Perched towards Santorini’s south-western tip, the Minoan settlement of Akrotiri has long captured the imaginations of archaeologists and heritage aficionados. Further from the bustle of Fira and Oia, this is a more laid-back part of the island, with some lovely accommodation options in and around the modern-day village of Akrotiri. Welcoming and understated, our Gurus’ selection of the best place to stay in Akrotiri is a favourite amongst groups of friends and families — and boasts dazzling ocean views.

The ancient settlement of Akrotiri is the most popular archaeological site on Santorini, and amongst the most important in the Aegean. Guided tours lead visitors through crumbling stone structures which evidence the community’s development from a fishing and farming village to a cultural and commercial trading hub. Buried under ash during a 17th-century volcanic eruption, the site was excavated in the late 1960s, and continues to be studied extensively.

The present-day village of Akrotiri is lovely for a stroll, with some striking churches, an 1892-built lighthouse and some lively family-owned eateries. Stroll down to pebbled coves for refreshing swims, or soak up the sunshine on the famed Red Beach, framed by cliffs stained by rich iron ore. Sailing, snorkelling and diving opportunities abound — as do the chances of fabulous sunsets from the best place to stay in Akrotiri.