Photo-stop at the famous Blue Dome in Firostefani. Ask Kostas to take a picture of you!
Step into the timeless world of Ancient Thira, where windswept ruins meet open skies and every stone tells a silent story. This 90-minute Ancient Thira guided tour invites you to explore one of Santorini’s most underappreciated archaeological sites—led by Kostas Sakavaras, a licensed guide, gifted storyteller, and passionate local with over 30 years of guiding experience.
As you ascend through this mountaintop settlement—first founded by Spartan colonists and shaped by Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine influences—Kostas brings history to life with vivid storytelling. Layer by layer, myth and memory intertwine, transforming the ruins into a living, breathing stage of human experience.
On this thoughtfully paced Ancient Thira guided tour, you’ll explore relics of daily life, governance, and spirituality—all set against one of the most dramatic landscapes in the Aegean.
Stroll through the ancient agora, the city’s bustling public square
Stand before the Roman-era baths and the stone-hewn hillside theatre
Soak in panoramic views once enjoyed by those who gathered here centuries ago
See how public and private spaces gradually adopted Christian features
Visit the remains of a modest Byzantine basilica
Observe homes that adapted through generations of quiet change
Walk past homes equipped with rainwater cisterns and narrow footpaths
Imagine a life shaped by simplicity, resourcefulness, and nature’s rhythms
Terrain: Uneven and moderately steep; not suitable for wheelchair users or those with limited mobility
What to bring: Sturdy shoes, sun protection, and water (refill station available on-site)
Not included: Admission fee (€10 per person) and transportation (guests may hike, drive, or book private transfers)
Facilities: Restrooms currently out of service
Price: €190 (1-4 people) Ask for the price if your party is larger than 4 people or you would like to have pick up/ drop off organised.
In front of the Ancient Thira ticket booth
TBC based on the site opening times and availability
1.5 hours
Comfortable footwear, sun protection, your camera or smartphone
Private tour guide services
Ancient Thira Site Entrance Tickets
Transportation to/from the site
Photo-stop at the famous Blue Dome in Firostefani. Ask Kostas to take a picture of you!
Photo-stop at the unique Red Beach
Our tours starts 9-9.30AM in the morning. If you are a cruise passenger, your tour should start approximately 90 minutes after the scheduled arrival of your cruise ship. Afternoon tours are coordinated with the sunset.
No, all of the tours are easy and require minimum walking. You will be brought around the island in an air-conditioned van that can comfortably fit up to 8 guests.
If you are coming on a cruise ship, I will meet you at the top of the cable car station. If you are staying in Santorini, then the tour can start and end at your preferred location
You will recognize me immediately, as I will be waiting at the designated location and holding a sign with your name on it.
Private tours are organized just for your group, which can include up to 8 guests in total. If your group is larger than that, I can always organize the transportation with a van/bus.
If you decide to extend the tour beyond the agreed duration, please contact me regarding the extra surcharge.
I offer my tours in an air-conditioned vehicle. If you need a car seat for your child, I can provide one upon request.
I offer my tours in English, German, and Greek. If you speak another language, I can make arrangements to have an interpreter upon request