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Book Akrotiri Tickets
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Walk through the ash-preserved ruins of Akrotiri and explore Fira Old Town with an immersive audio guide.
- Everything you get: Timed entry ticket to the Akrotiri archaeological site and a handheld audio guide for exploring Fira Old Town, with insights into its Bronze Age frescoes, pottery, and drainage systems.
- Why choose this: Get a deeper understanding of Santorini’s ancient past as you explore Akrotiri’s remarkably preserved ruins from elevated walkways. With vivid frescoes and expert audio commentary, you’ll uncover the daily life, art, and innovations of a thriving Bronze Age civilization at your own pace.
- Upgrades: Add the Akrotiri site audio guide for expert narration on frescoes, pottery, and ancient engineering as you explore the ruins.
Walk through the ash-preserved ruins of Akrotiri and explore Fira Old Town with an immersive audio guide.
- Everything you get: Timed entry ticket to the Akrotiri archaeological site and a handheld audio guide for exploring Fira Old Town, with insights into its Bronze Age frescoes, pottery, and drainage systems.
- Why choose this: Get a deeper understanding of Santorini’s ancient past as you explore Akrotiri’s remarkably preserved ruins from elevated walkways. With vivid frescoes and expert audio commentary, you’ll uncover the daily life, art, and innovations of a thriving Bronze Age civilization at your own pace.
- Upgrades: Add the Akrotiri site audio guide for expert narration on frescoes, pottery, and ancient engineering as you explore the ruins.
Inclusions
- Entry to Akrotiri archaeological site
- Akrotiri archaeological site audio guide (based on option selected)
- Old Town (Fira) audio guide
- Tip: Arrive between 8am and 9am to avoid the midday crowds and take advantage of the cooler morning temperatures.
- The site is partially wheelchair accessible, with wooden walkways and ramps in some areas, but we recommend bringing a companion for assistance as not all sections are fully accessible.
- Infants aged 4 and under can enter for free with an ID. Reduced or free admission is available at the ticket counter for eligible visitors such as children aged 6 to 18 from non-EU countries, EU citizens aged 25 or under and 65 or over, children under 5, and people with disabilities, with valid documentation.
- Akrotiri is just 15 minutes by car from both the Athinios Ferry Port and Santorini Airport, making it easily accessible.
- Wear sturdy, closed-toe footwear for comfort while walking along the rocky and uneven paths.
- Bring a hat or cap to shield yourself from the sun, as the site offers limited shade and the midday sun can be quite harsh.
- Pets are not allowed to enter the archaeological site.
- Tripods or selfie sticks may be restricted in certain areas, so be sure to look for signs with restrictions.
- Look out for the Fisherman fresco, an iconic artwork depicting a Minoan fisherman carrying a basket full of fish.
- Watch the video reconstructions around the site to see what the settlement may have looked like before it was destroyed.
- Don’t miss the Museum of Prehistoric Thera in Fira, just a short drive from Akrotiri, where you can admire various artifacts, frescoes, and pottery from the site.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION7 hours - 7 hours 30 minutes
MODE OF TRANSFERA/C Minibus
TimelineMap
START POINT
16 starting points available
1. Exo Gonia
Your shared transfer will depart from the main road in Exo Gonia at 10:10am. Please arrive at least 10 minutes early and wait at the designated meeting point for smooth check-in.
2. Kamari
Pickup in Kamari is scheduled for 10:30am from the main road near the beach entrance. Be ready 10 minutes early to avoid any delays and enjoy a comfortable ride toward the first stop.
3. Monolithos
Guests in Monolithos will be picked up at 10:35am from the central road area. Arrive slightly early and keep an eye out for your tour minibus.
4. Messaria
The meeting point in Messaria is set for 10:40am, usually at a visible spot on the main road. Arrive 10 minutes prior and look for the bus with your tour name.
5. Karterados
Your pickup from Karterados is at 10:45am from the main road. Please be ready on time and wait in a visible location for an easy pickup.
