Athens to Sounio: Exploring the Temple of Poseidon (4hours)

Exploring the ancient ruins of the Temple of Poseidon is a must-do activity for visitors to Athens. This captivating 4-hour tour takes travelers on a scenic drive along the Athenian Riviera, offering opportunities to swim and taste local cuisine before culminating in a breathtaking sunset at Cape Sounio. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a unique cultural experience, this excursion promises to leave you in awe of the enduring legacy of Greek civilization. With stunning vistas and a glimpse into the past, the journey from Athens to Sounio is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Key Points

• This 4-hour tour allows visitors to explore the 5th-century BC Temple of Poseidon, a significant ancient Greek structure, with historical insights from a live guide.
• The tour includes a scenic drive along the picturesque Athenian Riviera, with an optional stop at the tranquil Vouliagmeni Lake for swimming and local food tasting.
• The experience culminates with a breathtaking sunset viewing at Cape Sounio, the southernmost point of Attica, offering panoramic views of the Aegean Sea.
• Guests can choose between pickup locations at Syntagma Square or the National Bank of Greece ATM, with hotel pickup and drop-off included in the tour.
• The tour provides a comprehensive experience of ancient Greek history and landscapes, with ample photo opportunities and an air-conditioned minivan for comfortable transportation.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This Exploring the Temple of Poseidon tour offers a comprehensive 4-hour experience to visit the renowned 5th-century BC temple dedicated to the god of the sea.

Priced at €44 per person, the tour provides a hassle-free option with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the ability to reserve your spot without immediate payment.

Guests will be picked up from Syntagma or the National Bank of Greece ATM, then enjoy a scenic drive along the Athenian Riviera, with an optional stop at Vouliagmeni Lake during the warmer months.

The experience culminates with a sunset viewing at the iconic Cape Sounio, ensuring a memorable day exploring ancient Greek history and breathtaking coastal landscapes.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour’s itinerary highlights include visiting the Temple of Poseidon, built in the 5th century BC and dedicated to the god of the sea.

Guests will also enjoy a scenic drive along the Athenian Riviera, passing through Alimos, Glyfada, and Vouliagmeni.

During the warmer months from May 1 to October 31, guests have the option to stop at Vouliagmeni Lake, where they can enjoy swimming, food tasting, and coffee tasting.

The experience culminates with a breathtaking sunset viewing at the iconic Cape Sounio.

The tour provides historical insights into the Temple of Poseidon and ample photo opportunities at the temple and scenic spots.

Guests will then enjoy a relaxing return drive back to Athens.

Experience Details

A live tour guide is available in Greek, English, and Spanish, providing historical insights into the Temple of Poseidon.

Throughout the tour, visitors will learn about the rich history and significance of the 5th-century BC temple dedicated to the god of the sea. The knowledgeable guide will share fascinating stories and point out architectural details that bring the ancient site to life.

Guests can expect ample photo opportunities at the temple and scenic spots along the tour, whether capturing the stunning sunset or exploring the picturesque Athenian Riviera.

The relaxing return drive to Athens completes the experience, offering a comprehensive and memorable tour for all.

Transportation and Inclusions

Hotel pickup and drop-off are included, with an air-conditioned minivan providing the transportation. An English-speaking driver and tour leader accompany guests, and Wi-Fi is available on board. Entrance fees are €5 from November to March and €10 from April to October, but food and drinks aren’t included in the tour price.

The tour offers several convenient features:

1. Complimentary hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a seamless start and end to the day’s adventure.

2. An air-conditioned minivan for comfortable and climate-controlled transportation.

3. Knowledgeable English-speaking staff to provide historical insights and guide the group throughout the tour.

With these inclusions, guests can focus on fully seeing the experience of exploring the Temple of Poseidon and the stunning Athenian Riviera.

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Pickup and Drop-off

Pickup and drop-off locations include Syntagma Square and the ATM of the National Bank of Greece, providing guests with convenient access points to commence and conclude the tour.

