Athens Super Saver: City Sightseeing Tour plus Half-Day Cape Sounion Trip

Explore Athens and Cape Sounion in One Day with this Value-Packed Tour

This Athens Super Saver combines two of the most popular excursions around Athens: a comprehensive city sightseeing tour of ancient landmarks and a scenic afternoon trip to Cape Sounion to see the iconic Temple of Poseidon. Priced at just under $190 per person, and lasting roughly nine hours, it’s an excellent way to maximize your limited time in Greece’s historic capital.

What makes this tour particularly appealing? First, it offers a well-rounded experience—you’ll walk in the footsteps of ancient Athenians at the Acropolis, visit the modern marvel that is the New Acropolis Museum, and then relax with a drive along the coast to enjoy breathtaking views of the Aegean at Cape Sounion. Second, the inclusion of entrance fees, round-trip coach transport, and hotel pickup means you dodge the hassle of planning individual tickets and transport, making your day smoother and more enjoyable.

A potential consideration? The tour is quite packed, especially the afternoon Sounion portion, which involves a 1.5-hour drive each way. If you’re not a fan of long bus rides or tight schedules, you might find this part a bit tiring. Also, since the tour ends back at your hotel or meeting point, it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with moderate physical activity and some walking on uneven surfaces.

In short, this tour suits visitors eager to see Athens’ highlights and enjoy a memorable sunset view at Cape Sounion—especially if you appreciate knowledgeable guides and value convenience. It’s ideal for those with limited time but big curiosity about Greece’s history and scenery.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Combines Athens city highlights with a scenic trip to Cape Sounion.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable, professional guides enrich your understanding of Greek history.
• Convenience: Hotel pickup, entrance fees, and transport included save time and effort.
• Scenic views: Enjoy spectacular Aegean views from the Temple of Poseidon.
• Long day: Expect a full schedule with a mix of walking, driving, and sightseeing.
• Potential fatigue: Long bus rides and tight timing might tire some travelers.

A Deep Dive into the Athens Super Saver Tour

This tour offers a practical way to see some of Athens’ most iconic sites without the stress of arranging transportation or buying tickets separately. The 9-hour schedule packs in sightseeing that appeals whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking memorable views.

Starting the Day: Athens City Highlights

The morning kicks off with a hotel pickup or a designated meeting point in central Athens, usually around 8:30 am. From there, you settle into a comfortable, air-conditioned coach equipped with free WiFi, which helps pass the time on the drive. The first stop: the Acropolis, the ancient citadel that crowns the city. Here, your guide will take you through the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the Propylaea—the grand gates that once welcomed visitors.

Many reviews emphasize the value of having entrance tickets included, as the Acropolis can be crowded and hot, especially in peak season. One traveler noted that their guide made sure everyone received tickets, helping avoid long lines—important because the admission to the Acropolis and the museum is valid only for specific times. The stunning views from the top, combined with the history woven into every stone, make this a highlight. As one reviewer praised, “Learning about the ancient Greek civilization and seeing the Parthenon in Athens, Temple of Poseidon in Sounio with the breathtaking views at each location was well worth it.”

After exploring the Acropolis, your guide will lead you to the Panathenaic Stadium, the historic venue where the first modern Olympic Games were held in 1896. It’s a short stop, but one that connects modern Greece with its ancient roots. Be aware that the stadium’s admission isn’t included in the tour price, so if you’re a sports or Olympics enthusiast, consider visiting it separately.

The Cultural Stop: New Acropolis Museum

Next, you’ll visit the New Acropolis Museum, home to countless artifacts recovered from the site. Many travelers appreciate the modern architecture and thoughtful layout—it’s a good complement to the ancient ruins you’ve just seen. Guides stay with you through all levels, pointing out details that bring the exhibits to life. One reviewer mentioned that their guide was very knowledgeable and professional, making the museum visit both educational and engaging.

Afternoon Scenic Escape to Cape Sounion

After a satisfying morning, the tour transitions to a scenic drive along the coast to Cape Sounion, about an hour and a half from Athens. Here, you’ll disembark and walk up to the Temple of Poseidon, perched dramatically on cliffs overlooking the Aegean Sea. The views are truly breathtaking—especially at sunset, according to many travelers. The temple itself is a collection of ancient columns, but the setting is what makes it special.

Several reviews highlight the serenity and awe-inspiring scenery of this site. One traveler said, “The Temple of Poseidon was amazing! Our tour guides were very informative and gave us plenty of time to walk around and view everything.” The cliffs, the rolling waves, and the distant horizon create a picture-perfect moment.

The Long Ride and Its Impact

The trip back to Athens involves about 1.5 hours of bus travel. This long ride is a common point of feedback—some travelers find it tiring, especially if they’re eager to explore more or grab a leisurely meal. One reviewer remarked that it was a “long day,” but agreed that the views and the overall experience made it worthwhile. Keep in mind, the tour ends back at your hotel or the original starting point, so plan for the day’s full schedule.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

This combination tour is especially good value because it bundles popular attractions into one coordinated day, with many entrance fees and logistics taken care of. We loved how the guides made history accessible, blending storytelling with the sites’ significance. The scenic drive to Sounion adds a relaxing break from walking, and the views from the temple are often described as breathtaking.

However, some reviews point out that the schedule can be tight, especially with the limited time at each stop. For example, the less than 40-minute window for lunch can be a challenge if you’re hungry after the morning tour. Also, the bus rides—though air-conditioned and WiFi-equipped—can be cramped, especially on a hot day.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re in Athens for a short stay and want a rundown without fuss, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for first-time visitors eager to see the iconic landmarks and enjoy spectacular coastal scenery. It also suits those who appreciate a good guide and value entrance fees included. Travelers comfortable with moderate walking and a full day of activity will find this to be a rewarding experience.

Final Thoughts

The Athens Super Saver offers a balanced blend of culture, history, and scenery, all wrapped into one day. The knowledgeable guides and included tickets make it convenient, while the views at Cape Sounion are well worth the long drive. Yes, it’s a busy day, but for many, that’s part of the adventure.

If you’re looking for a comprehensive introduction to Athens that combines history with stunning outdoor vistas, this tour will serve you well. It’s especially ideal if you’re eager to maximize your sightseeing in a limited time frame or prefer having logistics arranged for you.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup is available at selected hotels, making it easier to get started without the hassle of finding a meeting point.

What sites are included in the tour?
You’ll visit the Acropolis, the Panathenaic Stadium, the New Acropolis Museum, and the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion, with entrance fees covered.

How long is the drive to Cape Sounion?
Approximately 1.5 hours each way, giving you a scenic coastal journey along the way.

Can I buy additional tickets elsewhere?
The tour includes tickets for the Acropolis, Museum, and Sounion—all handled for you. If you want to visit the Olympic Stadium, note that admission is not included.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, but children aged 5-12 need to hold a passport or ID to qualify for discounted rates. Be mindful of the long bus rides and walking involved.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended—particularly for walking on slippery marble surfaces. Dress for the weather, and bring sun protection in summer.

Are there any days when the tour doesn’t run?
Yes, the tour does not operate on Christmas Day, New Year’s Day, or Orthodox Easter.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included. Many travelers recommend grabbing a quick bite after the city tour or before heading to Cape Sounion.

To sum it up, if you’re after a well-organized, value-packed day that covers Athens’ highlights and offers a memorable seaside experience, this tour is hard to beat. It’s especially suited for history enthusiasts, scenic lovers, or anyone wanting an effortless introduction to Greece’s ancient capital. Just be prepared for a full day—and plenty of walking and bus rides—that will leave you with lasting impressions of Athens and the Aegean coastline.