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#4 out of 14 in Athens

Temple of Poseidon & Cape Sounion

Book day trips to see one of the most picturesque coastal views of Greece at Cape Sounion, and the famous Temple of Poseidon that looms over it.
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28,552 travellers from around the world love this
Temple of Poseidon & Cape Sounion
Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion overlooking the sea during sunset.
Temple of Poseidon at sunset with visitors seated on ancient stones.
Tourists watching sunset at Archaeological Site of Sounion with sea and boats in view.
Tourists taking selfie at sunset in Archaeological Site of Sounion, Greece.
Visitors at Cape Sounion enjoying the sunset near the Temple of Poseidon.
Guests watching sunset at Cape Sounion with sea and mountains in background.
Temple of Poseidon at sunset, Cape Sounion, Greece.
Guests smiling during a bus transfer experience.

From Athens: Temple of Poseidon & Cape Sounion Half-Day Trip

Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
5 hr
2 more

  • Embark on a 5-hour guided tour from Athens, led by a licensed archaeologist who brings the myths and legends of ancient Greece vividly to life.

  • Travel along the stunning Athens Riviera, passing beaches, fishing villages, and seaside resorts while enjoying stories that connect the landscape to Greek history.

  • Arrive at Cape Sounion, where the majestic Temple of Poseidon towers 70 meters above the Aegean Sea on a dramatic cliffside.

  • Witness a magical sunset over the Aegean, as the marble columns of the temple glow in golden light and the horizon melts into sea and sky.

  • Explore the archaeological site in depth, capturing breathtaking photos and learning about the temple’s role in ancient seafaring, mythology, and Greek culture.

More details

  • Embark on a 5-hour guided tour from Athens, led by a licensed archaeologist who brings the myths and legends of ancient Greece vividly to life.

  • Travel along the stunning Athens Riviera, passing beaches, fishing villages, and seaside resorts while enjoying stories that connect the landscape to Greek history.

  • Arrive at Cape Sounion, where the majestic Temple of Poseidon towers 70 meters above the Aegean Sea on a dramatic cliffside.

  • Witness a magical sunset over the Aegean, as the marble columns of the temple glow in golden light and the horizon melts into sea and sky.

  • Explore the archaeological site in depth, capturing breathtaking photos and learning about the temple’s role in ancient seafaring, mythology, and Greek culture.

from €19.32
€13.33

31% off

Sunbeds along the shore of Vouliagmeni Lake, Greece, with rocky cliffs and greenery.
Temple of Poseidon ruins at Sounion, Attica, Greece under a blue sky.
Swimmers enjoying Vouliagmeni Lake near Athens with rocky cliffs and greenery.
Vouliagmeni Lake in Attica, Greece with waterside dining area and rocky cliffs.
Aerial view of the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounio, Attica, Greece, overlooking the sea.
Aerial view of Agios Nikolaos beach, Saronida, Attica, with clear blue waters and sun loungers.
Aerial view of Agios Nikolaos beach with sun umbrellas and swimmers, Anavysos, Athens Riviera, Greece.

From Athens: Temple of Poseidon & Lake Vouliagmeni Swimming Day Trip

Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
6 hr
2 more

  • Travel along the Athens Riviera in a private, air-conditioned van, passing beach coves and sea cliffs as the city slowly gives way to open coastline and Cape Sounion.

  • Stop at Lake Vouliagmeni for a swim in its thermal spa waters, a natural lake known for its steady temperature and peaceful setting (entry ticket not included).

  • Visit the Temple of Poseidon, perched above the Aegean Pelagus, where you can explore the ancient site at your own pace.

  • Enjoy the ease of a private transfer with a dedicated driver-guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, and the flexibility to move without crowded buses or fixed group schedules.

  • Fun fact: The Temple of Poseidon was built around 444 BCE, which happens to be the same year construction on the Parthenon began.

More details

  • Travel along the Athens Riviera in a private, air-conditioned van, passing beach coves and sea cliffs as the city slowly gives way to open coastline and Cape Sounion.

  • Stop at Lake Vouliagmeni for a swim in its thermal spa waters, a natural lake known for its steady temperature and peaceful setting (entry ticket not included).

  • Visit the Temple of Poseidon, perched above the Aegean Pelagus, where you can explore the ancient site at your own pace.