Travelers are advised to wait at the designated pickup point 10 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time, as tour guides will hold a sign labeled ‘Odyssia travel’ to identify the group.

Drivers will wait no more than 5 minutes after the scheduled pickup time before departing. This ensures a smooth and timely start to the excursion.

At the end of the tour, guests will be returned to their original pickup locations, allowing for a hassle-free end to the day’s adventures exploring the Temple of Poseidon and the scenic Athenian Riviera.

Scenic Athenian Riviera

As the tour departs Syntagma or the ATM of the National Bank of Greece, guests embark on a scenic drive along the Athenian Riviera, passing through the picturesque coastal communities of Alimos, Glyfada, and Vouliagmeni. This stretch of road offers breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea and the surrounding mountains.

Along the way, travelers can:

1. Admire the luxurious beachfront properties and high-end shops that line the Athenian Riviera.

2. Spot the iconic white cliffs and turquoise waters that characterize the Greek coastline.

3. Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and the laid-back charm of these affluent Athenian suburbs.

This leisurely drive sets the stage for the main attraction of the tour: the awe-inspiring Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounio.

Optional Vouliagmeni Lake

Guests can opt to visit the picturesque Vouliagmeni Lake, where they can indulge in swimming, food tasting, and coffee tasting during the tour’s warm-weather months from May 1 to October 31.

The lake is a natural wonder, fed by thermal springs and surrounded by lush vegetation. Visitors can take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters or savor local delicacies and aromatic coffee at the lakeside cafes.

This optional stop adds an extra layer of experience to the temple tour, allowing guests to fully enjoy the natural beauty and cultural richness of the Athenian Riviera.

With its serene ambiance and diverse activities, Vouliagmeni Lake is a highlight of the temple excursion.

Sunset at Cape Sounion

Concluding the tour, visitors witness a breathtaking sunset at Cape Sounion, the southernmost point of the Attic peninsula.

As the sun dips below the horizon, casting a warm, golden glow over the ancient Temple of Poseidon, guests are treated to a truly awe-inspiring spectacle of nature and history intertwined.

The panoramic views from the clifftops offer:

1. Stunning vistas of the Aegean Sea, with the nearby islands of Kea and Kythnos visible in the distance.

2. Picturesque glimpses of the surrounding coastline, dotted with charming coastal towns and villages.

3. The opportunity to explore the well-preserved ruins of the Temple of Poseidon, standing as a testament to the architectural prowess of ancient Greece.

This captivating finale to the tour leaves guests with a deep appreciation for the timeless beauty and rich history of this remarkable destination.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour is suitable for children as it includes historical insights, scenic drives, and optional activities like swimming and food tasting. The 4-hour duration may be suitable for most children, but parents should consider their child’s interests and attention span.

What Is the Cancelation Policy for Group Bookings?

For group bookings, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Travelers can reserve their spots without immediate payment, allowing them flexibility when planning their group excursion.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Include Additional Stops?

The tour can be customized to include additional stops, subject to availability and agreement with the tour operator. Guests can discuss their preferences during the booking process to create a personalized experience.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Food Tasting at Vouliagmeni Lake?

The tour doesn’t include any food tastings at Vouliagmeni Lake, so there are no specific dietary restrictions. However, visitors can purchase food and drinks on their own during the optional stop.

Can I Extend the Tour Duration for Additional Activities?

Yes, you can extend the tour duration for additional activities. The tour operator offers a private group option that allows you to customize the itinerary and duration to fit your preferences. Contact them for more details.

Recap

This captivating 4-hour tour from Athens to Sounio offers the chance to explore the magnificent 5th-century BC Temple of Poseidon.

Along the way, you’ll enjoy the scenic Athenian Riviera, with opportunities for swimming and food tasting at Vouliagmeni Lake.

The tour culminates in an awe-inspiring sunset at Cape Sounio, where the golden glow over the temple and panoramic Aegean views create an unforgettable experience.

You can check if your dates are available here: