Caves Matala, Rethymno Travel Guide

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Explore ancient caves, a hippie haven, and stunning beaches in Matala, Crete – a journey through history and natural beauty.

Explore the fascinating Matala Caves, carved into the cliffs of Crete. From Neolithic dwellings to Roman tombs and a 1960s hippie haven, these caves offer a unique glimpse into the island's rich history and stunning natural beauty.

A brief summary to Caves Matala

Μάταλα, Πιτσίδια, 702 00, GR
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Monday 10 am-7 pm
Tuesday 10 am-7 pm
Wednesday 10 am-7 pm
Thursday 10 am-7 pm
Friday 10 am-7 pm
Saturday 10 am-7 pm
Sunday 10 am-7 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Caves Matala.

Wear sturdy shoes as the sandstone rocks can be slippery when climbing to the caves.
Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
Bring water and sunscreen, especially during the hot summer months.
Respect the historical site by not touching or disturbing the carvings in the caves.
Enjoy the sunset from the caves for a magical and unforgettable view.

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Βυζαντική Βασιλική

Explore Caves Matala on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Caves Matala, mapped for you.

Getting There

Public Transport

From Heraklion, take the KTEL bus to Matala. The bus departs from Heraklion Central Station and the journey takes approximately 2 hours. A one-way ticket costs around €8. From the Matala bus station, it's a short walk to the caves.
Taxi

Taxis are available from Heraklion Airport or city center to Matala. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and costs between €80-€100. Negotiate the fare with the driver before starting the trip.
Walking

From Matala village, the caves are easily accessible by foot. Follow the main road towards the beach, and you'll see the caves carved into the cliffs on the north side of the beach. The entrance to the archaeological site is clearly marked.

Discover more about Caves Matala

The Matala Caves, located on the southern coast of Crete, are a testament to the island's diverse history. Carved into the soft sandstone cliffs overlooking the Libyan Sea, these artificial caves date back to the Neolithic period. Originally used by the Minoans for storage and living quarters, the caves were expanded during the Roman era and served as tombs for the wealthy.In the 1960s and 70s, Matala gained international fame as a hippie paradise. Young people from around the world flocked to Matala, seeking an alternative lifestyle and spiritual enlightenment, living in the caves. Famous musicians like Bob Dylan and Cat Stevens are rumored to have stayed here. Joni Mitchell immortalized her experiences in her song 'Carey'.Today, the caves are a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors to explore their intriguing history and stunning natural beauty. Visitors can climb up to the caves, now protected by the Greek government, and see firsthand how the ancient inhabitants of Crete lived and worked. The beach is about 300 meters long and 40 meters wide, offering light golden sand and crystal-clear waters.While visiting the Matala Caves, it's important to respect their historical and cultural significance. Visitors are asked not to touch or disturb the carvings and to stay on designated paths to prevent damage to the fragile sandstone.