City Balloon Tours
Language $Currency
Login / Sign up
Bookings
Bookings
Wallet
$0.00
Wishlists
Wishlists
Rewards Rewards
Gift cards
Profile
Help Center
Language
Log out
Things To Do Things To Do Top 10 Top 10 City Tours City Tours Swamp Tours Swamp Tours Steamboat Natchez Steamboat Natchez Gift Cards Gift Cards Rewards Rewards Groups Groups FAQ FAQ Contact Contact
Start your search
Change your search
Place or activity
Select Dates
You booked this experience
You're departing on
Google Calendar
Apple Calendar
Microsoft Outlook
Make your trip unforgettable

Heraklion: Matala Beach, Hippie Caves & Odigitria Monastery

32 Reviews 4.78 out of 5 stars Based on 32 reviews collected by City Balloon Tours and TripAdvisor |
Recommended by 97% of reviewers
97% of reviewers gave this experience a rating of 4 or higher.
| Heraklion, Greece
Book online or call us

from $49.37 per person

Lowest Price Guarantee
Matala Beach
Odigitria Monastery
Heraklion: Matala Beach, Hippie Caves & Odigitria Monastery Image 3
Heraklion: Matala Beach, Hippie Caves & Odigitria Monastery Image 4
Heraklion: Matala Beach, Hippie Caves & Odigitria Monastery Image 5
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 17 (0) days in advance.
8 to 9 hours (approx.)
Hotel pickup offered
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English
and 3 more
French, German, Italian
Instant confirmation

Overview

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

  • Liability Insurance Coverage by ALLIANZ for our tour participants
  • Air-conditioned vehicle
  • Professional Driver
  • Lunch
  • Matala
  • Appropriate clothing is required for entry to Odigitria Monastery (not provided on site)
See 1 moreSee 3 more

Meeting and Pickup

Pickup point
Pickup details

Pickups are arranged from the nearest safe and accessible meeting point to your accommodation, suitable for bus access and stopping, usually within 5 minutes walking distance. Direct pickup requests can be made in advance and may involve additional charges.Pickup is available from specific points in Sisi, Malia, Stalis, Hersonissos, Anissaras, Agkisaras, Gouves, Gournes, Kokkini Hani, Karteros, Amoudara, Agia Pelagia, and centrally located points in Heraklion town.

What To Expect

Book Online

Our secure website provides real-time availability, instant confirmation, and free, no-hassle cancellations up to 24 hours before your tour begins.
Read more

Safe & secure Easy breezy Hassle‑free

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.
Read more

1 hour 30 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Matala

Stop 1: Matala Village – 4 hours free timeSpend 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.
Read more

4 hours Admission Ticket Free

Odigitria Monastery

Stop 2: Odigitria Monastery – 45 minutesVisit 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.
Read more

45 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Heraklion

Return to HeraklionRelax 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.
Read more

1 hour 30 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Show 3 more stops

Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 80 travelers

Frequently Asked Questions (7)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Heraklion: Matala Beach, Hippie Caves & Odigitria Monastery?

A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (EET). Read more Apr 2025

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

Still have questions?

We're here to help.
Activity code: C-341652P13

Traveler Photos

Reviews

4.78
32 reviews

Average 4.78 out of 5 stars based on 32 traveler reviews collected by City Balloon Tours and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
26
4 stars
5
3 stars
1
2 stars
0
1 star
0
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 17 (0) days in advance.
Heraklion Tours
Attractions
Guides
Calendar
View more

Similar Tours & Activities

Knossos Palace and Heraklion Guided Tour with Transport
5.0 (2)

Knossos Palace and Heraklion Guided Tour with Transport

Take a tour of Knossos Palace - one of the most important sites in European civilization. Skip the crowds with fast-track access to see the...

7 hours 50 minutes Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
5.0 (2)
from
$89
Heraklion City Tour - Aquarium
3.0 (1)

Heraklion City Tour - Aquarium

A different excursion for those who want to experience the island’s everyday life. You start to get to know the city of Heraklion. The Byzantium,...

