Swimming & Sunbathing by Athenian Riviera + Poseidon Temple Tour By Locals

Starting with the basics, this tour offers a well-rounded day trip from Athens that combines the beauty of the Athenian Riviera with cultural highlights like the Temple of Poseidon. For $162.60 per person, you’re getting roughly 8 to 9 hours of relaxed sightseeing, swimming, and photo opportunities, with pickup included and the chance to stretch out on reserved sunbeds at a top beach club. The tour is designed for those who want to escape the crowds, soak up some sun, and enjoy stunning views of the Saronic Gulf.

What we really like about this experience is the chance to enjoy a pre-booked beach day at a quiet, family-friendly beach with easy access to shade, umbrellas, and refreshments. Plus, the visit to the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion offers one of the most iconic sunset views in Greece—especially if you time your trip right. The round-trip transportation and Wi-Fi onboard make it a hassle-free way to spend your day, freeing you from the stress of planning logistics yourself.

However, a potential consideration is the admission fees for Lake Vouliagmeni and the Temple of Poseidon aren’t included, so you’ll want to bring some cash or extra cards. Plus, while the tour is small and intimate, with a maximum of 8 travelers, that might not suit those wanting a more guided commentary, unless you arrange for an official guide in advance.

This tour works best for travelers craving a relaxed day on the water combined with spectacular scenic views and a touch of cultural history—perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone who appreciates a well-organized day with plenty of photo opportunities.

Key Points

• Relaxing Athenian Riviera escape with pre-arranged sunbeds and umbrellas
• Visit Lake Vouliagmeni for year-round swimming and photo moments
• Explore Cape Sounion’s Poseidon Temple, especially stunning at sunset
• Hassle-free transportation with Wi-Fi and bottled water included
• Admission fees for key attractions not included in the price
• Small group experience with personalized attention

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

What’s Included and What to Expect

This tour is designed to relax and refresh. For $162.60, you get round-trip transportation in air-conditioned vehicles, Wi-Fi onboard, bottled water, and reserved beach beds. These amenities make a big difference on a warm Greek day, giving you comfort without the hassle of finding a good spot yourself.

The pickup is arranged from your hotel or a convenient location in Athens, which eliminates the stress of navigating public transport or hailing taxis. The group size is capped at 8 travelers, promoting a cozy, unhurried atmosphere.

The Itinerary Breakdown

First stop: Lake Vouliagmeni
We loved the idea of starting the day with a visit to this unique natural lake. Helmut_H’s review notes it’s “well organized” with beach umbrellas and sunbeds on a typical Greek family beach. The water here stays a comfortable temperature year-round, making it perfect whether it’s summer or cooler months. The vertical rocks on one side frame the lake beautifully, making it a favorite for photo stops.

Note: Entrance fees are not included, so you’ll need to pay on arrival if you want to swim. You might find this adds an extra step, but it also keeps the experience authentic and uncrowded.

Second stop: Paralia Anavissos
Next, the focus shifts to relaxing on the sands of a popular beach. The tour includes pre-arranged sunbeds and umbrellas, saving you the trouble of finding a good spot. You’ll have roughly three hours to swim, sunbathe, or just soak in the ocean breeze. This part of the day is what many travelers love—free time to unwind in a beautiful setting with a refreshing drink from the beach bar.

Third stop: Cape Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon
The highlight for many: standing at the Temple of Poseidon with panoramic views of the Saronic Gulf. As Nerina_R mentioned in her review, it’s “spectacular” and offers a chance to witness stunning sunsets, adding a magical touch to the experience.

Optional Dinner
While not included, you may choose to enjoy a seafood dinner at a nearby restaurant. This opportunity allows you to savor fresh fish while enjoying views that are truly unforgettable—something many travelers recommend planning for if your schedule allows.

Practical Details and Value

This tour strikes a good balance of organized convenience and authentic experience. The cost includes transportation, beach amenities, and bottled water, but not entry tickets for Lake Vouliagmeni or the temple. That means you should budget an extra few euros for these.

It’s noteworthy that most travelers book the tour about 41 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. The small group size ensures personal attention, and the return transportation simplifies your day—no worry about parking or navigating busy Athens streets.

Authenticity and Local Insight

While the tour doesn’t include a guided commentary, you’ll still get to enjoy scenic drives and photo stops. For those interested in a deeper understanding of the sites, arranging an official guide in advance is an option.

The Reviews Say It All

Helmut_H appreciated the organization and beach setup, calling the experience “on a typical Greek family beach”. The highlight for him was Cape Sounion at sunset. Nerina_R’s review points out that while everything was “spectacular,” adding some entertainment during the boat ride might make it even better—an idea that could be appealing for travelers wanting more than just scenery.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic beach day with easy transportation from Athens, this tour hits the mark. It’s particularly suited for those who want to escape the city heat and crowds and enjoy authentic Greek beaches. The combination of swimming, sunbathing, and stunning coastal views makes it ideal for couples, small groups, or solo travelers who appreciate beautiful scenery and cultural highlights.

However, if your main goal is guided historical commentary or free access to attractions, you might want to consider supplementing this tour with a private guide or another sightseeing experience. The tour is best viewed as a day of leisure rather than a deep dive into history.

The Sum Up

This Swimming & Sunbathing tour along the Athenian Riviera offers a wonderful way to take a break from urban Athens and enjoy some of Greece’s most beautiful coastline. The combination of carefully arranged beach amenities, scenic stops, and the iconic Poseidon’s Temple makes it a strong choice for travelers looking for a balanced mix of relaxation and culture.

While it’s not a fully guided historical tour, its focus on authentic beach experiences and stunning vistas at Cape Sounion makes it worth considering. The small group size and hassle-free logistics mean more comfort and flexibility, especially for those who prefer an intimate experience.

In sum, if you’re seeking a low-stress day filled with beautiful views, swimming, and a touch of history, this tour will serve you well. Just plan ahead for the entrance fees, and consider timing your visit for the sunset at Cape Sounion—it’s a moment you won’t forget.

FAQ

Are transportation and pickup included?
Yes, round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle is included, and pickup is arranged from your hotel or a convenient location in Athens.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, giving you ample time for each stop and some leisure in between.

What is the cost?
The price is $162.60 per person, which covers transportation, bottled water, parking fees, and beach amenities like umbrellas and sunbeds.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees for Lake Vouliagmeni and the Temple of Poseidon are not included. You should be prepared to pay these on-site.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimming gear, sunscreen, a hat, and some cash for entrance fees and possibly a meal at Cape Sounion.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and the relaxed pace makes it suitable for families, especially since it involves swimming and scenic views.

What about guides or commentary?
An official guide can be arranged in advance for an extra cost, but the tour itself doesn’t include guided commentary.

Can I customize the experience?
While the itinerary is set, you may choose to spend more time at certain stops or enjoy an optional dinner at Cape Sounion.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, since it involves outdoor activities and scenic views, it’s best on a clear, sunny day. The itinerary is flexible enough to adapt to weather conditions.

How do I book?
You can book through the provider’s website or trusted platforms like Viator, with most travelers booking about 41 days in advance.

Whether you’re craving a day of sun and sea or a chance to see one of Greece’s most iconic sights at sunset, this tour offers a practical, enjoyable way to experience the best of the Athenian coast.