Where to stay in Matala: The best areas and 12 hotels

Matala is located in southern Crete, approximately 75 km from Heraklion, in an area that became famous in the 1960s when hippies lived in the caves on the cliff above the beach. Today, the village is much more touristy, with tavernas in the square, shops, and a beach that fills up in summer, but it still retains some of that original atmosphere.

If you're looking for where to stay, the village itself isn't the only option. Pitsidia, four kilometres inland, has a quieter character and lower prices. Further south, Kali Limenes offers seclusion and clear waters, while Agia Galini, about twenty kilometres to the west, functions as a small but complete destination with its own little harbour.

Below, you'll find an analysis of these four areas, each with its advantages and disadvantages, as well as 22 specific accommodations to help you choose based on your budget and itinerary.

What to see and do in Matala

The trademark of Matala is the artificial caves in the cliff above the beach, originally used as Roman and early Christian tombs, and later becoming a refuge for hippies, including Joni Mitchell, who was inspired to write the song 'Carey'. Visiting the caves has a small entrance fee and is best done in the morning, before the beach gets crowded.

Next to Matala, either by walking or taking a small boat, you reach Red Beach (Kokkini Ammos), a small beach with reddish sand that has become known for its natural beauty, although the access path involves some challenging steps. A little further away, Kommos beach combines sand with an archaeological site of a Minoan port, while further north is Phaistos, the second-largest Minoan palace after Knossos, about fifteen kilometres away.

For gastronomy, Matala and Pitsidia have several traditional tavernas serving Cretan dishes, dakos, chochlioi (snails), and local wine. In Agia Galini, the harbour is full of fish tavernas with sea views, ideal for an evening meal after a day at the beach.

For those who want excursions, Kali Limenes is worth a visit even if you don't stay there, as it has crystal clear waters and is calmer than Matala. The Agiofarango Gorge, starting near the village of Sachtouria, is a beautiful hiking route that ends at a secluded beach.

Getting around is mainly by car, as KTEL buses from Heraklion have limited routes, especially outside of summer. If you stay in Agia Galini or Kali Limenes, renting a car greatly helps with easy travel to Matala and Phaistos.

The best period to stay is from mid-May to late September, when most accommodations and restaurants are open. In July and August, Matala gets quite busy, so if you prefer peace and quiet, June and September are better options with lower prices.

It's also worth noting that many small accommodations in the area close completely in winter, so if you're planning a trip outside of summer, it's a good idea to confirm availability well in advance.

The best areas to stay in Matala

1. Matala (village and beach), The classic choice, with everything within easy reach

Staying in Matala village itself means you have the beach, the caves, tavernas, and shops on your doorstep. It's the most convenient option if you don't have a car, as everything is within walking distance. In summer, it gets quite busy, especially in the evening when the square fills with people, which some will find pleasant and others tiring. Accommodation prices are generally higher than in surrounding areas due to demand.

Advantages:

• Beach and caves within walking distance
• Many food and coffee options
• Easy access without a car

Disadvantages:

• Very crowded in July and August
• More expensive than surrounding areas

Recommended accommodations:

1. ADĀMA - A Signature Collection by Zálo Spaces
An adult-only accommodation with a more contemporary aesthetic than the village average, designed for couples seeking a quiet stay without children around. Suitable for those wanting something more updated in Matala.

• Average cost: approximately 140€ per night

2. Hotel Sunshine Matala
A simple family-run hotel near the village centre, with basic amenities and friendly service. A good choice for those seeking affordable accommodation without straying far from the beach.

• Average cost: approximately 55€ per night

3. Paradise Matala Hotel
A hotel with rooms that meet basic needs, a short distance from the beach and the village square. Suitable for travellers looking for functional accommodation at a reasonable price.

• Average cost: approximately 60€ per night

4. Marina Hotel
A small hotel in Matala with simple rooms, suitable for a short stay near the sea. A good base for those wanting to explore the village on foot.

• Average cost: approximately 55€ per night

5. Hotel Sofia
A family-run hotel with affordable prices, ideal for travellers seeking simple accommodation near the centre of Matala without unnecessary expenses.