8 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
3.0 (1)
from
$29
Private Lasithi Plateu Tour: Zeus Cave, Monastery & Olive Mill
Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
5.0 (11)

Private Lasithi Plateu Tour: Zeus Cave, Monastery & Olive Mill

This tour will take you to Lassithi Plateau, where you will explore its wonders. First stop in an Olive Oil Mill as in Crete we...

6 to 7 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
5.0 (11)
from
$158
The Essence of Crete:Private Olive Oil, Wine & Distillery Journey
Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
5.0 (20)

The Essence of Crete:Private Olive Oil, Wine & Distillery Journey

100% Private & Exclusive:This is your personal journey through Crete, traveling in a premium Mercedes vehicle with a dedicated local host. Beyond the Tourist Trail:...

5 to 6 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
5.0 (20)
from
$170
Knossos Palace and Heraklion Guided Tour with Transport

Take a tour of Knossos Palace - one of the most important sites in European civilization. Skip the crowds with fast-track access to see the …More

5.0 (2)

Knossos Palace and Heraklion Guided Tour with Transport

5.0 (2)

Take a tour of Knossos Palace - one of the most important sites in European civilization. Skip the crowds with fast-track access to see the...

7 hours 50 minutes Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
5.0 (2)
from
$89
Heraklion City Tour - Aquarium

A different excursion for those who want to experience the island’s everyday life. You start to get to know the city of Heraklion. The Byzantium, …More

3.0 (1)

Heraklion City Tour - Aquarium

3.0 (1)

A different excursion for those who want to experience the island’s everyday life. You start to get to know the city of Heraklion. The Byzantium,...

8 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
3.0 (1)
from
$29
Private Lasithi Plateu Tour: Zeus Cave, Monastery & Olive Mill

This tour will take you to Lassithi Plateau, where you will explore its wonders. First stop in an Olive Oil Mill as in Crete we …More

Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
5.0 (11)

Private Lasithi Plateu Tour: Zeus Cave, Monastery & Olive Mill

5.0 (11)

This tour will take you to Lassithi Plateau, where you will explore its wonders. First stop in an Olive Oil Mill as in Crete we...

6 to 7 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
5.0 (11)
from
$158
The Essence of Crete:Private Olive Oil, Wine & Distillery Journey

100% Private & Exclusive:This is your personal journey through Crete, traveling in a premium Mercedes vehicle with a dedicated local host. Beyond the Tourist Trail: …More

Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
5.0 (20)

The Essence of Crete:Private Olive Oil, Wine & Distillery Journey

5.0 (20)

100% Private & Exclusive:This is your personal journey through Crete, traveling in a premium Mercedes vehicle with a dedicated local host. Beyond the Tourist Trail:...

5 to 6 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
5.0 (20)
from
$170

Travelers Who Bought This Tour Also Bought

Troy Dinner-Show
4.8 (117)

Troy Dinner-Show

A dinner-show for all the family! Heroes, Gods and Goddesses of the most famous event of Greek Mythology will come alive in front of your...

3 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
4.8 (117)
from
$40
Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus Tour in Heraklion
Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
4.2 (157)

Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus Tour in Heraklion

Explore Heraklion city on your pace using or hop on hop off busses with our combo 2 lines 48 hours ticket. See the city’s famous...

1 hour Free Cancellation
4.2 (157)
from
$23
Knossos - Zeus Cave - Old Traditional Villages-Olive Oil Factory
5.0 (705)

Knossos - Zeus Cave - Old Traditional Villages-Olive Oil Factory

* Embark on this full day small group Tour or choose the Private Option so we can show you the real side of Crete ....

7 hours 30 minutes Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
5.0 (705)
from
$131
Sailing Trip to Dia with Snorkeling, Dining & Sunset Option
Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
5.0 (228)

Sailing Trip to Dia with Snorkeling, Dining & Sunset Option

Sail to Dia Island: A Boutique Yacht Experience in Paradise Sun, blue waters, and good food—these are the things that define Greece, and Crete in...

4 hours 30 minutes Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
5.0 (228)
from
$121
Troy Dinner-Show

A dinner-show for all the family! Heroes, Gods and Goddesses of the most famous event of Greek Mythology will come alive in front of your …More

4.8 (117)

Troy Dinner-Show

4.8 (117)

A dinner-show for all the family! Heroes, Gods and Goddesses of the most famous event of Greek Mythology will come alive in front of your...

3 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
4.8 (117)
from
$40
Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus Tour in Heraklion

Explore Heraklion city on your pace using or hop on hop off busses with our combo 2 lines 48 hours ticket. See the city’s famous …More

Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
4.2 (157)

Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus Tour in Heraklion

4.2 (157)

Explore Heraklion city on your pace using or hop on hop off busses with our combo 2 lines 48 hours ticket. See the city’s famous...

1 hour Free Cancellation
4.2 (157)
from
$23
Knossos - Zeus Cave - Old Traditional Villages-Olive Oil Factory

* Embark on this full day small group Tour or choose the Private Option so we can show you the real side of Crete . …More

5.0 (705)

Knossos - Zeus Cave - Old Traditional Villages-Olive Oil Factory

5.0 (705)

* Embark on this full day small group Tour or choose the Private Option so we can show you the real side of Crete ....

7 hours 30 minutes Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
5.0 (705)
from
$131
Sailing Trip to Dia with Snorkeling, Dining & Sunset Option

Sail to Dia Island: A Boutique Yacht Experience in Paradise Sun, blue waters, and good food—these are the things that define Greece, and Crete in …More

Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
5.0 (228)

Sailing Trip to Dia with Snorkeling, Dining & Sunset Option

5.0 (228)

Sail to Dia Island: A Boutique Yacht Experience in Paradise Sun, blue waters, and good food—these are the things that define Greece, and Crete in...

4 hours 30 minutes Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
5.0 (228)
from
$121

Frequently Asked Questions (7)

Activity name

The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from City Balloon Tours customers.

Filter by:

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Heraklion: Matala Beach, Hippie Caves & Odigitria Monastery?
A:
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.
  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
  • Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (EET).
Apr 2025
Q: What's included in the price?
A:
The following is included:
  • Liability Insurance Coverage by ALLIANZ for our tour participants.
  • Air-conditioned vehicle.
  • Professional Driver.
  • Tour Guide.
The following is NOT included:
  • Lunch.
  • Matala.
  • Appropriate clothing is required for entry to Odigitria Monastery (not provided on site).
Apr 2025
Q: What is the minimum age for this tour?
A:

There is no minimum age for this tour, so bring your wee one along for an adventure. This tour requires at least one adult to accompany children..

Apr 2025
Q: My date is not available in the calendar, I am just checking to see if it is available?
A:

If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.

If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.

Apr 2025
Q: Is this an accessible tour?
A:

Accessibility information for the Heraklion: Matala Beach, Hippie Caves & Odigitria Monastery is as follows:

  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Apr 2025
Q: Where is the meeting point for this activity?
A:

Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Heraklion: Matala Beach, Hippie Caves & Odigitria Monastery will be included in your confirmation email from City Balloon Tours. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!

 

 

Mar 2024
Q: How long does a refund take to reach my card, and can I get it faster?
A:

Once your refund is processed, it usually shows on your card statement within 5–10 business days. The exact timing depends on your bank or card issuer.

Want it sooner? When you cancel, choose Receive a refund to my wallet instead. The credit is in your Wallet straight away and is applied automatically at checkout on your next booking when you’re signed in with the same email. You can see your balance any time in My Wallet.

If you paid part of your booking with Wallet credit, that part always goes back to your Wallet. Trip protection isn’t refundable.

Oct 2026

What's Included

Activity name

  • Liability Insurance Coverage by ALLIANZ for our tour participants
  • Air-conditioned vehicle
  • Professional Driver
  • Tour Guide
  • Lunch
  • Matala
  • Appropriate clothing is required for entry to Odigitria Monastery (not provided on site)

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 80 travelers

Report Product Issue

Activity name