Matala is a famous Cretan village on the southern coast of Heraklion, facing the Libyan Sea. It is known for its hippie atmosphere and beach caves that date back to ancient times. There are several ways to reach Matala from different parts of Crete. The most common is by car, which offers more flexibility and convenience. It takes 1 hour to drive from Heraklion, the capital of Crete, to Matala, crossing the island from north to south. There are also buses that connect Matala with Heraklion and other nearby towns, such as Agia Galini and Mires. The bus service is not very frequent and may require some transfers.
The cheapest way to reach Matala depends on the starting point and the number of travellers. For solo travellers or couples, taking the bus may be more economical than renting a car. A one-way bus ticket from Heraklion to Matala costs ($7.63, £6.09), while a car rental may cost 25€ ($27.25, £21.75) per day, plus fuel and parking fees, but for groups or families, renting a car may be more affordable and comfortable, as it allows splitting the costs and exploring the area at their own pace. The most popular starting point to reach Matala is Heraklion, as it is Crete's main city and transport hub. It has an international airport and a port that receives flights and ferries from Athens and other Greek islands. Most visitors choose to spend some days in Heraklion before heading to Matala, as it offers a variety of attractions, such as the archaeological site of Knossos, the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, and the Venetian fortress of Koules. Some travellers prefer to go directly to Matala from the airport or the port, as it is only 65 kilometres (40 miles) away.
Listed below are ways to get to Matala:
The cost of a taxi to Matala depends on the starting point and the time of the day. The price from Heraklion Airport to Matala is 80€ ($87.2, £69.6), and from Chania Airport to Matala is 140€ ($152.6, £121.8). The duration of a taxi ride to Matala also varies depending on the traffic and the route. It takes 55 minutes to get from Heraklion to Matala by taxi and 2 hours and 15 minutes from Chania. These are the average times and may change depending on the road conditions.
The availability of taxis to Matala is good, especially from the airports and the major cities. Booking a taxi in advance is advisable, especially during the peak season or at night. Visitors can use online booking services to reserve a taxi and get a confirmation. The best time to visit Matala is from April to October when the weather is pleasant, and the sea is calm. This is also the busiest and most expensive time, so visitors may have to pay more for a taxi and deal with crowds. If one prefers a quieter and cheaper time, one can visit Matala from November to March, when the weather is cooler and tourism is low, but visitors may have to deal with some rain and wind, and some attractions may be closed.
The cost of renting a car in Matala depends on the car type, the rental duration, and the season. The rental price varies from 9€ ($9.81, £7.83) to 50€ ($54.5, £43.5) per day. Some car rental companies offer discounts for longer periods or online bookings. The travel time to Matala by car rental depends on the starting point and the traffic conditions. From Heraklion Airport, the distance is 70 kilometres (43 miles), and the driving time is 1 hour. From Chania Airport, the distance is 180 kilometres (112 miles), and the driving time is 2 and a half hours. From Rethymno, the distance is 100 kilometres (62 miles), and the driving time is 1 and a half hours.
The ease of getting to Matala with a car rental depends on the availability of cars, the road conditions, and the parking options. Some car rental companies offer free delivery and pick-up of cars from any location in Crete. The roads to Matala are well-maintained and scenic, but they can be narrow and winding in some parts. Parking in Matala is limited, especially during the peak season, so booking a hotel with parking facilities or arriving early in the morning is advisable. The best time to visit Matala is from April to October when the weather is pleasant, and the sea is calm. This is also the busiest and most expensive time, so visitors may have to pay more for a taxi and deal with crowds. If one prefers a quieter and cheaper time, one can visit Matala from November to March, when the weather is cooler and tourism is low, but visitors may have to deal with some rain and wind, and some attractions may be closed.
A bus ticket from Heraklion to Matala costs 8€ ($8.72, £6.96) one way. The bus departs from Heraklion's bus station B, slightly west of the city centre. The bus ticket can be purchased on board the bus with cash only. The bus ride from Heraklion to Matala is 2 hours and 30 minutes. The bus makes several stops along the way, passing through scenic villages and landscapes. The bus arrives at Matala's bus station, which is close to the beach and the town centre.
The frequency of the bus service from Heraklion to Matala varies depending on the day of the week. There are only two buses per day on weekdays, which are 07:30 am and 01:00 pm, two on Saturday, which are 07:30 am and 11:30 am, and none on Sunday. Before travelling, planning and checking the current schedule on the KTEL website or at the bus station is advisable. The best time to visit Matala is from April to October when the weather is pleasant, and the sea is calm. This is also the busiest and most expensive time, so visitors may have to pay more for a taxi and deal with crowds. If one prefers a quieter and cheaper time, one can visit Matala from November to March, when the weather is cooler and tourism is low, but visitors may have to deal with some rain and wind, and some attractions may be closed.
The cost of an organised tour to Matala depends on the type of tour, the duration, and the departure point. Some popular tours are: From Rethymno: Spili, Agia Galini, and Matala Tour, which costs 38.11€ ($41.54, £33.16) per person; Heraklion: Matala Beach, Hippie Caves, and Gortyn Day Trip, which costs 46.82€ ($51.03, £40.73) per person; and From Agia Galini/Matala: Islands Boat Cruise with Swim Stops, which costs 79.49€ ($86.64, £69.16) per person. The duration of an organised tour to Matala also varies depending on the itinerary and the transportation mode. Some tours take 8 hours, such as From Heraklion: Matala Beach and Hippie Caves and From Elounda: Minoan Palaces with Winery & Matala Beach Tour, while other tours take longer, such as From Rethymno: Spili, Agia Galini, and Matala Tour, which takes 10 hours, and From Chania: Minoan Palaces with Winery & Matala Beach Tour, which takes 10 hours.
The ease of getting to Matala with an organised tour depends on the availability and convenience of the pickup and drop-off locations. Most tours offer pickup and drop-off from selected hotels or central points in cities such as Heraklion, Rethymno, Chania, Elounda, and Agia Galini. Some tours may require a minimum number of participants, and some may have limited seats or dates. Booking a tour in advance is advisable to secure a spot and avoid disappointment. The best time to visit Matala is from April to October when the weather is pleasant, and the sea is calm. This is also the busiest and most expensive time, so visitors may have to pay more for a taxi and deal with crowds. If one prefers a quieter and cheaper time, one can visit Matala from November to March, when the weather is cooler and tourism is low, but visitors may have to deal with some rain and wind, and some attractions may be closed.
The cost of a private tour to Matala varies depending on the provider, the duration, the itinerary, and the number of people. The average price range is between 2200€ ($218, £174) and 600€ ($654, £522) per group. Some tours may include lunch, entrance fees, or other extras. The duration of a private tour to Matala also depends on the factors mentioned above, the starting point and the traffic conditions. Most tours last between 8 and 10 hours, but some may be shorter or longer. Visitors can choose a tour that suits their schedule and preferences.
The difficulty of a private tour to Matala is low to moderate, as most tours involve driving, walking, and sightseeing. Some tours may include optional activities such as kayaking, canoeing, or swimming, which may require more physical effort. Visitors can select a tour that matches their level of fitness and comfort. The best time to visit Matala is from April to October when the weather is pleasant, and the sea is calm. This is also the busiest and most expensive time, so visitors may have to pay more for a taxi and deal with crowds. If one prefers a quieter and cheaper time, one can visit Matala from November to March, when the weather is cooler and tourism is low, but visitors may have to deal with some rain and wind, and some attractions may be closed.
The cheapest way to get to Matala is by bus. Regional buses operate regular routes to Matala from nearby towns and cities, offering affordable fares, typically ranging from 5€ ($5.45, £4.35) to 15€ ($16.35, £13.05), depending on the distance and departure point. These buses provide an economical option for budget-conscious travelers. The bus services to Matala are well-established and reliable, with frequent daily departures, giving travelers flexibility in planning their trips. Bus stations are conveniently located, making it easy for passengers to access and board the buses. Additionally, traveling by bus to Matala allows for scenic views along the way, often passing through beautiful landscapes, allowing travelers to appreciate the region's natural beauty while saving money.
The quickest way to get to Matala is by taxi or car rental. Taking a taxi is a convenient and time-efficient option, with taxis readily available at airports and major transportation hubs. A taxi ride from Heraklion International Airport to Matala takes about 55 minutes, covering a distance of 70 kilometers (43 miles). The fare is typically around 80€ ($87.2, £69.6), though it may vary depending on the taxi company and any additional charges.
Alternatively, renting a car offers flexibility and allows travelers to explore the surrounding areas at their own pace. Car rental companies are available at Heraklion International Airport, and the drive to Matala takes about 1 hour. The cost of renting a car starts at 30€ ($32.7, £26.1, depending on the vehicle type, rental duration, and insurance coverage.
Families with kids should choose a car rental to get to Matala. Renting a car provides flexibility and convenience, allowing families to explore nearby attractions like the archaeological site of Phaistos, Agiofarago beach, and the fishing village of Kalamaki at their own pace. They can also enjoy the scenic coastal drive and make stops wherever they like, enhancing the travel experience.
Renting a car can be more economical and comfortable than using public transportation or taxis. With the average price for a small car at around 30€ per day, including unlimited kilometers, insurance, and taxes, it offers good value for families.
Renting a car adds an element of fun and adventure. Families can choose from a variety of car models, such as convertibles, jeeps, or minibuses, and enjoy amenities like air conditioning and music. For added convenience, they can rent a car equipped with GPS or a child seat if needed. This makes the journey more enjoyable and tailored to the needs of the entire family.
Matala is a village in Crete, Greece. It is part of the community of Pitsidia within the municipal unit of Tympaki, Faistos municipality, Heraklion regional unit. It is located 75 kilometres (47 miles) southwest of Heraklion, the capital of Crete. Matala has a hot-summer Mediterranean climate, with average temperatures ranging from 12.57 ℃ (54.63 ℉) in January to 27.14 ℃ (80.85 ℉) in July. Matala is famous for its artificial caves on the cliff of the bay, which were created in the Neolithic Age and used as dwellings, tombs, or storages in different periods of history. Matala was the port of Phaistos, the second-largest Minoan Palace in Crete, during the Minoan period. It was also occupied by the Gortynians and the Romans, and one of the caves is named after the Roman general Brutus. Matala became a popular destination for hippies in the 1960s, who lived in the caves and enjoyed the natural beauty and the relaxed atmosphere. Some famous musicians and artists, such as Joni Mitchell, Bob Dylan, and Cat Stevens, visited or stayed in Matala and were inspired by its culture and scenery. Matala's hippie history is celebrated every June in the Matala Beach Festival, which features music, art, and workshops.
Listed below are the different ways to get to Matala from Heraklion:
Listed below are the different ways to get to Matala from Chania:
Listed below are the different ways to get to Matala from Rethymno:
Listed below are the different ways to get to Matala from Agios Nikolaos:
Listed below are the different ways to get to Matala from Hersonissos:
Yes, Matala is worth visiting. It is a coastal town located on the southern coast of Crete, Greece. The beach is framed by cliffs, creating a unique and picturesque landscape. Matala is famous for its ancient caves carved into these cliffs thousands of years ago, which later became a haven for hippies in the 1960s and 1970s. The town provides a range of amenities, including restaurants, cafes, and shops, all within a relaxed and laid-back atmosphere, making it an ideal destination to unwind and experience the Mediterranean lifestyle.
Yes, visitors need to book a transfer in advance to visit Matala. Matala is 67 kilometres (42 miles) southwest of Heraklion, Crete's largest city. It is a popular tourist destination for its beautiful beach and historical caves. Due to its popularity and limited transportation options, reserving a transfer in advance is advisable to ensure a smooth and convenient journey. Visitors can secure their transportation from Heraklion to Matala by booking a Crete transfer in advance without any last-minute hassles. It allows them to plan their trip effectively and avoid potential delays or unavailability of transportation upon arrival. Booking in advance allows visitors to compare prices and choose the most suitable transfer option for their budget and preferences.
