Half Day Tour of Santorini's South Side

First you visit the Ancient site of Akrotiri, also known as the Minoan Pompeii, which was destroyed and covered by the ashes of an enormous volcanic eruption in 1450 BC. The ancient Minoan city buried by the volcanic eruption 3600 years ago was discovered in 1967 nearby the modern village Akrotiri, remarkably well-preserved. Pottery, furniture, advanced drainage systems and three-story buildings have been discovered at the site. Many believe the disaster and the site itself as the inspiration behind Plato’s story of Atlantis.
Leaving the Akrotiri excavations, you will continue to the most famous and beautiful beaches of Santorini. First you’ll visit the red beach located only some steps away from the ancient site of Akrotiri. The red beach is well known for the unique color of the sand and the hill behind it. Soaring red lava cliffs which drop right to the sandy shore and into the clear blue sea make for a majestic setting and one to enjoy.
Next you are off to feel the sand beneath your feet as you visit the famous black beach, with its crystal blue waters, on the southeastern coast of the island. Then you will continue to visit the village of Emporio, the largest village on the island of Sanorini. You can look at the historic windmills and have an excellent view of the rest of the island. On the hill above the village, you’ll discover both the ruins of Kasteli, a fortress from the Byzantine period, and the ruins of Goulas.
The next stop is the village of Megalochori. Which is one of the most traditional villages on the island. Your guide will take you through the narrow streets where you will have the opportunity to admire the traditional architecture of the village.
Then you will make your way to the peak of Prophet Ilias, Santorini’s highest mountain that stands some 2,000 feet above the sea. Be amazed by the island vistas around you and follow your guide inside the ornate Greek Christian monastery perched at the mountain’s summit.
From here you’ll proceed to the village of Pyrgos, the old capital of the island, where you’ll take a guided walk along the narrow paths to the ruins of the Venetian castle. Your next stop is at the winery where you will learn the secrets of winemaking and enjoy all the tastes of the famous local wines. After the wine tasting, you will board the vehicle which will take you back to the starting point.