Santorini’s charm isn’t just about its sun-drenched cliffs and postcard-perfect sunsets. It’s also a place where history breathes through ancient ruins, traditional villages, and centuries-old wine cellars. For travelers eager to step back in time, the island offers a surprising variety of historical tours that cater to different interests and pace preferences. Whether you’re a casual explorer or a dedicated history buff, Santorini’s past awaits—sometimes buried under volcanic ash, sometimes visible in its iconic architecture. I especially like the Historical & Cultural Walking Tour in Fira [], which offers a quick, scenic overview perfect if you’re arriving by cruise ship and short on time. It’s a lively walk through Fira’s alleys and landmarks, giving you a taste of the island’s cultural spirit before exploring at your own pace.
Among the options, you’ll find walking tours, private archaeological expeditions, immersive winery visits, and even a semi-private brewery experience. Each provides a different perspective on Santorini’s layered past, from prehistoric settlements to medieval villages, and even mythic legends like Atlantis. No matter your style, there’s a tour here that makes the island’s story come alive.
Below, we’ll walk through each of these standout options, highlighting what makes them special, who they suit best, and whether they’re worth your time and money.
1. Historical & Cultural Walking Tour in Fira Town
This 2-hour walking tour is ideal if you’re arriving in Santorini by cruise, with limited time but a desire to see the essential sights. Book ahead to avoid missing out on this popular experience. The tour covers Fira’s most iconic landmarks, including the Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral, offering insight into Greek religious architecture, and the Three Bells of Fira, one of the island’s most photographed symbols. You’ll also enjoy the panoramic views from atop the cliffs, which are breathtaking, especially at sunset.
Your guide, Vaggelis, is praised for his friendly and informative style—“We learnt so much and saw things we wouldn’t have on our own,” says one review. The tour includes visits to the Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist and the viewpoint over the caldera, making it a compact but rich introduction. It’s perfect for those who want a quick, scenic overview with local insights. The $67 price makes it highly accessible, and reviews highlight how much ground you’ll cover without feeling rushed.
Bottom Line: A fantastic choice for cruise travelers or first-timers seeking a snapshot of Santorini’s cultural highlight in a short time.
2. History of Santorini Private Tour & Wine Routes Guided Tour
At number 2, the 4.5-hour private tour combines ancient history with wine tasting, making it one of the most engaging ways to explore Santorini’s past and present. It’s a small-group experience capped at just eight people, which keeps the atmosphere intimate and allows the guide to tailor the experience. You’ll visit the ancient city of Akrotiri, often called the “Pompeii of the Aegean,” where volcanic ash preserved Minoan structures and frescoes [].
Following this, you explore the Lost Atlantis Experience, connecting the legend with the island’s volcanic history. The final stop is at a boutique winery where you’ll sample up to four varieties of Santorini wine—an excellent way to connect history and culture. Guests consistently praise the guide’s knowledge about both the archaeology and wine, as well as the personalized service.
For around $369, this tour offers a deep dive into Santorini’s ancient roots, complemented by wine tasting. It’s best suited for travelers with an interest in archaeology and oenology who enjoy small-group settings and private transfers. The highlight is the blend of legend, history, and local flavor.
Bottom Line: An immersive, well-rounded experience for history and wine enthusiasts who want an in-depth look at Santorini’s origins.
3. The Beer And The History semi private Experience
If craft beer appeals more than ancient ruins, number 3 offers a different kind of history—Santorini’s only sustainable brewery. For just over $40, you get an hour and 15-minute guided tour of the Ftelos brewery, led by an expert who explains how the beers are made, with plenty of opportunities to take photos of the machinery and production areas.
This tour is unique because it combines sustainability with craft brewing. You’ll taste six different Ftelos craft beers, from traditional lagers to experimental brews, and learn about the ingredients and brewing process. Reviewers love the “great bites paired with beers” and praise the host’s enthusiasm and storytelling.
This experience suits those who want a relaxed, informal introduction to local brewing culture, with a side of sustainable innovation. It’s less about ancient history and more about modern craftsmanship, making it a fun, lighthearted option for beer lovers or travelers seeking something offbeat.
Bottom Line: An enjoyable, inexpensive way to learn about Santorini’s craft beer scene and its modern history, perfect for casual enthusiasts.
4. Santorini: 4hrs Small Group Wine Tasting and History Tour
Number 4 on our list combines wine, history, and small-group intimacy. For $208, you’ll spend around four hours exploring Santorini’s wineries—including Gavalas, Estate Argyros, and Anhydrous—and learning about the island’s long-standing tradition of viticulture.
The tour begins with a visit to ancient vineyards where the guide explains the unique kouloura method of vine-growing. Inside the wineries, you’ll sample up to 12 wines, from crisp Assyrtiko to aromatic Nykteri. The private guide’s insights make wine tasting more than just sipping—it’s about understanding the technology, history, and terroir behind each glass. Guests rave that the tour offers “the best value for money,” especially considering the personalized service.
Ideal for wine lovers who want both education and tasting, this tour offers a well-balanced experience for those with a couple of hours to spare. The only caveat is that it’s primarily focused on wine, so history is secondary.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive glimpse into Santorini’s wine culture woven with some historical context.
5. Santorini History & Archeology Tour
At number 5, this 5-hour tour is tailored for archaeology enthusiasts. It takes you to Ancient Thera, perched on Mesa Vouno, where you’ll explore ruins dating back to the 9th century BC. Then it’s on to Akrotiri, the prehistoric city buried by a volcanic eruption around 1628 BC, with a licensed guide leading the way [].
