Akrotiri: Tours and Guided Visits

The prehistoric village of Akrotiri is over 4,000 years old and is where the Minoan people first settled when landing in Santorini. The small town was buried in ash after a devastating volcanic eruption in 1650 BC and has since remained somewhat frozen in time.

Akrotiri tours in Santorini allow you to step back in time and gain a new appreciation for Santorini’s rich and fascinating heritage. See how the Minoan people used to live and marvel at their innovative triple and quadruple-story homes, as well as their beautiful sculptures and other works of art.

Here's all you need to know about visiting Akrotiri, one of the most unforgetabble sightseeing tours in Santorini.

Where is Akrotiri located?

The archeological site of Akrotiri is located in the southern part of the island of Santorini, between the modern-day village of the same name and the famous red-sand beach. Akrotiri is just a 20-minute drive from Fira, Santorini’s capital.

What are the best things to do in Akrotiri?

Red Beach

The red-sand beach near Akrotiri is one of just a handful of red-sand beaches in the Aegean Sea. The beach is great for swimming, sunbathing and taking photos with the dramatic red cliffs in the background.

Akrotiri Lighthouse

The Akrotiri Lighthouse was built in 1892 by a French company and is actually one of the oldest lighthouses in all of Greece. The lighthouse is beautifully unusual in its design and makes for the perfect spot to watch the sunset from.

Archeological site

Visiting the archaeological site is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Akrotiri. The excellently preserved ancient city was once one of the most important settlements in the Aegean Sea, and the ruins provide a glimpse into the Minoan people’s way of life.

What are the best tours to visit Akrotiri?

Private guided tour of the prehistoric city of Akrotiri

Discover the incredible archaeological site of Akrotiri for yourself when you book this private walking tour of the ruins. As you explore the settlement’s paved streets and various complexes, your guide will provide fascinating information about the Minoan people.

Meet your experienced guide at the entrance to the archaeological site, where you’ll get your tickets and begin your journey into the past. The site is exceptionally well-preserved as it was buried under volcanic ash.

See the double and triple-storied building, kitchens, bathrooms, art and so much more as you learn about this incredible ancient society.

Private cultural villages sightseeing and Akrotiri tour

This 5-hour private tour visits some of the most historically important villages in Santorini and ends at the archeological site of Akrotiri. A local driver/guide is with you every step of the way and is eager to share his knowledge about the island’s culture and heritage.

The first stop on the itinerary is the Pygros, which is the island’s oldest village and is famous for its beautiful Venetian castle. Next, you’re off to the traditional village of Megalochori, which offers a charming atmosphere filled with blue-domed churches and underground caves.

Before you finally make your way to the Akrotiri archeological site, you’ll get to discover Castelli of Emporio, which once served as the island’s commercial center.

Bus tour to Akrotiri archaeological site and the red-sand beach

See two of Akrotiri’s gems in one day: the archeological site and the red-sand beach. You’ll gain insight into the area’s rich history when you visit the excavations and have some time to appreciate Akrotiri’s amazing natural beauty when you relax on the beach.

Get picked up from your closest meeting point by a comfortable, air-conditioned bus. Enjoy breathtaking views of Santorini as you are driven around the island, stopping at the archaeological site, as well as two famous beaches.

The last stop on the tour includes a wine-tasting experience at a nearby winery, where you’ll taste some of the very best wines that the island has to offer.

What are the prices of Akrotiri tours?

If you want to visit the archeological site of Akrotiri without a tour guide, you can expect to pay around €16 per person for tickets. Guided tours of Santorini that include Akrotiri in their itinerary typically start at around €50 per person and may include other stops along the way.

In-depth, private tours of the archeological site generally cost around €180 per person, and private Akrotiri tours that include other activities, such as wine-tasting, cost roughly €250 per person.

Where do Akrotiri tours start?

Tour operators offering private tours to Akrotiri, typically offer a complimentary pickup service from Santorini hotels. While some group tours offer hotel pickup services, you may be asked to meet your guide outside the archeological site in some cases.

When is the best time to visit Akrotiri?

The best time to visit Santorini and its many attractions is undoubtedly in the shoulder months of either May or October. This is when the weather is warm and dry, but not too hot, and there won’t be as many tourists as there are in the summer months of the island’s high season.

Travel tips

• Book your Akrotiri tour in advance to secure your spot on your preferred tour.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes and breathable clothing for walking around Akrotiri and seeing its many attractions.
• Bring sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen and a bottle of water with you when spending the day in Akrotiri.
• Ensure your camera is charged, as you won’t want to miss out on the many photo opportunities that Akrotiri offers its visitors.