Santorini is renowned for more than just its stunning sunsets and dramatic caldera views. Its ancient ruins, archaeological sites, and traditional villages make the island a perfect destination for those eager to explore history firsthand. Whether you’re wandering through the ruins of Ancient Thera, imagining the myth of Atlantis at the Lost Atlantis Experience, or walking the narrow streets of Pyrgos, Santorini offers a rich tapestry of stories and sights. Some tours, like the History of Santorini Private Tour & Wine Routes Guided Tour, combine archaeology and local wine tastings, giving you a taste of the island’s past and present.
For travelers who love a mix of culture, history, and a touch of local flavor, these tours are perfect. Many of the experiences are highly rated, with 5-star reviews from visitors who appreciate the personal attention and expert guides. Whether you’re short on time but want to see the highlights or seeking an immersive multi-day experience, Santorini’s historical tours deliver an authentic window into this ancient landscape.
Quick Overview
The list below highlights the best historical tours in Santorini, ranging from guided walking tours in Fira to private archaeological explorations, wine and history experiences, and villages tours. Each offers a unique perspective, whether it’s visiting Akrotiri’s archaeological site, exploring medieval villages, or learning about myths like Atlantis. For a full experience, consider the Historical & Cultural Walking Tour in Fira Town, which is perfect if you’re arriving by cruise and want a quick introduction to the island’s sights. Or, if you’re a history enthusiast wanting a comprehensive deep dive, the 4-hour Small Group Wine Tasting and History Tour combines archaeological visits with wine tasting. Read on to find the perfect fit for your trip.
1. Historical & Cultural Walking Tour in Fira Town
Arriving in Santorini by cruise? This 2-hour walking tour is an ideal way to soak in the sights with limited time. The tour explores Fira’s whitewashed alleys, blue-domed churches, and stunning caldera views. You’ll visit key landmarks like the Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral and Three Bells of Fira, all within walking distance.
What makes this tour stand out is its accessible pace and focus on cultural highlights. The guide shares stories about the island’s spiritual and architectural history, making it perfect for first-time visitors. The famous view from Fira’s clifftop is a showstopper, and you’ll get plenty of photo opportunities.
The reviews praise the friendly guide Vaggelis, who made the visit both educational and fun, despite some initial difficulty finding the meeting point. For around $67 per person, it offers good value, especially for those short on time but eager to see a lot.
Bottom Line: A quick, engaging intro to Santorini’s most iconic sights—perfect if your time is limited but you want a meaningful glimpse of the island.
2. History of Santorini Private Tour & Wine Routes Guided Tour
For those wanting a personalized experience that combines archaeology and wine tasting, this 4.5-hour private tour is a winner. It’s capped at just eight participants, ensuring plenty of interaction with your guide, George & Tonia.
You’ll explore Akrotiri’s ancient ruins, often called Greece’s answer to Pompeii, with a licensed guide who brings the Bronze Age site to life. Afterwards, the Lost Atlantis Experience museum delves into the myth and its connection to the volcano, offering a fascinating story that ties into the island’s volcanic past. The tour concludes with visits to one of Santorini’s traditional wineries, where you’ll sample up to four varieties of local wine.
Guests describe the experience as “amazing” and praise the small group size for making the guide highly approachable. The price reflects the inclusions of hotel transfers and intimate group setting.
Bottom Line: Perfect for history buffs who also love wine, this tour offers a comprehensive look at both archaeology and viticulture in Santorini.
3. The Beer And The History semi private Experience
If craft beer intrigues you as much as history, this 1 hour 15-minute tour of Santorini’s only sustainable brewery is a fun choice. It’s a semi-private experience, ensuring a cozy atmosphere. Inside the brewery, an expert guide walks you through the machinery and brewing process, while the taproom offers great photo opportunities.
The highlight is the beer tasting session, featuring 6 Ftelos craft beers, including some experimental options. The guide explains ingredients and brewing techniques, making it educational even if you’re not a beer aficionado. Guests rave about the local white wine blend and the sustainable practices of the brewery.
At just over $40 per person, this tour offers excellent value, especially for those interested in modern industry history and local brewing culture. It’s a lively, informal way to learn about Santorini’s sustainable beverage industry.
Bottom Line: A good fit for beer lovers who want a quick, engaging peek into local craft brewing and the island’s innovative side.
4. Santorini: 4hrs Small Group Wine Tasting and History Tour
This 4-hour small group tour combines archaeological exploration with wine tasting, making it ideal for those who want to see significant sites and enjoy local flavors. Starting with a visit to ancient vineyards, the tour explores the island’s kouloura cultivation method, a unique traditional vine training style.
You then visit three renowned wineries: Gavalas, Estate Argyros, and Anhydrous. The guide explains each winery’s history, production techniques, and the significance of local varieties like Assyrtiko and Vinsanto. Guests often comment on the personalized attention and the chance to taste up to 12 different wines.
Rated highly, visitors find it “worth every penny,” especially since hotel pickup and drop-off are included. This tour suits those interested in Santorini’s vinicultural history and local wine culture.
Bottom Line: Excellent value for wine lovers eager to combine history, culture, and tasting in a relaxed setting.
5. Santorini History & Archeology Tour
For a deeper dive into the island’s ancient past, this 5-hour tour takes you to Ancient Thera, Akrotiri, and the Prehistoric Museum. The tour begins atop Mesa Vouno, where Ancient Thera’s remains showcase 9th-century BC city planning and architecture.
Next, you explore Akrotiri, a Minoan city buried under volcanic ash, with a licensed guide providing vivid descriptions of its technical achievements and cultural significance. The museum then offers a comprehensive look at finds from Akrotiri, adding context to your visit.