6. Fira
Guests in Fira should meet at 10:50am near the central pickup point, close to the main square. Be there a bit early to allow for a smooth check-in process.
7. Pyrgos
Pickup in Pyrgos takes place at 11am from the main road just outside the village center. Make sure to be at the meeting point at least 10 minutes early.
8. Vlichada
Meet the group at 10:15am at the main coastal road in Vlichada. It’s a peaceful start with scenic views—arrive early and enjoy the quiet surroundings.
9. Perivolos
Guests staying near Perivolos Beach will be picked up at 10:20am from a central roadside location. Please be there early to ensure a timely departure.
10. Perissa
Your pickup in Perissa is scheduled for 10:25am from a main road location near the beach area. Get there 10 minutes ahead of time for check-in.
11. Emporio
Meet the minibus in Emporio at 10:30am, typically from the main village road. Be on time and look for your driver holding or displaying the tour details.
12. Akrotiri
Akrotiri guests are picked up at 10:40am near the main road or village square. Arrive a few minutes early to ensure a smooth pickup.
13. Megalochori
Pickup from Megalochori is at 10:50am, near the village entrance or roadside. Be there 10 minutes in advance and watch for the tour vehicle.
14. Oia
Guests in Oia will be picked up at 10:10am from a central location—usually the main bus stop area. Please be on time, as the route continues quickly from here.
15. Imerovigli
Pickup in Imerovigli is at 10:35am near the main walking path or bus stop. Arrive a bit early and wait in a visible area for a smooth collection.
16. Firostefani
Firostefani pickup happens at 10:40am, just along the main road through the village. Please be ready and visible 10 minutes before.
4.5 kms
8 minutes
1
Prophet Elias Monastery
20 minutes
Begin your day at the highest point in Santorini, where the Prophet Elias Monastery sits 567 meters above sea level. Enjoy panoramic views over the island and Aegean Sea, explore the peaceful monastery, and capture beautiful photos from one of the most scenic viewpoints in Santorini.
5 kms
10 minutes
2
Megalochori Village
20 minutes
Step back in time as you explore Megalochori, a charming, traditional village with narrow alleys, whitewashed homes, and blue-domed churches. Once nearly abandoned after a major earthquake, the village has kept its authentic character—perfect for a short stroll and quiet photos.
5.5 kms
10 minutes
3
Akrotiri archaeological site
60 minutes
Discover one of the most important archaeological sites in the Aegean: the prehistoric city of Akrotiri. Preserved beneath volcanic ash, the ancient ruins include multi-level homes, pottery, and remnants of a once-thriving civilization buried by the eruption that shaped Santorini. (Note: Entrance fee of €20 not included.)
3 kms
5 minutes
4
Red Beach
45 minutes
Enjoy approximately 45 minutes of free time near Red Beach, famous for its dramatic red cliffs and volcanic shoreline. Reach the viewpoint on foot (a 10-minute walk each way) to admire and photograph this natural wonder, or relax nearby with a drink at Akrotiri Bay, where you can also try Greek mezedes and ouzo (not included in the price).
5.5 kms
10 minutes
5
Perivolos Beach
90 minutes
Wrap up your tour at Perivolos, Santorini’s long stretch of black-sand beach lined with tavernas and cafes. You’ll have free time to swim, sunbathe, or enjoy a fresh seafood lunch by the water before heading back.
10 kms
15 minutes
6
END POINT
Fira
The tour ends in Fira around 6pm. From here, guests staying in Imerovigli, Firostefani, or Oia will be transferred back to their pickup points by bus. Make sure to collect your belongings and check with the guide for return instructions.
Take in sweeping views from Prophet Elias Monastery, stroll through Santorini’s quiet villages, and explore the ruins of Akrotiri.
- Everything you get: Shared air-conditioned bus transport with multiple pickups, a live English and German-speaking guide, free time at Red Beach and Perivolos, and stops at Prophet Elias Monastery, Megalochori Village, and the Akrotiri archaeological site (entrance ticket not included).
