Matala is a bustling coastal village in southwestern Crete, frequented for its breathtaking beaches, iconic caves, and rich hippie history. Travelers visiting Matala often arrive through Heraklion International Airport (HER), located 65.6 kilometers (40.8 miles) northeast, or Chania International Airport (CHQ), which is significantly farther at 140 kilometers (87 miles) northwest.
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from / to Matala
| Destination | Price | Time | Distance | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Heraklion Airport (HER) | €80 | 62 min | 66 km | |
| Chania Airport (CHQ) | €0 | 152 min | 141 km | |
| Heraklion Port | €80 | 66 min | 62.9 km | |
| Heraklion Town | €80 | 65 min | 62.8 km |
Various transportation options connect Matala to these airports, including taxis, private transfers, buses, and rental cars. Taxis and private transfers provide the fastest and most direct routes, while public buses offer an economical, albeit longer, journey. Visitors can navigate using metered taxis, KTEL-operated buses, or rental cars within Matala, with walking and cycling also being convenient alternatives. Taxis from Matala to Heraklion Airport typically cost €80–€100 (£69–£86) and take about 1.5 hours, whereas trips to Chania Airport require around 2.5 hours with fares exceeding €150 (£129). Buses provide budget-friendly transport, though routes require multiple transfers and longer travel times. Private car rentals offer flexibility for travelers who wish to explore the island at their own pace. Ride-hailing services like Uber and metro transfers are unavailable, making traditional taxis and private transfers the preferred choice for getting around and exploring beyond Matala.
Matala is a lively village by the coast located southwest of Crete, well-trodden by tourists for its spectacular shorelines, majestic natural caves, and rich history as a former haven of hippies. Transfers between Matala and Crete’s two main airports, Heraklion International Airport (HER) and Chania International Airport (CHQ) are frequently used by visitors to get into village. Heraklion Airport is the nearest to Matala, located 65.6 kilometers (40.8 miles) northeast of village. Travelers can reach it conveniently by bus, taxi, or private transfer. Chania Airport is significantly farther, situated 140 kilometers (87 miles) northwest, typically requiring over 2.5 hours by car and significantly longer by public transportation.
Travelers can get from Matala to Heraklion Airport by bus, taxi, private transfer, or rental car. The cheapest way is by bus, costing between €6 and €9 (£5–£8), although there is no direct bus from Matala to the airport. Travelers will first have to take a bus from Matala to Heraklion’s central bus station, a journey that takes approximately 2.5 hours. A connecting bus from there will transport passengers to the airport in about 15 minutes, costing around €2 (£1.70). The fastest option is by taxi or private transfer, which directly covers the 65.6 kilometers (40.8 miles) in approximately 1.5 hours, with fares typically ranging between €80–€100 (£69–£86). Several private transfer services offer pre-booked rides with prices starting at €95 (£82). Renting a car allows a more convenient and flexible option for travelers wishing to explore Crete at their own pace.
Travelers can get from Matala to Chania Airport via bus, taxi, private transfer, or car rental. The most economical option is the bus, with fares totaling approximately €20 (£18). This route requires multiple transfers, first being a bus trip from Matala to Heraklion, then from Heraklion to Chania, and finally from Chania to the airport. The entire trip can take between 4-5 hours, making it suitable for travelers who don't mind a longer travel time. Taxis and private transfers offer a more direct and faster option, covering the entire 140 kilometers (87 miles) in approximately 2.5 hours. Renting a car offers the most flexibility yet would be less economical, allowing travelers to explore Crete at their own pace.
Transportation in Matala offers efficient and convenient options for all travelers, whether getting around the village, exploring other places in Crete, or transferring to major airports. Visitors can choose among taxis, buses, or rental cars to comfortably navigate the village, reach popular attractions, or travel to nearby cities and beaches.
Travelers can get around Matala using taxis, public buses, or private car rentals. Metered taxis are easily accessible and provide convenient door-to-door service within the village or to nearby destinations. Public buses operated by the regional network offer affordable transportation, connecting Matala directly to Heraklion and neighboring villages in Crete. Renting a private car provides the greatest flexibility, allowing visitors to independently explore attractions and beaches around the region at their preferred pace.
Taxis in Matala operate on a meter system, charging passengers according to the distance traveled. No dedicated taxi app currently exists for Matala, but taxis are easily found at designated taxi stands, popular tourist spots, or through hotel arrangements. Taxi trips from Matala to Heraklion Airport cover approximately 32 kilometers (19.9 miles) and typically cost €80 ($87.2, £69.6), lasting about 25–30 minutes. Traveling by taxi to Chania Airport, located 178 kilometers (110.6 miles) away, takes around 2.5 hours, with fares usually around €40($152.6, £121.8) Travelers should always ensure the meter is activated when their journey begins.