Rated highly, travelers appreciate the well-organized itinerary and expert guides. The only potential downside is the duration, which may be long for those with mobility issues, but for archaeology lovers, it’s a treasure trove.
Bottom Line: A detailed, well-structured tour for those eager to connect with Santorini’s earliest civilizations.
6. History and Traditional villages around Santorini
This private tour focuses on villages like Pyrgos and Megalochori, as well as Lost Atlantis and Akrotiri. The vehicle is brand-new, and a tour guide can be requested for a personalized touch. It’s suited for travelers who prefer a flexible schedule.
Highlights include Pyrgos’ panoramic views, the mythical Lost Atlantis museum, and the prehistoric settlement at Akrotiri. Traveling in a small group or private setting allows for customized stops and in-depth exploration of traditional lifestyles.
The reviews indicate strong satisfaction, especially for those who want to see multiple sites without rushing. The price is for the whole group, making it a cost-effective way to cover significant ground.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a customizable, relaxed day exploring Santorini’s villages and archaeological sites.
7. Santorini: History & Wine Trails Tour
For a comprehensive day, this 6-hour tour combines mythology, archaeology, and wine. You’ll explore Akrotiri, investigating the legend of Atlantis, then visit three wineries: Hatzidakis, Santo Wines, and Anhydrous.
This tour is perfect for those wanting a structured, all-in-one experience. The visits include wine tastings of 12 varieties and insights into Santorini’s unique winemaking techniques, including the basket vines.
Guests mention the knowledgeable guide and the opportunity to sample both local and Greek wines. The fact that transportation is included adds convenience, and the longer duration suits travelers with a full day to spare.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those interested in history, myths, and wine, especially if you want a well-rounded, guided experience.
8. Historical and Wine Tour
This private 4-hour tour offers a focused experience on Akrotiri and local wineries. The highlight is the detailed visit to Akrotiri, where a local archaeological guide reveals 4,000-year-old secrets of the Minoan settlement.
Afterward, you can choose to visit two wineries of your choice, sampling up to 12 wines, including Assyrtiko and Nykteri. The flexibility of choosing wineries makes it appealing for those wanting specific types or styles. Reviews note the knowledgeable guide and informative tastings that enhance understanding of Santorini’s winemaking heritage.
Pricing is reasonable for a customizable experience, and the combination of archaeology and wine makes this tour a great value.
Bottom Line: For those who want a personalized, in-depth look at Santorini’s ancient and vinicultural history.
$255.98 per person
9. Private Santorini History and Wine Tasting 5-Hour Tour
This private driver-guided tour offers a luxurious and flexible way to explore Akrotiri’s ruins and three top wineries. The focus is on learning about and tasting Santorini’s wines, with 10-12 varieties available, including the legendary Vinsanto.
Highlights include exploring the ancient city, seeing the traditional vine baskets, and sampling local wines. The private transportation ensures comfort and allows you to customize the stops, making it perfect for discerning travelers.
Guests praise the expert guidance and the personalized itinerary, emphasizing the specialized focus on winemaking alongside archaeology.
Bottom Line: Best suited for luxury travelers who want a bespoke experience blending history and wine.
10. Historical Santorini Half Day Tour
If your time is limited, this 4-hour half-day tour covers Megalochori, the Red Beach, and Akrotiri, providing a solid overview of Santorini’s cultural and geological highlights. It’s a straightforward, well-paced option that includes local guide insights.
The Red Beach offers stunning views, while Megalochori showcases traditional architecture. The inclusion of Akrotiri adds a layer of archaeological intrigue. Travelers appreciate its value for money and efficient itinerary, making it a good choice for those with only a few hours.
Bottom Line: An efficient, well-rounded tour ideal for travelers seeking a quick yet meaningful historical experience.
$169 per person
11. Santorini: 4-Day/3 Nights Alternative Historical Experience
For those with more time, this multi-day experience offers a deep dive into Santorini’s history, archaeology, and local culture. It includes visits to prehistoric Akrotiri, ancient Thira, medieval villages, and sailing trips to volcanic hotspots.
Designed for serious history lovers, it combines guided tours, museum visits, and cultural activities, all staying at a luxury villa. While the price is higher, the comprehensive itinerary provides unmatched depth and variety.
Guests mention the well-organized schedule and luxurious accommodations, making it ideal for travelers who want a fully immersive, educational experience.
Bottom Line: Best for dedicated history enthusiasts seeking an in-depth, multi-day exploration.
$12,647 per group up to 8
How to Choose Your Perfect Historical Tour
Selecting the right tour depends on your interests, schedule, and budget. If you’re arriving on a cruise and short on time, the Historical & Cultural Walking Tour in Fira Town offers a quick but memorable introduction. For a personalized, in-depth experience, the History of Santorini Private Tour & Wine Routes Guided Tour provides a rich blend of archaeology and local wines.
If your main interest is archaeology combined with a relaxed wine tasting, the 4-hr Small Group Wine Tasting and History Tour is excellent. Budget travelers might prefer the Beer and the History brewery tour, while those seeking a luxury experience should consider the Private Santorini History and Wine Tasting.
Remember to think about your physical activity level—some tours involve walking and site exploration, while others are more relaxed. Booking early is advisable, especially in high season, to secure your preferred date and group size.
Final Thoughts
Santorini offers a wide range of historical tours tailored to different interests and schedules. For a quick highlights visit, the Walking Tour in Fira is hard to beat. For a more immersive experience, the 4.5-hour Wine & History Tour combines archaeology with local flavors. If you’re traveling with a group and want a custom, private experience, options like the Private History & Wine Tour deliver personal attention and flexibility.
No matter which you pick, Santorini’s ancient past and architectural beauty won’t disappoint. Book early, plan your interests, and prepare for a journey through one of Greece’s most fascinating islands.