- Why choose this: This tour is ideal for travelers who want a mix of history, scenery, and beach time in one full day. You’ll explore an ancient city buried by volcanic ash, enjoy a guided overview of Santorini’s cultural landmarks, and have time to unwind along its famous coastline—all without the hassle of arranging separate visits.
Take in sweeping views from Prophet Elias Monastery, stroll through Santorini’s quiet villages, and explore the ruins of Akrotiri.
- Everything you get: Shared air-conditioned bus transport with multiple pickups, a live English and German-speaking guide, free time at Red Beach and Perivolos, and stops at Prophet Elias Monastery, Megalochori Village, and the Akrotiri archaeological site (entrance ticket not included).
- Why choose this: This tour is ideal for travelers who want a mix of history, scenery, and beach time in one full day. You’ll explore an ancient city buried by volcanic ash, enjoy a guided overview of Santorini’s cultural landmarks, and have time to unwind along its famous coastline—all without the hassle of arranging separate visits.
Inclusions
- 7 to 7.5-hour guided tour of the Akrotiri archaeological site and the Red Beach
- Shared air-conditioned transfers with pick-up and drop-off services
- Expert English and German-speaking guide
- Visits to 5 stops across the island: Prophet Elias Monastery, Megalochori Village, Akrotiri excavations, Red Beach, and Perivolos Beach
- Free time at select locations (Red Beach, Perivolos Beach)
Exclusions
- Entrance fee to Akrotiri excavations (€20)
- Meals and drinks (optional stop at Akrotiri Bay)
- Personal expenses
- The entrance ticket to Akrotiri Excavations is not included in the tour price, so be prepared to pay €20 at the site entrance.
- The visit to Akrotiri is self-guided, so take your time walking through the ruins and reading the signs and displays along the way.
- Infants aged 4 and under can enter for free with an ID. Reduced or free admission is available at the ticket counter for eligible visitors such as children aged 6 to 18 from non-EU countries, EU citizens aged 25 or under and 65 or over, children under 5, and people with disabilities, with valid documentation.
- This tour is not suitable for wheelchair users due to uneven terrain and limited accessibility at some stops.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the tour includes uneven paths at the archaeological site, uphill stretches at Red Beach, and sand at Perivolos.
- Don’t forget to pack swimwear and a towel if you plan to take a dip or relax at Perivolos Beach during your free time.
- Bring sun protection like a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, since many of the stops have limited shade, especially around midday.
- Keep some small change or a card with you in case you’d like to buy a coffee or lunch at Akrotiri Bay or along the beach.
- Photography is allowed in most areas, but flash, tripods, and selfie sticks are not allowed at the archaeological site—look out for posted signs.
- Be mindful of the time you’re given at each stop and return to the bus on time to keep the group on schedule.
- Tour timings and stop durations might vary slightly depending on the season or traffic, and your guide will keep you updated throughout the day.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
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Itinerary
TimelineMap
START POINT
13 starting points available
1. Exo Gonia
Your pickup in Exo Gonia is scheduled for 10:55am from the main road. Please be ready at least 10 minutes early and wait at the designated point for a smooth start.
2. Kamari
The bus will collect you in Kamari at 11:15am from a central roadside location near the beach area. Arrive early to avoid delays and enjoy a scenic ride uphill.
3. Monolithos
Pickup in Monolithos is at 11:25am along the main road. Look out for the tour vehicle and be ready a few minutes in advance.
4. Messaria
Meet the group at 11:30am on the main road in Messaria. Be visible and ready for pickup at least 10 minutes early.
5. Karterados
Your pickup in Karterados is set for 11:35am, typically from the main road. Arrive early and look for the marked tour bus.
6. Fira
Guests in Fira will be picked up at 11:45am near the central square or designated meeting point. Arrive early for a relaxed start.
7. Pyrgos
Pickup in Pyrgos takes place at 11:55am, right at the village entrance or roadside. Please be there 10 minutes ahead of time.
