Aptera Archaeological Site Guided Tour in Chania with Apostolis Panigirakis Professional Historian & Licensed Tourist Guide

An Insider’s Journey: Aptera with Apostolis Panigirakis

Meet Your Guide

Apostolis Panigirakis is a genuine Cretan local—born and raised—holding a degree in Contemporary History (BA & MSc in Tourism). With extensive experience guiding private tours around Chania and Crete, his passion for history and deep-rooted knowledge of archaeology make him a standout guide for exploring ancient Aptera.

The Setting

Perched on a plateau roughly 150–200 m above Souda Bay, about 13–15 km east of Chania, Aptera offers sweeping views of the White Mountains and the sea beyond. From Minoan roots through Hellenistic, Roman and Byzantine eras, the city thrived until its decline following a 7th-century earthquake

Highlights of the Tour to Aptera Archaeological Site

Fortification Walls
Walk along nearly 4 km of Hellenistic-era fortifications—a testament to Aptera’s power as a major commercial hub.

Roman Aqueducts & Cisterns
Explore expansive arched cisterns that once served public and private baths, hidden behind the chapel of Agios Ioannis the Theologian.

Parliamentary Chamber & Temple
Discover a triple-arched arcade linked to the city's ancient administrative building and an intriguing two-room sanctuary dating back to the 5th–4th century BC.

Limestone Theater
A restored ancient theater that once hosted civic gatherings offers a scenic setting at the southeastern entrance of the site.

Roman-style Villa & Necropolis
Stroll through the peristyle courtyard of an elite Roman home and visit the surrounding necropolis with tombs from multiple eras.

Byzantine Monastery & Ottoman Fortresses
Enter the partially restored Monastery of St John the Theologian, built with stones from the ancient city, and view the nearby Ottoman fortresses—Koules (Palaiokastro) and Itzedin built in the 19th century.

With Apostolis Panigirakis as your guide, the Aptera archaeological site transforms from a collection of ruins into a layered tale of myth, empire, religion, and resilience. His combined expertise as a historian, local, and licensed guide ensures your visit is not just educational—it’s deeply immersive, tailored, and memorable.

If you'd like, I can help you craft a sample booking note, suggest travel gear, or recommend a taverna afterward. Just say the word!