Santorini’s historical tours efficiently blend ancient ruins, Minoan sites, and wine culture into compact learning experiences. The island’s volcanic past, combined with Venetian and Ottoman influences, creates a fascinating historical tapestry that’s best explored with expert local guides.
We particularly love the Santorini Wine Tasting and History Small Group Tour for its intimate atmosphere and well-paced mix of archeological sites and wine sampling. The History & Wine Trails Tour earns high marks for its comprehensive coverage of the island’s key historical spots, while including stops at family-run wineries. For travelers seeking personal attention, the Private Santorini History & Wine Tasting Tour offers flexibility and customization.
Check out these top historical tours that showcase the best of Santorini’s past and present.
Key Points
- Explore ancient Minoan ruins at Akrotiri and the Hellenistic-Roman site of Ancient Thera on guided tours that provide expert insights into Santorini’s rich history.
- Experience Venetian and Ottoman influences through tours of Oia Castle, local churches, and wineries that showcase Santorini’s cultural heritage.
- Combine wine tastings with historical site visits to deepen understanding of how Santorini’s winemaking traditions are intertwined with its past.
- Take advantage of tour logistics such as complimentary transportation and small group sizes to ensure a seamless and immersive historical experience.
- Read reviews and ratings highlighting the expertise of local guides and the overall value and quality of top-rated historical tours in Santorini.
Santorini Wine Tasting and History Small Group Tour
One of the premier historical and wine-focused tours in Santorini, the Santorini Wine Tasting and History Small Group Tour takes visitors on an immersive 5-hour journey through the island’s rich viticulture heritage.
Led by a local wine expert, the small group of up to 8 travelers visits three top wineries, learning about Greek wine culture, viticulture history, and winemaking techniques.
The tour includes wine tastings, food pairings, and personalized insights, with hotel pickup, transportation, and all taxes covered.
Offering a 91% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this tour provides an in-depth and memorable exploration of Santorini’s acclaimed wines and storied past.
Read our full review: Santorini Wine Tasting and History Small Group Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Santorini: History & Wine Trails Tour
Blending Santorini’s ancient history with its renowned winemaking heritage, the Santorini: History & Wine Trails Tour offers an immersive 6-hour exploration of this captivating Greek island.
Priced from $1,088.56 per group (up to 2 participants), the tour includes guided visits to the prehistoric site of Akrotiri and three traditional wineries. Guests can taste 12 different wines, including the island’s signature Assyrtiko, Nykteri, and Vinsanto varieties.
The tour also provides insights into Santorini’s unique basket vine cultivation and ancient winemaking traditions. With complimentary pickup from various locations, this well-reviewed experience promises an enjoyable combination of history, wine, and local culture.
Read our full review: Santorini: History & Wine Trails Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Historical Santorini Day Tour
Although Santorini boasts an array of historical attractions, the Private Historical Santorini Day Tour provides a comprehensive exploration of the island’s captivating past.
Priced from €155 per person, this private tour offers a flexible schedule, allowing visitors to enjoy Santorini’s rich heritage at their own pace.
With knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and complimentary museum tickets, the tour promises an enriching experience for all travelers.
Positive reviews highlight the exceptional communication and informative experiences, making this tour an excellent choice for those seeking a deep dive into Santorini’s history.
The tour’s availability from April to November and free cancellation policy further add to its appeal.
Read our full review: Private Historical Santorini Day Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Historical Santorini Half Day Tour
The Historical Santorini Half Day Tour offers travelers a compelling glimpse into the island’s captivating past. Lasting 4.5 to 5 hours, this excursion highlights Santorini’s must-see historical sites, including the Akrotiri archaeological site, the Byzantine era Profitis Ilias Monastery, and the Megalochori traditional village.
Pickup is available, and the tour has a 4.7-star rating from 196 reviews. Priced from $126.06 per person, the tour provides an affordable way to explore Santorini’s rich history.
With an expert local guide leading the way, visitors can explore the island’s ancient Minoan civilization, medieval architecture, and picturesque villages, creating an immersive and educational experience.
Read our full review: Historical Santorini Half Day Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
History of Santorini Private Tour & Wine Routes Guided Tour
Delving deep into Santorini’s captivating past, the History of Santorini Private Tour & Wine Routes Guided Tour offers travelers an immersive experience that seamlessly blends the island’s rich history with its renowned wine heritage.
Covering a duration of approximately 4-5 hours, this private tour accommodates a group size of 2 to 8 participants and is priced from $344.67 per person.
Highlights include a wine tasting experience, knowledgeable local guides, hotel pickup and drop-off, and all taxes and fees covered.
With a 5.0 overall rating from 10 reviews and 100% recommendation, this tour provides an unforgettable opportunity to explore Santorini’s fascinating history while savoring its renowned wines.
Read our full review: History of Santorini Private Tour & Wine Routes Guided Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
History and Traditional Villages Around Santorini
Santorini’s captivating history and traditional villages come alive on this immersive tour, offering travelers a unique glimpse into the island’s cultural heritage.