• Average cost: approximately 50€ per night

6. Melissa Hotel
A quiet hotel with a garden, a few minutes from the beach, suitable for those who prefer a more peaceful stay but still want everything close by.

• Average cost: approximately 60€ per night

7. Hotel Coral Matala
A central hotel in Matala with basic room amenities, suitable for families and couples seeking a convenient location.

• Average cost: approximately 65€ per night

8. Matala Bay Hotel
Apartments with a small kitchen, useful for those staying longer and wanting to prepare some of their own meals. Close to the beach.

• Average cost: approximately 70€ per night

9. Die Zwei Brüder Art & Suites
A small boutique accommodation with a more refined decor than the average, suitable for couples who want something a bit different within the village.

• Average cost: approximately 90€ per night

10. Antonios 1 - Matala
Simple rooms at a good price, a short distance from the beach, suitable for budget travellers who want to stay within Matala.

• Average cost: approximately 45€ per night

11. Hotel Neos Matala
A hotel with a traditional feel, near the village centre, suitable for those seeking simple and affordable accommodation.

• Average cost: approximately 55€ per night

12. Hotel Kiklamino
A small hotel with a peaceful atmosphere, a little further from the beach crowds but still within convenient walking distance.

• Average cost: approximately 55€ per night

2. Pitsidia, A quieter village, four kilometres from the beach

Pitsidia is the village immediately before Matala, with a more authentic village atmosphere and significantly fewer tourists on its streets. Accommodation prices are lower, but you'll need some form of transport, a car or bicycle, to reach the beach, as the distance is about four kilometres. It has several tavernas with good prices and a less touristy character than Matala village itself.

Advantages:

• Lower accommodation prices
• More authentic village atmosphere
• Good tavernas with local dishes

Disadvantages:

• Requires transport to the beach
• Less activity in the evening

Recommended accommodations:

13. Galini Mare
A quiet accommodation in Pitsidia with simple rooms and friendly service, a good choice for those who want to avoid the evening beach crowds.

• Average cost: approximately 50€ per night

14. Valley Village
A small complex of rooms or apartments with a peaceful environment, suitable for families who want space and quiet away from the crowds.

• Average cost: approximately 55€ per night

15. Eva Marina Hotel
A family hotel with affordable prices in Pitsidia, suitable for travellers who want a base near Matala but at a lower cost.

• Average cost: approximately 50€ per night

16. Fragiskos Hotel
A simple hotel with basic amenities, ideal for a short stay on a low budget in the wider Matala area.

• Average cost: approximately 45€ per night

17. Elea Terra Hotel
An accommodation with a more contemporary design than the area's average, suitable for couples who want comfort without staying in the busy village.

• Average cost: approximately 75€ per night

18. Mokamvilia
A small accommodation with local character, suitable for those who want to feel closer to the everyday life of a Cretan village.

• Average cost: approximately 50€ per night

19. Bella Vita Style rooms & apartments
Rooms and apartments with basic kitchen equipment, useful for families staying several days in the area.

• Average cost: approximately 60€ per night

20. Armonia Hotel
A quiet hotel with a garden, suitable for couples and families who prefer a relaxing stay outside the centre of Matala.

• Average cost: approximately 55€ per night

3. Kali Limenes, Seclusion and clear waters, south of Matala

Kali Limenes is a small settlement south of Matala, known since antiquity as a stop on Apostle Paul's journey to Rome. Today, it's a peaceful spot with few accommodations and tavernas, ideal for those who want to completely avoid the bustle of Matala. The beach has clear waters, but entertainment and dining options are limited compared to Matala village.

Advantages:

• Very peaceful environment
• Clear waters for swimming
• Historical interest of the area

Disadvantages:

• Few dining options in the evening
• Requires a car for transport

Recommended accommodations:

21. Villa Koutsakis
A simple accommodation near the beach of Kali Limenes, suitable for those who want a quiet stay away from the tourist crowds.

• Average cost: approximately 55€ per night

22. Tsaner Apartment and Rooms
Rooms and apartments with basic amenities, convenient for those who want to explore the Kali Limenes area and the nearby gorge.

• Average cost: approximately 50€ per night

23. Calypso Hotel
A small hotel with sea views, suitable for couples seeking peace and simplicity in their accommodation.

