Heraklion Airport to Matala Transfer
Scenic journey to the famous hippie beach with ancient caves on Crete's southern coast
About This Route
Embark on a beautiful journey from Heraklion Airport to Matala, a unique beach town on Crete's southern coast famous for its ancient caves and hippie history. Our professional drivers will meet you at the airport arrivals hall with a name sign and take you on a scenic route through the Cretan mountains to Matala. The journey takes approximately 1.5-2 hours, depending on traffic conditions, and offers breathtaking views of the Cretan countryside and mountains. Matala is famous for its caves carved into the cliffs, which were used as dwellings in ancient times and later became a haven for hippies in the 1960s and 1970s, including famous visitors like Joni Mitchell. Today, Matala offers a beautiful sandy beach, crystal-clear waters, a laid-back atmosphere, and the opportunity to explore the historic caves. The town has a unique charm that combines natural beauty, history, and a relaxed vibe. We offer door-to-door service, ensuring a comfortable journey to this special destination.
Route Map
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Why Choose Us
Choose Crete Car Transfers for your transfer to Matala because we offer professional English-speaking drivers who are local experts familiar with the best routes to this southern coast destination. Our comfortable and clean vehicles ensure a pleasant journey through the mountains, while our fixed prices with no hidden fees provide complete transparency. We offer 24/7 customer support and free cancellation up to 24 hours before your trip. Our drivers can provide valuable insights about visiting Matala, including information about the caves, best times to visit, and recommendations for restaurants and nearby attractions.
Route Information
The distance from Heraklion Airport to Matala is approximately 70 kilometers. The journey typically takes 1.5-2 hours via scenic mountain roads that cross from the northern to the southern coast of Crete. This route takes you through the heart of central Crete, passing through traditional mountain villages and offering stunning views of the Cretan countryside. As you approach Matala, you'll descend towards the southern coast, where the landscape changes to reveal the beautiful Libyan Sea. Matala itself is a small beach town located on the southern coast of Crete, known for its famous caves carved into the cliffs above the beach, beautiful sandy beach with crystal-clear waters, laid-back atmosphere with numerous cafes, restaurants, and shops, rich history as a hippie destination in the 1960s and 1970s, and proximity to other beautiful beaches and attractions along the southern coast. The caves, which are the main attraction, were originally used as tombs in ancient times and later as dwellings. In the 1960s, they became a popular destination for hippies, including famous visitors. Today, visitors can explore some of the caves (some are closed for safety reasons) and learn about their history. The beach below the caves is beautiful and perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
What's Included
- Professional English-speaking driver with local knowledge
- Meet and greet at the airport arrivals hall with name sign
- Door-to-door service to Matala
- Comfortable and air-conditioned vehicle
- Bottled water for your comfort
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
- Local tips and recommendations about visiting Matala
- Assistance with luggage
Tips
- Book in advance, especially during peak season (June-September) when this popular route can get busy
- Bring sun protection and water, especially during summer when it can be very hot
- Allow time to explore the caves - there's a small entrance fee
- The beach is beautiful, so bring beach essentials if you want to swim
- Matala has a laid-back atmosphere with good restaurants - consider staying for lunch or dinner
- Combine your visit with nearby attractions like the Red Beach or other southern coast destinations
- The caves can be slippery, so wear appropriate footwear if you plan to explore them
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the transfer from Heraklion Airport to Matala take?
The transfer typically takes 1.5-2 hours, depending on traffic conditions. The route crosses from the northern to the southern coast through scenic mountain roads.
What is Matala famous for?
Matala is famous for its caves carved into the cliffs above the beach. These caves were used as dwellings in ancient times and later became a haven for hippies in the 1960s and 1970s, including famous visitors like Joni Mitchell. The beach and the laid-back atmosphere are also major attractions.
Can I visit the caves in Matala?
Yes, visitors can explore some of the caves in Matala. However, some caves are closed for safety reasons. There's a small entrance fee to access the cave area. The caves offer a fascinating glimpse into the area's history and the hippie era.
Is Matala a good destination for families?
Yes, Matala is suitable for families. The beach is beautiful and safe for swimming, and the town has a laid-back atmosphere. However, keep in mind that the caves require some climbing, so families with very young children should be careful.
What is the best time to visit Matala?
The best time to visit Matala is during the spring (April-June) or autumn (September-October) when the weather is pleasant and there are fewer crowds. Summer (July-August) can be very hot and crowded, but the beach is perfect for swimming.
Route Details
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Make changes to your booking or cancel your reservation up to 24 hours before departure and get a full refund.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have any questions, here are the answers.
CreteCarTransfers is a platform that connects you with local drivers who will transport you door-to-door, from one city to the next. We also give you the opportunity to explore sights/attractions along the way. We drive, you discover.
You can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before departure.
Each passenger is allowed one large bag (74 x 53 x 28 cm) and one small bag (56 x 36 x 23 cm). Luxury sedans can only accommodate 2 large bags. We always send the vehicle that is the best fit for you and your luggage, so make sure to select the actual amount of luggage you are traveling with when booking.
Your driver will check your flight number and will accommodate your new time of arrival accordingly.
You can return to your location of origin on the same day or on which your schedule permits. This can be booked for the return trip. You may specify your exact address at the time of booking.
Simply choose your origin and destination via our homepage and enter your preferred date and time. Select One Way or Return trip through the type of trip you need. To arrange a custom route on our website, you can request a custom quote via mail or phone.
Everywhere except the USA, drivers will supply appropriate child seats (just let us know during booking). In the USA, certain states require you to supply your own child seats.
Your driver will meet you at the agreed time and place and won't be contacting you before, unless necessary. You'll receive a reminder with your driver's name and mobile number a few days before departure in case you need to contact them.
If you didn't find the answer to your question, please contact us
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