its clear turquoise waters surrounded by historic cliffside caves.
  • Stroll through the artistic streets of Matala, soaking up the vibrant atmosphere and unique coastal character.
  • Unwind by Lake Votomos in Zaros with time to enjoy a fresh coffee, admire traditional watermills, or savor optional local cuisine.
  • Discover Crete's rich traditions as your guide shares captivating stories about village life, local agriculture, and cultural festivals.
Price: $95.00
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Summary
Shore Excursion Size ? Standard
Shore Excursion Type Scenic, Cultural, Historical
Shore Excursion Duration 8 Hours 30 Minutes
Activity Level ? Easy
Shore Excursion Leaves From ? Cruise Ship Pier
Food/Beverage Provided Not Included
Recommended Dress We recommend wearing comfortable clothing and sensible, flat-soled walking shoes. A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are also suggested.
Restrictions This tour can accommodate collapsible wheelchairs, strollers, or walkers.

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!