  • Enjoy the ease of a private transfer with a dedicated driver-guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, and the flexibility to move without crowded buses or fixed group schedules.

  • Fun fact: The Temple of Poseidon was built around 444 BCE, which happens to be the same year construction on the Parthenon began.

from
€65
Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounio overlooking the sea at sunset.
Tourists taking selfie at sunset in Archaeological Site of Sounion, Greece.
Passengers seated inside an AC bus on a one-day guided tour.
Ruins of Poseidon Temple at Cape Sounion during dawn, Greece.
Tour group observing the Changing of the Guard near Westminster Abbey, London.
Tourists watching sunset at Archaeological Site of Sounion with sea and boats in view.
Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion with sunset over the Aegean Sea.

Cape Sounion & Temple of Poseidon Guided Sunset Tour

Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
5 hr

  • Explore the majestic Temple of Poseidon perched at the tip of Cape Sounion.

  • Accompany an expert guide to learn more about the monument.

  • Bask in unparalleled panoramic views of Sounion from the southeastern peak.

  • Soak in the jaw-droppingly brilliant sunset over the Aegean Sea.

More details

  • Explore the majestic Temple of Poseidon perched at the tip of Cape Sounion.

  • Accompany an expert guide to learn more about the monument.

  • Bask in unparalleled panoramic views of Sounion from the southeastern peak.

  • Soak in the jaw-droppingly brilliant sunset over the Aegean Sea.

from €19.32
€13.33

31% off

Acropolis Parthenon and Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion with sea view.
Parthenon temple on the Acropolis in Athens under a blue sky.
Visitors at Cape Sounion enjoying the sunset near the Temple of Poseidon.
Acropolis in Athens during a guided bike tour, showcasing ancient ruins and architecture.
Erechtheion temple with Caryatids at Acropolis, Athens.
Tourists watching sunset at Archaeological Site of Sounion with sea and boats in view.
Guests watching sunset at Cape Sounion with sea and mountains in background.
Tourists taking selfie at sunset in Archaeological Site of Sounion, Greece.
Ancient amphitheater in Athens with cityscape and hills in the background.
Temple of Poseidon at sunset with visitors seated on ancient stones.
Temple of Olympian Zeus ruins with columns in Athens, Greece.

Combo (Save 10%): Temple of Poseidon Sunset Half-Day Trip + Acropolis & Parthenon Tickets

Flexible duration
Audio guide
Transfers available

  • Unlock ancient Athens with access to the Acropolis, Parthenon, and more—then chase the sunset at Cape Sounion for one perfectly themed Greek adventure.

  • Roam the Acropolis, stand before the Parthenon, sit where ancient dramas played in the Theatre of Dionysus, and learn its history via your audio guide.

  • Cruise the coastal road to Cape Sounion and hear dramatic legends of Poseidon and King Aegeus as you approach the cliffside temple with a multilingual audio guide.

More details

  • Unlock ancient Athens with access to the Acropolis, Parthenon, and more—then chase the sunset at Cape Sounion for one perfectly themed Greek adventure.

  • Roam the Acropolis, stand before the Parthenon, sit where ancient dramas played in the Theatre of Dionysus, and learn its history via your audio guide.

  • Cruise the coastal road to Cape Sounion and hear dramatic legends of Poseidon and King Aegeus as you approach the cliffside temple with a multilingual audio guide.

from €58.32
€52.33

10% off

Temple of Poseidon at sunset and Athens hop-on hop-off bus tour.
Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion overlooking the sea during sunset.
Tourists watching sunset at Archaeological Site of Sounion with sea and boats in view.
Open-top tour bus in Athens with Acropolis in the background.
Athens hop-on hop-off bus near cruise ship with tourists boarding.
Tourists taking selfie at sunset in Archaeological Site of Sounion, Greece.
Visitors at Cape Sounion enjoying the sunset near the Temple of Poseidon.
Guests watching sunset at Cape Sounion with sea and mountains in background.
Hop on Hop off bus with Acropolis view in Athens, Greece.
Blue tour bus in front of the National Archaeological Museum, Athens, on Hop on Hop off Classic Tour.
Double-decker bus tour in Athens passing Hadrian's Arch.