Buses in Matala are operated by KTEL, the regional public transportation network, offering economical and reliable service. The bus route between Heraklion and Matala is well-established, with one-way tickets priced at €8 ($8.72, £6.96). The bus departs from Heraklion’s Bus Station B, located slightly west of the city center, and arrives at Matala’s bus station, which is conveniently close to the beach and village center. Tickets can only be purchased onboard with cash. The bus journey from Heraklion to Matala takes approximately 2.5 hours, passing through scenic villages and landscapes along the way. Bus transfers to Chania Airport require multiple connections, first traveling from Matala to Heraklion’s Bus Station B, then continuing westward to Chania, and finally transferring to the airport shuttle, making the total journey approximately 4 hours long. The frequency of the bus service between Heraklion and Matala varies by day. There are two buses per day on weekdays at 07:30 AM and 01:00 PM, two on Saturdays at 07:30 AM and 11:30 AM, and no service on Sundays. Travelers should check the current schedule on the KTEL website or at the bus station before traveling.
Private car rental offers the most flexible means of transportation, a convenient way to explore Matala and its surroundings. Local car rental companies provide various vehicle options, a selection ranging from compact vehicles ideal for lone travelers or small groups to SUVs and minivans for families or larger groups. The rates vary depending on the type of vehicle, the duration of the rent, and the season, with rates ranging from €9 ($9.81, £7.83) to €50 ($54.5, £43.5) per day. Some agencies offer discounts for extended rentals or online bookings, allowing travelers to secure their preferred vehicle in advance. Some car rental companies also offer free car delivery and pick-up across Crete, making the rental process more convenient. The roads to Matala are well-maintained and scenic, though certain sections can be narrow and winding. Parking in Matala is limited, especially during peak tourist season, so booking a hotel with parking facilities or arriving early in the morning is advisable for a smoother experience.
No, Uber is not available in Matala. The ride-hailing app is available in Greece, but it only operates exclusively in Athens, Corfu, and Santorini. Visitors and locals traveling within and beyond Matala can choose from traditional means of transportation, including taxis, private transfers, local buses, and car rentals. Taxis are easily accessible in central areas and hotels, while private car transfers offer personalized schedules, luggage assistance, and direct service to desired destinations. Public buses and rental cars are also practical alternatives.
A private car transfer is better than a taxi transfer when traveling to or from Matala. Private transfers offer multiple advantages, such as personalized schedules, choice of vehicle type, and pre-arranged bookings. Travelers avoid inconveniences like waiting in taxi lines, uncertainty about taxi availability, or unexpected stops along the route. Private car transfers also eliminate issues such as navigating unfamiliar roads or dealing with luggage, as the driver provides assistance and ensures a smooth, direct journey to the destination.
No, there is no metro transfer in Matala, as the village does not have a metro or subway system due to its small size and coastal location. The entire island of Crete relies primarily on road transportation networks, without metro services. Travelers visiting Matala instead use metered taxis, private transfer services, public buses, rental cars, walking, or bicycles. Taxis and private transfers offer convenience and direct travel, while buses provide economical yet indirect service to neighboring villages.
Matala is a charming village by the coast in Crete, easily navigable on foot or by bicycle. Walking is practical because most attractions, shops, restaurants, and beaches are located within close proximity to one another. Cycling is another efficient and economical way to explore Matala and nearby villages, with bicycles available to rent from local shops at affordable daily rates. Both options provide convenience, affordability, and flexibility, making them ideal alternatives for travelers who prefer independent movement around Matala without relying on motorized transport.
The current taxi rates from Matala to popular destinations are as follows: a trip to Heraklion Airport (HER), located 66 kilometers (41 miles) away, costs €80 (£69) and takes approximately 62 minutes. Traveling to Chania Airport (CHQ), covering 141 kilometers (87.6 miles), takes around 152 minutes, though the fare is not listed in the image. A ride to Heraklion Port, 62.9 kilometers (39.1 miles) from Matala, costs €75 (£65) and takes 66 minutes. Similarly, a taxi to Heraklion village, 62.8 kilometers (39 miles) away, is priced at €75 (£65) with a travel time of 65 minutes.
Travelers should choose our transfer service in Matala because we provide reliable and flexible transportation for various travel needs. Our private and group transfers ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey, whether traveling to or from the airport, attending an event, commuting for work, or setting off on a cruise. We offer upfront and affordable pricing without hidden fees, so the amount booked is the final cost. Our diverse and well-maintained fleet includes standard and luxury sedans, SUVs, spacious 9-seater minivans, and 18-seater minibuses, making us the perfect option for solo travelers, families, and large groups. Our experienced drivers focus on safety and efficiency, ensuring passengers reach their destinations comfortably and on time. We offer personalized tours beyond standard transfers, ideal for visitors eager to explore Crete’s top attractions.
The closest airport to Matala is the International Airport of Heraklion, located 67.4 kilometers (41.9 miles) away, with a travel duration of approximately 1 hour by taxi or private vehicle. The second closest airport is located in Chania, 139 kilometers (86.3 miles) away from Matala, requiring a travel time of about 2.5 hours. Both airports serve local and international flights, with Heraklion Airport being the primary hub for guests heading to Matala due to its closer proximity and more frequent transportation connections. Car rental services are available at both airports, providing travelers an independent and flexible option for reaching Matala.
Find below a list of the top landmarks and tourist attractions in Matala:
