Heraklion: Matala Beach, Hippie Caves & Odigitria Monastery
Heraklion, Greece

Heraklion: Matala Beach, Hippie Caves & Odigitria Monastery

Outty Ranking 74 4.7 · 39 traveler reviews8 hoursFrom $49
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Outty Ranking

74/100

Strongly Recommended. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.7/5

Based on 39 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Heraklion: Matala Beach, Hippie Caves & Odigitria Monastery worth booking?

Heraklion: Matala Beach, Hippie Caves & Odigitria Monastery is a 8-hour experience in Heraklion, Greece, from $49 per person. It scores 74 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 4.7/5 rating across 39 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
74 / 100
Rating
4.7/5 (39)
Duration
8 hours
From
$49 per person

Discover the relaxed charm of South Crete on a comfortable day trip from Heraklion. Enjoy plenty of free time in the colorful seaside village of Matala, where you can swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Libyan Sea, relax on the beach, or explore the famous hippie caves carved into the cliffs. Travel back in time at the historic Odigitria Monastery, visit its folklore museum, and learn about traditional herbal remedies made by the monks using local mountain herbs. A perfect blend of seaside leisure, culture, and authentic Cretan history.

What you get

    About this experience

    Discover the relaxed charm of South Crete on a comfortable day trip from Heraklion. Enjoy plenty of free time in the colorful seaside village of Matala, where you can swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Libyan Sea, relax on the beach, or explore the famous hippie caves carved into the cliffs. Travel back in time at the historic Odigitria Monastery, visit its folklore museum, and learn about traditional herbal remedies made by the monks using local mountain herbs. A perfect blend of seaside leisure, culture, and authentic Cretan history.

    What's included

    Included

    • Liability Insurance Coverage by ALLIANZ for our tour participants
    • In-vehicle air conditioning
    • Professional Driver
    • Tour Guide

    Not included

    • Lunch
    • Entrance fees
    • Appropriate clothing is required for entry to Odigitria Monastery (not provided on site)

    What you'll see and do

    1. Heraklion

      Enjoy a comfortable, air-conditioned day trip through South Crete with convenient pick-up from selected locations in Heraklion. Sit back and relax as you travel through scenic landscapes on the way south. After morning pick-up from your accommodation, enjoy a scenic 1.5-hour drive to Matala, famous for its relaxed atmosphere, sandy beach, and artistic spirit.

      90 minutes here

    2. Matala

      Stop 1: Matala Village – 4 hours free time Spend ample free time in Matala to experience it at your own pace. Swim or sunbathe at the beach, enjoy lunch at a charming seaside café, browse local shops, or purchase a ticket to explore the iconic hippie caves, carved into the cliffs above the beach and steeped in 1960s history (entrance fee: 5€ - optional). After your time in Matala, continue with a short 15-minute bus drive.

      240 minutes here

    3. Odigitria Monastery

      Stop 2: Odigitria Monastery – 45 minutes Visit the historic Monastery of Odigitria, one of the most important religious landmarks in southern Crete. Wander through its peaceful grounds and uncover sights from years of Cretan history. Explore the folklore museum (free entrance), and discover traditional herbal creams made by the monks using secret recipes and local herbs collected from the surrounding Asterousia Mountains, part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and Global Geopark. Please note that appropriate dress is required to enter the monastery. Shoulders and knees must be covered, so we recommend bringing a light scarf, shawl, or cover-up. As clothing is not provided on site, it is important to come prepared. If you prefer not to enter the monastery, you can enjoy your time outside, where there is a small area with animals (mini farm) and a café with a beautiful view.

      45 minutes here

    4. Heraklion

      Return to Heraklion Relax on the return journey back to your accommodation after a day filled with culture, history, and seaside freedom. Depending on traffic and on the pick-up places of each one, the time of journey back to the hotel will differ.

      90 minutes here

    Where it starts and ends

    Hotel pickup

    Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 5 minutes before departure.

    Options you can book

    • English: Agia Pelagia area

      Pick-up from specific points:: Agia Pelagia, Lygaria Pickup included

    • German: Anisaras, Gouves area

      Pick-up from specific points:: Anisaras, Analipsi, Gouves Pickup included

    • French: Hersonissos, Malia

      Pick-up from specific points: : Stalis, Malia, Hersonisos, Piskopiano and Sisi Pickup included

    • French: Heraklion area

      Pick-up from specific points: : Heraklion, Amoudara & Kokini Hani Pickup included

    • Italian: Heraklion area

      Pick-up from specific points: : Heraklion, Amoudara & Kokini Hani Pickup included

    • English: Heraklion area

      Pick-up from specific points: : Heraklion, Amoudara & Kokini Hani Pickup included

    • Italian: Hersonissos, Malia

      Pick-up from specific points: : Stalis, Malia, Hersonisos, Piskopiano and Sisi Pickup included

    • Italian: Agia Pelagia area

      Pick-up from specific points:: Agia Pelagia, Lygaria Pickup included

    • English: Anisaras, Gouves area

      Pick-up from specific points:: Anisaras, Analipsi, Gouves Pickup included

    • German: Hersonissos, Malia

      Pick-up from specific points: : Stalis, Malia, Hersonisos, Piskopiano and Sisi Pickup included

    • English: Hersonissos, Malia

      Pick-up from specific points: : Stalis, Malia, Hersonisos, Piskopiano and Sisi Pickup included

    • French: Agia Pelagia area

      Pick-up from specific points:: Agia Pelagia, Lygaria Pickup included

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    de, en, it, fr
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Wed, Sun
    Group size
    Up to 30 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Cretan Odyssey

    Know before you go

    • Specialized infant seats are available
    • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
    • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

    Photos

    Matala Caves, Heraklion: Matala Beach, Hippie Caves & Odigitria MonasteryMatala Beach, Heraklion: Matala Beach, Hippie Caves & Odigitria MonasteryMatala Beach, Heraklion: Matala Beach, Hippie Caves & Odigitria MonasteryMatala Beach, Heraklion: Matala Beach, Hippie Caves & Odigitria MonasteryMatala Village, Heraklion: Matala Beach, Hippie Caves & Odigitria MonasteryMatala Beach, Heraklion: Matala Beach, Hippie Caves & Odigitria Monastery

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 39 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    4 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Organization

    3 mentions

    Pickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.

    Photo opportunities

    2 mentions

    The views and photo stops come up again and again.

    Food and drink

    2 mentions

    The tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.

    Physical effort

    2 mentions

    Expect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.

    Traveler reviews

    39 verified traveler reviews for Heraklion: Matala Beach, Hippie Caves & Odigitria Monastery. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    30
    4 star
    7
    3 star
    2
    2 star
    0
    1 star
    0
    Sort
    gosiaras1393 · June 2026

    Matala beach - yes, Monastery - avoid (animal neglect)

    Matala beach is great, it really worth going there (if you hope to see the caves - good shoes are a must, don't be the person climbing there in flipflops. There are no paths, and it really is climbing if you want to go higher, no stairs). However, as for the monastery - I was shocked at the casual animal abuse: 4 turtles locked in a transport cage (used for moving the animal , not actual enclosure) with dirty water in 30°C. At least two pregnant cats, other cats including 1 kitten, that should be at least dewormed... Birds locked in small cages. I do not understand how this is still taking place in 21st century. If you're in any way sensitive to seeing something like this, skip going inside, it's really heartbreaking.

    via Tripadvisor

    Anthony_R · May 2026

    Very good beach day in Crete!

    Nice day at the beach in Southern Crete. Quiet and relaxing. Interesting visit at the lovely monastery. Very good day!

    via Viator

    P7109SUlizr · September 2025

    Matala beach is a wonderful place, the caves are good for photos

    Matala is a lovely, quiet, relaxing resort. Its far away from the overcrowded main resorts. There are lots of places to eat, lots of space on the beach. The caves attract tourists but they are only accessible to very able bodied, agile people and you'll need grippy footwear and lots of suntan lotion. There isn't any info there to explain them. Its only 5euros, so no loss if you only look at one cave. The beach can get very hot as its quite dark, wear sea shoes. It can get quite windy so the waves can be quite big. When there's no breeze, the sea is wonderful for swimming. I would highly recommend visiting Matala. The best restaurant is Lions, on the sea front, amazing food and very friendly staff.