Combo: Temple of Poseidon Sunset Half-Day Trip + 2-Day Athens Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
5 hr
2 more

  • Enjoy seamless sightseeing and great value in one combo with a 2-day HOHO pass, then unwind on a guided sunset trip to Poseidon’s temple.

  • Explore Athens freely with a 2-day hop-on hop-off bus pass, complete with 35 stops, multilingual audio, free WiFi, a city map, and open-top views of ancient and modern marvels.

  • Take a scenic drive along the Athens Riviera to Cape Sounion, where your guide brings mythology to life as the sun sets behind the Temple of Poseidon.

More details

  • Enjoy seamless sightseeing and great value in one combo with a 2-day HOHO pass, then unwind on a guided sunset trip to Poseidon’s temple.

  • Explore Athens freely with a 2-day hop-on hop-off bus pass, complete with 35 stops, multilingual audio, free WiFi, a city map, and open-top views of ancient and modern marvels.

  • Take a scenic drive along the Athens Riviera to Cape Sounion, where your guide brings mythology to life as the sun sets behind the Temple of Poseidon.

from €31.05
€21.42

31% off

Temple of Poseidon ruins at Cape Sounion under a blue sky, viewed from rocky terrain.
Temple of Poseidon at sunset, Cape Sounion, viewed from Athens tour.
Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion with sea view, part of guided tour from Athens.
Temple of Poseidon ruins at Cape Sounion under a blue sky, part of guided tour from Athens.
Temple of Poseidon at sunset, Cape Sounion, with tourists exploring the ancient ruins.
Temple of Poseidon on hilltop at Cape Sounion, Greece, with cloudy sky.

Guided Tour of Temple of Poseidon & Cape Sounion from Athens

Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
5 hr

  • See Cape Sounion & the legendary Temple of Poseidon with an expert archaeologist guide. Experience one of Attica’s most dramatic coastal viewpoints at the Cape Sounion and Temple of Poseidon, one of Greece’s finest ancient sites.

  • Walk the sacred grounds of Cape Sounion and learn the myths behind the Temple of Poseidon.

  • Hear stories of Aegean legends and the Golden Age of Athens while standing at the same cliffs that inspired poets like Lord Byron, whose engraving still marks the temple.

  • Enjoy a scenic half-day escape from Athens without the hassle of planning.

  • A comfortable bus transfer, an English-speaking archaeologist guide, and included audio whispers let you enjoy a smooth, informative visit in just a few hours.

More details

  • See Cape Sounion & the legendary Temple of Poseidon with an expert archaeologist guide. Experience one of Attica’s most dramatic coastal viewpoints at the Cape Sounion and Temple of Poseidon, one of Greece’s finest ancient sites.

  • Walk the sacred grounds of Cape Sounion and learn the myths behind the Temple of Poseidon.

  • Hear stories of Aegean legends and the Golden Age of Athens while standing at the same cliffs that inspired poets like Lord Byron, whose engraving still marks the temple.

  • Enjoy a scenic half-day escape from Athens without the hassle of planning.

  • A comfortable bus transfer, an English-speaking archaeologist guide, and included audio whispers let you enjoy a smooth, informative visit in just a few hours.

from
€39
Tour group with guide at the Acropolis, Athens, exploring ancient ruins.
Tour group with guide at Acropolis overlooking Athens, Greece.
Visitors entering the Acropolis Museum in Athens, Greece.
Visitors viewing ancient Greek vase at Athens Acropolis Museum with Parthenon in background.
Visitor at the Temple of Poseidon, Greece, with ancient columns and scenic landscape.
Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion overlooking the Aegean Sea.
Hadrian's Arch in Athens, part of the Full Day Group Tour with Acropolis and Cape Sounion.
Parthenon temple on the Acropolis in Athens, Greece, under a clear blue sky.
Visitors walking on a glass floor above ancient ruins at the Athens Acropolis Museum.
Ancient sculptures displayed in the Athens Acropolis Museum.
Temple of Poseidon at sunset with visitors seated on ancient stones.
Tourists taking selfie at sunset in Archaeological Site of Sounion, Greece.

Combo: Acropolis + Acropolis Museum + Temple of Poseidon Guided Tour with Entry Tickets

Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
10 hr
1 more

  • See Athens’ ancient wonders and the Aegean coast in one seamless day—includes entry, expert guides, lunch, and sunset views at Cape Sounion.