8. Vlichada
You’ll be picked up at 11:10am from the coastal road in Vlichada. The area is quiet and scenic—arrive early and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
9. Perivolos
The meeting time for Perivolos is 11:15am, usually near the main beachfront road. Be ready in advance for a smooth pickup.
10. Perissa
Pickup is scheduled for 11:20am along the main road in Perissa, not far from the beach. Wait where it’s visible to ensure an easy pickup.
11. Emporio
Meet the tour bus at 11:25am from a central location in Emporio village. Be punctual and keep an eye out for the vehicle.
12. Akrotiri
Akrotiri guests will be picked up at 11:35am from the main road or near the archaeological site entrance. Arrive early and wait at the designated location.
13. Megalochori
Pickup in Megalochori is at 11:45am from a roadside point near the village entrance. Be ready 10 minutes before to board without delay.
4.5 kms
8 minutes
1
Prophet Elias Monastery
20 minutes
Start your journey at the island’s highest point, where the Prophet Elias Monastery offers breathtaking 360-degree views over Santorini. You’ll have time to explore the monastery and capture panoramic shots of the caldera, surrounding villages, and the Aegean Sea.
2.5 kms
5 minutes
2
Pyrgos Village
30 minutes
Wander through Pyrgos, one of Santorini’s most authentic and charming hilltop villages. Discover traditional houses, narrow alleys, blue-domed churches, and panoramic views—perfect for photos and a taste of local life.
5.5 kms
10 minutes
3
Akrotiri archaeological site
60 minutes
Step into Santorini’s ancient past at the Akrotiri archaeological site, a Minoan-era settlement preserved beneath volcanic ash for over 3,000 years. Wander through the remains of multi-story houses and learn about the island’s history through well-preserved artifacts and city planning. (Note: Entrance fee of €12 not included; the Akrotiri excavations tour doesn't include a guide.)
3 kms
5 minutes
4
Red Beach
40 minutes
Enjoy about 40 minutes of free time near the striking Red Beach, where crimson cliffs meet deep-blue waters. Walk to the viewpoint (around 10 minutes each way) to snap dramatic photos, or visit a nearby taverna at Akrotiri Bay for coffee, ouzo, or a light lunch (not included).
9.5 kms
15 minutes
5
Fira Town
60 minutes
Explore Santorini’s lively capital, where you can walk along the caldera edge, take postcard-perfect photos, shop for local goods, or grab a bite at one of the cliffside tavernas. Fira blends the island’s old-world charm with a buzzing atmosphere and unbeatable views.
16 kms
30 minutes
6
Oia Village
90 minutes
End the day in Oia, famous for its whitewashed houses, windmills, and golden-hour magic. Enjoy free time to wander the cobbled lanes, explore art galleries and shops, and settle in for the world-famous sunset over the caldera—an unforgettable finish to your Santorini adventure.
A/C Minibus
7
END POINT
13 ending points available
1. Exo Gonia
2. Kamari
3. Monolithos
4. Messaria
5. Karterados
6. Fira
7. Pyrgos
8. Vlichada
9. Perivolos
10. Perissa
11. Emporio
12. Akrotiri
13. Megalochori
Take in sweeping island views from Santorini’s highest point, visit the ancient city of Akrotiri, and end your day with the world-famous sunset in Oia.
- Everything you get: A full-day guided bus tour with live commentary in English, shared transportation with pickup from designated points, visits to Prophet Elias Monastery, Pyrgos Village, Akrotiri Excavations (entry not included), Red Beach, Fira Town, and Oia Village.
- Why choose this: This tour is perfect for those who want to experience Santorini’s cultural, historical, and scenic highlights in one unforgettable day. From the volcanic ruins of Akrotiri to clifftop sunsets in Oia, you’ll explore the island’s must-see spots with the ease of guided transport and plenty of free time to soak it all in.
Take in sweeping island views from Santorini’s highest point, visit the ancient city of Akrotiri, and end your day with the world-famous sunset in Oia.
- Everything you get: A full-day guided bus tour with live commentary in English, shared transportation with pickup from designated points, visits to Prophet Elias Monastery, Pyrgos Village, Akrotiri Excavations (entry not included), Red Beach, Fira Town, and Oia Village.
