Santorini Shore Excursion: Private Tour of Oia, Fira and the Akrotiri Excavation
Active
5h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Instant_then_manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
On this private shore excursion from the Santorini Old port, you will discover the wonders of the island. After a short ride with the cable car, you will visit the island's capital, Fira, and then the dramatic town of Oia, home to dwellings nestled in volcanic rock. At the Akrotiri excavation site, you will see the remains of one of the most important prehistoric settlements of the Aegean region. Your private tour guide will entertain you during your tour with interesting details and stories about Santorini. At the end of the tour, you will enjoy another short drive with the cable car, down to the old port of Santorini to return to your cruise ship with your ship’s tenders.
Available options
Option 1
Pickup included
What's included
Professional guide
Transport by private air-conditioned vehicle and professional driver
Worry-Free Shore Excursion Guarantee
Port pickup and drop-off
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
One of the best panoramic views of Santorini is that from the Byzantine Castle Ruins, the remains of a 15th-century castle between Oia and Ormos Ammoudia. The location is considered one of the most photographed images with picturesque whitewashed buildings, a windmill, and the sea beneath spectacular cliffs.
2
Stop 2
Akrotiri is a Minoan Bronze Age settlement on the volcanic Greek island of Santorini . The settlement was destroyed in the Theran eruption sometime in the 16th century BC and buried in volcanic ash, which preserved the remains of fine frescoes and many objects and artworks. The settlement has been suggested as a possible inspiration for Plato's story of Atlantis. In any case the Atlantis speculation is only one of many. Akrotiri has been excavated since 1967.
3
Stop 3
Oia village is built on the northern part of the caldera rim, it is here where many artists have been inspired due to its magnificent location, as you will see for yourself, with its most superb views of the caldera, the rest of the island itself and Aegean Sea. A guided tour combined with free time will be offered.
4
Fira is an attractive town perched on the Caldera rim where the land slopes gently in one direction and falls steeply in to the sea in the other. There you will have the choice either to enjoy the town at leisure or perhaps return directly to your ship by the spectacular cable car.
What's not included
Meals
Akrotiri Archaeological Site
Cable Car tickets round-trip
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
EN
IT
FR
ES
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
At time of booking, Cruise Ship passengers must provide the following details under Special Requirements: Ship name, docking time, disembarkation time and re-boarding time
Akrotiri Excavation is closed on Mondays. Alternatively you will enjoy in Oia
Please enter your preferred pickup time in the Special Requirements box at the time of booking, and reconfirm 48 hours prior to the tour’s departure time
Children who do not occupy a seat are free of charge. Children who occupy a seat and are up to 11 years old, benefit from a discount
Important notes
• If your Cruise details have changed from the original details advised please contact Achtypis Tours either:
• Email: info@achtypistours.gr
• Locally on 26 210 26 301
• Internationally on +30 26 210 26 301
• If you have not already specified, you MUST advise supplier your Ship name, docking time, disembarkation time and departure time within 3 days of booking if possible, so that appropriate arrangements can be made:
• Email: info@achtypistours.gr
• Locally on 26 210 26 301
• Internationally on +30 26 210 26 301
if you do not contact the local supplier in due time before your activity to arrange a departure time, your guide and transportation will be waiting at specified meeting point half an hour after the indicated by you (in the booking form) disembarkation time. In this case guide/vehicle in service will be standing-by at meeting point, no longer than 1 hr 15min after your disembarkation time (after this time frame client will be considered as "non show" and staff will leave).
Opening hours are:
09:00 - 14:00 Monday to Friday
This operator requires you to contact them directly prior to this tour/activity.
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