  • Walk through history at the Acropolis with your expert guide as you admire the Parthenon, Erechtheion, and Temple of Athena Nike, then explore marble statues and relics up close at the museum.

  • At Cape Sounion, your guide will reveal the myths behind the Temple of Poseidon, famed for its striking Doric columns and clifftop views over the Aegean.

More details

  • See Athens’ ancient wonders and the Aegean coast in one seamless day—includes entry, expert guides, lunch, and sunset views at Cape Sounion.

  • Walk through history at the Acropolis with your expert guide as you admire the Parthenon, Erechtheion, and Temple of Athena Nike, then explore marble statues and relics up close at the museum.

  • At Cape Sounion, your guide will reveal the myths behind the Temple of Poseidon, famed for its striking Doric columns and clifftop views over the Aegean.

from
€175

Pro tips to help you make a pick

We cannot recommend the sunset tours enough for it is a one-of-a-kind experience. Imagine the ruins of a 2500-year-old temple atop a cliff, overlooking the sea where the sun dips into, coloring the sky in pretty hues of golden yellow, pink, red, and blue! Though words can paint a picture, they cannot justify the incredible sunset that awaits you.

Like any other Greek temple, the Temple of Poseidon and Cape Sounion are rich with interesting legends and myths. Opt for guided tours to learn more about them from expert guides/archeologists and enjoy a culturally immersive experience.

Wear comfortable shoes as it is a bit of a climb to the temple on uneven terrain. Bring your hats, scarves, sunscreen, shades, and water bottles. Carry your ID card (especially if you have opted for reduced-price tickets) and a camera to capture the beautiful temple, sea, and sunset!

Venture beyond the temple to the various trails down the cliff. It is rather calming and serene to spend quiet moments of reflection in front of the mighty sea here. Head to the town of Lavrio or Sounio and nearby beaches, where you can sunbathe or swim and also find tavernas serving amazing seafood and alcohol.

Though buses are available from Athens to the Temple of Poseidon, we recommend guided tours with transfers or car rentals/taxis. The last bus back to Athens is quite early and you might miss the sunset, which is a bummer. Also, if you choose to drive, the scenic coastal road along the Athens Riviera has many hidden beaches and spots that deserve exploration.

About Temple of Poseidon

A sacred bastion overlooking the Aegean Sea since 440 BC, the Temple of Poseidon is excellently preserved. Visit this cliff temple to delve into the fascinating mythical, cultural, and even military history of ancient Greeks while enjoying awe-inspiring sunset views.

AddressCape Sounio, Sounio 195 00, Greece
Year opened440
Founded byPericles
Visitors per year200000
Expected wait time - Standard30-60 mins (Peak), 0-30 mins (Off Peak)

Did you know?

King Aegeus, father of Theseus is believed to have plunged to his death from the cliff here. After killing the minotaur, Thesaus' ship returned with black sails, which implied he was killed, (which was not the case). A heartbroken King couldn’t take it and jumped from the cliff to his death. The Athenians named the Aegean Sea after this mighty King and loving father.

The Temple was built to honor Poseidon, the god of the sea. In fact, inside the temple stood a 20-foot bronze statue of Poseidon, surviving in parts and preserved in the Archeological Museum of Athens. Being a seafaring nation, Athens had incredible faith in Poseidon and built the temple right near the sea and appeased him with offerings to keep them safe while at sea.

In 1884, German archeologist Wilhelm Dorpfeld discovered that the current temple stood on top of an archaic temple of similar dimensions. It is believed that this archaic temple was razed to the ground by Persians in 480 BC while still under construction. In 479 BC, when the Greeks defeated the Persians, they placed the captured Persian warships at Sounion, as a trophy for Poseidon.

Homer’s masterpiece, 'The Odyssey', mentions that Menelaus of Sparta on returning from Troy, stopped at the temple to bury his helmsman. Herodotus’ and Homer’s accounts affirm that the temple’s site was holy ground. The poet Lord Byron’s signature is engraved on one of the columns and he immortalized the temple in his poem, 'The Isles of Greece', with the lines “Sunium’s marbled steep”.