- Why choose this: This tour is perfect for those who want to experience Santorini’s cultural, historical, and scenic highlights in one unforgettable day. From the volcanic ruins of Akrotiri to clifftop sunsets in Oia, you’ll explore the island’s must-see spots with the ease of guided transport and plenty of free time to soak it all in.
Inclusions
- 10-hour full-day bus tour across Santorini and the Akrotiri excavation site
- Shared air-conditioned transfers with pick-up and drop-off services
- Expert English-speaking guide
- Visits to 6 scenic and cultural stops: Prophet Elias Monastery, Pyrgos Village, Akrotiri excavations, Red Beach, Fira Town, Oia Village
- Free time in Fira and Oia
Exclusions
- Entrance fee to Akrotiri Excavations (€12)
- Guided tour inside the Akrotiri site
- Meals, drinks, or entrance fees at personal stops
- The entrance ticket to Akrotiri Excavations is not included in the tour price, so be prepared to pay €12 at the site entrance.
- The visit to Akrotiri is self-guided, so take your time walking through the ruins and reading the signs and displays along the way.
- Infants aged 4 and under can enter for free with an ID. Reduced or free admission is available at the ticket counter for eligible visitors such as children aged 6 to 18 from non-EU countries, EU citizens aged 25 or under and 65 or over, children under 5, and people with disabilities, with valid documentation.
- This tour is not suitable for wheelchair users due to uneven terrain and limited accessibility at some stops.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the tour includes cobbled streets, uneven paths, and short uphill walks at locations like Pyrgos, Fira, and Oia.
- Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, as several stops, such as Prophet Elias Monastery and Red Beach, offer little to no shade.
- Carry swimwear and a towel if you'd like to swim or relax near Red Beach during your free time.
- You’ll have free time in Fira and Oia, so carrying a small day bag with water, snacks, or a light jacket is a good idea.
- Photography is welcome at most stops, but flash and selfie sticks are not allowed inside the Akrotiri site—look out for signage.
- The sunset in Oia is a highlight of the tour, so arrive at the chosen viewpoint early to secure a good spot for photos.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Reviews
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What our guests say
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John
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Loved all the spots. I got a lot of great pictures too. It was a well-paced tour - got time to enjoy and relax. I felt like going once again after back!!!
Emma
Aug 2021Verified booking
Comfortable bus tour with enjoyable commentry from guide. Really enjoyed it!
Sadie
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Loved the beach part of the tour - was definitely my highlight!
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SantoriniAkrotiri Archaeological Site
Why Akrotiri is a must-visit in Santorini
A glimpse into a thriving ancient civilization
Imagine walking through a city frozen in time, buried under volcanic ash for over 3,500 years. Unlike crumbled ruins elsewhere, in the ancient town of Akrotiri, you’ll find multi-story buildings, drainage systems, and elegant streets that hint at a highly evolved society. This was a thriving Minoan port, bustling with trade, art, and life, eerily preserved as if the inhabitants just stepped out.
Find the best Akrotiri tickets for your visit
Entry tickets
Best for: A self-paced exploration of the Akrotiri site, providing an immersive experience through an informative audio guide
Duration: Flexible
Guide: Handheld audio guide
- Walk through the remarkably preserved ruins and learn about the Minoan civilization’s frescoes, pottery, and advanced drainage systems, all brought to life with an immersive audio guide.
Recommended tickets: Santorini: Akrotiri ticket with audio guide
Guided tours
Best for: Those looking for a comprehensive tour of Santorini’s key archaeological sites and scenic beaches, all in one day
Duration: 7 hours 30 minutes
Guide: Expert English or German-speaking guide
- Hear the history of Prophet Elias Monastery, learn about life in Megalochori village, and admire Minoan engineering at the Akrotiri excavations, all with an expert guide, plus free time at Red and Perivolos Beaches.
