Bus tour to🚍south Crete Matala⛱️& Festos 

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the rich tapestry of Minoan civilization and the natural wonders of southern Crete with our enchanting bus tour to Matala and Festos. Delve into the timeless allure of these historic sites, where ancient ruins stand as testaments to the island's storied past, and breathtaking landscapes offer a glimpse into the island's unparalleled beauty.

Our adventure begins in the quaint village of Matala, nestled along the rugged coastline of southern Crete. Renowned for its stunning cliffs and turquoise waters, Matala captivates visitors with its pristine beaches and bohemian charm. As we traverse the winding streets of this seaside haven, you'll be transported back in time to the 1960s, when Matala gained fame as a hippie hangout and a gathering place for artists and free spirits from around the world.

But Matala's history stretches back much further than the hippie era, as evidenced by the ancient caves that dot the cliffs overlooking the beach. These man-made caverns, carved into the soft limestone by the Minoans over 2,000 years ago, once served as burial chambers and later became homes for hermits and monks. Today, they stand as a haunting reminder of Matala's ancient past and a testament to the enduring legacy of Minoan civilization.

From Matala, our journey continues to the nearby archaeological site of Festos, one of the most important Minoan palaces in Crete. Set against a backdrop of rolling hills and olive groves, Festos beckons with its imposing ruins and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. As you wander through the labyrinthine corridors of this ancient palace, you'll be transported back to the height of Minoan civilization, when Festos served as a bustling centre of trade and culture.

Marvel at the intricately carved stone columns and frescoed walls that adorn the palace's grand hallways, and imagine the lives of the Minoan royals who once walked these same corridors. Discover the secrets of the mysterious Phaistos Disc, an enigmatic clay tablet found at Festos that remains one of the most tantalizing puzzles of the ancient world.

As the sun begins to set on this ancient landscape, take a moment to pause and reflect on the timeless beauty of southern Crete. From the rugged cliffs of Matala to the majestic ruins of Festos, this bus tour offers a journey through the heart of Minoan civilization and the natural splendour of the Cretan countryside. Join us on this unforgettable adventure and experience the magic of Matala and Festos for yourself.

Travel plan

🚏Stop at: Festos

🚏Stop at Matala sandy beach

What's included in the price

✅Pick-up from your hotel (at the specific tourist bus stop, outside of the hotel. No more than 800 m)

✅Guided tour at Festos

✅ Time for lunch and swim at Matala

✅Transfer with air-conditioned bus

✅ Insurance

What is not included in the price

❎ Entrance fees to museums/sights

❎  Individual expenses.

Related post📖 

Everything about Matala – Phaistos