Athenian Riviera, Cape Sounion & Temple of Poseidon Tour

Discover the Athenian Riviera, Cape Sounion & the Temple of Poseidon: An Authentic Coastal Escape

If you’re visiting Athens but craving a break from the city’s hustle, this half-day tour offers a scenic journey along the coast with unforgettable views and history. For $215.26 per person, you’ll spend about 5 hours exploring some of Greece’s most picturesque spots, from glittering seaside suburbs to the iconic Temple of Poseidon perched dramatically above the Aegean Sea. The tour’s private, small-group setup means you’ll enjoy personalized attention, and the round-trip hotel transfer takes the hassle out of planning.

We love the way this trip combines comfort with authenticity—riding in a cozy, WiFi-equipped minivan and stopping at photo-worthy spots like Lake Vouliagmeni and Cape Beach. The highlight, of course, is the Temple of Poseidon, where the sweeping views and ancient ruins create that perfect blend of history and nature. A key advantage is the opportunity to witness the sunset—an experience that truly elevates the visit and makes for memorable photos.

A potential consideration? The entrance fees for the attractions aren’t included, so you’ll want to bring some cash or card for tickets. Also, because it’s a small-group tour, it’s best suited for those who prefer more intimate, relaxed sightseeing rather than large bus crowds. Overall, if you seek a blend of scenic beauty, ancient history, and high-quality service, this tour is a great fit.

Key Points

• ** scenic coastal drive** along the Saronic Gulf, offering beautiful views of modern Greece’s coastline.
• Personalized experience in a small group or private setting, with the comfort of private transportation.
• Iconic Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion, perfect for photography and soaking in history.
• Photo stops at Vouliagmeni Lake and Cape Beach, providing unique landscapes and photo opportunities.
• Sunset viewing optional, adding a magical end to your day with spectacular Aegean vistas.
• No guide included, so you’ll rely on your driver’s local knowledge, which many reviewers praise for friendliness and professionalism.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Itinerary and Transportation

This tour begins with a convenient pickup from your Athens hotel, or if your accommodation isn’t accessible—perhaps in a pedestrian-only area—they’ll meet you at a nearby location. The journey itself is a highlight, as you’ll travel along coastal roads through beautiful suburbs such as Glyfada, Vouliagmeni, and Varkiza**. From the comfort of an air-conditioned minivan with free WiFi, we loved the smooth ride and the chance to take in the ever-changing sea views.

Stop at Lake Vouliagmeni

The first quick stop is at Vouliagmeni Lake, a volcanic formation just by the sea, offering a striking contrast of freshwater and saltwater. It’s a favorite photo spot, and many travelers mention how unique this natural feature is—formed by ancient volcanic activity, the lake presents a surreal, almost otherworldly scene. Although admission isn’t included, it’s well worth the few minutes to snap some pictures of this volcanic marvel, especially with the glistening water contrasting with the rocky backdrop.

Panoramic View at Cape Beach

Next, you’ll stop on a hill above Cape Beach, where a brief 10-minute pause provides sweeping views across the Aegean. This spot is perfect for capturing panoramic photos of the sea stretching to the horizon, and it’s a quiet moment to appreciate Greece’s natural beauty away from crowds.

The Main Event: Temple of Poseidon

Your final destination is the Temple of Poseidon, which sits majestically atop a 60-meter-high cliff. This iconic ruin, dedicated to the god of the sea, offers a perfect combination of history and scenery. You’ll have about an hour and a half here—ample time to wander among the ancient columns, absorb the stories whispered by the ruins, and take as many photos as you like.

Many reviews mention the breathtaking views from the site, especially if you choose the sunset option. Witnessing the sun dip into the Aegean while the temple’s silhouette stands proud against the glowing sky is truly a highlight. This spot is also popular among photographers looking for that perfect shot—so be prepared for crowds if you visit during sunset.

Returning to Athens

After your time at the temple, the tour winds down with a scenic drive back, culminating in a drop-off at your hotel or nearby residence. We appreciated how seamless and relaxed the whole process was—no need to worry about transportation or timing.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour provides air-conditioned vehicle transport, private travel, WiFi, and bottled water—small touches that make a big difference. However, it’s important to note that entrance fees to the attractions aren’t included**, meaning you should budget a little extra for tickets. Also, no guide is included, so if you prefer guided commentary, you might want to bring along a guidebook or app.

Cost and Value

While $215.26 per person might seem steep for a 5-hour trip, the small-group setting, private transportation, and scenic stops add significant value. Many travelers, especially those seeking a relaxed, personalized experience, find it well worth the price. Several reviews praise the professionalism and warmth of the driver, Manolis, making the journey not just comfortable but genuinely enjoyable.

Who is this tour best for?

This experience suits travelers who love scenic drives, historic ruins, and seaside vistas. It’s especially appealing if you want a private or small-group experience instead of large bus tours. Also, if you’re keen on experiencing both the ancient and the natural side of Greece in a short amount of time, this tour offers a well-rounded snapshot.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re looking for a relaxed, intimate outing that combines beautiful landscapes with the chance to explore one of Greece’s most famous ancient sites, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for those who appreciate personalized service, scenic stops, and cultural history without the hassle of planning individual transportation. The optional sunset adds a romantic touch, making it ideal for couples or travelers wanting a memorable, visually stunning experience.

However, if you prefer guided commentary or want to visit multiple sites with entrance included, you might need to consider additional options. Still, for a straightforward, scenic, and authentic visit to Cape Sounion, this tour offers value, comfort, and genuine Greek charm.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available? Yes, the tour starts with pickup from your Athens hotel or nearby location, making the experience stress-free.

How long is the tour? It lasts approximately 5 hours, giving you enough time to enjoy the stops without feeling rushed.

Are entrance fees included? No, entrance to the attractions such as the Temple of Poseidon is not included, so plan to buy tickets separately.

Can I see the sunset? Yes, the tour offers an optional sunset viewing at the temple, which many travelers find spectacular.

Is this a private tour? It is a small-group experience, and it can be booked as a private tour for your own group.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, a camera, some cash or card for tickets, and sun protection are advisable.

Is food included? No, meals and drinks are not included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to purchase food nearby.

What makes this tour special? The combination of scenic coastal drives, the breathtaking views, and the chance to visit the historic Temple of Poseidon make it a memorable Greek experience.

In the end, this tour offers a solid way to see Greece’s natural beauty and ancient marvels in a relaxed, intimate setting. Whether you’re a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or simply in need of a scenic escape from Athens, it’s worth considering for your Greek itinerary.