Recommended tickets: Archaeological bus tour to Akrotiri excavations and Red Beach
Day trips
Best for: Travelers who want to experience Santorini’s best on a comprehensive day tour, with a focus on history, culture, and breathtaking views
Duration: 10 hours
Guide: Expert English-speaking guide
- Explore Santorini’s top spots, including Prophet Elias Monastery, Pyrgos village, and Akrotiri Excavations, with comfortable air-conditioned transfers. Enjoy free time in Fira and Oia, unwind at Red Beach, and end the day with the island’s iconic sunset.
Recommended tickets: Santorini bus tour: The majestic spots of Santorini and Akrotiri
Top sights you can’t miss at Akrotiri
See all photos
Everything you need to know before you go
Opening hours
Getting there
Entrances
Facilities
Accessibility
Rules
Visitor tips
- April to August: 8am to 8pm
- Last entry: 7:30pm
- September 1 to September 15: 8am to 7:30pm
- Last entry: 7pm
- September 16 to September 30: 8am to 7pm
- Last entry: 6:30pm
- October 1 to October 15: 8am to 6:30pm
- Last entry: 6pm
- October 16 to October 31: 8am to 6pm
- Last entry: 5:30pm
- November to March: 8:30am to 3:30pm (only on Monday and Thursday)
- Last entry: 3pm
Duration of visit: 1.5 to 2 hours
Best time to visit: Between April and October, with May to early June and September being ideal. Enjoy warm, sunny days with fewer crowds and comfortable exploring temperatures. Aim for early mornings or late afternoons to avoid peak heat and enjoy the site at its quietest.
Address: Fira 847 00, Greece
Find on maps
- By KTEL Santorini buses: Take a direct KTEL bus from the main Fira bus station. Buses run approximately every hour from around 9am until 8pm, with no night service. The journey takes around 20 minutes and costs about €1.80 to €2 to the village stop or €2 to €2.50 to the archaeological site stop.
- Nearest stop: The bus first stops in the Akrotiri village center. Stay on board for the second stop (around 2 km further) to arrive closest to the archaeological site/car park.
- By car or taxi: You can reach Akrotiri from Fira (about 10km away) in 13 to 15 minutes. Taxi fares typically range between €30 and €45, depending on the time of day and demand. If you're driving yourself, fuel costs are minimal (around €2 to €3), and car rentals on the island start from approximately €30 to €40 per day.
The Akrotiri archaeological site has a single, clearly marked public entrance, located on the southwestern edge of the modern Akrotiri village. It sits just opposite the main parking area and the last stop of the public KTEL bus from Fira.
The entrance itself is part of a modern facility with a ticket office, shaded waiting area, and restrooms. Once inside, visitors enter a fully enclosed excavation hall with elevated walkways and controlled climate. The layout is smooth and designed for wheelchairs or strollers.
Since there's only one entrance, all visitors funnel through this point, which can lead to queues, especially during peak midday hours. To avoid long lines, it's best to arrive early in the morning when the site opens (typically between 8am and 8:30am), or later in the day when tour groups have cleared out.
- Restrooms: Clean, modern toilet facilities are available just outside the entrance, including accessible options.
- Sheltered walkways: Some sections of the excavation are housed under a large bioclimatic shelter, keeping visitors shaded and protected from the elements while walking on raised, accessible boardwalks.
- Parking area: A paid parking lot is available directly across from the entrance, convenient for self-drive visitors.
- Information signs: Informational panels are placed throughout the site to explain the history and significance of specific areas and finds.
- Security and supervision: On-site personnel monitor the excavation area to ensure preservation and visitor safety, and to answer basic questions.
Several sections inside the excavation site are housed under a large, modern bioclimatic shelter, offering shade and protection from the elements. Within this covered area, you can move along elevated wooden walkways that circle and cross through the ruins. These paths are wide, stable, and have gentle slopes or ramps in many sections, making them navigable for manual and electric wheelchairs, as well as strollers.
However, not all paths are ramped; a few side corridors and closer views of certain areas have steps or raised thresholds that limit full access. We recommend wheelchair users or those with mobility concerns bring a companion for support.
