Archaeological bus tour to Akrotiri excavations & Red beach

Santorini , Greece

Archaeological bus tour to Akrotiri excavations & Red beach

Active

(151 reviews)

6h - 7h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Prophet Elias Monastery – Megalochori village – Akrotiri Excavations – Red Beach - Perivolos Beach

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.

Available options

ARCHAEOLOGICAL BUS TOUR TO AKR

Pickup included

What's included

English speaking guide

Pick up and drop off service

Children under 4 years old can get free

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Prophet Elias Monastery – Megalochori village – Akrotiri Excavations (with Guide, entrance fee 12,00 E) – Red Beach (aprox. 45 min free time, approach on foot 10 minsaprox, per way) - Perivolos Beach ( free time swimming)

Start with the breath-taking view at the Prophet Elias Monastery and visit the picturesque monastery. Then follows Megalochori village, an extremely charming traditional settlement, almost abandoned after the big earthquake.

Stop 2

We visit Akrotiri excavations, one of the most significant archaelogical sites, that includes a vast structure, once habited by 200 families and preserved burried under the volcano’s lava.

Stop 3

Then you will have free time at the Red Beach for swimming or simply enjoy the colotful formations of the mountain and/or visit Akrotiri Bay for coffee or lunch with Greek traditional mezedes and ouzo (not included) .

Stop 4

Perivolos, with its black sandy beach comes next. There you will have enough time to enjoy swimming, explore the area and taste fresh cooked fishes at the local taverns.

Visit the picturesque monastery of Prohet Elias in Pyrgos Village.

What's not included

Excavation site entrance 20.00€

Children under 4 years old will not reserve a seat on the bus. They will sit on parents' lap.

Excavation Fee, Akrotiri Archaeological Site

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.5

65 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.5

86 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

COVID-19 Special information:

Travelers must book this activity online and present mobile vouchers

Antiseptics will be available on the bus

Travelers must wear protective masks. Please bring your own masks. Driver and guides will wear masks too

All customer touch-points are frequently cleaned

To reduce crowds, the number of passengers is limited. There will be sufficient space between each passenger during transportation

Social distancing is maintained in vehicles and during the tour (at least 1,5 meters outdoors and 2 meters indoors)

Meeting point

PICK UP TIME: 10:30 AM

Bus Departure: Kamari 10:30, Monolithos 10:30, Messaria 10:35, Karterados 10.40, Fira 10:45, Perissa 10.30, Pyrgos 10:50, Imerovigli 10:15, Oia 10:00, Megalochori 10:45, Vlichada 10:40, Perivolos 10:35, Akrotiri 10:45

Important notes

*This is not a private pick up, collection is provided from specific meeting areas.
*The guests should wait for the bus outside their hotel on the main road (not all hotels are accessible by bus)
*The guests should print the voucher twice.

About Santorini

Santorini is a breathtaking island in the Cyclades known for its stunning sunsets, whitewashed buildings, and dramatic cliffs. This volcanic island offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and luxurious experiences, making it one of the most sought-after destinations in Greece.

Top Attractions

Oia

A picturesque village known for its whitewashed buildings, blue domes, and stunning sunsets. Oia is a must-visit for its charm and breathtaking views.

Historical/Scenic 2-3 hours Free to explore

Fira

The capital of Santorini, Fira offers a mix of history, shopping, and stunning views of the caldera. It's a vibrant town with a rich cultural heritage.

Historical/Shopping Half-day Free to explore

Akrotiri

A well-preserved ancient settlement that offers a glimpse into the Minoan civilization. The site is often referred to as the 'Minoan Pompeii'.

Historical/Archaeological 1-2 hours €12

Red Beach

A unique beach known for its striking red cliffs and volcanic sand. The beach is a popular spot for swimming and snorkeling.

Beach/Nature Half-day Free

Santorini Caldera Boat Tour

A boat tour around the caldera offers stunning views of the volcanic landscape and the opportunity to swim in hot springs.

Adventure/Tour 4-5 hours €40-€80

Must-Try Local Dishes

Fava

A creamy dip made from yellow split peas, often served with olive oil and onions.

Appetizer Vegetarian, Vegan

Tomato Keftedes

Fried tomato fritters made with Santorini's famous cherry tomatoes.

Appetizer Vegetarian

Grilled Octopus

Tender octopus grilled to perfection, often served with a drizzle of olive oil and lemon.

Main Course Contains seafood

White Eggplant

A local delicacy made from the island's unique white eggplants, often grilled or fried.

Main Course Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking Scuba diving Boat tours ATV rentals Sunbathing Spa treatments Wine tasting Yoga

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the busiest time with the best weather for beach activities and sightseeing. The island is vibrant with festivals and events.

25°C to 35°C 77°F to 95°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Greek
Widely spoken: English, German, French, Italian
English: Widely spoken in tourist areas

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+2 (EET - Eastern European Time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Santorini is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, petty theft and scams can occur in crowded areas.

Important Precautions:

• Use reputable tour operators
• Keep valuables secure
• Be cautious of strangers offering services or assistance

Getting there

By air

Santorini National Airport • 6 km from Fira

By bus

Fira Bus Station, Athinios Port

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are affordable and reliable, but schedules can be infrequent in off-peak seasons.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Taxibeat

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Fira Oia Pyrgos Kamari Imerovigli

Day trips

Nea Kameni

12 km from Fira • Half-day

A volcanic island in the heart of the caldera, offering a unique hiking experience and the chance to see active volcanic craters.

Thirassia

15 km from Fira • Full-day

A small, traditional island offering a glimpse into authentic Greek island life. Known for its charming villages and scenic views.

Anafi

20 km from Fira • Full-day

A small, tranquil island known for its beautiful beaches and relaxed atmosphere. Ideal for a peaceful day trip.

Festivals

Santorini International Music Festival • July Santorini Wine Festival • August Easter Celebrations • March or April (dates vary)

Pro tips

Visit Oia for the best sunset views, but arrive early to secure a good spot
Explore the island's lesser-known villages for an authentic experience
Try local wines, especially Assyrtiko, at one of the island's many wineries
Rent a car or ATV to explore the island at your own pace
Visit the Akrotiri Archaeological Site to learn about the island's ancient history