First stop in ancient Gortyna, which is reported to have been inhabited since around 3000 BC and is an important archaeological site in Crete. Gortyna was the capital of Crete during the Roman era and flourished during the Minoan period, between 1600 and 1100 BC. It was destroyed twice by earthquakes, the second time completely.
This is followed by a visit to Ancient Phaistos, where we can admire the remarkable archaeological finds and the unique architecture of the Palace. Ancient Phaistos was the second most important Minoan city in Crete after Knossos, historically mentioned since the second millennium BC, and is now an equally important archaeological site. In Phaistos, the Minoan era began in 2600 BC. The first palace was located on the western side of the archaeological site and was built in 2000 BC on successive levels. The palace was destroyed by an earthquake in 1730 BC, as was Knossos. A new palace was built on the site of the ruins, more magnificent than the first and slightly elevated due to the presence of the ruins.
The next stop is Matala, a seaside settlement. Matala beach has been inhabited since ancient times and is famous for its carved caves (probably carved tombs) in the rocks. The caves remained empty for thousands of years until the 1960s, when wandering hippies discovered them and inhabited them for about two decades.
It's time to relax and eat at one of the beautiful taverns in the area, where you can discover unique traditional dishes as well as the famous "Antikristo arni" (roast lamb), which stands out for its special cooking technique and wonderful taste.
*For more information about adding this meal, please contact us.
Return to your hotel or accommodation to rest after a full and beautiful day, taking with you beautiful images of the archaeological sites we visited and unforgettable memories of this excursion.
€360 per person
30% discount for children aged 4-17, children aged 1-3 free of charge
€260 per person
30% discount for children aged 4-17, children aged 1-3 free of charge
€200 per person
30% discount for children aged 4-17, children aged 1-3 free of charge
€170 per person
30% discount for children aged 4-17, children aged 1-3 free of charge
€140 per person
30% discount for children aged 4-17, children aged 1-3 free of charge
€120 per person
30% discount for children aged 4-17, children aged 1-3 free of charge
€110 per person
30% discount for children aged 4-17, children aged 1-3 free of charge
• Ice water and soft drinks during the trip
• Wi-Fi inside the cabin
• Air-conditioned 8-seater minivan
• First aid kit
• Power chargers
• Child seats available upon request (Isofix car seats)
• Civil liability insurance
• Tickets for archaeological sites
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• Hat
• Hiking shoes
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