Unearthing the Past at Akrotiri – Santorini’s Buried Bronze Age City

One of the most fascinating stops on our Greece cruise was the Akrotiri Archaeological Site on the Southern coast of Santorini, Greece. As a travel writer who geeks out over history, walking through this Bronze Age settlement buried by volcanic ash felt like stepping inside a real-life time capsule. If you’re wondering Is Akrotiri worth visiting?—I’m here to tell you: absolutely.

This lesser-known gem is often called the “Greek Pompeii,” but here’s the kicker—it’s even older.

Is Akrotiri Older Than Pompeii?

Yes! While Pompeii was destroyed by Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, Akrotiri was buried around 1600 BC—over 1,500 years earlier—when the Thera volcano erupted. What makes Akrotiri so incredible is how well-preserved the ruins are, thanks to the volcanic ash. You’ll see multi-story buildings, frescoes, pottery, and an advanced drainage system, giving a rare glimpse into Minoan life.

Are There Human Remains in Akrotiri?

No one has found human remains at the Akrotiri Archaeological Site, unlike in Pompeii. Archaeologists believe the residents received enough warning to evacuate before the eruption. The site tells a story of survival and foresight, not just tragedy. You won’t see plaster casts or skeletons here. Instead, you’ll see remarkably intact structures that the residents left behind.

How Long Does It Take to Visit Akrotiri?

I would suggest setting aside 1 to 1.5 hours to explore the Akrotiri Archaeological Site. Walk through the indoor site, sheltered under a large roof—perfect for escaping Santorini’s intense sun. Read the informational plaques at your own pace. Plan to hire a guide at the entrance to add context and stories to the ruins.

Can I Get to the Akrotiri Archaeological Site from the Cruise Port Without a Tour?

Yes, you absolutely can visit the Akrotiri Archaeological Site independently from the cruise port. Here’s how:

1. Tender to Fira: Cruise ships dock offshore, and passengers tender into the Old Port. From there, take the cable car or walk up the donkey path to reach the town of Fira.
2. Bus from Fira to Akrotiri: Head to the central bus station and hop on a bus to Akrotiri. The ride takes about 25–30 minutes and is budget-friendly. Buses are frequent, but check the schedule ahead of time.
3. Taxi or Rental Car: If you’re short on time or want more comfort, taxis are available or you can rent a car, ATV, or scooter. The drive from Fira to Akrotiri is easy and scenic.

Check out more tips in our guide to Santorini’s cruise port: Things to Do in Santorini

Insider Tips for Visiting the Akrotiri Archaeological Site

• Wear comfortable shoes: The site is large, with uneven walkways, so ditch the flip-flops.
• Bring water: Even though the site is covered, it can still get warm inside.
• Go early or late: Beat the bus tours by arriving right when it opens or later in the day.
• Pair it with Red Beach: Just a 10-minute walk from the site, Red Beach is a great way to cool off after your visit.

If you love history, archaeology, or just want to see something truly unique while in Santorini, Akrotiri is a must-visit. It’s not just a pile of old ruins—it’s a window into an ancient world that was sophisticated, artistic, and eerily similar to our own.

Have you explored ancient cities while cruising? Let me know your favorite in the comments!