Travel Guides Crafted by Experienced Archaeologists & Historians
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South Aegean
Art, History & Archaeology Sites & Museums

The South Aegean region of Greece is made up of the Cyclades and Dodecanese groups of islands in what is the central and south-eastern Aegean Sea. Each of the islands has their own particular character and range of archaeology sites. So whether you enjoy ‘island hopping or staying put for your holiday – there is certainly an island in the South Aegean for you.

This page, part of our Greece Travel Guide, provides details of the art, archaeology and history sites, museums and related attractions to visit on the islands in the South Aegean. Readers wishing to visit these places will find visitor information, links to official websites as well as other helpful resources. The guide is produced by Thomas Dowson, an archaeologist and the founder of Archaeology Travel, who has been visiting Greece regularly since 1990, and is currently researching a comprehensive guidebook to Athens. Read more about the website, its authors and our work.

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The ancient theatre and the present-day port on the island of Delos.

Delos Island

The small island of Delos has one of the most important archaeology sites in Greece. The only way to visit the site is to get a day return ferry from a nearby island (Mykonos, Paros or Naxos). There is no accommodation on the island. We I set out all the information and tips you need to make your visit to this extraordinary archaeological site a memorable one, whether you are passionate about Greek history or just an incidental visitor. You are strongly recommended to buy a ferry ticket in advance, particularly for the busier months. 

Visit Delos
Ruins of the prehistoric town of Akrotiri.

Akrotiri, Santorini

One of the main attractions on the Greek island of Santorini is the archaeological site of Akrotiri. The extensive ruins of this Bronze Age settlement have been enclosed within a substantial structure. With walkways that enable visitors to walk among the excavated section of the Minoan port town, covered in volcanic ash in the 16th century. The site is away from the main tourist spots of the island. Here you will find all the essential visitor information, including how to get to Akrotiri archaeological site. 

Visit Akrotiri