Finally, you’ll visit the Museum of Prehistoric Thira, home to artifacts from Akrotiri and other sites. Reviewers praise the detailed explanations and the well-planned itinerary that avoids the summer heat. The tour’s depth makes it ideal for those eager to connect legendary stories with physical remains.
Costing around $289, it’s a comprehensive deep dive into Santorini’s archaeological sites. It’s best suited for history buffs willing to walk among ancient ruins and absorb detailed narratives.
Bottom Line: A thorough archaeological experience, perfect for those who want to piece together Santorini’s ancient past.
6. History and Traditional villages around Santorini
This private tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Santorini’s villages and myths. You’ll visit Pyrgos, with its panoramic views, then Lost Atlantis Museum, and the archaeological site of Akrotiri—all in a customized vehicle. It’s ideal for those wanting flexibility and a personal touch, with prices around $376 for up to 12 people.
The highlight is the combination of mythic stories and architectural gems like Megalochori and Emporio. The small-group format allows for tailored stops and detailed explanations, making it suitable for travelers who appreciate a leisurely, customized experience.
Bottom Line: A flexible, private experience designed for those who want to see a mix of myths, ancient sites, and traditional villages at their own pace.
7. Revisit History and Explore Traditional Villages in Santorini
This scenic 4-hour tour is ideal for history and village lovers. Starting in Pyrgos, you’ll walk its maze of streets, then stop at Megalochori to capture perfect photos. The highlight is exploring Emporio’s castle, one of Greece’s only inhabited medieval fortresses.
For $455, the trip balances culture with beautiful scenery. It’s best for travelers who enjoy walking and photography, and want a personalized, small-group experience.
Bottom Line: A leisurely, photo-worthy tour suited for those interested in medieval architecture and picturesque villages.
8. Historical and Wine Tour
Number 8 offers a 4-hour private combination of archaeological sights and wine tasting. The tour includes a walk through Akrotiri with a local guide and visiting two wineries to taste 12 different wines—including Assyrtiko and Nykteri [].
It’s a solid choice for those who want to connect ancient sites with local flavors. Guests have appreciated the guide’s expertise and the balance of history and tasting. The $256 price reflects a good value for the full experience.
Best suited for wine enthusiasts eager to learn about Santorini’s winemaking alongside history.
Bottom Line: A balanced tour ideal for travelers who want both archaeology and wine tasting.
9. Private Santorini History and Wine Tasting 5-Hour Tour
This 5-hour private tour combines visiting the ancient ruins of Akrotiri with tasting at three top wineries. It’s perfect for those who want a personalized, flexible itinerary. The guide helps you explore the Minoan town buried by volcanic ash, with highlights like wall paintings and sophisticated drainage systems.
Then, you’ll visit three wineries, tasting 10-12 wine styles, including Assyrtiko and Nykteri. At $318, this tour offers a comprehensive experience with the convenience of transportation included. Guests love the expert guidance and the chance to see both the ancient and modern sides of Santorini.
Best for travelers seeking an intimate, in-depth experience with a focus on archaeology and wine.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those who want to enjoy both the prehistoric and vinicultural legacies.
10. Historical Santorini Half Day Tour
Ideal for a short, focused excursion, this 4-hour tour offers highlights like Megalochori, the Red Beach, and Akrotiri []. Starting with pickups from key locations, it’s designed for travelers with limited time but a desire to see Santorini’s oldest and most picturesque sites.
Reviewers find it perfect for efficient sightseeing and appreciate the local guide’s knowledge. While it’s a quick trip, it hits many of the main points, making it a practical choice.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers with limited time who want a curated, efficient overview of Santorini’s archaeological and scenic highlights.
11. Santorini: 4-Day/3 Nights Alternative Historical Experience
For those looking to really immerse themselves, this 3.5-day, all-inclusive package combines visits to Akrotiri, Thira, and medieval villages with sailing trips to volcanic hot springs and beaches []. Staying at the Historical Villa Santa Croce adds a touch of authentic luxury.
While more expensive (around $12,647 for a group), it’s ideal for history lovers who want a comprehensive, relaxed, and immersive experience. Reviews note the well-organized itinerary and unique access to key sites.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers seeking a luxurious, extended exploration of Santorini’s history and landscape.
How to Choose Your Perfect Historical Tour
Picking the right tour depends on your time, budget, and interests. If you’re short on time and want an easy introduction, the Fira walking tour or half-day archaeological trip are perfect. For a deeper dive, consider the private archaeological and wine tours or the multi-day experience.
Those interested in local crafts should try the brewery experience for a fun twist, while wine lovers will enjoy the small-group wine and history tours. If you prefer customized experiences, private options like the traditional villages tour provide flexibility.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season, to secure spots on these popular excursions. Consider combining a historical tour with a sunset cruise or wine tasting for a full day of Santorini history and culture.
Final Thoughts
Santorini offers a surprisingly wide range of historical experiences—from quick scenic walks to immersive archaeological and wine adventures. For a comprehensive introduction, the Historical & Cultural Walking Tour in Fira is a great choice. If you want to dig deeper into the island’s past, the private archaeological and wine tours deliver in-depth insights, often with the added bonus of personalized service.
Travelers with a passion for archaeology should consider the Akrotiri and ancient sites tour, while wine enthusiasts will love the small-group wine and history experience. For those seeking a luxurious, multi-day dive into Santorini’s past, the 4-day immersive experience is unmatched.
No matter which tour you choose, make sure to book early, especially during peak season, and prepare for a journey through time that’s as memorable as the island’s sunrises.