Exploring at your own pace, you’ll discover the island’s charming settlements, uncovering their timeless architectural styles and encountering local artisans.
The tour’s flexible schedule allows you to tailor the experience, whether you’re interested in visiting iconic landmarks, exploring quaint neighborhoods, or sampling regional delicacies.
With door-to-door transportation, comfortable amenities, and exceptional service, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through Santorini’s past and present, leaving you with a deeper appreciation for the island’s enduring traditions.
Read our full review: History and Traditional Villages Around Santorini Review
Book now: Check availability
Santorini History & Archeology Tour
One of the most captivating ways to uncover Santorini’s rich history and archeological wonders is through the Santorini History & Archeology Tour.
This 1.5-hour tour explores the Akrotiri excavation site, offering an immersive experience led by a licensed guide. Priced from €250 per person, the tour includes air-conditioned transportation, refreshments, and entrance fees.
While not wheelchair accessible, the moderate physical fitness required makes it suitable for most travelers.
With rave reviews praising the knowledgeable guides and fascinating insights, this tour provides an exceptional educational experience for those eager to explore Santorini’s captivating past.
Read our full review: Santorini History & Archeology Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
The Beer and the History Semi Private Experience
For those seeking a more immersive exploration of Santorini’s history, the Beer and the History Semi-Private Experience offers a captivating blend of the island’s rich past and its thriving craft beer scene.
Hosted at the Ftelos Brewery in Karterádos, this 5-star rated tour takes guests on a guided journey through the brewery’s sustainable practices and artistic influences.
Visitors can savor a tasting of the brewery’s offerings while indulging in a platter of local tapas.
With a maximum of 10 participants, this intimate experience ensures personalized attention from the knowledgeable hosts, Mike and Georgia.
Whether you’re a history buff or a beer enthusiast, this tour provides a unique window into Santorini’s heritage and contemporary culture.
Read our full review: The Beer and the History Semi Private Experience Review
Book now: Check availability
Notos Day Tour Through History & Wine Tasting
The Notos Day Tour Through History & Wine Tasting takes visitors on a captivating exploration of Santorini’s ancient past and renowned wine culture.
Guests will experience the island’s breathtaking beauty with a local guide, visiting archaeological sites like the ancient village of Akrotiri, destroyed by a volcano. They’ll witness 4000-year-old art at Akrotiri and journey to the Koutsoyannopoulos Wine Museum for a wine tasting session.
The tour also includes free time for swimming, lunch, and exploring the island, as well as learning about Santorini’s historic volcanoes and earthquakes.
With various pickup points, a maximum of 43 travelers, and 5-star reviews, this tour provides a comprehensive and immersive experience in Santorini.
Read our full review: Notos Day Tour Through History & Wine Tasting Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Santorini History & Wine Tasting Tour
Delving into Santorini’s captivating past and renowned wine culture, this private tour offers visitors a comprehensive and immersive experience. Priced from $269.28 per person, the tour includes a local English-speaking guide, private transportation, and bottled water.
Pickup and drop-off at your preferred location, whether hotel, port, or airport, ensures seamless logistics. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers, with infant seats available.
Previous guests have praised the quality of the driver and vehicle, though some cruise passengers encountered lengthy wait times for the cable car. For those arriving by ship, alternative transportation to the island might be worth considering.
Read our full review: Private Santorini History & Wine Tasting Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Dress Code for the Historical Tours?
For historical tours in Santorini, the dress code is generally casual and comfortable. Visitors are advised to wear lightweight clothing, comfortable walking shoes, and a hat or sunscreen to protect against the island’s sunny climate.
Can I Bring My Pet on the Historical Tours?
Most historical tour operators in Santorini don’t allow pets on their tours for safety and comfort reasons. Visitors should check with the tour company before booking if they plan to bring a pet along.
Do the Tours Accommodate Vegetarian or Vegan Dietary Needs?
Many historical tours in Santorini can accommodate vegetarian and vegan dietary needs. Travelers should inquire about catering options when booking their tours to ensure their dietary requirements are met.
Is There an Age Limit for the Historical Tours?
Most historical tours in Santorini don’t have age limits, catering to visitors of all ages. However, some may have restrictions for young children, so it’s best to check with the tour operator before booking.
Can I Customize the Itinerary of the Historical Tours?
Absolutely, many historical tour operators in Santorini allow customers to customize the itinerary to suit their interests and preferences. This flexibility ensures visitors get the most out of their historical exploration of the island.
The Sum Up
Santorini’s historical tours offer a unique opportunity to explore the island’s rich past and savor its famous wine. From guided walks through ancient ruins to private tasting experiences, these tours provide an immersive cultural experience. Whether you’re interested in archaeology, architecture, or oenology, Santorini has a tour to suit your interests and uncover the fascinating history of this iconic Greek destination.