Entry Tickets & Audio Tour of Akrotiri

Well-Preserved Ruins

Akrotiri is a residential space frozen in time around 1600 BC, providing a snapshot of life in the Minoan Settlement just before its citizens had to flee the increasing fury of the Santorini eruption. The self-guided audio tour is designed to start at the entrance of the archaeological site, which is located south of the modern village that bears the same name. The text, audio narration, and maps are all available offline to avoid roaming charges. For the best experience, download the app and your audio tour on your smartphone prior to your visit.

Marvel at History

The layout of this town gives incomparable insight into the lives of the Minoan population. Double Horns Square is a unique excavation displaying an element of Cretan architecture that inspired wealthy Minoan merchants and sailors. Discover the once-bustling Telchines street, affluent residences called Xestes, and creative frescoes and murals at the House of the Ladies.

Put on your headphones and walk through this site at your own pace to learn about the fascinating history of Akrotiri and why it is called the 'Pompeii of the Aegean'.

Entry Tickets & Audio Tour of Akrotiri

Discover the ancient city of Akrotiri on this sightseeing tour that includes entry tickets and an audio guide available in multiple languages, covering over 15 acres of excavated land. Explore monumental sites such as the Square of the Double Horns, the House of the Ladies, Telchines street, and Xeste 3, where you will spend approximately two hours uncovering the prehistoric city buried under volcanic ash from around 1600 BCE. The audio guide provides in-depth research distilled into brief original stories to make your visit both engaging and educational. This tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, archaeology buffs, and anyone interested in ancient Aegean civilizations.

Explore the Square of the Double Horns

Your tour stops at the Square of the Double Horns where you will encounter one of Akrotiri's most significant landmarks. Built around 1600 BCE, this square features a unique layout with two large horn-shaped structures that are believed to have been used for religious ceremonies or as markers in the city’s grid system. Visitors can spend about 20 minutes here exploring its intricate mosaics and frescoes depicting marine life and mythological scenes. The Square of the Double Horns stands out due to its well-preserved architecture, offering a glimpse into the daily lives and beliefs of Akrotiri's inhabitants.

Discover Xeste 3

At Xeste 3, guests can delve into one of the largest and most elaborately decorated buildings in Akrotiri. This structure covers an area of approximately 1,500 square meters and is known for its stunning frescoes, including the famous "Saffron Gatherers" painting which dates back to around 1600 BCE. Xeste 3 was likely used as a communal space or religious center given its grandeur and intricate artwork. Visitors typically spend about half an hour here admiring the vivid colors and detailed scenes that have remained remarkably well-preserved over millennia.

Marvel at Telchines Street

Your tour includes a visit to Telchines street, one of the main thoroughfares in Akrotiri. This street runs for about 50 meters and is lined with impressive buildings and houses that showcase the city's advanced urban planning from around 1700 BCE. Notable features include well-preserved walls, doorways, and windows which provide insights into the architectural techniques used by ancient Minoans. Visitors can spend approximately 20 minutes exploring this street, marveling at its intricate frescoes depicting various aspects of daily life in Akrotiri.

Experience the House of the Ladies

The House of the Ladies is a must-see on your tour of Akrotiri, offering a unique glimpse into domestic life during the Bronze Age. This house covers an area of approximately 700 square meters and features several rooms adorned with vibrant frescoes depicting scenes from everyday life. The name "House of the Ladies" comes from its most famous fresco which portrays three women engaged in conversation or activity, believed to represent high-status individuals within the community. Visitors can spend about half an hour here exploring the house's intricate architecture and learning more about the social hierarchy and daily routines of Akrotiri’s inhabitants.

Tour Highlights

• Gain invaluable insight into geological history at Akrotiri.
• Explore 15 acres of excavated land with detailed audio guide.
• Audio tour available in English, Greek, German, and French.
• Marvel at the Square of the Double Horns' religious markers.
• Admire Xeste 3's Saffron Gatherers fresco from around 1600 BCE.
• Discover Telchines street’s advanced urban planning features.
• Explore House of the Ladies’ vibrant frescoes and social hierarchy.

Perfect for history enthusiasts, archaeology buffs, and anyone interested in ancient Aegean civilizations, this guided tour provides a comprehensive understanding of Akrotiri's significance through its well-preserved landmarks. The two-hour format allows you to explore the Square of the Double Horns, Xeste 3, Telchines street, and the House of the Ladies, giving you an immersive experience of the city’s rich history while enjoying its unique archaeological treasures.