Akrotiri Tours

Akrotiri came to an abrupt end in approximately 1613 BC with a catastrophic volcanic eruption that buried the Bronze Age settlement in a carpet of ash. Beginning in 1967, excavations of the Minoan town revealed buildings, drainage systems, and pottery, but no human remains or gold valuables, indicating locals had time to flee before disaster hit.
The Basics
The historic highlight of Santorini, Ancient Akrotiri is often visited on islandwide sightseeing tours by bus, minivan, or private vehicle. While the settlement can be explored independently, it’s more rewarding to go with a guide who can provide some context to the ruins.
Some Santorini tours combine a guided visit to Akrotiri with trips to picturesque Greek towns and villages such as Oia, Pyrgos, Megalochori, and Emporio; free time for swimming and sunbathing at stretches such as Perissa Beach or Red Beach; and wine tastings.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Nicknamed the Pompeii of the Aegean, Akrotiri is a must for ancient history buffs.
- The excavations are covered by a protective ceiling structure, which provides shelter from the hot Santorini sun.
- With level, wooden boardwalks overlooking the excavated site, Akrotiri is accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
Ancient Akrotiri is situated on the southern tip of Santorini, about 7.5 miles (12 kilometers) south of Fira. During the summer, local KTEL buses run several times daily from Fira to Akrotiri Beach.
When to Get There
Akrotiri is busiest during the summer months (June through August). Get here early in the day to experience it at its quietest. Between November and March, take advantage of free entry to the site on the first Sunday of every month.
Delve into Ancient Santorini
Visitors with an interest in the ancient history of the island will want to prioritize Ancient Thera, which showcases ruins dating from the Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine periods. Several museums, including the Museum of Prehistoric Thera and the Archaeological Museum (both in Fira), display objects unearthed from Akrotiri and beyond, while the Santozeum Museum (also in Fira) features frescos from the Bronze Age site.
Address: Akrotiri, South Aegean, Greece
81 Tours and Activities to Experience Akrotiri
Sort by:Featured

6-Hour Private Best of Santorini Experience
211
Succumb to Santorini’s charms on a private tour to see its highlights. Traveling by luxury, air-conditioned vehicle with a guide, learn about Santorini’s history and culture as you explore. Stop at Red Beach, view the Minoan ruins at Akrotiri independently, see Oia, visit the village of Megalochori, and more. An optional winery visit is also possible.
…More
From
$216.54
Price varies by group size
From
$216.54
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Learn More

Ancient Akrotiri and Santorini Wineries Tour
54
Dip into ancient ruins and volcanic wines on this variety-packed tour of Santorini. With an expert guide, venture to the Akrotiri Santorini archaeological site to explore the semi-crumbled buildings and relics buried here by volcanic ash 3,600 years ago. Then, visit traditional wineries and taste several varietals, all defined by the island’s mineral-rich soils. This tour is limited to eight travelers to ensure a small-group, personalized experience.
…More
From
$247.47
From
$247.47
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Transportation vehicles regularly sanitized
Regular temperature checks for staff
Learn More

Half-Day Santorini South Coast and Akrotiri Tour from Fira
8
Take in the highlights of Santorini’s southern shore on this half-day tour from Fira. Visit the Monastery of Prophet Elias and the traditional village of Megalochori; stroll the black sand beach of Perivolos; and explore the Minoan archaeological site of Akrotiri.
…More
From
$60.63
From
$60.63
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
Learn More

Archaeological bus tour to Akrotiri excavations & Red beach
34
Prophet Elias Monastery – Megalochori village – Akrotiri Excavations – Red Beach - Perivolos Beach – Last stop for wine tasting
With this tour you will visit the traditional villages of Santorini, charming monasteries, great beaches and the famous Akrotiri excavations. You will admire amazing views and learn about the history of the island.
…More
From
$60.63
From
$60.63
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Learn More

Private Cultural Villages Sightseeing & Akrotiri Excavations
27
Santorini wears its rich history on its sleeve, with medieval buildings, Ottoman villages and weathered ruins all over the island. Rather than dealing with the hassle of organising your own transport, you can discover the island’s history and its vibrant modern culture on this tour around four of its southernmost villages. Visit the villages of Pyrgos, Megalochori and Emporio and Akrotiri excavations before ending your trip at a family-owned winery in Akrotiri, where you can sample their family wines and organic produce while watching the sunset over the Aegean Sea.
…More
From
$185.61
Price varies by group size
From
$185.61
Price varies by group size
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Learn More

Explore Akrotiri Private Tour
4
Step back nearly 4,000 years on a private 3-hour tour of ancient Akrotiri on Santorini. With a knowledgeable private guide, explore the well-preserved ruins of this one-time Minoan settlement, destroyed by a volcano in around 1450 BC. Inspect the excavated houses and buildings, see the remnants of kitchens and drainage systems, and hear about the vivid frescoes that once graced the walls. Learn about the long-ago inhabitants, how their town was buried under ash, and how Minoan society and culture was far ahead of mainland European civilization at the time.
…More
From
$321.72
per group
From
$321.72
per group

Santorini Day Tour with Sunset in Oia
133
Enjoy a day of discovery on Santorini island on this tour from Fira. With an itinerary that covers all the must-see sights, the tour lets you find your own favorite spots on the island. Visit the volcanic Red Beach, Akrotiri Archaeological Site, a winery, the Prophet Elias Monastery, and then finish on a high note as you watch the sun slip into the sea from Oia village. A tasting of Santorini’s distinctive wine is included.
…More
From
$68.06
From
$68.06
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Learn More

Explore Akrotiri and Oia Private Tour
1
Get more out of your time in Santorini by going on a private tour of the island. You’ll save hours researching highlights by having a full itinerary organized for you, and you won’t have to book transport as pickup and drop-off is included. See the picturesque village of Oia, drive through the main town of Fira, and visit the archaeological site of Akrotiri.
…More
From
$612.50
per group
From
$612.50
per group
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Learn More

Santorini Shore Excursion: Private Tour of Oia, Fira and the Akrotiri Excavation
1
Discover beautiful Santorini — from the bustling capital of Fira to postcard-perfect Oia — on this private, half-day shore excursion. Meet your guide and private vehicle off of your cruise ship at Fira port, and then set off to explore the sun-kissed Greek isle. See the ruins of one of the region’s most important prehistoric settlements at Akrotiri; be wowed by views of the caldera and the Aegean Sea; and enjoy ample free time to explore both Oia and Fira.
…More
From
$679.06
Price varies by group size
From
$679.06
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Learn More

Oia Sunset and Traditional Villages Tour in Santorini
63
See an idyllic Oia sunset from the Kastro — the Venetian castle ruins atop Santorini. Take a break from Santorini’s beaches as a professional guide whisks you away for the day. You'll discover the archaeological site at Akrotiri (admission at own expense) and learn the significance of these Minoan excavations as you stroll along its main street. Then enjoy free time to explore Santorini’s beautiful village Emporeio, before watching the sun descend over the Mediterranean Sea.
…More
From
$82.90
From
$82.90
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
Learn More

Akrotiri Archeological Site Guided Tour
The Akrotiri Excavation Guided Tour will take you on a journey back to the island’s most significant time in history. Along with the licensed guide you will discover all aspects of the prehistoric settlement of Akrotiri where an important civilization thrived and was then destroyed by the massive eruption of 1612 B.C. Wonder around the alleys and the buildings that once housed the Pompeii of the Aegean Sea.
…More
From
$167.04
Price varies by group size
From
$167.04
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Learn More

Santorini Full-Day Sightseeing Tour
389
Spend a full day discovering Santorini’s ancient history, local culture, and famous views on this great-value highlights tour. Explore the Santorinian villages, visit the Red Beach, swim at the black-sand Perissa Beach, take in panoramic views from Prophet Elias Monastery, and learn details about the wine heritage of the island. Finish the day with an unforgettable sunset from Oia village.
…More
From
$98.99
From
$98.99
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Learn More

Santorini Private Sightseeing Tour
49
See the attractions of Santorini on a private sightseeing tour with a driver-guide who introduces you to the island's natural, cultural, and culinary delights. You can visit locations like hillside villages and volcanic beaches, or customize your itinerary to check out specific places that interest you. Any food, drinks, activities, and entrance fees are at your own expense.
…More
From
$260.02
Price varies by group size
From
$260.02
Price varies by group size
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Learn More

Santorini Private Custom Tour-5 Hours
42
Explore beautiful Santorini on this half-day guided excursion. After a convenient hotel, airport, port or cable car pickup, craft an itinerary that suits your interests and travel by luxury minibus to must-see sites like the picturesque village of Oia, the Blue Dome Church, and Prophet Elias Monastery. Enjoy a glass of wine at a cliffside winery and capture memorable photos of the Black and Red beaches.
…More
From
$211.59
$23.51 savings
Price varies by group size
From
$211.59
$23.51 savings
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Learn More

Half or Full Day Private Custom Santorini Island Tour
47
Experience Santorini like a local on this private island tour and maximize your time with a custom-made itinerary and a choice of four different tour lengths. Perhaps experience island life with a visit to villages such as Oia, Imerovigli, and Firostefani; admire the views from Profitis Ilias;
…More
From
$198.12
Price varies by group size
From
$198.12
Price varies by group size
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Learn More

Private Santorini Tour: Caldera, Akrotiri and Oia Village
Take this Private Santorini Tour and discover the charm, wonder, and history of Santorini with a private guide on this 6-Hour private tour. Uncover one of the most important prehistoric settlements of the Aegean at the Akrotiri excavations, absorb a wide range of stunning views, and enjoy some free time in the village of Oia. Wine-tasting inlcuded.
…More
From
$773.36
Price varies by group size
From
$773.36
Price varies by group size
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Transportation vehicles regularly sanitized
Regular temperature checks for staff
Learn More

Explore Akrotiri and Oia small group tour
This tour combines the highlights of the island!The nothern part of the island and the picturesque village of Oia that is built on the edge of the cliff,offers the chanse to admire the the unique views together with the traditional architecture of the island and then we drive through some of the most beautifull villages of the island and through Fira the main town, all the way to the southern pert of the island to visit the archeological site of Akrotiri, the remains of a prehistoric city, one of the better preserved around the world, an unforgetable trip to the past.
the tour includes: licensed tourist guide services, transportation with privet car/van.
• all tours itinerary can be adjusted to visitors needs and interests.
• other types of vehicles are also available on request for bigger groups or special requests
…More
From
$755.53
per group
From
$755.53
per group
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
Learn More

Explore Akrotiri GroupTour
1
Explore the ancient city of Akrotiri on a custom tour with a personal guide. After convenient hotel, airport or cruise port pickup, travel by private vehicle to Akrotiri, a Bronze Age settlement buried in ash nearly 4,000 years ago in a volcanic eruption. Get an intimate view of ancient Greek life as you stroll past well-preserved frescoes, building complexes, and remarkably advanced infrastructure systems.
…More
From
$579.40
per group
From
$579.40
per group
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
Learn More

Trails of Atlantis: Marvels of Ancient Akrotiri and Vistas of Oia Town
3
If you’ve got limited time in Santorini, ensure you maximise your vacation time on a private full-day tour that provides a comprehensive overview for first-time visitors. In an air-conditioned minivan, your guide drives you to far-flung attractions such as the blue-domed churches of Oia and the clifftop Monastery of Profitis Ilias while you focus on the volcanic scenery. Plus, you can customize your itinerary according to your preferences, whether they include ancient history or wine tasting.
…More
From
$371.21
Price varies by group size
From
$371.21
Price varies by group size
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Transportation vehicles regularly sanitized
Regular temperature checks for staff
Learn More

Ancient Akrotiri and Santorini Wineries Tour
Enjoy an in-depth history guided tour at the prehistoric town of Akrotiri led by a Greek archaeologist and spend your afternoon visiting 3 island wineries for cellar tour and wine-tasting with an expertise sommelier. Lunch included on tour.
…More
From
$241.29
From
$241.29
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Learn More

Santorini Visit Akrotiri Archaeological Site (Small Group)
An amazing experience awaits visitors to Akrotiri. Take part in a tour of one of the most important settlements of the Minoan Bronze Age in Greece, which was preserved in very good condition after being buried under the volcanic ash of one of the largest volcanic eruptions in history that struck the island in the 17th century BC .
You will walk around a well-preserved prehistoric city. We suggest you choose to have a tour guide with you to learn unique information.
…More
From
$88.84
Price varies by group size
From
$88.84
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Learn More

Private Half-Day Sightseeing Tour of Santorini
25
Get personalized attention and a customized experience on this half-day private tour of Santorini. Travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle directly from your hotel or the airport to visit the island's highlights, including the Red Beach, Oia, and a local winery.
…More
From
$210.70
Price varies by group size
From
$210.70
Price varies by group size
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Learn More

Private Santorini Day Cruise All Inclusive
84
Experience Santorini’s natural beauty on this half-day sailing excursion. Choose your ideal tour time—afternoon and evening departures are available—and take advantage of a convenient hotel pickup. Then, set sail and enjoy activities that include swimming to volcanic hot springs, relaxing on beautiful secluded beaches, and savoring a delicious complimentary meal.
…More
From
$940.57
per group
From
$940.57
per group
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Learn More

5 Hours Santorini most attractive sightseing roundtrip
3
Santorini is one of Greece’s most-visited islands, which can mean heavy traffic at busy times of day. Dodge the congestion with an experienced private chauffeur on this time-saving door-to-door tour, complete with in-vehicle Wi-Fi. A typical itinerary covers: Red Beach, a black sand beach, Pyrgos village, scenic Oia, the archaeological site of Ancient Akrotiri (own expense), and a tasting at Venetsanos Winery.
…More
From
$335.80
per group
From
$335.80
per group
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Learn More
Things to do near Santorini
- Things to do in Cyclades Islands
- Things to do in Ios
- Things to do in Heraklion
- Things to do in Kos
- Things to do in Bodrum
- Things to do in Kusadasi
- Things to do in Athens
- Things to do in Selçuk
- Things to do in Rhodes
- Things to do in Marmaris
- Things to do in Muğla
- Things to do in Sarigerme
- Things to do in Pamukkale
- Things to do in Crete
- Things to do in Dodecanese