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Southern Crete: Coastal Views & Ancient Ruins
Explore Matala Beach, Phaistos ruins, and Zaros Lake. Discover Crete’s natural beauty, history, and culture with our expert guide. Book your private tour now.
Explore Matala Beach, Phaistos ruins, and Zaros Lake. Discover Crete’s natural beauty, history, and culture with our expert guide. Book your private tour now.
Duration:
7 hours
Cancellation:
24 hours
Highlights
- Archaeological Site of Phaistos - This significant archaeological site features the ruins of a grand Minoan palace, offering insights into one of the earliest advanced civilizations in Europe, and is home to the enigmatic Phaistos Disc.
- Matala Beach - Matala Beach, with its golden sands, turquoise waters, and ancient cliffside caves, exudes a…
- Archaeological Site of Phaistos - This significant archaeological site features the ruins of a grand Minoan palace, offering insights into one of the earliest advanced civilizations in Europe, and is home to the enigmatic Phaistos Disc.
- Matala Beach - Matala Beach, with its golden sands, turquoise waters, and ancient cliffside caves, exudes a laid-back, bohemian vibe reminiscent of its 1960s hippie days. Known for inspiring artists and musicians, the beach continues to radiate a sense of freedom and creativity. The breathtaking sunshine over the Libyan Sea, casting a warm glow on the cliffs, enhances its unforgettable charm. - Don’t forget to bring your swimwear, towel, and sunscreen!
- Matala Caves - Carved into the cliffs, these ancient Roman and early Christian tombs were later inhabited by 1960s hippies, creating a unique blend of ancient history and modern counterculture.
- Lake of Zaros Votomos - Located at the base of Mount Psiloritis, Zaros Lake is a serene freshwater lake surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for relaxing, hiking, and enjoying traditional Cretan hospitality.
Zaros Lake is renowned for its tavernas, which serves fresh fish caught directly from the lake. -A stop for lunch here is optional but highly recommended.
What's Included
- Private Transportation in a Comfortable Van
- Private Local Driver-Guide Fluent in English
- Hotel, Harbor, or Meeting Point Pickup and Drop-Off
- Onboard Wi-Fi and Fast Charger
- Complimentary Bottled Water
- Fuel, Tolls, Taxes, and Fees
- Hygiene Amenities and First Aid Kit
- Private Transportation in a Comfortable Van
- Private Local Driver-Guide Fluent in English
- Hotel, Harbor, or Meeting Point Pickup and Drop-Off
- Onboard Wi-Fi and Fast Charger
- Complimentary Bottled Water
- Fuel, Tolls, Taxes, and Fees
- Hygiene Amenities and First Aid Kit
What's Not Included
- Pick-Ups Outside the Designated Area: May be available for an additional fee-just ask!
- Licensed Tourist Guide (Optional): Available in several languages-just ask!
- Cretan Lunch (Optional): Approximately €15 per person
- Palace of Phaistos Tickets: €8 (Full), €4 (Reduced)
- Personal Expenses, Tips & Gratuities
- Pick-Ups Outside the Designated Area: May be available for an additional fee-just ask!
- Licensed Tourist Guide (Optional): Available in several languages-just ask!
- Cretan Lunch (Optional): Approximately €15 per person
- Palace of Phaistos Tickets: €8 (Full), €4 (Reduced)
- Personal Expenses, Tips & Gratuities
Additional Information
Experience the highlights of southern Crete, where breathtaking coastal vistas, historical ruins, and peaceful scenery offer an unforgettable journey!
Explore the lively beaches of Matala, once a sanctuary for the Flower Children, delve into the archaeological marvels of Phaistos, and choose between the serene escape of Zaros Lake, a visit to a Signature…
Experience the highlights of southern Crete, where breathtaking coastal vistas, historical ruins, and peaceful scenery offer an unforgettable journey!
Explore the lively beaches of Matala, once a sanctuary for the Flower Children, delve into the archaeological marvels of Phaistos, and choose between the serene escape of Zaros Lake, a visit to a Signature Winery, dining at a tavern with spectacular views, or discovering the ancient site of Gortyna. This Day Trip effortlessly combines nature, history, and culture.
Ideal for travelers, including families, who are keen to discover Crete’s varied landscapes, rich history, and enduring traditions!
- The remaining time will be spend on the road traveling from one place to another
- Travelers from Cruise ships should take the earliest possible option
- Travelers should bring swimwear & a beach towel
- Travelers should wear suitable shoes & clothes
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Customer Ratings
5.0
(10 Ratings)
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1 star
Panos376
Jan 7, 2025
Discovering the Wonders of South Crete - The following day, we continued our journey through Crete’s wonders. We had heard about Phaistos and its renowned Disk, as well as Matala, famous for its connection to the Flower Children, which made exploring these places even more exciting. Our son, Alkis, wanted to spend more time at the beach, so we adjusted the itinerary to include a visit to nearby Komos Beach. The view from the taverna on the hill was absolutely breathtaking!
Yorgos, thank you for an extraordinary day!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Katt
Jan 4, 2025
Lovely Memorable Trip to South Crete - We had an incredible day exploring South Crete! Visiting Matala Beach with its iconic caves and the Minoan Palace of Phaistos. The olive harvesting experience added a wonderful cultural touch, giving you a glimpse into Crete’s rich agricultural heritage. A day filled with history, natural beauty, and local traditions—truly memorable!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Xtremekev
Jan 3, 2025
Explore Crete's history and beauty on an exceptional custom day trip - This was our second day trip in Crete with Sunsud Tours and George - this time to the stunning Minoan Festos Palace and Matara Beach - and finally safely took us to Chania. We're a family of eight, travelling with young children and a baby, and time management is always a challenge, but George makes everything look simple and easy. It is extraordinary that he has orchestrated a day trip that perfectly fits our diverse needs and interests.
The visit to Festus Palace is a fascinating experience. George's detailed explanations and fascinating story bring this ancient Minoan site to life, highlighting its historical significance and architectural splendor. His in-depth knowledge of the site's history and shared passion made the trip an unforgettable educational journey.
At Matara Beach, George made sure we had plenty of time to relax and enjoy the stunning views, including the iconic caves. His insights into the cultural and historical significance of the region add another layer of appeal to our experience.
George also exceeded our expectations by recommending family-friendly places to rest and take photos. A special highlight was witnessing local farmers harvesting olives and operating machines - an authentic experience of Cretan tradition.
George's professionalism, attention to detail and ability to connect with everyone on our team, from kids to seniors, make this day extra special. I wholeheartedly recommend George and Sunsud Tours to anyone looking for a tailored, enriching experience in Crete!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Tutacapotuta
Dec 17, 2024
A memorable day in southern Crete - Following George's recommendation, we had another unforgettable adventure!
Matala Beach with its golden sand and caves wowed us, and the children enjoyed splashing around and exploring the area. Festos Palace mesmerized us with its ancient beauty. Lake Zaros was the perfect ending to the day: we enjoyed incredibly fresh trout, and the children were thrilled to feed fish and play by the water.
Southern Crete is forever in our hearts!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
507nitab
Nov 27, 2024
Another incredible day in Crete - For the second time, we trusted George of SunSud Tours with our adventures in Crete, and again he delivered an extraordinary experience. From Matala beach to Lake Zaros, every detail was spotless. George's expertise made the day extraordinary.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Timetravelereurope
Nov 27, 2024
Couldn't get better - It's got everything I like. Great, simple food and drinks, rich history, great weather and people who are relaxed. The buses are a great way to travel, but timetables can be difficult to find
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Exploringnewplace
Nov 4, 2024
Perfect day in South Crete - Our family’s second day trip with SunSud Tours was just as incredible as the first! This itinerary perfectly showcased the best of southern Crete’s beauty, history, and culture. Each destination was thoughtfully chosen—from the vibrant coastal views of Matala to the ancient wonders of Phaistos and the peaceful retreat of Zaros Lake.
As a Liquor & Wine professional, I was thrilled that George added a stop at Zacharioudakis Winery, where we enjoyed exceptional wines and stunning vineyard views. At Zaros Lake, we savored the freshest brown trout we’ve ever had, and my son had the time of his life exploring the lake and watching the fish.
George truly worked miracles for us—his knowledge, care, and genuine enthusiasm for Crete made the trip unforgettable. Huge thanks to SunSud Tours for another perfect day out. We look forward to many more adventures with them!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Happiness66909872135
Oct 25, 2024
An Unforgettable Journey through South Crete - We were absolutely enchanted with the stunning landscape of southern Crete! The combination of the old Palace of Festo, the iconic caves and beach of Matala, and the serene Lake Zaros – where we tasted fresh trout – was the perfect adventure.
Our driver, who was also our travel agent, arranged everything in the smallest detail, but still left room for spontaneity, allowing small surprises and “miracles” to happen throughout the day. It was a beautifully balanced journey that combined history, culture and natural beauty in a harmonious way! Highly recommended!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Serendipitys2021
Oct 17, 2024
Cretan vistas of Phaistos Gortyna, Zaros Lake and Marvelous Matala Beachke and Marvelous - Absolutely breathtaking exciting day with Grecian coffee under the shade of olive trees in Gortyna. Out guide Giorgos, gave a fascinating account of the Minoan civilization of Phaistos as we walked amongst the pithoi and epistyle columns. Later we soaked up the Bohemian vibrations of Matala enjoying the sun and surf as well as ice cream and drinks. Winding through Cretan villages we enjoyed a wonderful afternoon in fresh fish and lamb chops at Zaros lake. Our guide provided a wonderful experience and provided an optional transfer to Chania with Venetian views and rich history. Highly recommend! 🌟
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Stephanie_l
Oct 17, 2024
Festive lakes, seashore and ancient Minoan Vistas - Immersed in ancient history and Roman trails with optional excursion to Gortyna in the morning complete with Grecian coffee. Our guide Giorgos provided fascinating history of the ancient Minoan site of Phaistos, replete with hieroglyphics and phithoi jars. Winding down at Matala we enjoyed the invigorating waves and relaxing Bohemian vibrations, catching waves and gourmet ice cream and drinks. Wi.ding through villages we arrived at Zaros lake for a hearty Greek style meal of lamb chops and fresh fish. Our guide Giorgois was very knowledgeable, humorous and hospitable, and even was available for transport service to Chania and provided excellent recommendations and fascinating conversations about Venetian and Grecian. Highly recommended!
Review provided by Viator