    via Tripadvisor

    Sonin_J · July 2025

    Interesting excursion

    Make sure to bring swimming goggles or snorkeling equipment or you will miss out on the chance to see all the fish at Matala beach. It is also recommended to bring footwear as the sand can get very hot.

    via Viator

    romanv484 · June 2025

    Matala village

    Matala ☮️ I was trying to find the last pieces of the hippie community, peace, love, freedom ... not so easy, but lovely place. This place has a Spirit.

    via Tripadvisor

    Good to know

    Duration
    8 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Wed, Sun
    Price range
    $49 to $53
    Hotel pickup
    Included for all travelers
    Booked in 30 days
    14
    Verdict
    Strongly Recommended

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by Cretan Odyssey, who run 13 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 62.7.

    See everything Cretan Odyssey runs

    Why this scores 74

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)76
    Review evidence (18% weight)61
    Booking momentum (14% weight)54
    Value for money (12% weight)100
    Listing quality (10% weight)76
    Local standing (8% weight)59
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Heraklion: Matala Beach, Hippie Caves & Odigitria Monastery: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Heraklion.

    How much does Heraklion: Matala Beach, Hippie Caves & Odigitria Monastery cost?

    +

    Prices start at $49 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Heraklion usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Heraklion: Matala Beach, Hippie Caves & Odigitria Monastery take?

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    Plan for about 8 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Heraklion is not rushed.

    Is Heraklion: Matala Beach, Hippie Caves & Odigitria Monastery worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 74 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.7/5 across 39 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Heraklion, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Heraklion: Matala Beach, Hippie Caves & Odigitria Monastery?

    +

    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Heraklion: Matala Beach, Hippie Caves & Odigitria Monastery suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 8-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Heraklion: Matala Beach, Hippie Caves & Odigitria Monastery?

    +

    Around 14 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Heraklion can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

    +

    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Heraklion and add a light layer if any part of the 8-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Heraklion: Matala Beach, Hippie Caves & Odigitria Monastery start and how do I get there?

    +

    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Heraklion within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Heraklion?

    +

    On Outty we rank every Heraklion experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Knossos - Zeus Cave - Old Traditional Villages-Olive Oil Factory, Knossos & Lasithi Plateau: Zeus Cave, Villages, Olive Oil Tour, Quad Safari: Off-Road Day Tour with Dinner & Transfers. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Heraklion?

    +

    Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Heraklion?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

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    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in Heraklion: Matala Beach, Hippie Caves & Odigitria Monastery?

    +

    Included: Liability Insurance Coverage by ALLIANZ for our tour participants; In-vehicle air conditioning; Professional Driver; and Tour Guide. Not included: Lunch; Entrance fees; and Appropriate clothing is required for entry to Odigitria Monastery (not provided on site). Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Does Heraklion: Matala Beach, Hippie Caves & Odigitria Monastery include hotel pickup?

    +

    Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 414 listed pickup locations in and around Heraklion. Be ready about 5 minutes before the start time.

    What languages is Heraklion: Matala Beach, Hippie Caves & Odigitria Monastery offered in?

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    It is offered in German, English, Italian and French. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Heraklion: Matala Beach, Hippie Caves & Odigitria Monastery?

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    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is Heraklion: Matala Beach, Hippie Caves & Odigitria Monastery wheelchair or stroller accessible?

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    The operator notes: Specialized infant seats are available. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Heraklion: Matala Beach, Hippie Caves & Odigitria Monastery if the weather is bad?

    +

    It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Heraklion. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.

    What do travelers say about Heraklion: Matala Beach, Hippie Caves & Odigitria Monastery?

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    Across 39 reviews averaging 4.7 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, organization, photo opportunities. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works. One thing to know: Expect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.

    What booking options are available for Heraklion: Matala Beach, Hippie Caves & Odigitria Monastery?

    +

    There are 12 options to choose from, including English: Agia Pelagia area, German: Anisaras, Gouves area, French: Hersonissos, Malia, French: Heraklion area. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.

    Ready to lock in your spot?

    Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for Heraklion: Matala Beach, Hippie Caves & Odigitria Monastery.

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