There is a dedicated accessible restroom outside near the entrance, and the main entryway is on flat ground with no stairs.
- Do not touch any ruins or frescoes, as they are extremely fragile and must be preserved.
- Stay strictly on the designated walkways and do not step into excavation areas.
- Food and drink are not allowed inside the site, except bottled water.
- Flash photography is prohibited to protect delicate surfaces like ancient frescoes.
- Do not climb or lean on any structures, walls, or artifacts within the site.
- Dispose of any trash in the bins outside and help maintain a clean environment.
- Arrive by 8am to beat the crowds, as tour buses typically start arriving after 9:30am, making the early hours ideal for a peaceful visit.
- Wear closed-toe shoes with a good grip, as Akrotiri has narrow walkways and uneven, raised paths that can be challenging to navigate.
- Carry sunscreen and a water bottle as some sections on the site are exposed, and it can get hot during midday hours.
- Although you can walk through the entire site in 1 to 1.5 hours, we recommend setting aside an additional hour to fully appreciate the exhibits.
- It’s best to rent a car, jeep, or quad to explore at your own pace, but be sure to plan your routes ahead, as some roads can be narrow and winding.
- Make sure to stop by the nearby Red Beach to admire its unique red cliffs or head to the Museum of Prehistoric Thera in Fira to see incredible artifacts that offer a deeper look into Santorini’s ancient past.
- Be sure to try the local specialties, such as fava (yellow split pea puree) and fresh seafood, at one of the village's charming tavernas for an authentic taste of Santorini.
Explore more of Santorini’s wonders
Santorini boat tours
Sail through Santorini’s caldera on small-group catamaran and yacht cruises that include swim stops at volcanic beaches, dips in the hot springs, and freshly grilled meals on board. Book tickets for sunset or daytime tours with hotel pickup, guided volcano hikes, and curated routes past the island’s most striking coastlines.
Book Santorini boat tours
Santorini volcano and hot springs tours
Cruise the volcanic heart of Santorini on a guided boat tour combining a hike up Nea Kameni’s crater with a refreshing swim in the sulfur-rich waters of Palea Kameni hot springs. Your ticket includes hotel pickup, time to explore the quiet island of Thirassia, and panoramic caldera views, with a small-group setting and expert commentary throughout the journey.
Book Santorini volcano and hot springs toursFrequently asked questions about Akrotiri tickets
Are guided tours available at Akrotiri?
Yes, Akrotiri guided tours offer expert insights into the site’s history, highlighting the Minoan civilization, intricate frescoes, and advanced engineering. With an expert English or German-speaking guide, you’ll navigate the site more easily and dive deeper into Santorini’s buried civilization.
Do audio guides enhance the visitor experience?
Yes, audio guides offer detailed commentary on the site's features, including frescoes, pottery, and drainage systems, enriching the self-guided experience.
Can I purchase tickets on-site, or is advance booking necessary?
While you can book Akrotiri tickets on-site, we recommend getting them at least 2 to 3 weeks in advance, especially between June and August, as the timed-entry slots tend to sell out quickly.
Is the Akrotiri ticket valid for multiple entries?
No, the Akrotiri entry ticket allows for a one-time entry to the archaeological site.
What is the best time to visit Akrotiri to avoid crowds?
Arrive early in the morning, between 8am to 9am, to beat the crowds and enjoy a quieter, touring experience at the Akrotiri excavations.
How long should I plan to spend at Akrotiri?
Most visitors spend between 1 to 3 hours exploring the site at their own pace.
Is Akrotiri wheelchair-friendly?
The archaeological site is partially wheelchair accessible, complete with smooth walkways and wooden ramps in some areas. However, a big portion of the site is uneven and rocky, so visitors with mobility concerns may find it challenging to navigate certain sections without assistance.
What other attractions are near Akrotiri?
After visiting Akrotiri, consider exploring the nearby Red Beach and the Museum of Prehistoric Thera in Fira to further immerse yourself in Santorini's rich history.