Pericles rebuilt the Temple of Poseidon around 440 BC with 34 columns, of which only 16 stand today. It is believed that the architect Iktinos (unconfirmed), is the same person who designed the Temple of Hephaestus and the Parthenon. Athenians were quite attached to this Temple, as it was the first and last sight of home for seagoing mariners.

Why visit Temple of Poseidon?

Historical significance

The Temple of Poseidon was not merely a worship place. It was also a beacon for sailors and a great vantage point for surveillance of enemy ships entering the sea lanes. The 2500-year-old history of this magnificent temple of white marble is reason enough to visit the carefully preserved ruins.

Splendid sea and sunset views

The sun dipping into the horizon while washing the sea, sky, and temple in a sublime golden glow is the greatest allure of visiting the ruins during sunset. The sea views with the breeze caressing your body are bound to calm you. Not to mention, a date with your loved one in nature’s majestic setting is as romantic as romantic can be!

Mythology comes alive

Gods like Poseidon, demigods like Theseus, and mortals like King Aegeus and Menelaus, all have their fair share of legends surrounding the Temple of Poseidon and Cape Sounion. Recreate these stories in your mind with the right backdrop and understand the rich mythical, cultural, and religious heritage of the ancient Greeks.

Architectural mastery

A close look at the temple ruins clearly displays the ancient Greeks' level of craftsmanship and engineering skills. The Doric fluted columns made of white marble are 20 feet tall. The finds from within the site show intricate carvings, a testament to the artistic brilliance of the Greeks.

Beach bliss & seafood

Being a coastal temple means nearby beaches and seafood. Club your visit to the temple with a beach day in Legrena, Sounio, or Lavrio. Gaze up and try to spot the astounding temple views! Fresh seafood prepared traditionally in the local tavernas will keep your tummy content. 

Plan your visit

Address

Cape Sounio, Sounio 195 00, Greece

Nearest Bus stop

Athens-Sounio Bus Stop

Nearest Parking

Temple of Poseidon Parking Lot

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What our guests say

Isha J

Belgium
Couple
2 weeks ago
The tour guide did her job really well! She gave wonderful tips, cracked sweet jokes and made the bus ride quite enjoyable.

Cape Sounion & Temple of Poseidon Guided Sunset Tour

Elina B

Latvia
Couple
Nov 2025
The guide Dido (hopefully I wrote it correctly) was great. The audio guide works on GPS - it starts an interesting story and then just switches to another and you cannot hear the ending. In general, the tour is great for lazy afternoon in the city, if you don't want to plan anything yourself. Everything is taken care of. And the view of the temple is great even without buying the entering tickets.

Cape Sounion & Temple of Poseidon Guided Sunset Tour

Josefina R

Group
2 weeks ago
It was truly wonderful! We visited so many historical sites and explored the vibrant flea market. The journey was incredibly smooth and comfortable thanks to the Hap on Hapoff bus. It really made the experience enjoyable and stress-free.

Combo: Temple of Poseidon Sunset Half-Day Trip + Acropolis & Parthenon Tickets

Cognard M

France
Couple
3 weeks ago
No waiting in line when you arrive. The audio guide is very comprehensive! We learned a lot. The site is truly magnificent—a must-see! The Acropolis is a must-see in Athens! A must-do!!

Combo: Temple of Poseidon Sunset Half-Day Trip + Acropolis & Parthenon Tickets

Jayprakash S

United Kingdom
Couple
3 days ago
It was a fantastic tour of Athens. A tour that was very rich with the history of Athens. The guide Anastasia has immense knowledge of Athens and the Greek mytholovy. It is one the best tours I have ever had.

Combo: Acropolis + Acropolis Museum + Temple of Poseidon Guided Tour with Entry Tickets

Audrey C

France
Couple
5 days ago
Very good. Everything is clearly explained and well organized. Honestly, I have no complaints. Everything was great. And the temple is magnificent.

From Athens: Temple of Poseidon & Cape Sounion Half-Day Trip

Johanna S

Netherlands
Couple
Last week
We went to visit Cape sounion & the Temple of Poseidon. Our guide Alice showed us where the bus was and during the bus drive she enthusiastically gave us clear information about the day. Everything was clear and organised! For the Temple you need to pay an entrance fee you can search it up online how much that will be for you. Overall a good experience.

From Athens: Temple of Poseidon & Cape Sounion Half-Day Trip

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