• Average cost: approximately 60€ per night

4. Agia Galini, A small harbour with more life, twenty kilometres from Matala

Agia Galini is a picturesque seaside settlement with a small harbour full of fish tavernas, built amphitheatrically on a hill. It has more accommodation and dining options than Matala, as it functions as an independent destination, but it is about twenty kilometres west, so a car is needed for daily travel to Matala and Phaistos. It suits those who want a base with more evening life.

Advantages:

• More dining and entertainment options
• Picturesque harbour with views
• Good base for excursions in southern Crete

Disadvantages:

• Distance from Matala
• More tourism in summer

Recommended accommodations:

24. Areti Hotel
A hotel with simple but clean rooms, near the centre of Agia Galini, suitable for families who want functional accommodation.

• Average cost: approximately 60€ per night

25. Mythos Village Diskos
A complex of rooms with a peaceful environment, suitable for those who prefer to stay a little outside the centre of Agia Galini.

• Average cost: approximately 65€ per night

26. Astoria Hotel
A central hotel in Agia Galini with basic amenities, convenient for those who want to be close to the harbour and tavernas.

• Average cost: approximately 55€ per night

27. Keramos
A small accommodation offering simple stays, suitable for budget travellers who want a base in Agia Galini.

• Average cost: approximately 50€ per night

28. Hotel Sunlight
A family-run hotel with friendly service, near the centre of Agia Galini, suitable for short or longer stays.

• Average cost: approximately 55€ per night

29. Palazzo Greco
An accommodation with a more refined aesthetic, suitable for couples who want a comfortable stay in Agia Galini.

• Average cost: approximately 75€ per night

30. Minos Boutique Hotel Agia Galini
A boutique hotel with a more contemporary character, suitable for couples who want something different from the area's standard hotels.

• Average cost: approximately 90€ per night

31. Paralos Irini Mare
A hotel near the sea with basic amenities, suitable for families who want easy access to Agia Galini beach.

• Average cost: approximately 65€ per night

32. Alexander Beach Hotel
A hotel with direct beach access, suitable for families who want to spend most of their time by the water.

• Average cost: approximately 70€ per night

Practical tips before booking

• Book early for July and August. Matala is a small village with limited rooms and fills up quickly in mid-summer.
• Consider Pitsidia for better value. With a small car or scooter, you can easily reach the beach and save a fair bit of money compared to Matala village.
• Rent a car if you stay in Agia Galini or Kali Limenes. Distances from Matala are not easily covered on foot or by bus.
• Visit the caves early in the morning. Before the beach fills up, the light is better for photos, and the walk is more peaceful.
• Combine your stay with Phaistos. The Minoan palace is about fifteen kilometres away and is worth half a day of your itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is Matala from Heraklion?

The distance is approximately 75 km, with a journey taking around one hour and fifteen minutes by car, depending on traffic on the road to southern Crete.

Is a car necessary for a stay in Matala?

If you stay within the village, it's not essential, as everything is within walking distance. However, if you choose Pitsidia, Kali Limenes, or Agia Galini, a car greatly facilitates travel.

What is the best time of year to stay in Matala?

From mid-May to late September, most accommodations are open. June and September have fewer crowds and better prices than July and August.

Is it worth staying in Agia Galini instead of Matala?

If you want more dining and entertainment options in the evening, yes. If your priority is the beach and caves of Matala, it's better to stay closer, in the village itself or in Pitsidia.

Are there cheap accommodations in Matala?

Yes, especially in Pitsidia and in smaller hotels within the village, with prices starting around 45 to 50€ per night outside the high season.

How many buses are there from Heraklion to Matala?

KTEL bus routes are limited, with few services per day in summer and even fewer in winter, so a car remains the most convenient solution.

The conclusion

If you want the beach and caves on your doorstep, stay in Matala village, despite prices being a little higher in summer. For better value and quieter nights, Pitsidia is a very good alternative a short distance away. Those seeking seclusion will choose Kali Limenes, while those wanting a more complete base with more dining and entertainment options will feel more comfortable in Agia Galini, provided they have a car for getting around.

See also our guides on where to stay in Trikala and accommodation in Drama.